3 Best Restaurants in Ambleside, The Lake District

The quality of locally sourced and foraged food has been raised to a new level by this Michelin-starred restaurant, which, together with the Lake Road Kitchen, has given Ambleside unexpected status on the British gastro map. Chef Ryan Blackburn has created a menu anchored to Cumbrian traditions but at the same time mouthwateringly innovative and contemporary. Look for dishes such as scallops with pumpkin, braised daube of beef with smoked celeriac, and Cumbrian gingerbread. The restaurant has an unprepossessing setting, down steps in a dim room, but there's history in the whitewashed, rough-hewn walls: Wordsworth once worked here as "Distributer of Stamps.” A tasting menu is also available at lunch and dinner.

Hidden away up a winding lane past the old mill waterwheel, homey Rattle Ghyll is a deservedly popular little deli and takeaway serving great soups, sandwiches, and lots of salads. The deli also has an eco-conscious refill station and coffee from regional roasteries.

Situated in Ambleside’s old mill yard, the Tap Yard serves craft beers fresh from the tanks in a wood-filled but contemporary, high-ceilinged space that also has outdoor seating. It's a lively spot in the evenings, popular with locals as well as visitors, and there's a wide menu of wood-fired pizzas, gourmet burgers, and antipasti to share. Dogs are welcome, and there's a separate children's menu.