The Borrowdale Hotel’s Sunday Lunch: A Lakes Tradition Since 1860s

A Slice of Tradition: The Timeless Sunday Lunch at The Borrowdale Hotel

Tucked away in the picturesque Borrowdale Valley, just ten minutes’ drive from Keswick, The Borrowdale Hotel has long been a haven for those seeking classic comfort, heart-warming hospitality, and a touch of home comforts. And if there’s one tradition that has stood the test of time here, it’s Sunday Lunch – a cherished ritual that celebrates great food, family gatherings, and a sense of occasion.

At the heart of this timeless experience is an extraordinary piece of hotel history – a silver-plated carving trolley that’s been wheeled through the hotel’s dining room for over 40 years. With its polished grandeur and theatrical flair, the trolley is more than just a serving tool – it’s the centrepiece of a tradition that brings guests together week after week.

Crafted with Care, Served with Style

Believed to date back to the 1930s and made by the renowned Drakes Silversmiths of London – famed for supplying the finest catering establishments – the carving trolley is truly one of a kind. Restored to gleaming perfection at a cost of nearly £3,500, and valued at over £25,000, it continues to serve in style, bringing a touch of silver service to every Sunday roast.
“Our carving trolley is irreplaceable – not just in value, but in sentiment,” says Dani Hope, Director at Lake District Hotels.
 
“It’s a much-loved part of our dining experience and always sparks conversation. Guests remember it, they ask about it, and it’s become part of what makes Sunday lunch at The Borrowdale Hotel so special,” says Maria, General Manager of Borrowdale Hotel. 
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More than a Meal

Each Sunday, the aroma of perfectly roasted meats fills the air as guests settle into the comfort of the hotel’s beautifully set dining room. Roast sirloin of beef, tender turkey, or seasonal lamb are carved fresh at the table from the silver trolley, served with crisp Yorkshire puddings, rich pan gravy, and all the trimmings you’d expect from a traditional British roast.

The experience is one of understated luxury – a nod to bygone days when lunch was unhurried, flavours were bold, and hospitality was an art form.

And the experience doesn’t end when the plates are cleared. After lunch, guests are invited to relax with tea and coffee in the bar, lounges or conservatory, where soft furnishings, warm service and scenic views provide the perfect setting to unwind. Whether you’re catching up with family or simply soaking in the calm, it’s a comforting end to a truly memorable afternoon

Where Traditions Are Kept Alive

From the ceremonious piping of the haggis on Burns Night to the quiet clink of silver every Sunday, The Borrowdale Hotel is a place where traditions are both honoured and enjoyed.
 
So whether you’re a local looking for a leisurely Sunday treat or a Lake District explorer seeking a hearty end to your weekend, you’ll find more than just a roast dinner at The Borrowdale Hotel – you’ll find a tradition, lovingly preserved and proudly served.
BURNS NIGHT SUPPER
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