Three things to not miss when visiting Cartmel, a village in Cumbria.

Cartmel is an interesting village.

My top three reasons to visit

Food – two Michelin-starred restaurants, L’Enclume – 3 stars & Rogan & Co – 1 star.  I’ve eaten in both of Simon Rogan’s restaurants. 

L’Enclume is a marathon, I think the tasting menu is still 14 courses, it’s very expensive, but an unforgettable experience.  Food is creatively presented, it’s seasonal food grown in Simon’s on-site farm or sourced locally.  The restaurant is simple, and the service is professional and friendly. All the staff are knowledgeable, but I found the experience exhausting.  Each dish was explained, which I found a bit intrusive.

I prefer Rogans and have eaten there several times. It’s also an experience, but a more relaxed occasion.

Other Cartmel food.

Sticky toffee pudding was famously created in Cartmel about 30 years ago, and is available at the village shop.

Visit the cheese shop in Unsworth Yard; there’s also a brewery.

Cartmel Priory – an 800-year-old religious building with history and architecture to explore.

Cartmel racecourse – a seasonal racecourse open only for a few days of the year. The racing day ends with music from a famous singer or group.

Visit nearby Holker Hall, owned by the Cavendish family.  Peaceful gardens, a historic house with many featured events throughout the year.

Cartmel is a small village, but it has plenty to see and do, both within the village and in the surrounding area.