Nestled in the heart of the Lake District, Lake Ullswater and its surrounding area offer a plethora of dining options to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re seeking a relaxed meal after a day of exploring the fells or a fine dining experience for a special occasion, this region has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some fantastic places to eat around Lake Ullswater.
Traditional Village Pubs around Ullswater
The area is dotted with charming village pubs that pride themselves on serving hearty meals made with locally sourced ingredients. These establishments provide a cosy atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of hiking or sightseeing.
The Sun Inn, Pooley Bridge – Serves fantastic food and award winning ales, with a cosy fireplace, large beer garden and children’s play area. The Sun Inn is family-friendly, with dog-friendly areas and one of the most cheery, places to eat in The Lakes.
The Pooley Bridge Inn, Pooley Bridge – Is a spacious, traditional bar featuring open fires, free wifi and a relaxing ambiance which welcomes both dogs and children.
The Crown Inn, Pooley Bridge – Talented chefs pair posh pub classics with crafted seasonal specials, whilst using the best local produce. Whether choosing to dine in the cosy pub with a real log fire, or the restaurant with views out to the lakes or even the terrace on the river bank, you can feel comfortable knowing there is something for everyone’s taste buds.
Brackenrigg Inn, Watermillock – Hiking boots, dogs and a well earned appetite are positively encouraged whilst enjoying local food and drink served in front of roaring fires with views over Lake Ullswater.

The White Lion Inn, Patterdale – A pub steeped in history serving hearty bar meals and local ales.
The Queens Head Inn, Tirrill – Whether you want a quick snack after a days sightseeing, a hearty meal to refuel after a days walking or a quiet meal for two on a special occasion, there is something on the menu for everyone.
Horse and Farrier, Dacre – Whether you are looking for a light bite, sandwich or 3 course meal all washed down with local real ales and lagers that change on a regular basis, there is plenty of choice.
Herdwick Inn, Penruddock – A traditional 17th century inn serving homemade food and local ales in a welcoming environment.
Troutbeck Inn, Troutbeck – A traditional inn serving hearty home cooked meals with locally sourced ingredients.
Fine Dining around Ullswater
For those looking to celebrate a special occasion, the region boasts several fine dining restaurants where you can indulge in exquisite cuisine.
Rampsbeck Restaurant, Watermillock – There 3 course menu is inspired by the region’s produce with dishes that showcase heritage ingredients and flavours that occur naturally within the landscape.
Inn on the Lake, Glenridding – Fine dining with breathtaking views over Lake Ullswater, perfect for any special occasion.

George and Dragon, Clifton – With a field-to-fork approach this restaurant is award winning, when produce can not be provided from their own gardens it is sourced locally.
The Dog and Gun, Skelton – with a Michelin star this really is a culinary delight, need we say more!
Lite Bites around Lake Ullswater
Perfect for a Quick Refuel, there are several delightful cafes and eateries to choose from if you’re looking for a lighter meal or a quick snack before heading out on the fells.
Granny Dowbekins, Pooley Bridge – Snacks, lite bites and pub favourites are on the menu including gluten and vegan free options in a delightful setting on the banks of the river.
Aira Force Tea Rooms – A short stroll from the main Aira Force car park is the tea-room, which gives visitors the choice of eating indoors, on the terrace or taking away. Pop in to enjoy hot and cold drinks, home bakes, sandwiches, hot pasties and ice creams.
Fellbites Cafe, Glenridding – Within walking distance of the steamers, shops and the start or finish of many walks. Perfect if your wanting a snack before a walk or some lunch after, this is the place to go.
Lakeside Tea Room, Patterdale – As the name suggests this tea room is perched on the lake, a great stop off once an appetite has been worked up.

In summary, the area around Lake Ullswater is a culinary treasure, boasting an array of dining options that cater to every taste and budget. From relaxed village pubs serving hearty meals to elegant fine dining establishments and charming cafés, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re enjoying a cosy meal after a day of exploring or celebrating a special occasion, you’re sure to find the perfect dining experience to complement your visit to this stunning part of the Lake District. Bon appétit!












