There’s no shortage of fantastic cafes in the Lake District. With so many options, it can be hard to pick one!
Whether you’re looking for a cosy cafe to have a cup of coffee and a slice of cake, or somewhere you can enjoy a lazy lunch after a day around the lakes, we’ve got you covered.
Here are eight of the best Lake District cafes.
If you’re looking for a place to unwind with a perfect cup of artisan coffee and slice of cake, then you must visit the Copper Pot in Ambleside. This little gem has garnered a reputation for being one of the best cafes in the Lake District, and once you pay them a visit, you’ll see why!
Inside this cosy cafe, you’ll find an array of sweet treats including homemade cakes and waffles, hearty breakfasts and hot ciabatta sandwiches.
The relaxed vibe and great music make it a perfect stop after a day exploring the fells. Whether you choose to enjoy your coffee inside, or outside in the peaceful garden area, the Copper Pot feels like a home away from home.
Lingholm Kitchen & Walled Gardens, is one of the best and most well-known cafes for afternoon tea in the Lake District, and rightly so.
What makes this Cumbrian cafe so special is the 100 ft-long glass wall that looks out onto the walled garden. This garden was the inspiration for Mr. McGregor’s garden in the Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter!
The cafe serves an array of delicious breakfast and lunch dishes using the best seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. If you really want to treat yourself, we highly recommend the afternoon high tea as you enjoy the view of the Lake District.
The combination of delicious food, rich history, and tranquil atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination for food lovers, book readers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Residing on the outskirts of Windermere village, HomeGround is one of the best cafes in the Lake District. Here you’ll be treated to exceptional coffee, delicious cakes and pastries, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The menu features creative dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, think Lamb Fat Toast, with Cannellini Beans, Charred Baby Gem, Pesto and Sourdough, and Asparagus Benedict with Herb Oil.
If you have more of a sweet tooth, you’ll find dishes like American Style Pancakes with Sea Buckthorn Curd, Banana Bread with Espresso Ganache and a wide selection of cakes and pastries to satisfy your cravings. No wonder it’s the go-to cafe for food and coffee lovers after a day at the lakes.
If you’re looking for a cafe with a bit of a twist, then Mathilde’s Cafe should be at the top of your list. Located in an art gallery and named after artist Alfred Heaton Cooper’s wife, this Lake District cafe offers a unique Scandinavian-inspired experience and a great Lake District Instagram spot.
Mathilde’s is a well-known cafe in the Lake District for its art-deco interior and menu influenced by Mathilde’s Nordic roots. Dishes like Pain Perdu with Poached Rhubarb and Almond Praline, Meatballs with Mash and Lingonberry Compote, or Chicken Schnitzel offer a true taste of what Scandanavia has to offer.
Or if you fancy a sweet treat to pair with your coffee, Mathilde’s has a selection of fresh Scandinavian inspired cakes, all made in-house. What could be better?
Apple Pie Cafe & Bakery has been the heart and soul of Ambleside since 1975. Today, this charming Ambleside cafe in the Lake District remains a firm favourite for locals and visitors alike.
As you would expect from the name, this cafe is famous for its signature apple pies. These pies are made using the finest British Bramley apples and encased in melt in the mouth short crust pastry, which has been perfected over many years.
On the menu, you’ll also find freshly baked cakes, pastries, and sandwiches to enjoy after a walk around the Lakes. These tasty treats should be enjoyed with a warming cup of coffee made using locally sourced coffee beans.
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While Graze is one of the smallest independent coffee shops in Bowness-on-Windermere and the Lake District, it has gained a massive following of customers. Run by a two-man team, Graze serves delicious Japanese inspired plates.
After you’ve spent the morning walking along the lakeside, you can kick your feet up and tuck into a bowl of Udon Noodle soup, Japanese Curry or even a Salmon Teriyaki Bowl.
If you’re looking for a quick bite, opt for a Mochi Ice Cream or Pecan Caramel Shortbread, which should be enjoyed with a matcha green tea or freshly brewed coffee.
So, if you fancy something a little different, Graze is definitely one of the best cafes in the Lake District which we’d recommend visiting.
Skye Farm Tearoom is the perfect place to start or end your day exploring the hamlet of Buttermere. At Syke you can relax in the seating area and take in the surrounding views with a cup of coffee and slice of cake or freshly baked scone.
Syke also makes hearty soups, toasties and classic pies served with mash and gravy. Friendly service and generous portions make Skye Farm Tearoom well worth a visit.
A day out in Grasmere wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Lucia’s Coffee + Bakehouse. Residing in the centre of Grasmere, it’s known for its warm atmosphere, expertly brewed coffee and homemade bakes.
While at Lucia’s you’ll be spoilt for choice, with a selection of freshly baked cakes, pasties, sausage rolls, cinnamon rolls and brownies.
One of the highlights are the focaccia sandwiches made in house with a variety of delicious fillings. The bacon and egg breakfast focaccia is our personal favourite.
With its commitment to quality and a welcoming feel, it’s no surprise why Lucia’s has become such a popular hot spot and makes it on to our list of best cafes in the Lake District.
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A stop at any of these Lake District cafes will be a highlight of your day, but your foodie adventures don’t have to stop here. There are plenty of exquisite restaurants in the surrounding areas as well as local pubs that will make your stay in one of our luxury holiday cottages in the Lake District one to remember. So, why not plan your foodie adventure today?
