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CARTMEL

The medieval Cumbrian village of Cartmel is close to the River Eea just over two miles northwest of Grange-over-Sands.

Despite its size, Cartmel has been put on the map by a brace of landmarks. Most famed is the 12th century priory which is found at the heart of the village. Cartmel Priory was built by Augustinian Canons between 1190 and 1220 and while a large part of it was destroyed at the Dissolution of the Monasteries, it remains as the village’s local parish church. 

Accessed from the village square is the Cartmel Priory Gatehouse which is now a Heritage centre. 

Also on the market square is Cartmel village shop, renowned for its award winning sticky toffee pudding. There is one main street which runs through the centre and smaller narrow streets link the village together winding between ancient buildings.  

Cartmel racecourse lies to one end of the village and plays host to popular steeplechase meetings which attract race goers from across the country. It is one of the smallest racecourses in Britain. 

Nearby Holker Hall hosts the Holker Garden Festival annually on spring bank holiday.

Things to do in Cartmel…

The Medieval village of Cartmel is nestled on the southern edge of the Lake District. The village is a hidden gem of fine dining, retail therapy, beautiful scenery and unique architecture, which is often busy with tourists during spring and summer time. Here’s a list of things to do on your visit to Cartmel…

  • Cartmel Priory

Cartmel Priory is the parish church of Cartmel and was built by Augustinian canons between 1190 and 1220. Unfortunately, a lot of the priory was lost during the Dissolution of the Monasteries between 1536 and 1541, however the priory church building survived through efforts of parishioners.  Internally, it displays a combination of styles including Renaissance screens and choir stalls. The church holds many historic treasures including the organ, which dates back to 1867, and the church bells, which originate from as early as 1661. 

The priory Gatehouse is also an exceptional surviving piece of history dating back to the time of original priory in 1330 and has many uses throughout the years including a prison and a school.

  • Cartmel Racecourse

Horse racing fans travel from near and far to enjoy a memorable day out at Cartmel Races. The racecourse dates back to the 19th century and now hosts popular meeting two to three times a year, with its most popular meeting taking place in Whit Week. Although the racecourse is one of the smallest in the country, it often has the third-highest attendance of any tracks in Britain, following on from Aintree and Cheltenham, with visitors often peaking at 20,000 in one day. The most popular racehorse at Cartmel is Soul Magic, who has won over seven times at the track!

  • Holker Hall & Gardens

Holker Hall & Gardens is the elegant family home of Lord and Lady Cavendish, whose family have owned the hall for over 400 years. The hall is one of the finest houses in South Lakeland and boasts Victorian architecture, which was added to the house following a fire in 1871. The house is open to visitors to explore with no restrictions, with exceptionally interesting rooms in the house including the library, the drawing room and the dining room, which are filled with fine displays of antique furniture and art. Once you’ve toured the house, explore the halls award winning gardens which were voted ‘amongst the best in the world’ by the Good Gardens Guide. The 25-acre grounds showcase woodland gardens with majestic water features including the limestone cascade. The gardens were a favourite spot of famous historic Lakeland landscaper Thomas Mawson due to the grounds rare conifers and rhododendrons.  Relax after a day exploring in the food hall, Courtyard Café or the Ilex Brassiere. There is also a small children’s playground and picnic tables in the grounds.

 Six Walks to do from Cartmel…

Cartmel is one of Cumbria’s most picture perfect villages, set on the Cartmel Peninsular surrounded by rolling hills ,making this area popular amongst hikers looking for pretty, tranquil hikes….

  • Hampsfell 

Distance: 3km Time: 2 hours Difficulty: Medium

Starting from Grange Fell Road between Cartmel and Grange-over-Sands, explore the grassy slopes of Fell End and Hampsfell, which provide stunning views over Morcambe Bay and towards the Lakeland fells. The summit of Hampsfell is unique and surrounded by areas of limestone pavement alongside ‘Hampsfell Hospice’; a large stone structure built in 1846 to provide shelter for travellers. The interior provided stone seats and a little fireplace! Steps lead up the north wall to the top of the shelter providing a viewing platform to best see the surrounding countryside. There is a board and alidade on the rooftop so you can confirm what hills you can see.

  • Eggerslack Wood

Distance: 5.6km Time: 2 hours Difficulty: Easy (from Cartmel)

Situated on the edge of Grange, Eggerslack Wood is a tranquil place with lots of native trees and wildlife.  The maze-like woodland footpaths weave through beautiful scenery and can be accessed from Cartmel, Grange-over- Sands or from the parking area on Hampsfell Road. You can explore as much or little of the ancient woodland as you like, with plenty of picnic spots.

  • Holker Hall 

Distance: 3km Time: 2 hours Difficulty: Easy

From Cartmel village, take a small, 2-mile stroll over to Holker Hall where there is a selection of garden routes to discover known as ‘The Cavendish, Burlington & Lady Moyra Walks.’  The Cavendish Walk, as far as the Sunken Garden is suitable for wheelchairs and prams. However, the other routes include narrow paths and stiles. The Burlington Walk is an hour-long route exploring the grounds and The Lady Moyra Walk takes around 30 minutes. A hike around the entire gardens can take up to 2 hours and explores the Holker Labyrinth, the Cascade and marble statues all surrounded by an extensive range of shrubs, rare flowers and oak trees.

  • Grange-over-Sands and Cartmel Circular 

Distance: 23km Time: 4-5 hours Difficulty: Medium

For a long hike taking in all the area has to offer, the Grange-over-Sands and Cartmel Circular is an ideal, all day walk making use of the Cumbria Coastal Way and Cistercian Way. The walk starts at Grange-over-Sands promenade, which offers fabulous views towards Arnside Knott, Silverdale and the Lakeland fells. From the promenade, you pass through the pretty ornamental gardens, climbing towards Cartmel passing Eggerslack Wood and Hampsfell. Use this hike to explore all Cartmel village has to offer including the River Eea. From Cartmel, you can choose to explore the countryside to Cark.

  • Fell Foot Park garden walk

Distance: 2.6km Time: 1 hour Difficulty: Easy

Fell Foot Park sits at the tail of Windermere Lake around 15 minutes away from Cartmel. The park has a beautiful, circular heritage and garden walk exploring the 18th century grounds complete with a Pinetum garden and native flower meadows. The parks garden footpaths can be accessed from the Boathouse Café where you can learn about Fell Foot’s Victorian history and Colonel Ridehalgh (the wealthy Victorian owner of the park) before heading off to the Active Base.  The woodland paths explore the hay meadow, taking in views towards the Swan Hotel and the gothic boathouse on the lake. There are also two children’s play areas nestled in the park for a play stop!

  • Morecambe Bay Cross Bay Walk

Distance: between 9.7km to 12.9km Time: 4-5 hours Difficulty: Medium

The Cross Bay Walk is a historical hiking route that crosses Morecambe Bay. It traditionally connects Hest Bank, Lancashire with Kents Bank, Cumbria. The exact route usually varies due to tidal conditions and shifting sands but generally begins at the nearby Arnside Promenade and finishes at Kent’s Bank. The route can be extended to hike from Kent’s Bank back to Cartmel, which adds around an hour onto the day. The majority of the walk heads over the sand, which may involve walking through channels of water, so be prepared to get wet! The Cross Bay walk is a popular fundraising hike, but can be enjoyed as a personal, beautiful coastal hike too!

 Best Wild Swim Spots in Cartmel

Cartmel village is within close proximity of popular wild swimming spots including coastal swims and lake dips…

  • Morecambe Bay- North Beach

Less than an hour away from Cartmel, Morecambe Beach and Bay is a popular wild swimming spot amongst open water swimmers who love a coastal dip! The Lancashire open-water swimming group M.A.L.L.O.W.S often swim in Morecambe Bay and have over 2000 members. The sandy shores are soft on your feet before entering the warmer waters of the Irish Sea. Morecambe Bay is the 2nd largest tidal bay in Britain and has its own micro-climate making it warmer than most sea swims! Make sure to research the tides and conditions before swimming here, there are often strong currents, rip tides here and there is no lifeguard patrol on the beach.

  • Windermere Lake

The longest natural lake in England, Windermere has plenty of space to enjoy a large, open water swim. The lake has many access points and jetties along it’s shores with the closest to Cartmel being Lakeside around 15 minutes drive from the village. The ribbon lake has 19 islands you can take a swim too, although Belle Island is private. It is advisable to stick to the west bank of the lake when swimming to avoid the boats, which are usually busy on the east side. Swimming with a colourful tow float is advisable in Windermere due to the amount of boat activity on the lake. The lake is also accessible from Fell Foot Park, with open water swimming group SleekerSwim operating from Fell Foot providing swimming techniques and open water courses since 2005.

  • Coniston Water

Less than an hour away from Cartmel, Coniston Water sits below the craggy tops of the Old Man of Coniston, providing an impressive swim spot with a mountain backdrop. Coniston Water is a stunning five-mile long lake with plenty of space for a scenic open water swim amongst fell-sides and forests. There are a number of access points and jetties along the pebbled shoreline making this an easily accessible lake for a dip. Peel Island sits on the water around 100m away and is a great destination to head for and explore. Coniston Water is a popular spot for boat trips and water sports so make sure you keep an eye out and don’t get to close to the Coniston Launch or Steam Yacht. Wearing a colourful tow float is advisable on busy lakes.

What makes Cartmel famous?

Cartmel is a unique, medieval village filled with history, landmarks and famous attractions including Cartmel Racecourse. The picture perfect town is most famously known for being home to the world famous Sticky Toffee Pudding, amongst more local treasures.

  • Cartmel Priory

The villages famous ancient Cartmel Priory has been a place of Christian worship for over 800 years. The first historic reference to the village was found in 677 AD when King Ecgfrith of Northumbria conquered the area. He gifted the area and its residence to St Cuthbert, which lead to the founding of the Priory, which was built by Augustinian canons between 1190 and 1220. Unfortunately, a lot of the priory was lost during the Dissolution of the Monasteries between 1536 and 1541, however the priory church building survived through efforts of parishioners.  Internally, it displays a combination of styles including Renaissance screens and choir stalls. The church holds many historic treasures including the organ, which dates back to 1867, and the church bells, which originate from as early as 1661. The priory Gatehouse is also an exceptional surviving piece of history dating back to the time of original priory in 1330 and has many uses throughout the years including a prison and a school.

  • Cartmel Village Shop: the home of the Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding

Sweet toothed visitors will know Cartmel well due to their world famous Sticky Toffee Pudding which has been baked inside Cartmel Village Shop for over 30 years. Word got out about the village’s delectable toffee sauced pudding and soon enough, everyone in the country wanted a taste! No matter how busy the shop is, the pudding is still handmade from natural ingredients, the way it has been for over three decades and is available to buy straight from the kitchen at the village shop. If you crave the tasty dessert but don’t have access to Cartmel, the shop sells their product to independent fine food stores including Booths, Selfridges, Waitrose, Harvey Nichols and Fortnum and Mason.

  • Horse Racing

The tradition of racing at Cartmel began with the monks from Cartmel Priory in the 12th century when they entertained themselves by organising mule races. Early meetings at Cartmel Racecourse were on the flat but by the start of the 20th century has switched to jumps. The Whit Holiday Races have been a fixture in the village since 1856 and attracted locals who mainly consisted of farmers who enjoyed hunting. Today, there are typically nine days of racing each year at Cartmel Racecourse with a selection of local food stalls, picnic areas and family entertainment. Food stalls serve the areas famous Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding, which you can enjoy whilst watching the horses tackle the jumps!

  • L’Enclume Restaurant

In 2002, chef Simon Rogan opened the fine dining L’Enclume Restaurant in Cartmel. The restaurant grew in popularity and quickly became of the UK’s favourite diners holding the top spot as the UK’s best restaurant in The Good Food Guide from 2014-2017 and again in 2020. It has recently become the first restaurant in the UK outside of London to gain 3 Michelin stars. The chef makes use of the agricultural culture in Cartmel, with most of the supplies and ingredients used in the restaurant originating from the peninsula from his 12-acre farm.

 Hidden gems to find in Cartmel

Cartmel village was once described by presenter Chris Evans as ‘a thimble full of diamonds.’ This quote perfectly describes the picture perfect village, which may be small, but is filled with treasures…

  • The River Eea

The River Eea is a small river running through the Furness region with numerous small becks and streams appearing through Cartmel village. Seek out the quaint stone bridges crossing the river and find some pretty riverside spots for a picnic or idyllic walk…

  • Friesian Horse rides at Greenbank Farm

Enjoy a romantic horse and carriage ride around Cartmel from Black Horse, who specialise in breeding Friesian horses. The horses are based at Greenbank Farm, hidden away above the village in Cartmel Valley. The farm has over 75 acres of land where the Friesian horses graze and acts as a sanctuary for these beautiful animals.  Experienced riders can take the black beauties on a hack around the country lanes and groom the horses. A unique experience all round, a ticket here can involve an overnight stay where you sleep in a barn right beside your horse! The farm featured on Jack Whitehall’s Netflix series ‘Travels with my Father’ in which he described the farm as ‘the ultimate equine experience.’

  • Lakeland Miniature Village

Not far from Cartmel in Grange-over-Sands, the quirky Lakeland Miniature Village is a little gem containing over 100 tiny Lake District landmarks including Bridge House, Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top, Yew Tree Farm and many more local castles, churches and farms. The miniature village is the creation of retired builder Edward Robinson who created the mini attraction in his garden as a form of therapy for his ME condition. Each little replica in the garden has been lovingly created by Edward using locally sourced slate and is open to the public to explore.

Things to do in Cartmel on a rainy day…

The Lake District is renowned for its wet weather, with rainy days often being the norm! Although we encourage you not to let the rain put you off, here are some indoor attractions in and around Cartmel for the days when heavy rain is really spoiling your outdoor plans…

  • Cartmel Priory

Watch the rain fall from inside Cartmel Priory’s stunning Victorian stained glass windows. Exploring the priory’s interior is a perfect rainy day activity and great opportunity to soak up some history amongst fascinating architecture, colourful stained glass and ancient furnishings.  The church originates from between 1190 and 1220 and holds many historic treasures including the organ, which dates back to 1867, and the church bells, which originate from as early as 1661.

  • Holker Hall

Holker Hall is the elegant family home of Lord and Lady Cavendish, whose family have owned the hall for over 400 years. The hall is one of the finest houses in South Lakeland and boasts Victorian architecture, which was added to the house following a fire in 1871. The house is open to visitors to explore with no restrictions, with exceptionally interesting rooms in the house including the library, the drawing room and the dining room, which are filled with fine displays of antique furniture and art.

  • Lakes Aquarium

Situated at Lakeside on the southern end of lake Windermere around 15 minutes away from Cartmel, the Lakes Aquarium is an indoor centre ideal for exploring wildlife and water whilst staying dry!  The aquarium is home to hundreds of different wildlife both local and exotic including species of fish such as Pike, Arctic Charr, Clownfish and Piranhas, mammals including otters and mice, and reptiles such as frogs and axolotl. Colourful groups of fish can be observed swimming over your head by walking through the aquariums glass tunnel; other interesting displays include a high waterfall plunging into a stream of salmon.

 Top Family Friendly things to do in Cartmel

The Lake District is a great place for families and children, and Cartmel is no exception. From coast trips, to little hikes and garden visits, here are some of the best things to do in Cartmel as a family…

  • Camping

Cartmel offers a small selection of nearby family friendly campsites with plenty of space for kids to enjoy ball games and a night under the stars…

  • Cartmel Camping Pod 

£140 for 2 nights for 2 adults and 2 children

 Located around 15 minute walk away from Cartmel village, the Cartmel Camping Pod is a medium sized lodge sleeping up to four people making it ideal for small families. The cosy glamping pod is perfect for kids who like luxury camping, complete with a warm log burner, shower, toilet and even a TV!

  • High Fellgate 

Caravan/motorhome £20 per night, tent pitch £15 per night

Situated between Cartmel and Grange-over-Sands on the tranquil seaside shore of Morecambe Bay, High Fell Gate Caravan Park is the oldest caravan site in the area, dating back to the early 1940s. The family-friendly site is ideal for woodland hikes, coastal walks and nearby towns and attractions and offers caravan and campervan pitches alongside classic tent camping pitches.

  • Little Walks for Little Legs

Cartmel is an ideal place to walk with kids; from riverside strolls to adventurous woodland trails, these routes have all you need to your little ones occupied and interested along the way!

- Holker Hall Gardens

Holker Hall is set in 200 acres of gardens and woodlands providing endless walking opportunites. For a day out with the kids, explore walks within the 23 acres of immaculately kept gardens bordering the house. Garden walks are filled with interesting and unique features including a fun labyrinth complete with standing stones. Children can enter the gardens for free!

  • Fell Foot Park garden walk

Combining forest trails and lakeside hikes, Fell Foot Park is a Victorian lakeshore park providing access to Windermere lake, forest hikes and stunning mountain views.   Stretch little legs with a series of nature themed walks around the park, designed for pre-school children and hosted by the National Trust during school holidays. Of course, you can guide your child through the woods yourself during any time of year. After your woodland hike, there’s plenty of space at the park for field games, picnics and water activities such as swimming and kayaking and family rowing boat hire. There is also two children’s play areas nestled in the park that you pass during your walk for a play stop!

  • Lakes Aquarium

Situated at Lakeside on the southern end of lake Windermere, the Lakes Aquarium is a fun family day out observing hundreds of different wildlife both local and exotic including species of fish such as Pike, Arctic Charr, Clownfish and Piranhas, mammals including otters and mice, and reptiles such as frogs and axolotl. Colourful groups of fish can be observed swimming over your head by walking through the aquariums glass tunnel; other interesting displays include a high waterfall plunging into a stream of salmon. The centre host regular talks and tours during the day with a special children’s quiz trail!

  • Wolf Experience

Around 10 minutes drive away from Cartmel, the Wolf Experience is a unique day filled with wolf and fox walks, encounters with eagles and stunning bird of prey displays. The centre was founded in 2009 and specialises in bird and animal experiences with some family-friendly activities. Children under 16 are not allowed to take part in the walks with wolves and foxes for obvious reasons, however children of all ages can participate in a family Hawk Walk, following a member of the team through stunning countryside as a beautiful hawk flys above you, dipping in and out of the sky and back to the trainer. All the family can get an exciting chance to hold a hawk after the hike!

 Exploring Cartmel with dogs

We all love a holiday with our four legged friends, and the Lake District is an ideal place for a getaway with your dogs. Walkies galore, dog-friendly pubs and plenty of places to swim, Cartmel is an ideal spot for a dog walkers holiday…

Please note when adventuring with your dog to be aware of livestock and keep your dogs on leads when passing.

  • Dog friendly walks

Dogs love walking as much as we do and Cartmel offers some spectacular walks that both owners and dogs will enjoy. From lakeside strolls to woodland and hill hikes, Cartmel and the surrounding area offers a mixture of walks from lowland, easy hikes for old or little dogs and more strenuous, uphill walks for young, energetic puppies.

  • Fell Foot Park

The nearby Fell Foot Park is a doggy paradise boasting woodland trails and lakeside paths with plenty of sticks to chase and opportunities for a refreshing swim! The south meadow is an ideal place for you dog to burn off some energy and have a free run around the field (providing there are no cattle grazing.)

- Park End Moss, Sizergh Estate

Less than half an hour away from Cartmel, dogs are welcome to explore the wider Sizergh estate, which is filled with ancient woodland and vast meadows providing plenty of space for energetic dogs to have a bolt around! The circular walk to Park End Moss wetland explores around three miles of the estate following paths through historic parkland to the wetland, which is a haven for wildlife, especially birds and butterflies. If you have a chilled out dog, a pretty butterfly might just land on their nose if you’re lucky!

  • Dog friendly accommodation

No one likes leaving their dog at home when they go away, so finding dog friendly accommodation is always a relief. Luckily, there are plenty of options in Cartmel ranging from dog-friendly hotel rooms to self-catering cottages and lodges.

  • Cavendish Arms Hotel

The Cavendish Arms is a 450 year old hotel situated in the centre of Cartmel. The charming inn has held its character over the years, boasting a quaint interior complete with low-beamed ceilings, quirky antique furniture and a blazing log fire. For warmer days, the hotel has a spacious garden ideal for dogs to play or lounge in the sunshine! Up to two dog guests are welcome to stay for the night in one of the hotels dog friendly rooms at an extra cost of £15 to cover cleaning.

  • Cartmel Hill

Cartmel Hill is a self-catering country house ideal for large families with large dogs, sleeping up to 5 humans and two doggies! The stunning 18th century barn conversion is set in the rolling hills above Cartmel village in a peaceful, remote location surrounded by woodland and meadows, perfect for letting dogs explore. The house also has 2 large, enclosed gardens where your dog can run around freely!  You can walk to Cartmel village from here via a 20-minute, downhill hike passing meandering streams, fields and meadows.

  • Ducks Haven Cottage

Ducks Haven is a lovely self-catering cottage set in the countryside of Cartmel valley.  The cosy cottage is set beside a beautiful ducks pond to have a walk around with your dog. Energetic puppies can let off some steam in the spacious garden, courtyard and surrounding countryside. The cottage sleeps up to 4 people and 2 dogs.

  • Dog friendly pubs

After a long walk, a well-deserved pint and a doggy treat is always a must. Here in Cartmel, there are plenty of pubs welcoming muddy boots and paw prints…

  • The Royal Oak

A classic country inn set in Cartmel village, The Royal Oak is owned by Fell Brewery, serving over 6 of their own cask ales. The pub loves the company of four-legged friends who are more than welcome to take a seat beside the cosy fire or lounge out in the riverside beer garden. Ask the pub’s friendly staff for a dog bowl and some biscuits!

  • The Pig and Whistle

The Pig and Whistle is a friendly, country pub popular amongst dog walkers due to its cosy interior complete with a real wood fire. Enjoy some home-cooked good and a pint of ale with your canine companion right beside you. The staff and locals are super friendly and love to make a fuss of doggy guests spoiling them with plenty of treats.

  • The Cavendish Arms

The Cavendish Arms is a 450 year old hotel situated in the centre of Cartmel. The charming inn has held its character over the years, boasting a quaint interior complete with low-beamed ceilings, quirky antique furniture and a blazing log fire. For warmer days, the hotel has a spacious garden ideal for dogs to play or lounge in the sunshine! The pub is just a stone throw away from popular, dog-friendly walks including Cartmel valley, Morecambe Bay and Windermere.

 The best places to eat and drink in Cartmel

Cartmel may be a small village, but it is renowned for being a foodies paradise boasting world famous puddings and Michelin Star restaurants; food lovers travel from near and far to grab a slice of Cartmel’s culinary excellence…

  • L’Enclume 

Open Tuesday-Sunday 12pm-1:30pm, 6:30pm-8pm

A famous restaurant in the UK, chef Simon Rogan opened the fine dining L’Enclume Restaurant in Cartmel 20 years ago. The restaurant opened in 2002 and grew in popularity, quickly became of the UK’s favourite diners holding the top spot as the UK’s best restaurant in The Good Food Guide from 2014-2017 and again in 2020. It has five AA Rosettes and recently become the first restaurant in the UK outside of London to gain 3 Michelin stars. The restaurant is set in an 800-year-old former smithy in Cartmel village and is brimming with character. The restaurant serves a 20-course tasting menu, which has developed from the use of wild herbs and flowers, with Simon Rogan making use of the agricultural culture in Cartmel, with most of the supplies and ingredients used in the restaurant originating from the peninsula from his 12-acre farm.

  • Rogan and Co 

Open Wednesday-Monday 12pm-1:45pm, 6pm-9pm

Another one of Simon Rogan’s ventures, Rogan and Co is a relaxed, neighbourhood restaurant set in a lakeside cottage in Cartmel village and has one Michelin Star. The restaurant has a pleasant, easy going atmosphere serving high quality dishes amongst a character filled cottage featuring dark wood beams, open fires and walls hung with Lakeland photography and art. Simon Rogan’s influence is clear to see on the menu serving ever-changing, rich dishes filled with flavour.

  • The Pig and Whistle 

Open Mondays & Thursdays 3pm-10pm, Friday 2pm-10pm, Saturdays & Sundays 12pm-10pm

The Pig and Whistle is country pub and bistro offering locally produced food washed down with a pint of real ale, craft beer or a fine wine. Enjoy food in a number of settings in the pub, be it in the cosy snug beside the fire or under the heater in the decorative beer garden. The menu is ever-changing due the chef using seasonal ingredients but generally follows a traditional Cumbrian theme with a Mediterranean twist with common dishes ranging from Cumberland sausage and venison burgers to crab and king prawn risotto and’ truffled tagliatelle.’ The pub was once owned by chef Simon Rogan with his influence remaining, serving excellent bistro style food.

  • The Kings Arms 

Open Tuesday-Thursday & Sunday 12pm-11pm, Friday & Saturday 12pm-12am

A classic, Lakeland pub set in Cartmel village, The Kings Arms is an 18th century inn which has retained its original features including an open log fire, flagstone floors and wooden beamed ceilings. The pub offers a large selection of cask ales from various breweries including the local Unsworth’s Yard micro-brewery, accompanied with a homely menu serving seasonal menu which changes but follows a general classic pub grub theme. Food is created with the local economy in mind, supporting farms around the Cartmel area using locally sourced ingredients. As well as good food and drink, the pub comes alive at night and on a weekend, hosting regular live music events and quiz nights.

  • The Cavendish Arms 

Open Tuesday- Sunday 12pm-9pm, food is served between 5pm-9pm

The Cavendish Arms is a 450-year-old former coaching inn, brimming with character set in the village of Cartmel. The pub serves two changing cask ales often featuring Jennings brewery beers alongside other local favourites. Not a beer drinker? Not to worry, The Cavendish Arms pride themselves on their wine list which has been carefully created by the owners alongside a local wine merchant, serving high quality wine with the staff being quite knowledgeable on what wine accompanies certain tastes and dishes. The pub neighbours the area’s Michelin Star L’Enclume restaurant, but still stands as a popular place for high quality food, despite its competitor. The menu largely compromises of classic British cuisine and changes with the seasons. Classic food can be enjoyed in the snug bar, elegant dining room or outside in the beer garden, overlooking the rivers stream.

 Shopping local in Cartmel

Whether you’re staying in self-catering accommodation and need a grocery shop, or simply looking to take back a Lake District souvenir there a few little shops in and around Cartmel, including a famous one!

  • Unsworth Yard

Open Monday-Saturday 12pm-9pm, Sunday 12pm-6pm

Unsworth Yard is a unique shopping and food space tucked away in the streets of Cartmel village. The yard is home to a cheese shop, wine shop, craft brewery and tea room, complete with a courtyard seating area to enjoy food and purchases overlooked by the 12th century priory.

  • Cartmel Village Shop 

Open Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 10am-4:30pm

Cartmel Village Shop has been a family run village gem for over 30 years and is most famously known for their award-winning Sticky Toffee Pudding. Of course, the Sticky Toffee Pudding is deserving of its plaudits and tastes fantastic, but many of the stores other handmade puddings are often overlooked and are equally as delicious, including Sticky Ginger Pudding, Sticky Chocolate Pudding, Sticky Banana Pudding, Lemon Drizzle Sponge and Christmas Pudding. The shop doesn’t just sell tasty desserts, they also stock essentials alongside cheese, chutneys, jams & preserves, souvenirs and homeware. 

  • Cartmel Village Vintage and Antiques 

Open everyday 10am-4pm 

Conveniently located across from the 12th century Cartmel Priory, Village Vintage is a unique boutique providing a ‘step back in time’ shopping experience. The shop stocks two floors of vintage fashion, jewellery, furnishings, collectables and antiques. Ideal for a gift for your quirky friends or a treat for yourself! 

  • Our Shop- Simon Rogan’s Shop

Open everyday 1pm-5:45pm 

Nestled in the streets of Cartmel village, Our Shop is set in a unique, centuries old building and is a venture of well-know chef Simon Rogan, who also runs two Michelin Star restaurants in Cartmel alongside his own farm in the valley which he calls ‘Our Farm.’  In the shop, complete with a cosy log burner, you will find a range of L’Enclume keepsakes and a selection of regional produce ranging from including mugs, oven gloves, tea cosies, hand lotions, plates, chopping and serving boards, chefs’ whites, Simon Rogan’s first cookbook Rogan: The Cookbook and the Big Green Egg (BBQ grill).  There are jams, coal oil and bottles of Anvil Pale Ale (brewed by Unsworth’s Yard Brewery in Cartmel) plus Lakeland cards and photographs by Nina Claridge.

  • Kerr & Sons Bookshop

Open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 10am-4pm 

Kerr & Sons is a local bookshop established in Cartmel in 1933; the family run business have specialised in books, mainly old antique reads, for over 85 years. The shop is the longest established Antiquarian Booksellers in Cumbria and the Lake District. The business is now into it’s third generation and stock over 10,000 second hand books over two premises; The Gatehouse Bookshop and the Priory Barn. The shop is renowned for stocking rare finds with prices known to range from £5 to £1500!

 When is the best time to visit Cartmel?

Cartmel is a beautiful place to visit all year round, however there are pros and cons depending on which season you visit…

  • Spring  (March- June)

Spring is a beautiful season in the Lake District; lambs are jumping around the fields and fells, daffodils are blooming and tourists are returning following the quieter winter months. Cartmel is a great place to be in the spring, with plenty going on as the village begins to open up following winter…

  • Vibrantly coloured spring walks…

Walks around Cartmel’s nearby gardens and woodland provide endless opportunities to spot new wildlife and blooms including bluebells, snowdrops and daffodils. Hampsfell, Eggerslack Wood and Fell Foot Park are particularly beautiful during springtime as the woodland is carpeted with vibrant bluebells. The gardens at Holker Hall are also recommended to be best visited during springtime to see the rare conifers and rhododendrons, which grabbed the interest of Victorian landscaper Thomas Mawson.

  • Spring events…

- The un-missable Holker Spring Fair takes place around early May, brining together a fine selection of home, food, garden and gift exhibitors in the halls bustling courtyard. The event showcases a range of delicious artisan food, glorious flowers and plants and beautiful handmade gifts alongside lively entertainment. The event has also started including a fun Dog Show, so make sure you four-legged friends dress to impress! 

- The race season at Cartmel Racecourse begins in May, hosting over 9 racing days throughout spring and summer.

  • Summer (June- September)

Summer is the most popular time for visitors to the Lake District with warmer weather, longer days and public holidays encouraging tourists. Cartmel is often packed with people during the summertime making it a lively place to be!

  • Outdoor activities

Anything outdoors is best enjoyed when the weather is warm and dry, with water sports and hiking being popular around Cartmel and WIndermere during summer. Water activities such as kayaking, rowing, wild swimming and boat trips are popular on the nearby Windermere Lake; activity centres offering hiring options are dotted around the lake.

  • Camping

Campsites in and nearby Cartmel such as High Fellgate re-open for the summer season between March-October. The warmer weather makes camping an ideal way to spend summer nights in Cartmel and often the cheapest way, due to hotels and accommodation often peaking in price during this busy time of year.

  • Summer Events

- The Cartmel Show has been a huge event in the Lake District calendar since 1872 and takes place annually during summertime, usually in early August.  The traditional agricultural show consist of competing livestock, a Food Theatre offering cooking demonstrations, shop stalls selling locally handmade gifts, clothing, homewares, outdoor and leisure goods alongside children’s activities including archery, a bouncy castle and birds of prey. 

- Cartmel Village holds a summertime Food Market every third Friday of the month in Devonshire Square beside the front gates of the Priory. For a village known worldwide for the quality of its food and drink, expect lots of locally produced goodies; from fresh fish and meats to sweet treats.

  • Autumn (September-November)

Autumn is a beautiful time in the Lake District, with summer crowds disappearing and autumn leaves falling, its time for wild, wrapped up walks, cosy pubs, hot chocolates and Halloween activities…

  • Autumn coloured hikes…

Hiking around Cartmel during autumn is a beautiful time, with woodland walks being a great option to display the leaves changing colours alongside some of the grassier fells which showcase stunning purple heather and orange bracken.  Some vibrant woodland walks to explore near Carmtel include Fell Foot Park, Hampsfell and Eggerslack Wood.

  • Autumn activities 

-Holker Hall host an annual Autumn Chili Fest in September, which is a two day festival featuring specialist chilli companies from all over the country, local specialist food suppliers, catering featuring cuisine from around the world and a variety of quirky gifts. With entertainment, cookery demonstrations and the much-anticipated chili eating competition, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

- Holker Hall host Halloween fun days during late October time consisting of scary storytelling, mystery and clue solving activities, creepy theatre performances, music and more. A pumpkin trail also takes place in the gardens where children can follow clues in the gardens to find hidden pumpkins!

  • Winter (November- February)

Winter is likely the quietest time of year in the Lake District with closed amenities and cold weather keeping many tourists away. This doesn’t mean Cartmel is off limits; it’s a great way to explore and enjoy the village without the crowds. Winter in Cartmel can mean stunning snowy hikes, cosy pubs with a roaring fire and festive Christmas days… 

  • Cosy pubs

Finding a cosy pub with a fire is a great way to end a winter’s day in Cartmel. Local pubs including The Cavendish Arms and The Royal Oak both have cosy, roaring fires to warm up next to with a locally brewed pint and some seasonal pub grub.

  • Christmas activities

Cartmel is a beautiful, festive town around Christmas time complete with pretty lights and quaint streets. 

  • ‘Christmas in Cartmel’ is an annual celebration hosted by the Cartmel Village Society consisting of festive events such as food and gift stalls, Santa sleigh rides pulled by the beautiful black Friesian horses, live music, reindeers, craft activities and more. 

  • Holker Hall host Winter Markets in November complete with artisan gift and food stalls, live entertainment and pretty decorations!

 Where to park in Cartmel

Due to Cartmel being a small, unspoilt village, there are limited car parks with parking proving difficult during busy periods and race days. There is one main pay and display car park with other parking options including bays directly outside the Priory.

  • Seven Acres car park 

2 hours- £2, 3 hours- £3, or £4 for all day

A public car park located next to Cartmel Racecourse and used commonly by race-goers but is accessible to everyone, whether you’re visiting the racecourse or the village.

Gyms near Cartmel

When visiting the Lake District, the most obvious choice for exercise would be a hike. In Cartmel, you’re spoilt for choice with little strolls along the lake or more strenuous hill days. But for the days when you can’t get outside or fancy a session in the gym, there are a few nearby indoor activity centres and gyms to visit. Due to Cartmel being a small village, the nearest two gyms are in the nearby town of Ulverston around 15 minutes away.

  • Ulverston Health Club 

Open Monday-Thursday 7am-9pm, Friday 6:30am-8:30pm, Saturday and Sunday 9am-4pm

Ulverston Health Club was established 35 years ago and remains a well-respected, family run gym in the area. The club offers a fully equipped gym, dumbbells up to 100k, loads of free weights and group classes. The gym prides itself on its retro feel, providing a classic gym with the basic necessities.  The gym is ideal for visitors to the area looking for a quick work-out and charge a one-off, weekly fee of £10 providing unlimited access to the gym and all classes. For an individual, one-off day session, its £4. 

  • Ulverston Leisure Centre 

Open Monday-Saturday 6:30am-9:30pm, Saturday 6:30am-5:45pm, Sunday 9am-4pm

Ulverston Leisure Centre is home to a state of the art gym, pool, sports pitch and Cumbria’s largest tennis centre. The gym has everything you need for solid workout including 36 stations with a mixture of cardiovascular and resistance-training equipment as well as free weights. The centre also hosts fitness classes including dance aerobics, circuits, boxfit, spinning, yoga, pilates, and Zumba. Fitness classes cost £5.85 for non-members, with a one-off gym session costing £4.50.