The Old Stamp House Restaurant in the Lake District has been named the ‘best of the best’ for fine dining globally by TripAdvisor – and it’s not hard to see why
When you consider the Lake District, it’s typically for its breathtaking landscapes and reputation as a walker’s haven.
However, in recent years it has quietly evolved into one of the globe’s most thrilling culinary hotspots.
Michelin-starred eateries have emerged throughout the National Park, with top chefs migrating to Cumbria to capitalise on some of the planet’s most exquisite produce available right on their doorstep.
Particularly, one intimate restaurant situated in the village of Ambleside has not only surpassed establishments across the UK, but also internationally, after being crowned the absolute “best of the best” for fine dining worldwide by TripAdvisor.
Hidden away in the village centre, The Old Stamp House Restaurant has achieved international acclaim, securing TripAdvisor’s Best of the Best accolades for both Fine Dining and Date Nights in 2021 – outshining renowned establishments in France, Vietnam, Germany, China, and New Zealand, reports the Express.
Yet as guests prepare for one of the world’s most exceptional culinary experiences, The Old Stamp House isn’t merely about the cuisine – it boasts a captivating history and one notably famous former occupant.
Long before brothers Ryan and Craig Blackburn converted it into a gastronomic haven, the premises previously served as the workplace of none other than Romantic poet William Wordsworth – a figure everyone will recall from their school years. Wordsworth toiled there during his considerably less romantic period as a tax collector, so the eatery’s moniker pays tribute to this heritage and his days distributing revenue stamps.
Having operated for slightly more than a decade, the establishment has flourished tremendously, securing its inaugural Michelin star in 2020 and retaining it annually thereafter.
The Michelin Guide describes it as a “quirky little restaurant” and has commended its “Journey Around Cumbria” tasting menu for its “display of a passion for all things regional”.
The guide added: “The skilfully prepared dishes have been well-thought-through and carefully balance bold and delicate flavours; each one has a story – sometimes historic, sometimes personal, ” whilst the brothers concur that their cuisine serves as a love letter to Cumbria’s varied terrain.
The restaurant’s website demonstrates its eagerness to honour the culinary offerings of Cumbria.
It says: “The windswept Irish Sea yields an abundance of seasonal fish and seafood,” highlighting everything from langoustines and lobster to brown shrimp.
The menu continuously evolves to present the finest locally sourced ingredients available.
Recent sample highlights feature dishes including The Bay (shrimps and cauliflower), The Fells (hogget and mushrooms), and The Lake (poached trout). The restaurant is awash with positive reviews and satisfied patrons.
One particularly glowing review encapsulated the experience: “All the staff want you to enjoy every moment of every course. Their knowledge and love of food-and of where and how it is sourced-shines through. And you will enjoy every mouthful.”
