Places to Eat
These are our recommendations. We have found over time that these places usually perform as we expect but, unfortunately, we can't guarantee the day to day quality. For more details about menus and opening times, please check their websites for latest update.
Places to eat nearby
The Royal Hotel in Dockray
Our local pub across the valley, and a place that usually gets good feedback. Has a large outside seating area. There is an Arts Cafe, with delicious cakes and scones, as well as sculptures and paintings from local artists, including Michelle Castles. She has her studio next to the cafe and welcomes guests to look in if she is around.
The Horse and Farrier in Dacre
An 18th century pub around Little Mell Fell which has recently been tastefully refurbished whilst still retaining a real pub feel. We get consistently good feedback on their food, which is the best of the local pubs.
The Herdwick in Penruddock
Another traditional pub. After several ownership changes, this establishment is now back on the map for evening meals with some promising comments.
LATEST NEWS: This pub is now closed again.
Places to eat in Keswick
We usually don't recommend eating places in Keswick, simply because they are too numerous to keep a proper track of, but as a starting point this link might be useful.
Special places to eat
George and Dragon in Clifton
In their own words 'When you visit the George and Dragon in Cumbria, you can enjoy a pint of local ale, relax with a glass of fine wine and indulge in the Lowther produce, feeling that you’re somewhere rather unique'. A pub cum restaurant that uses local produce as much as possible. We get excellent feedback on the food quality and the price/value relationship.
Askham Hall
Their sister property at Askham Hall has a restaurant in the Hall which has been newly awarded a Michelin Star.
Four & Twenty
Four & Twenty, based in Penrith. A restaurant with excellent seasonal menus in a casual setting. Good fixed price lunches too. Closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Cottage in the Woods
Cottage in the Woods in Whinlatter Forest. 'Stunning views, local Herdwick hogget, bold cooking - it's almost enough to make a man take up hill walking' Jay Rayner. An award winning restaurant with a Michelin star and beautiful views of Skiddaw.
1863 Restaurant with Rooms
A restaurant known for "fine dining" with an emphasis on modern British cuisine. Small portions but an innovative and changing menu.