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Located on the edge of the Lake District National Park, just a stone’s throw from Morecambe Bay, Cartmel is a pretty village with a vibrant feel. Known for its fantastic food and drink (it’s home to two Michelin starred restaurants as well as plenty more great places to eat and drink), it’s the perfect place to get a taste of Cumbria and soak up the atmosphere with a coffee or glass of wine.
With a rich heritage dating back to Medieval times, Cartmel boasts a fascinating history which blends in seamlessly with its modern feel. At the heart of the village is the striking Cartmel Priory, dating back to the 12th century and still an active place of worship today. Explore picture perfect streets, lined with a fantastic variety of independent shops, country pubs and inns, cafes, and restaurants. Cartmel is also home to the iconic Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding: made just miles away in Flookburgh, originating and sold at Cartmel Village Shop.
The village is also known for its racecourse, with race events taking place throughout the summer months, giving a festival atmosphere to the whole village over four weekends each year.
We recently visited Cartmel to spend an afternoon exploring the Cumbrian village with four Michelin stars, alongside a whole host of things to see and do. Read more about our experience in Cartmel here.
Food & Drink
Cartmel is famous for its food and drink, and its reputation as a foodie destination is well deserved. The village is home to not one, but two Michelin starred restaurants, including L’Enclume - the only restaurant to hold three Michelin stars outside of London and the South-East. There are also relaxed bistros, cosy country pubs, and friendly cafes like Coffee & Stays at Cartmel Square serving up specialty coffees.
During the warmer months, the village comes alive with al fresco drinking and dining. There are plenty of places to sit out and enjoy the sun, whether you’re catching up with friends over a coffee or enjoying a G&T come evening. Relax and watch the world go by, or enjoy live music and a vibrant atmosphere.
Looking for something to take away? This is the home of Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding, as well as some fantastic shops offering locally made produce from artisan cheeses to meats and chutneys.
What To See & Do in Cartmel
As well as sampling the village’s world-class food and drink scene, there is plenty to see and do in Cartmel.
The village boasts a rich history, and reminders of its Medieval heritage can be seen throughout. The impressive 12th century Cartmel Priory has been an active place of worship for 800 years; while opposite the village square you’ll find a monastic gatehouse.
Cartmel Racecourse plays host to race days throughout the summer, lending a festival atmosphere with resident DJ, funfair and easy access to the village for a day spent exploring.
Nearby, attractions like Holker Hall & Gardens make for a great day out.
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There are several walking routes to be enjoyed from Cartmel - not the mention the abundance of hiking opportunities in the nearby Lake District National Park. From Cartmel itself, walk to Hampsfell Hospice with its panoramic views across Morecambe Bay and the Lakes; or set off along the Cumbrian Cistercian Way, a 25-mile route to Piel Castle in Barrow-in-Furness.
Cartmel is also located along the Morecambe Bay Cycleway: a long distance cycle route across the southern coast of Cumbria.
History
Around 678 AD, the Cartmel peninsula was granted to St Cuthbert, Bishop of Lindisfarne, by King Egfrith of Northumberland for the establishment of a monastery. An early church dedicated to St Cuthbert was built at Kirkhead near Allithwaite, although nothing now remains of the structure. It was not until 1189 that an enduring ecclesiastical presence was established with the founding of Cartmel Priory next to the River Eea (pronounced ‘Ay’).
Locals made a living with farming and fishing, with the monks lending a helping hand. Limestone was crushed and burned to produce quicklime for spreading on the fields to ‘sweeten’ the grass, woods provided coppice timber for agricultural implements and for charcoal burning, oats were grown, and the sea and rivers yielded good supplies of fish. The monks stored their grain at nearby Grange (from the French word ‘graunge’ meaning ‘granary’) and may have had a small harbour here.
The famous Cartmel Races are said to date back to monastic times, as part of the Whitsuntide celebrations. The priory was at the heart of community life, until it was largely destroyed on the orders of Henry VIII in 1536. An appeal by the villagers to keep the church as a place of worship for the parish was granted, thus saving this impressive church (and the gatehouse) for posterity.
Up to the mid-19th century, the only viable link between the peninsula and the rest of the country was over the sands of Morecambe Bay at low tide. Individuals on foot or travelling by horse and cart would regularly make the perilous journey, fraught with danger from swift incoming tides, unsuspected quicksands or changing river currents. A guide appointed by the abbot of Cartmel Priory would conduct travellers from Kents Bank to Hest Bank near Bolton-le-Sands (9 miles/14.5 km).
Surrounding Areas
Grange-over-Sands - the coastal town of Grange-Over-Sands retains much elegance from its Edwardian heyday, with ornamental gardens, independent shopping, and a sea-front promenade for relaxing walks.
Flookburgh - Flookburgh, to the west, was once an important fishing and market centre. Fishermen still go out to fish for cockled and shrimps (Morecambe Bay Potted Shrimps are a local delicacy).
Meathop - Further east is the isolated hamlet of Meathop established around one of the first sanatoriums in the country.
Did you know?
CARTMEL PRIORY
Founded in 1189 by Augustinian canons as the priory church and threatened with destruction after the Dissolution of the Monasteries Act in 1536, the church survived to become the parish church and still serves as a place of worship. The internal soaring proportions of the church house a 14th-century tomb to Lord Harrington and intricately carved choir stalls and misericords. Look out for the nail-studded door into the south aisle, pitted with bullet holes from when villagers fired on Cromwellian troops causing havoc in the church. The tower is unusual, being set crossways to its base, and believed to be unique in England.
HAMPSFELL
The limestone plateau of Hampsfell is one of the highest points on the Cartmel peninsula at 727 ft (221 m) high and commands extensive sea and fell views in all directions. At the top is the Hospice, built in 1835 by George Remington (vicar of Cartmel) as a refuge for weary travellers – now a wonderful place for a picnic. The outcropping limestone pavement shelters an assortment of ferns and lime-loving plants in the deep fissures.
STICKY TOFFEE PUDDING
Cartmel has become synonymous with Sticky Toffee Pudding, with the delicious dessert sold at the village shop alongside a whole host of food and drink products.
HOLKER HALL
This family seat of the Cavendish family can be dated to the early 16th century. In 1871 a devastating fire destroyed the west wing, subsequently rebuilt in red sandstone. Today, the whole of this wing is open for visitors to wander around at will. Here can be found the magnificent library, fine linenfold panelling and an impressive cantilevered staircase.
CARTMEL PRIORY GATEHOUSE
Built in the early 14th century as the gateway to the priory precinct, this medieval building has been variously used as a courthouse, grammar school and museum. It overlooks Cartmel’s village square and is currently owned by the National Trust.
MICHELIN STARS
It may be small, but Cartmel packs a punch when it comes to food and drink. The village is home to not one, but two Michelin starred restaurants: Rogan & Co, and L’Enclume – which is also the only three Michelin starred restaurant outside of London and the south east.
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Number of results: 63
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Address
Cavendish Street, Cartmel, Cumbria, LA11 6QATelephone
(+44) 015395 36362Cartmel
L'Enclume is Simon Rogan's iconic flagship restaurant in the Lake District, where culinary creativity harnesses the powerful connection between food and nature.
Known for its truly unique offering in the UK restaurant scene, both for its warm,…
Tourism For All
Address
Holker Hall and Gardens, Holker Hall & Gardens, Cark, Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria, LA11 7PLTelephone
+441539558328Cark, Grange-over-Sands
Get ready to usher in the festive season at the Holker Hall Winter Market, one of the North West's most eagerly-anticipated seasonal events! Set within the stunning grounds of Holker Hall & Gardens, this magical three-day market celebrates the very…
Address
Holker Hall & Gardens, Cark, Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria, LA11 7PLTelephone
015395 58328Grange-over-Sands
The Courtyard Cafe offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere and specialises in local and seasonal food designed to incorporate the best local and seasonal ingredients, from our kitchen garden, the Holker Estate and our fantastic local suppliers. Our…
Address
Devonshire House, Devonshire Square, Cartmel, Grange-over-Sands, Cartmel, Cumbria, LA11 6QDTelephone
015395 35917Cartmel
Less than 2 weeks to go until All Stars Week kicks off here at Rogan & Co.
Join Simon, head chef Tom and other familiar faces from the restaurant's past, including guest appearance from @cheftombarnes.
From Tuesday 3rd to Saturday 7th March, the…
Address
Stable Stays & The Friesian Experience - Black Horses Ltd, Greenbank Farm, Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria, LA11 7STTelephone
+44(0)7776145424Grange-over-Sands
Enjoy a unique experience and the first of its kind in the World! For animal lovers of any age, spend time with one of our beautiful Friesian Horses or miniature shetland MR JB and share a self-catering stable for the night.
Address
Cartmel Racecourse, The Racecourse, Cartmel, Cumbria, LA11 6QFTelephone
015395 58328Cartmel
Cartmel Racecourse is a truly unique location - home to Summer Jump horseracing with added delights of the funfair, local food & drink vendors, music events and family fun days! Enjoy a thrilling day out for all the family, it's the perfect Summer…
Tourism For All
Address
Cartmel Racecourse, Cartmel Racecourse, The Racecourse, Cartmel, Cumbria, LA11 6QFTelephone
01539536340The Racecourse, Cartmel
For an unforgettable fun-filled day out, Cartmel Races is hard to beat. Perfect for family, friends and celebrations, the combination of thrilling jump racing and a relaxed party atmosphere brings thousands of people back year after year. Over nine…
Grange-over-Sands
Pine Lodges (sleep 4) with Sauna & spa bath. In a beautiful setting in the heart of a 5 acre wood, Woodlands Pine Lodges are ideal for a relaxing break. On site Restaurant & Bar. Friendly staff. Great Food. Great Value. A real hidden gem.
Address
Woodlands Hotel & Pine Lodges, Meathop, Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria, LA11 6RBTelephone
01539 534128Grange-over-Sands
Beautiful secluded setting. The Woodlands Hotel & Pine Lodges is an ideal base for touring the Lake district . Great food. Great value. Friendly staff. A real hidden gem. Guests return again & again. View our 5-star Trip Advisor reviews.
Tourism For All
Address
Holker Hall and Gardens, Holker Hall & Gardens, Cark, Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria, LA11 7PLTelephone
+441539558328Cark, Grange-over-Sands
Get ready for a spooktacular celebration at Halloween at Holker, where festive fun comes alive for all ages! Join us in the enchanting Holker Hall & Gardens for an unforgettable seasonal experience featuring the magical storytelling of Taffy Thomas,…
Address
Devonshire Square, Cartmel, Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria, LA11 6QDTelephone
01539 536261Grange-over-Sands
Cartmel Priory has been described as the medieval jewel among churches, making a lasting impression on the visitor, standing over the village and giving an idea of the way early priories must have dominated their surroundings.
Address
Holker Hall and Gardens, Holker Hall & Gardens, Cark, Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria, LA11 7PLTelephone
+441539558328Cark, Grange-over-Sands
Experience a rejuvenating blend of mindful movement and delicious seasonal fare at Yoga & Brunch at Holker Hall & Gardens, guided by Carly from Lakes Yoga. Held in the stunning, tranquil gardens of Holker Hall, this special morning event invites…
Address
Old Park Wood Caravan Holiday Park, Holker Estate, Cark, Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria, LA11 7PPCark, Grange-over-Sands
A prestigious location, acres of tranquil, rural countryside and the very heart of the Lake District on its doorstep; Old Park Wood is an unrivalled private holiday park offering residents their very own luxurious, Cumbrian retreat.
Address
Grange, LA11 6LJThis gently undulating ride is surprisingly quiet bearing in mind its location within the boundaries of the Lake District National Park. A loop of the Winster valley beneath the wooded slopes of Whitbarrow Scar sets the scene for this ride
Address
Holker Hall and Gardens, Holker Hall & Gardens, Cark, Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria, LA11 7PLTelephone
+441539558328Cark, Grange-over-Sands
Celebrate the arrival of Spring at Holker's SpringFest, a vibrant weekend of seasonal inspiration set in the stunning gardens and grounds. Discover artisan stalls, enjoy live entertainment and guest speakers, including James Alexander-Sinclair.…
Address
Field Broughton, Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria, LA11 6HWTelephone
07540 799669Grange-over-Sands
A luxury, self-catering period property, newly refurbished in 2022, sleeping 6 people. 2 miles from Cartmel and 2 miles from Lake Windermere. The property offers spectacular views over beautiful, tranquil gardens and the Cartmel Valley.
There are…
Address
Holker Hall and Gardens, Holker Hall & Gardens, Carl-in-Cartmel, Cumbria, LA11 7PLTelephone
+441539558328Carl-in-Cartmel
Father Christmas returns to Holker Hall this December!
Meet Father Christmas and the Elves at Holker Hall and discover the magic of Christmas. Receive a gift from Father Christmas by the roaring fire in the magical setting of Holker's grand library…
Address
Crumble Cottages, Beckside, Cartmel, Cumbria, LA11 7SPTelephone
07841 418443Cartmel
Crumble Cottage sleeps two with great views in beautiful quiet rural location near Cartmel. Glorious gardens, dark skies, log stove, own car park, walks from the door.
Address
Cartmel Racecourse, Cartmel Racecourse, The Racecourse, Cartmel, Cumbria, LA11 6QFTelephone
015395 36340The Racecourse, Cartmel
For an unforgettable fun-filled day out, Cartmel Races is hard to beat. Perfect for family, friends and celebrations, the combination of thrilling jump racing and a relaxed party atmosphere brings thousands of people back year after year. Join us…
Address
Holker Hall and Gardens, Holker Hall & Gardens, Cark, Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria, LA11 7PLTelephone
+441539558328Cark, Grange-over-Sands
Discover the hidden flavours of the countryside at Holker with a guided foraging event led by the experts from Forage Box. Set within the beautiful estate, this immersive experience invites guests to explore wild, seasonal ingredients, learn how to…
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