The Best Restaurants with Outdoor Seating in the Lake District

Alright, let’s set the scene. You’re in the Lake District. The air is fresh, the views are like something straight out of a painting, and you’re thinking, "You know what this moment needs? A proper meal outdoors, with some top-tier food and maybe a cheeky glass of something cold." Well, lucky for you, I’ve done the legwork and found the best spots where you can sit, eat, and soak it all in.

1. Easy Breeze, Bowness-on-Windermere

Kicking things off with a banger- The Easy Breeze in Bowness. The name says it all, really. We’ve got that laid-back, effortless charm, a cracking (new) menu, and a terrace that’s perfect for people-watching and soaking in the sun. Whether you’re smashing a hearty lunch before a day of exploring or settling in for a lazy afternoon with a pizza and a cocktail, this place is a winner.

2. The Drunken Duck Inn, Ambleside

With a name like that, how could you not be intrigued? This legendary pub, perched in the hills above Ambleside, serves up fantastic gastropub dishes with an ever-changing seasonal menu. Sit outside with a cold pint of their own brewery’s beer, stare out at the rolling fells, and wonder if life gets any better than this. Spoiler: It doesn’t.

3. The Jetty, Windermere

Listen, if you’re in Windermere and you don’t at least consider eating by the water, what are you even doing? The Jetty is the spot for lakeside dining, serving up fresh seafood, local produce, and some seriously Instagram-worthy views. Grab a seat on the terrace, order the catch of the day, and pretend you’re in some sort of luxury travel advert.

4. Homeground Coffee + Kitchen, Windermere

Sometimes, all you want is a top-tier brunch in the sunshine, and that’s where Homeground comes in. This place is a local favourite for a reason- phenomenal coffee, unreal pancakes, and eggs done every which way. The outdoor seating is perfect for a sunny morning, and if you don’t order at least one baked good on the side, I simply don’t know how to help you.

5. Lingholm Kitchen & Walled Garden, Keswick

Now, this is a bit of a hidden gem. Tucked away on the Lingholm Estate (which, by the way, inspired Beatrix Potter’s Peter Rabbit- fancy), this place serves up incredible homemade cakes, proper afternoon teas, and farm-fresh dishes. Sit in the garden, surrounded by flowers, and feel like you’re in a fairytale. Except instead of talking rabbits, you’ve got a very real, very delicious slice of cake in front of you.

Final Thoughts

Look, you don’t need me to tell you that the Lake District is one of the most beautiful places on Earth. But if you’re going to do it properly, you’ve got to eat well, drink well, and- most importantly- sit outside and soak up the views. Whether you’re lakeside, countryside, or tucked away in a charming little courtyard, these spots are guaranteed to serve up the good stuff. Now, grab your sunnies, get yourself to one of these beauties, and thank me later. Cheers!