What are the Best Places to Eat in Windermere?

Windermere offers a range of takeaway, snacking, eating, and dining options in the Lake District’s most popular town.

From casual cafes to fine restaurants, from afternoon tea to famous fish and chips, visitors can find meals to suit different preferences.

This guide covers breakfast, lunch, dinner, cafes, pubs, and special-diet options.

Related: Windermere Waterfalls

Windermere Breakfast Recommendations

Start the day with a meal at one of these Windermere locations.

Homeground Coffee + Kitchen

Serves fresh brews and brunch items like sourdough toast and salmon dishes.

It opens early and focuses on homemade food.

• Address: Main Road, Windermere, LA23 1DX.
• Phone: 015394 44863.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.7/5 Reviews: 1,152

The Mission Cafe

Serves British cafe fare and receives positive reviews for its quality.

• Address: Park Road, Windermere, LA23 2BG.
• Phone: 07423 333576.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 5.0/5 Reviews: 128

Cafe No 4

Offers simple breakfast choices in a relaxed setting.

• Address: 4 St Martins Parade, Bowness-On-Windermere, LA23 3DY.
• Information: https://share.google/ZqyYQ9DP7sQuE4YBi
• TripAdvisor Score: 5.0/5 Reviews: 93

Brew Room Artisan Cafe

Provides artisan breads and pastries in a family-owned space.

• Address: 31-33 Crescent Road, Windermere, LA23 1BL.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.3/5 Reviews: 183

Related: The Best Places to Stay Windermere

Related: Windermere Christmas

Lunch Choices

For midday meals, try these restaurants around Windermere.

Boardwalk Bar & Grill

Has burgers like the Boardwalk Burger with views over the lake.

It provides a family-friendly space with fresh food.

• Address: Gilly’s Landing, Glebe Road, Bowness-on-Windermere.
• Phone: 015394 23007.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.8/5 Reviews: 1,622

Bandito Burrito

Serves Mexican-style wraps and has high ratings for lunch.

• Address: 30 Main Road, Windermere, LA23 1DY.
• Phone: 07398 121215.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.9/5 Reviews: 274

The Flying Pig Pub

Offers pub lunches with local ales.

• Address: Rayrigg Road, Bowness, Cumbria, LA23 3BZ.
• Phone: 015394 423023.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 3.8/5 Reviews: 1891

Porto Restaurant

• Address: 3 Ash Street, Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3EB.
• Phone: 015394 48242.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.6/5 Reviews: 2,926

Jackson’s Bistro

Provides casual lunch options with local produce.

• Address: St Martin’s Place, Bowness-on-Windermere.
• Phone: 015394 46264
• Information: https://share.google/mpgPkPkjIWd2eGygL
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.6/5 Reviews: 2,700

Dinner Venues

Evening meals in Windermere include diverse cuisines.

Bangkok 9 Thai Restaurant

Prepares authentic Thai dishes like curries and stir-fries in a casual spot.

• Address: Exchange House, Lake Road, Bowness-on-Windermere.
• Phone: 01539 332646.
• Information: https://share.google/LXnNqJwQjlPOi2mGR
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.2/5 Reviews: 20

Base Pizza

Makes sourdough pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven with fresh toppings.

• Address: 97 Lake Road, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3BJ.
• Phone: 015394 22232.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.6/5 Reviews: 185

Henrock

Delivers fine dining with seasonal ingredients from local sources, set in Linthwaite House Hotel.

• Address: Linthwaite House, Crook Road, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3JA.
• Phone: 01539 587766.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.4/5 Reviews: 203

Gilpin Spice

A vibrant, 2 AA Rosette-awarded restaurant offering a laid-back yet sophisticated dining experience. Journey along the “Spice Trail,” blending fresh Cumbrian produce with authentic flavours from the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Indian subcontinent.

The menu is designed around shared plates by Head Chef Ralph Rojas, featuring highlights such as Kinilaw of the Day, a Filipino-inspired ceviche, alongside Goan Style Tiger King Prawns, Clay Oven Stone Bass with Thai Tom Kha Sauce, 30-Day Aged British Ribeye with Thai Chimichurri, and a selection of premium sushi and sashimi.

The drinks menu features creative cocktails inspired by Asian flavours, alongside a carefully curated selection of wines, sake, premium spirits and soft drinks.

The striking interiors feature an open kitchen where guests can watch the skilled chefs at work. Large windows look out onto the terrace, gardens and the scenery beyond, making it an idyllic spot for a long lunch or a romantic dinner. They also offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, and the kitchen is able to cater to various dietary requirements with flair.

• Address: Crook Road, Windermere, The English Lake District
• Phone: 01539 488 818
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.6/5 Reviews: 527

Hooked

Focuses on fresh fish and seafood, located below Tudor House – one of our 2-bed apartments.

• Address: Tudor House, Ellerthwaite Square, Windermere.
• Phone: 015394 48443.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.7/5 Reviews: 2,021

San Pietro Restaurant

Features Italian food and has awards for quality.

• Address: Jester Court, Birch St, Windermere LA23 1DS.
• Phone: 015394 44854.
• Information: https://share.google/mx4LOd9yWZhvKje2X
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.5/5 Reviews: 805

The Lamplighter Dining Rooms

Serves traditional British meals.

• Address: High Street, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 1AF.
• Phone: 015394 43547.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.5/5 Reviews: 1,790

BAHA

Offers international dishes in a lively setting.

• Address: 18 Ash Street, Bowness-on-Windermere.
• Phone: 01539277515.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.0/5 Reviews: 1,027

Michelin Star Restaurants in Windermere

The Windermere area includes high-end restaurants with Michelin stars.

Henrock

Holds one Michelin star and uses seasonal local ingredients.

• Address: Linthwaite House, Crook Road, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3JA.
• Phone: 01539 587766.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.4/5 Reviews: 203

SOURCE at Gilpin

Has one Michelin star for modern cuisine.

A prestigious Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a pinnacle of fine dining in the Lake District. SOURCE showcases the finest ingredients from across the British Isles through technically accomplished menus that celebrate seasonality and craftsmanship. Head chef Kevin Scanlan is focused on creating a dining experience that is ambitious yet approachable, with a strong emphasis on honest, flavour-led cooking and genuine hospitality. His philosophy centres around carefully considered dishes built from a small number of standout ingredients, allowing flavour, balance and seasonality to take centre

• Address: Crook Road, Windermere, LA23 3NE.
• Phone: 01539 488 818
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.5/5 Reviews: 178

Restaurant at Samling

Earns one Michelin star with lake views.

• Address: Ambleside Road, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 1LR.
• Phone: 015394 31922.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.4/5 Reviews: 417

Forest Side

In nearby Grasmere also holds a Michelin star.

• Address: Keswick Road, Grasmere, Cumbria, LA22 9RN.
• Phone: 01539 435250.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.6/5 Reviews: 383

Fish and Chips

Windermere has several options for classic English fish and chips.

Hooked

Offers fresh seafood, including battered fish, with a focus on quality catches.

• Address: Tudor House, Ellerthwaite Square, Windermere.
• Phone: 015394 48443.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.7/5 Reviews: 2,021

Little Chippy

Provides takeaway fish and chips with crisp batter and large portions.

• Address: 6 Beech Street, Windermere, LA23 1EG.
• Phone: 015394 42949.
• Information: https://share.google/1mHIeRRggYCRRFUaY
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.2/5 Reviews: 589

The Lamplighter Dining Rooms

Serves traditional fish and chips in a pub setting.

• Address: High Street, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 1AF.
• Phone: 015394 43547.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.5/5 Reviews: 1,790

The famous Vinegar Jones in Bowness

Gives quick service for fish suppers.

• Address: Royal Square, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3DB.
• Phone: 015394 44846.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 3.8 Reviews: 1142

The Tilly

• Address: 13 Crescent Road, Windermere, LA23 1EA.
• Phone: 01539234220.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.4 Reviews: 1474

The Albert

• Address: Queens Square, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3BY.
• Phone: 015394 43241.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.3/5 Reviews: 3,410

Takeaways

For quick meals to go, Windermere features various takeaway outlets.

Little Chippy

Excels in fish and chips for collection.

• Address: 6 Beech Street, Windermere, LA23 1EG.
• Phone: 015394 42949.
• Information: https://share.google/jMNh291QGTYWi88o5
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.2/5 Reviews: 589

Bandito Burrito

Makes Mexican burritos and tacos ready for takeout.

• Address: 30 Main Road, Windermere, LA23 1DY.
• Phone: 07398 121215.
• Website >
• TrustPilot Score: 4.9/5 Reviews: 274

Magic Wok

Prepares Chinese dishes like chow mein for pickup.

• Address: 2 Crescent Road, Windermere, LA23 1EA.
• Phone: 015394 88668.
• Information: https://share.google/SHxLNC1iE1PgHpNPi
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.3/5 Reviews: 412

Base Pizza

Offers wood-fired pizzas for takeaway.

• Address: 97 Lake Road, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3BJ.
• Phone: 015394 22232.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.6/5 Reviews: 185

Graze

• Address: 4 Crag Brow, Lake Road, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3BX.
• Phone: 07444 885167.
• Information: https://share.google/rDbIykXf602Ajqa8W
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.9/5 Reviews: 465

Boardwalk Bar & Grill

• Address: Gilly’s Landing, Glebe Road, Bowness-on-Windermere.
• Phone: 015394 23007.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.8/5 Reviews: 1,622

Treasure Mountain

Offers Chinese takeaway with online ordering.

• Address: 1 Cross Street, Windermere, LA23 1AE.
• Phone: 015394 43429.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.3/5 Reviews: 28

Cafes and Coffee Shops

Windermere has several cafes for light bites and drinks.

Homeground Coffee + Kitchen

Stands out for its coffee and brunch in a friendly space.

• Address: Main Road, Windermere, LA23 1DX.
• Phone: 015394 44863.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.7/5 Reviews: 1,152

The Mission Café

Ranks high for café options.

• Address: Park Road, Windermere, LA23 2BG.
• Phone: 07423 333576.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 5.0/5 Reviews: 128

Café No 4

Sells good coffee and snacks.

• Address: 4 St Martins Parade, Bowness-On-Windermere, LA23 3DY.
• Information: https://share.google/ZqyYQ9DP7sQuE4YBi
• TripAdvisor Score: 5.0/5 Reviews: 93

Brambles Café Bar

• Address: 15 Main Road, Windermere.
• Phone: 07538819955
• Information: https://share.google/koe3EbopQRH7NTtjt
• TrustPilot Score: 4.9 Reviews: 87

Toast and Joey’s Cafe

Are other solid choices.

• Toast: Address: 10 Main Road, Windermere, LA23 1DY. Phone: 015394 22140.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.6/5 Reviews: 54

Brew Room Artisan Cafe

Serves local food with a theme.

• Address: 31-33 Crescent Road, Windermere, LA23 1BL.
• Website >
• TrustPilot Score: 4.3/5 Reviews: 183

The Fizzy Tarte

Offers treats and hot drinks.

• Address: 18 Ash Street, Bowness-on-Windermere.
• Phone: 015394 43773.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.1/5 Reviews: 1,262

The Cowshed

Sells delicious coffee, pies and sandwiches.

• Address: 9 Crescent Road, Windermere, LA23 1EA
• Information: https://share.google/tiHjpVkRbh0Mqtc29
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.3/5 Reviews: 24

Related: The Best Afternoon Teas in and Around Windermere. 

Afternoon Teas

Enjoy afternoon tea at these locations in Windermere.

Cedar Manor

Serves sandwiches, scones, and cakes in a cosy space.

• Address: Ambleside Road, Windermere, LA23 1AX.
• Phone: 01539 443192.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.8/5 Reviews: 424

Fizzy Tarte

Offers a champagne afternoon tea with sweet treats.

• Address: 18 Ash Street, Bowness-on-Windermere.
• Phone: 015394 43773.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.1/5 Reviews: 1,262

Storrs Hall

Features traditional tea in elegant surroundings.

• Address: Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3LG.
• Phone: 01539447111.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.6 Reviews: 1540

Hillthwaite Hotel

• Address: Thornbarrow Road, Windermere, LA23 2DF.
• Phone: 01539443636
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.4 Reviews: 2169

The Wild Boar

• Address: Crook Road, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3NF
• Phone: 01539 439 479
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 3.4/5 Reviews: 99

Langdale Chase Hotel

Serves inspired afternoon tea menus.

• Address: Ambleside Road, Ecclerigg, Windermere, LA23 1LW
• Phone: 01539 432 201
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.4/5 Reviews: 338

Pubs and Bars

Enjoy drinks and pub food at these venues.

Boardwalk Bar & Grill

Combines bar service, lake views, and meals.

• Address: Gilly’s Landing, Glebe Road, Bowness-on-Windermere.
• Phone: 015394 23007.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.8/5 Reviews: 1,622

The Flying Pig

Offers a traditional pub experience with seasonal dishes.

• Address: Rayrigg Road, Bowness, Cumbria, LA23 3BZ.
• Phone: 01539 423 023
• Website >
• TrustPilot Score: 3.8 Reviews: 1981

Lake View Garden Bar

• Address: St Andrews, Lake Road, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3DE.
• Phone: 01539 277 965
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 3.4/5 Reviews: 187

The Angel Inn

• Address: Helm Road, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3BU.
• Phone: 01539 444 080
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 3.4/5 Reviews: 61

Lake View Garden Bar and The Angel Inn serve local ales in outdoor areas.

The Royal Oak

• Address: Brantfell Road, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3EG.
• Phone: 01539 443 970
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.3/5 Reviews: 893

The Old John Peel Inn

• Address: Rayrigg Road, Bowness on Windermere, LA23 3BZ.
• Phone: 01539 443 699
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.8/5 Reviews: 28

The Royal Oak and The Old John Peel Inn are classic pubs nearby.

Bowness Tap Rooms

Great if you’re looking for a good range of beers.

• Address: St Martin’s Place, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3EF.
• Phone: 01539 423 232
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.4/5 Reviews: 225

The Crafty Baa

Provides unique beers and live music.

• Address: 19-21 Victoria Street, Windermere, LA23 1AB.
• Phone: 01539488002.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.6/5 Reviews: 1,655

Hole in’t Wall

Offers award-winning ales.

• Address: Robinson Place, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3DH.
• Phone: 015394 43488.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.4/5 Reviews: 1,839

Windermere Vegan and Vegetarian Places to Eat

Vegan and vegetarian options are available in Windermere.

Bandito Burrito

Has plant-based burritos and salads.

• Address: 30 Main Road, Windermere, LA23 1DY.
• Phone: 07398 121215.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.9/5 Reviews: 274

Homeground Coffee + Kitchen

Includes vegan brunch items.

• Address: Main Road, Windermere, LA23 1DX.
• Phone: 015394 44863.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.7/5 Reviews: 1,152

Graze Cafe

Serves plant-based snacks.

• Address: 4 Crag Brow, Lake Road, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3BX.
• Phone: 07444 885167.
• TrustPilot Score: 4.9/5 Reviews: 465

Special Dietary Needs

Many places in Windermere cater to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. Bandito Burrito and Homeground Coffee + Kitchen have vegan-friendly items.

Bandito Burrito

• Address: 30 Main Road, Windermere, LA23 1DY.
• Phone: 07398 121215.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.9/5 Reviews: 274

Homeground Coffee + Kitchen

• Address: Main Road, Windermere, LA23 1DX.
• Phone: 015394 44863.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.7/5 Reviews: 1,152

Jintana Thai

Has marked gluten-free dishes.

• Address: Lake Road, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3BJ.
• Phone: 01539445002.
• Website >
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.1/5 Reviews: 1,971

Where to Stay in Windermere

Our cottages in Windermere provide comfortable bases for exploring the area.

These self-catering homes come with modern kitchens and living spaces.

Guests can enjoy views of the lake or countryside from many of them.

We have cottages to suit families or couples looking for a quiet retreat.

With easy access to local pubs, shops and tourist attractions, staying here makes trips simple and relaxed.

Find out more about our Windermere, self-catering, luxury cottages… 

Some Final Notes On the Best Place for Eating Out in Windermere

Check opening times as some places close early. Book ahead for popular restaurants like Henrock, especially at busy times of the year.

Many venues use local produce for a fresher, more local taste. Public transport links most areas, making it easy to reach these eateries without a car.