South Lakeland
Cedar Manor

Cedar Manor

Ambleside Rd, LA23 1AX, South Lakeland, United Kingdom

Steak • British • European • Vegetarian


"This review is strictly on the afternoon tea experience only. The food was absolutely wonderful, the lady who served food and the male staff (presumed the owner) were both very kind and friendly. I felt that the afternoon tea was an absolute treat since there was nothing to fault with, that was only until it was ruined by the rude woman who was driving past in black 4x4 (presumed female host). After we finished the afternoon tea, I decided to let my dog out from our car to let him stretch his legs before we set off, the rude woman mentioned above asked me if I was looking for a public footpath so I answered no. She then started to lecture me about the ‘no dog policy’ in the property as well as pointing a direction to the public footpath I did not ask. She drove further towards the car park and parked there, got out of her, and started to tell me off in the most rude way possible again. I explained that we just had an afternoon tea here and we’re about to leave. She then turned around started to take stuff out of her boot mumbling loud “stupid..blah blah” in the angry tone, which by the way was clear for me to hear even though I was at least a few feet away from her. I was so bewildered and frustrated at how this perfectly lovely experience went down the hill like this si quickly. Hence I took two stars off even though I did enjoy the food here. Whoever that woman was, please make sure that they cannot behave that way to a guest."

Rattle Gill Cafe

Rattle Gill Cafe

2 Bridge Street, LA22 9BS, South Lakeland, United Kingdom

Cafe • Brunch • British • Healthy


"Anywhere that does good cheese is a hit with me. If it also sells good beer, frankly I begin to become emotional. Add delicious cakes and savouries and my happiness is complete. Rattle Ghyll has all of these things, in spades and there is much more that looks wonderful but that I didn't have the chance to try. The cakes really are superb homemade and fresh. I particularly enjoyed the spiced fruit flapjack. There is a good range of bottled local beers (including some dark brews, much to my pleasure). Just because it looked so appetising, I bought a piece of vegetable fritata which was savoury and delicious. I save the cheese until last because it was the best. There is a large selection of local, national and international cheese on offer, all of which looked tempting but I wanted to try local produce. There were half a dozen or so Cumbrian cheeses of which I chose a blue, a soft cheese and a farmhouse cheddar. All of these were wonderful on the sort of level you might expect in an award winning cheese and the soft cheese had me in raptures! I think it was called Crofton. I may be wrong but I think this deli is aimed at the vegetarian and vegan community. Certainly, I saw a lot of produce labelled as suitable for those particular dietary preferences and do not remember seeing any meat. Don't let that put you off if, like me, you are more omnivorous because really good veg or vegan food can compete with more carnivorous options on equal terms and there is nothing wishy washy or compromised about any of the great food on offer here. The staff are very friendly and enthusiastic about their produce. Highly recommended."

Cafe Grand At Grasmere

Cafe Grand At Grasmere

Red Bank Road, LA22 9PU, South Lakeland, United Kingdom

Food • Steak • Lodging • British


"Pros: -The facility is great. The hotel is very new, has air conditioning, and comfortable seating in the common area. The bathrooms and beds were all very comfortable. -The breakfast was of high quality with a lot of variety included in the breakfast package. -The location is perfect. It is a 3-minute walk from the town center, yet far enough away to offer beautiful views and peaceful mornings. Cons: -The establishment seemed to be understaffed or provide poor service. It was unclear whether the service was lacking or if they were simply short-staffed. There was never anyone at the front desk to offer basic tourist information. When we checked in late at 10pm, we found ourselves locked out with no staff visible, even though their email stated that check-in was possible until 12am. We had to call their emergency cell to get someone to the front desk. Additionally, during our first breakfast, we were questioned multiple times about our stay and room information. It seemed that the restaurant used to be open to the public, which is no longer the case. However, I did not see them questioning other guests as much as they did to us. We were the only non-white guests that I saw, which may have been a factor. However, the next morning, they recognized us and we had no further issues with the service. -There is no elevator. It is questionable to label yourself as "luxury" when guests are placed on the third floor and have to carry their luggage up two flights of very narrow, winding stairs. They did assist my elderly aunt, but did not offer help to the rest of us. Overall, it was an average experience. I enjoyed the rooms and the location, but I believe I could find better service and experience elsewhere. There are many charming inns in the area, so I would recommend choosing another option."