As winter settles over the Lake District, the landscape transforms — crisp mornings, frosted fells, and the comforting glow of fireside warmth. It’s a time that calls for hearty food, slow evenings, and the simple pleasure of good company.
This year, our talented chefs across all six Lake District Hotels have embraced the spirit of the season with the launch of their new winter menus, featuring more than 60 dishes inspired by the flavours of the Lakes. Each menu tells its own story of Cumbrian comfort, with slow-braised meats, spiced winter fruits, and quality, local ingredients taking centre stage.
“I love putting together our winter menus with our chefs,” says Dani Hope, Director at Lake District Hotels. “We’ve tried more than 60 dishes across the six hotels this year, and I honestly think these are some of the cosiest yet – proper comfort food that’s just right for slowing down and enjoying the season.”
A Winter Menu Worth Travelling For
Each of our six hotels has its own distinct personality – and its own take on seasonal Cumbrian cuisine.
At Inn on the Square, guests can enjoy a comforting Braised Ox Cheek Cottage Pie, while Borrowdale Hotel serves up Roasted Duck with Cherry and Red Wine Sauce – a dish full of festive richness.
The elegant Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa offers a Twice-Baked Cheddar Soufflé, light yet indulgent, while Inn on the Lake tempts dessert lovers with Rum-Roasted Bananas and Pecan Pie.
For a taste of tradition, Skiddaw Hotel celebrates local produce with a Herdwick Lamb Shoulder Suet Pudding, and the Kings Arms in Keswick adds a creative twist with its Cider-Braised Ham Hock Terrine.
Yuletide Afternoon Tea by the Lake
Alongside our seasonal menus, Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa and Inn on the Lake are proud to introduce our Yuletide Afternoon Tea – the ultimate festive treat.
The experience begins with a tempting array of savoury delights, from pork, blue cheese and caramelised onion sausage rolls to a wild mushroom, truffle and Parmesan quiche – each one lovingly created to bring a touch of winter luxury to your table.
And of course, no afternoon tea would be complete without something sweet. Guests can enjoy a trio of beautifully crafted desserts, including a hazelnut Rocher adorned with 24ct gold leaf, a refreshing Granny Smith apple cheesecake, and a light, zesty lemon and lime drizzle sponge.
Guests can experience the Yuletide Afternoon Tea with a pot of tea or freshly brewed coffee, or make it extra special with a glass of fizz or a handcrafted cocktail – the perfect way to celebrate the season in true Lake District style.
Perfecting this festive experience was a true family affair. Directors Kit, Charles and Dani Hope, joined by Dani’s children, Harry and Ellie, took on the most enjoyable task of all – taste-testing sixteen cakes before selecting the four that achieved the ideal balance of flavour, texture, and festive charm.
Treat yourself to a little festive indulgence this season – call 017687 77285 to book your Yuletide Afternoon Tea at Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa, or 017684 82444 to reserve your place at Inn on the Lake.
A Season to Celebrate in the Lakes
The launch of our winter menus marks the start of an exciting festive period. In the coming weeks, our six hotels will be transformed for Christmas, offering festive dining, party menus, and seasonal breaks designed to make the most of the most wonderful time of the year.
Whether you join us for a cosy winter meal in Keswick, a yuletide afternoon tea, or a festive getaway in the Lakes, we invite you to savour the flavours, warmth, and joy of the season with Lake District Hotels.
