The Cavendish Arms (Cartmel)
With a renowned two Michelin starred restaurant across the road, the owners of the Cavendish Arms in Cartmel might have been put off attempting to serve their own food. Thankfully, this hasn’t been the case and this 450-year-old former coaching inn has built up a notable reputation for its own cuisine.
The inn is truly worth a visit in its own right, steeped in history and brimming with atmosphere. The inn is a two-minute walk from Cartmel’s famous racecourse, as well as the spectacular Cartmel Priory church. The inn is a ten-minute drive from the southern shore of Windermere.
Food & Drink
The inn has one house ale, brewed by Cumbrian brewery Jennings, and also serves two changing real ales. In addition, the Cavendish Arms has a good selection of ciders and lagers. The wine list has been carefully created by the proprietor in conjunction with a local wine merchant, and bar staff are quite knowledgeable on the topic.
Unfortunately, if you are drinking by the glass then your choices are limited to three white wines and just one red, which is a Merlot. However, those ordering by the bottle can select one of twenty different options. Where the inn excels is in its gin selection, with an immense gin menu of around 40 varieties. Do check before ordering, as some of the gins are served with extras, such as pepper or berries that might not appeal to everyone’s tastes.
The Cavendish has received high praise for its food, which is even more impressive when you consider that its neighbour, L’Enclume, is widely regarded as one of the UK’s best restaurants. Food can be eaten in the small, but cosy bar, in the elegant dining room with an open fire, or outside in the beer garden. The seasonal menus take advantage of local produce wherever possible, and largely comprise of classic British cuisine with options for vegetarians and children available.
Other Features
The inn has a pleasant, small beer garden that overlooks the river running through Cartmel, as well as another seating area in front of the inn where you can watch the comings and goings of the village. The inn owns the shop next door, Perfect English, that sells a selection of gifts and homewares.
Accommodation
The Cavendish Arms has 10 rooms available on a bed and breakfast basis, with three of the rooms located above the shop next door. All of the rooms have been refurbished to a high standard and many benefit from period features.
Rooms include tea and coffee making facilities, flat screen televisions with Freeview channels, Wi-Fi, and en-suite bath or shower rooms with complimentary luxury toiletries. Classic doubles and superior rooms with king size beds are available above the inn, whilst the rooms above the shop are Executive rooms with king size beds, DVD players, and air conditioning.