PLACES TO EAT & DRINK
The Lake District has an amazing selection of cafes, pubs and restaurants. Here (in no particular order) is a roundup of my favourites. If you've had a particularly good experience in a place that's not on this list let me know and I'll add it below.​
Lucy's of Ambleside
Lucy's has been a favourite of mine for over 30 years. Run by the fabulous Lucy Nicholson, this mid-priced restaurant in Church Street serves delicious meat, fish, vegetarian and vegan food in a great atmosphere - tell Lucy I sent you!
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Tel: 015394 32288 - Sat nav: LA22 0BU
The Farmers, Ulverston
This award-winning pub and wine bar in the centre of Ulverston opens at 9am for breakfast and stays open through the day for lunch and dinner with food which is home-made and locally sourced. Eat on the patio in summer, or by a log fire in winter.
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Tel: 01229 584469 - Satnav: LA12 7BA
Chester's by the River, Skelwith Bridge
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Chester's cafe is open during the day for lunch, or treat yourself to a coffee and one of their superb home-made cakes. Sit out on the deck by the river or inside next to the shop which sells top-quality gifts with a Lake District theme.
Tel: 015394 34771 - Sat nav: LA22 9NJ.
The Swan, Newby Bridge
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Less than 2 miles upstream from the Ironworks Building, The Swan is a historic riverside hotel and restaurant with a chic, modern twist. Choose from three dining options: brasserie, cafe and pub. They're open for breakfast too!
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Tel: 015395 31681 - Satnav: LA12 8NB
Zeffirellis, Ambleside
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Zeffirellis (like Lucy's, above) is an Ambleside institution. The Italian themed pizza, pasta and salads menu with daily specials, all freshly prepared, is served in a lively, contemporary atmosphere.
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Tel: 015394 33845 - Satnav: LA22 9AD
Lanty Slee's Bar, Elterwater
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A tapas style menu and delicious sharing plates are served through the day in this beautifully converted wayside chapel above the hamlet of Elterwater.
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Tel: 015394 82589 - Satnav: LA22 9JB
The Drunken Duck, Barngates near Ambleside
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The Drunken Duck is a classic Lakeland pub with whitewashed walls, stripped wooden floors, top quality food & drink, an enviable location and amazing views.
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Tel: 015394 36347 - Satnav: LA22 0NG