Since relocating here in April and visiting numerous times a year prior to that, we have put a selection of our favourite and off-the-beaten-track things to do, places to stay and eat together. This just touches the surface so if you'd like any more recommendations please do get in touch!
To Eat
The Old Stamphouse - Michelin star with about 8 tables and a tasting menu - needs booking well in advance and worth the wait.
Lucia’s Bakery - Artisnal bakery and coffee house in Grasmere, park up in Grasmere in the morning and get the best breakfast sandwich of ya life from Lucia’s.
The Mason’s Arms - Somewhere I have scored my fish and chips 10/10 and has the most beautiful view if sat outside on a sunny day, need I say more?
To Do
Get on/in the lake - Paddle boarding, boating or wild swimming - take your pick of lake - my fave lake is Ullswater. NB, be sure to research risks of green algae ahead of wild swimming
Kankuu Land Rover Defender green-laning - I’d recommend opting for the ‘Safari package’ - rent an ex military defender for a day of green-laning (instructor free).
Climb Hellvelyn via Striding Edge - Set off from Glenridding early and stop at the Traveller's rest for a cold beer and your lunch on the way down - can't beat it.
To stay
Howtown Hotel - A traditional hotel on the banks of Lake Ullswater, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back a century, no wifi and a letter posted to you as confirmation of booking - you get the idea.
The Punch Bowl Inn - gastro pub with rooms south of Windemere.
Arnside View - ex stately home turned apartments. This 2 double bed holiday let with panoramic views of the Morecambe estuary is about 20 mins from Windermere and 5 min walk from one of the countries best chippies.