Best Restaurants, Must Try Places in Dean

"During lockdown, The Square Orange underwent a refurbishment and despite social distancing measures in place it hasn't lost its heart and soul. The “Squorange" is an unexpected gem found nestled in the heart of Keswick. With a full bar of guest wines from family run vineyards, local microbreweries alongside Belgian and German beers, it also has coffee blends from Cumbrian roasteries as well as flavours sourced from further afield such as from India and South America."

"This lively cafe-bar seems to have become everyone's favourite hangout in Keswick – thanks no doubt to its superb thin-based pizzas, excellent wine and craft beer selection and a regular programme of live gigs.... Top ChoiceCafe in Keswick"

"For vegetarian dining in Ambleside, look no further than Zeffirelis and Fellinis (even enthusiastic meat eaters will find something to enjoy here!). Offering a contemporary, award winning dining experience, these two friendly restaurants are local institutions. Zeffirelis focuses on Italian cuisine, with pasta and home baked pizzas on the menu; while Fellinis offers more of a fine dining experience, with creative vegetarian dishes inspired by the flavours of the Mediterranean."

"Don’t be put off by being vegetarian- all menu choices are yummy!. Rainforest pizza is a favourite 😋. 01/06/2021: Amazing vegetarian restaurant, but you need to book early."

"This on-trend cafe specialises in fell pots; a Lakeland-style Buddha bowl, incorporating an all-in-one meal such as sweet potato and curry, smoked macaroni and peas or braised chilli beef – all freshly made and flavour-packed. Flatbreads and baguettes are offered, too, for lunch to go. The food here is zingy and imaginative and it’s also open three nights a week for dinner."

"Located in the heart of Lake District, The Apple Pie is an independent, family run, cafe and bakery serving fresh and quality products everyday to regular visitors, passing tourists and loyal locals. Dog friendly in certain areas of the cafe. Email: info@applepieambleside.co.uk"

"Probably the best option in Keswick for a sit-down dinner, Morrel's is an attractive restaurant majoring in British bistro-style food. Glossy wood, spotlights and glass give it a refined feel."

"This classic café-style restaurant is an independent bistro that serves fresh homemade British cuisine in a friendly environment. Resting right in the town centre, this is perfect for a spot of lunch after a day at the lakes and exploring Cumbria. Thyme Bistro is ideal for families and friends looking for a quick bite to eat or a delicious cake and coffee."

"Merienda has cafes and restaurants in both Keswick and Cockermouth. The food is best described as international café fare, using seasonal ingredients drawing influences from around the world. It aims to have a simple but eclectic evening menu and offers a great selection of wine and beer."

"For a stay entrenched in the literary history of the area, look no further than Lindeth Howe, which was formerly owned by Beatrix Potter. It’s safe to say the house likely played a strong role in her ever-popular children’s books, which were often influenced by her own experiences and love for country life. Rooms harness the hotel’s storybook heritage with plaid fabrics, vaulted wooden ceilings and earthy tones."

"Once owned by children's author Beatrix Potter, Lindeth Howe country house hotel is set in beautiful large gardens, just a 5-minute walk from the banks of Lake Windermere. Locally sourced produce is served on the seasonal English menu in the 2 AA Rosette-awarded Lindeth Howe Restaurant. Homemade cakes and scones are also served in the Lindeth Howe Restaurant with fresh tea or coffee."

"On the eastern shore of Coniston Water, Brantwood was the cherished home of John Ruskin (1819–1900), the noted Victorian artist, writer,…"

"Sitting above Stock Beck next to Rydal Road, Bridge House may be the whole region’s most photographed landmark. Like all of Ambleside this adorable, narrow dwelling is constructed from local slate and has been owned by the National Trust for nearly a century after it was bought and donated by a group of local residents. The Bridge House dates from the 17th century, when it was used as an orchard storehouse, and has since been a mill counting house, chair-maker’s workshop, cobbler’s shop, tearoom and a family home packed with as many as eight people."

"It is located right on the shores of Windermere, offering a range of activities. The traditional restaurant allows guests to eat any time of day while admiring views of the lake. There is a swimming pool, sauna, steam room and full fitness studio."

"Afternoon Tea at Low Wood Bay is a quintessentially traditional experience. Served within the delightful surrounds of either The Windermere Restaurant or Buckley room."

"With a picturesque location in Ambleside, Ambleside Salutation Hotel & Spa, BW Premier Collection features a modern spaand a brasserie. There is free parking and spacious rooms with free WiFi and scenic views towards Wansfell. Ambleside Salutation Hotel & Spa is set in a 17th-century building, and has a leisure club with a swimming pool, sauna, spa bath and steam room."

"On the shores of Lake Windermere, Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spahas an award-winning restaurant, a beauty spa and scenic views. Windermere centre is a 20-minute walk away. With 2 AA Rosettes, the restaurant serves a modern menu featuring quality local produce and organic ingredients."

"This is a quirky friendly place for a homemade scone, cake, or soup. Everyone’s welcome again I’ve popped in here for a coffee after a day’s walking with muddy boots, woofs in tow, and felt right at home. Definitely worth a visit if your passing it’s a lovely atmosphere and everyone’s friendly and welcoming."

"Owned by the same people as Ambleside Manor, Fellinis offers vegetarian fine dining with a modern twist. Expect decadent risotto, comforting pastry dishes and some classic puddings that have been veganised. We didn’t actually manage to eat here but we’ll definitely be back to try it, as everyone I’ve spoken to has given it rave reviews."

"11/06/2021: Not quite as much choice on this menu but still delicious food. There was a bit of a wait to be expected due to how busy it was but we had a great night and staff were nice. 07/06/2021: Top quality food and service."

"Kat's Kitchen is a delightful vegan cafe, serving homemade meals, including English breakfast and sandwiches with a wonderful selection of gluten free cakes on offer. It offers plant milk options too for hot drinks and milkshakes whilst also keeping dairy milk as an option. Offering brunch and lunch all year around, the kitchen offers early dinner during the busier months and introduced afternoon tea in 2020."