‘Medieval’ Cumbrian spot among best towns for food and drink

The Lake District and beyond has time and time again proven that you don’t need a city to boast rich eateries bursting with flavour.

Not only is it a haven for hearty staples, but it is also home to Michelin excellence.

In fact, restaurants in small towns and medieval villages also wowed Which? readers.

More than 9,000 Which? members rated their favourite inland towns and villages for food and drink – and one in Cumbria made the list.

Visiting Cartmel Village in Cumbria is a dreamlike experience. #Bliss pic.twitter.com/DVHv3UigHi

— Dr Nicola Bell (@NickelCarbon) July 19, 2024

Cartmel

Which? said: “The medieval village of Cartmel, just outside the Lake District, has a population of fewer than 5,000 people but is famous for two culinary legends.

“The first is the restaurant L’Enclume, which celebrated its 20th anniversary with a third Michelin star two years ago and maintains its star in 2025.

“Chef Simon Rogan’s farm-to-fork philosophy has been hugely influential on British cuisine. His 20-course tasting menu (£265) is considered by many critics to be one of the UK’s best. 

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“A simpler take on his foraging-based menu (five courses, including canapes and dessert) is available at the nearby Rogan & Co for £95.

“The other culinary legend in Cartmel is sticky toffee pudding. The version that the Village Shop on the main square created more than 20 years ago helped popularise what is now one of the UK’s most ubiquitous desserts.

“They still sell it today, from £3.35 for a small portion. ”