Haweswater Hotel

In the heart of the Lake District sits this quirky little restaurant, which occupies the cellars of an old house where William Wordsworth used to work as the Distributor of Stamps for Westmorland. It's now owned by brothers Ryan and Craig Blackburn. The former is in the kitchen, crafting the ‘A Journey Around Cumbria’ tasting menu that showcases his passion for exceptional local produce. The skilfully prepared dishes have been well conceived and carefully balance bold and delicate flavours; each one has a story – sometimes historic, sometimes personal.

The full-length windows in the striking slate and glass extension of this Lakeland country house provide spectacular views of Lake Windermere and the surrounding countryside. This local area provides much of the produce on the tasting menu, with some coming from the hotel's own greenhouse and gardens. The skill of the chefs is evident in their technical mastery and fine balancing of flavours; well-seasoned monkfish ballotine is a prime example, expertly cooked sous vide and accompanied by a beautifully subtle carrot and saffron sauce.

An engaging team welcome you to this substantial Lakeland mansion; start with drinks in the lounge and take in views over the surrounding fells. The room has a rustic feel and a glass-topped table crafted from a wind-blown tree takes centre stage. Ingredient provenance plays a major role, with produce often coming from their Victorian kitchen garden or local suppliers, as well as being foraged by the team. Skilfully prepared, creative dishes are full of vibrant colours, textural contrasts and sublime flavours, such as scallop with homemade tabasco and Worcestershire sauce.

A delightful operation from the team behind The Old Stamp House and situated directly above it, this deservedly busy restaurant is named after a local fish found in only four nearby lakes. It’s indicative of the distinctly Lakeland feel to the menu, which is epitomised by the likes of lip-smacking Herdwick hogget shoulder, plus a dish of ‘mushrooms found around the woods in Ambleside’. Sit at the counter to see the chefs or by the window to people-watch the tourists passing by. Desserts such as sticky toffee madeleines cooked to order ensure you’ll leave on a sugary high.

This immaculately kept bistro is set in the heart of a pretty Lake District village and its name is a reference to the year the property was first built as the local blacksmith’s. The menus, including tasting options, focus on well-executed, modern British dishes with clean, distinct flavours. Top-quality produce from around Cumbria is the bedrock, be it lamb, beef featherblade or Cartmel Valley venison. Welcoming, genuine service and seven comfortable bedrooms further add to the appeal.

In an understandably popular part of the picturesque Lake District, the Rothay Manor country house hotel stands proud with its Regency-era grandeur and stylish modern additions. Rowan is its restaurant, occupying an elegant dining room that features original shutters and cornicing alongside bold William Morris wallpaper and striking chandeliers. The concise à la carte is full of seasonal goodness, all executed with skill and care. Look out for bright, fresh fish dishes like roast cod with 'nduja, gremolata, broad beans and shrimp.

This picture-postcard pub sits in the heart of the beautiful Lakeland countryside and must be one of the most desirable in the region. Inside, the extended inn is overflowing with charm and character, especially in the buzzing bar. The generous cooking includes the likes of celeriac and hazelnut Kiev or venison loin and pie with beetroot fondant, and they can be paired with ales brewed on-site. Relaxed, chatty service enhances the experience, as do the boutique bedrooms, some of which boast terraces with stunning fell views.