When it comes to Michelin starred restaurants, most people automatically equate them with the likes of Tokyo, Paris and New York. But did you know that, with the exception of London, the \ can now lay claim to the highest number of Michelin starred restaurants in the UK? Whilst most of the attention is focused on L’Enclume in Cartmel – which this year became the first ever restaurant outside the capital and the South East to be awarded three Michelin stars – no less than seven other Michelin starred restaurants are together putting the area on the map for more than just spectacular scenery!
Currently creating a particular star amongst foodies is The Forest Side, recently named Best Country Hotel of the Year in the UK by the Good Hotels Guide 2023.
The guide’s inspectors were particularly impressed by head chef Paul Leonard’s efforts to “source 90 per cent of produce from a ten-mile radius, much from the vast kitchen garden, to create his inventive dishes.”
With a growing trophy cabinet that also includes four AA Rosettes, this “restaurant with rooms” offers a series of epic tasting menus that celebrate local produce, be it aged Cumbrian lamb, 30 different types of apples from its own orchard or whatever Paul has foraged from the fellside that day.
One of The Forest Side’s most valued treasures is its extensive and original redbrick walled Victorian garden that grows a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs that are used not just in its menus, but to infuse locally made gin, vodkas, whiskeys and rums.
The result is a truly unforgettable dining experience that continues to entice guests, locally, nationally and internationally.
The Forest Side offers both 4-course and 6-course lunch menus, starting from £55 per person. While the evening offering consists of 4-course and 8-course menus, from £80 per person.
Vegetarian and vegan menus are also available.
Rounding out The Lake District’s magnificent eight are: Old Stamp House, Ambleside; Cottage in the Woods, Braithwaite; Rogan & Co, Cartmel; Askham Hall, Askham; The Dog & Gun, Skelton and Gilpin Hotel, Windermere.
