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The Priest Hole Restaurant, Ambleside

Historic 16th-century setting serving hearty British and Cumbrian dishes with warm hospitality in the heart of Ambleside.

4.5

Nestled in a charming 16th-century building in Ambleside, The Priest Hole Restaurant offers hearty British and Cumbrian cuisine with a warm, historic ambiance. Known for its traditional Sunday roasts, locally sourced ingredients, and friendly service, this venue combines rustic charm with modern comfort. Guests can enjoy both indoor dining by open fires and alfresco meals on a dog-friendly terrace, making it a beloved spot in the heart of the Lake District.

A brief summary to The Priest Hole Restaurant

  • Church St, Ambleside, LA22 0BU, GB
  • +441539433332
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 12 pm-9 pm
  • Tuesday 12 pm-9 pm
  • Wednesday 12 pm-9 pm
  • Thursday 12 pm-9 pm
  • Friday 12 pm-9 pm
  • Saturday 12 pm-9 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-8:30 pm

Local tips

  • Book ahead for Sunday roasts to secure a table, as walk-ins are often turned away.
  • Try the local ales and beers to complement your meal, especially on market day specials.
  • Enjoy alfresco dining on the dog-friendly terrace during warmer weather.
  • Consider the upstairs function room for larger groups or private celebrations.
  • Arrive early on busy evenings like fish or steak nights to avoid waits.
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The Priest Hole Restaurant location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about The Priest Hole Restaurant

A Historic Setting in the Heart of Ambleside

The Priest Hole Restaurant is housed within Kelsick Old Hall, one of Ambleside’s oldest buildings dating back to the 16th century. This historic structure retains many original features, including a glassed-over priest hole in the kitchen, which adds a fascinating layer of history to your dining experience. The ambiance is a blend of rustic charm and casual comfort, with open fires inside and a quaint outdoor terrace that welcomes dogs, perfect for warmer days.

Traditional British and Cumbrian Cuisine

The menu focuses on fresh, homemade dishes that showcase the best of local Cumbrian and British flavors. Signature offerings include the classic Sunday roast served all day on Sundays, a variety of pies such as the popular steak and ale pie, and market day specials that rotate nightly. Fish night on Tuesdays and steak night on Thursdays add variety to the weekly schedule. Vegetarian and vegan options are thoughtfully included, alongside hearty meat and fish dishes.

A Welcoming Atmosphere and Attentive Service

The Priest Hole is known for its friendly and efficient staff who strive to provide a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience. The atmosphere inside is lively yet comfortable, with a mix of locals and visitors enjoying the hearty fare. While the main dining room can be cozy, the upstairs function room accommodates larger groups, and the outdoor terrace offers a peaceful spot to watch the world go by.

Drink Selection and Dining Experience

Complementing the food is a carefully curated selection of wines and locally brewed ales and beers. The restaurant is fully licensed and offers a range of beverages to suit all tastes. The terrace is a popular spot for alfresco dining or simply enjoying a coffee. The venue’s blend of historic character and modern hospitality makes it a memorable place to dine in Ambleside.

Community and Celebrations

Beyond regular dining, The Priest Hole caters for private functions and celebrations with a tailor-made service to suit special occasions. Its central location in Ambleside and unique setting make it a favored choice for gatherings, from intimate dinners to larger events in the upstairs function room.

Practical Information for Visitors

Open daily from noon, with closing times around 8:30 to 9 pm depending on the day, the restaurant encourages reservations, especially on Sundays when the roast is a highlight. The venue is family-friendly, with a children’s menu and facilities such as high chairs and baby changing. Free Wi-Fi and card payment options add convenience for guests.

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