The Restaurant at The Cottage in the Wood in Allerdale

We have stayed at The Cottage in the Wood near Keswick for over a dozen years, enjoying their journey from simple restaurant-with-rooms to a Michelin Starred triumph of The Lakes. Now under Beth & Jack’s new leadership we are excited to experience their new chapter. Our two nights stay and two different dinners were excellent food, exceptionally prepared and present with care, in a friendly relaxing atmosphere. This feels like home but with food that stretches our imagination. We will be back next year.

We celebrated our anniversary here. The food was amazing, the kitchen produces some wonderful dishes. Such as the smoked aubergines canapes, beef tartare, courgettes with olives, quail, see bass and a sweetcorn parfait. The layers of flavouring were sophisticated and well balanced.The staff were very good, Joel is an outstanding sommelier and all the staff were a pleasure to meet. The setting is very special and having breakfast overlooking the fellside was a treat.

This was a second visit, the first some years ago. We understand new owners are in place. The food was excellent , although our table squeezed into a corner was not for four people. Sadly they could loose there Michelin Star as service was poor, from trying to serve the third course whilst we were still eating the second to not alerting us when we ordered our first bottle of wine that it was the last they had of that particular choice. Clearing plates are also not a great priority from the table…must do better or starless

We don’t get to do Michelin star dining very often, once a year if we’re lucky, but from what we’ve had so far, this one is top of the list, we were looking for something special to end our holiday with and by luck managed to get their last table for the same evening. From the minute we walked in till we left totally satisfied, the staff were attentive, there was an infectious enthusiasm for the food from every chef or server that attended us whilst still maintaining a wonderfully relaxed vibe, not one course of the 7 course tasting menu missed the mark, even the little treats and petit four outside of the 7 were outstanding, the balance of flavours whether requiring a punch or delicate subtlety were never misplaced, sadly it’s a 7 hour drive to this gem from home, so it will be a while before we come back, but we will be keeping on eye on this one, keep it up and there’ll surely be another star on the way.

Dinner tasting menu celebrating our anniversary. The view over the woods/mountains was idealistic, the servers were incredibly friendly and every course of food was interesting and delicious.

We came here one rainy afternoon. I booked the week before and was pleased they had availability. I wanted to eat something a little bit different to celebrate our wedding anniversary and the menu’s appealed to me. I understand there are two menus on the go that alternate. The staff were polite but didn’t make much conversation. I felt sorry for them because there were only four of us eating lunch that day. I understand that another party had been delayed so has not turned up for lunch. We were served tasty amuse bouchées served on a pretty leaf shape. I ordered a rhubarb and ginger mule cocktail. It didn’t taste very alcoholic though. The bagel shokupan and whipped butter came warmed up. My husband happily accepted numerous bagels offered and enjoyed the fresh bread. Next we were served duck broth with pickled cucumber. The umami taste and some of the dishes on the menu seemed to have a Japanese theme which reminded me of food eaten in Japan a month previously. The gin-cured trout and beetroot had a delicate flavour. The duck dish was delicious. I like the added herbs and flowers. Completing dishes so appeasing the eyes. I thought my husband would go for the cheese plate but he gave it a miss as I think he was stuffed with the bread! However, we continued our feast with a fragrant pear dish and finished with a rich chocolate and pecan pudding. We didn’t stop there though. We ordered a tea, coffee and petit fours. These petit fours tasted wonderful. We had the duck menu. I understand that the alternative was a beef theme menu. This looked an exciting menu too. My husband was entertained by looking out of the window at the birds. He thought he spotted a hunting bird, possibly a sparrow hawk chasing the smaller birds. I would love to come back to sample some more food. Don’t hesitate to try this place.

Fantastic meal with excellent wine flight. The team won out of the way to make us feel welcome, and to accommodate dietary requirements. Presentation of the food was first class as you expect and a service was excellent attentive but not in your face. We also really enjoyed the relaxed ambience, and all in all a lovely evening.

Lunch here is a lovely experience. The team deliver a friendly, relaxed and upmarket vibe. The spacious dining room ensures conversations are private and with stunning views it’s a real relaxer. The food is delicious of course served by friendly professional staff. All in all the feeling is of a well run operation. Three courses plus tasty extras make for a good value satisfying meal.

Our son bought a voucher for my birthday, £75, towards lunch on a Saturday. Firstly a lovely location, looking out on a bright cold day over Skiddlaw I believe. We were in the conservatory and beside the views were treated to lots of birds demolishing the food from the bird feeder. All of the staff were very friendly and attentive. So no choice, a 5 course set menu for £75 a person. We had a drink each to start, and I ordered a bottle of one of their least expensive wine, a Rioja at £50. The courses were varied, with lots of culinary skill on show. Some excellent bread accompanied the meal, we asked for more-as I noticed did all other tables. I think the reason for this is that although each course was nice, the portion size was tiny. I understand that a tasting menu will be smaller portions but these, especially the John Dory, were minuscule. Coffee to finish and an additional £185 to pay, £260 in total. If both of us had had the wine flight this would have been well over £300. So in summary, yes some excellent cooking and skilful use of flavours on display but the reason for the 3 star rating is that for £260 the value/price equation is just not there.

Fabulous! stunning location and views - spectacular food dink and service highly recommended everything was on point for the whole time we were there including the red squirrels who turned up for a breakfast show! we'll be back

We stayed for two nights including a tasting menu on both nights, we opted for the wine paring as well. The cooking and dish presentation was of very high quality, the wine pairings were well selected, and the service was very pleasant. We really enjoyed our stay.

An adequate 5 course lunch was served by pleasant staff. There wasn't any stand out course that demonstrated particular flair,or highlighted an exceptional flavour/ingredient in my opinion. The setting was attractive and the ambiance relaxed.

Visited this excellent restaurant today and had lunch which consisted of 6 'taster" courses. Too much/too heavy for lunch I hear readers say - but NO IT WAS NOT; each course was delicate, consisted of the finest & freshest of ingredients and was unbelievably tasty! It was truly a superb treat for the tastebuds! I would even reccomend daytime for this experience as the forest/mountain outlook from most tables is very relaxing. Our personal thanks go to our lovely waitress who is from Brazil, she was highly knowledgeable about every dish, & stepped outside with us as we left to take our photo in the amazing backdrop. Many thanks to all at Cottage in the Wood, especially the Chefs, without whom this magic would not happen!

I don’t want to criticise the food here but neither do I want to shower it with praise. It was ok but lacked something and I’m not really sure what. The setting, service and menu are all great but the actual food just didn’t compare to what I’ve had here before, albeit a few years ago nor other Michelin star places I’ve eaten at.

My wife and I had visited Cottage in the Wood a couple of time when Ben Wilkinson was head Chef and the food had been excellent. This was the first time we had been back to the restaurant since Ben Miller had take n over. We were not disappointed the food was as I expected for a Michelin Star restaurant. My wife and I had the 7 course vegetarian taster menu. Everything on the menu is extremely well put together. The Broccoli wraps were just to die for. The staff were excellent being attentive without being overbearing. Everything about our meal was just right.

We called in on the off chance of booking a meal and the welcome could not have been nicer, we were visiting the area and had seen this restaurant. Although they were fully booked we left our details and they contacted us to say they had a cancellation. We had a wonderful stay, the food, service and general ambiance were all fabulous. We were made to feel very welcome and nothing was too much trouble. Thank you to Cath, Liam and all the staff for a memorable stay. Mark & Jane

The Cottage in the Woods is a warm and welcoming restaurant. The staff are excellent, with an in depth knowledge of what the restaurant provides. My wife and I were celebrating our 35th wedding anniversary the owners and staff congratuled us, which was a lovely thing. We were even given a card from the owners Kath and Liam. The food is absolutely first class which I would expect from a Michelin Star restaurant. On this occasion my wife and I had the 7 course taster vegetarian menu. My wife is a vegetarian but I eat meat. The food is so well presented and tastes so good I never thought that the meal was lacking meat. Head chef Ben Wilkinson produces a range of beautiful food. The tomato gazpacho was to die for. Every plate was delivered looking fantastic and tasting even better.

What a delight Restaurant - Cottage in the Woods was over our two night dine and stay. The 5 or 7 course tasting menu, with optional cheeses, changing each evening with each dish delivering taste, subtle flavour and texture combinations as well as a feast for the palate and eyes. Favourites across the two evenings included: an exquisite tomato consomme with Isle of Wight tomato fine herbs and fresh prawn; wild turbot with English asparagus, morels and turnip; seared venison fennel and cabbage, capers and pine nuts on a smoked emulsion; white and brown crab royale with chilled watercress with fine herbs and desserts such as: rich creamy spiced rice pudding with poached pear, honeycomb, pear sorbet; and a hazelnut coffee frangipane with chocolate and vanilla. interesting wine list and pairing drinks flights, all expertly explained and shared with real knowledge and pleasure. The service was welcoming, friendly, knowledgeable and expertly understated, creating an effortless warm and welcoming atmosphere. Allergy and pescatarian request confirmed and accommodated expertly giving complete dining confidence. We will be returning soon

Great welcome, friendly and helpful staff. The views from the balcony and restaurant are stunning. The food is excellent, the chef has a Michelin 1* rating. The accommodation is very comfortable.

We stayed at Cottage in the Wood for dinner, bed and breakfast to celebrate my birthday and loved the whole experience. The minute we arrived to check in we were warmly greeted, our bags were taken to our room while we enjoyed the complimentary coffee and biscuits. We stayed in the Ash room with a mountain view. Room was spacious, clean, and had lots of little quality extras. We had a huge bed which was very comfortable and views to 2 sides of the hotel. I was lucky enough to see a red squirrel too! Dinner was a fabulous experience. We chose the dinner menu, each course was presented beautifully and tasted delicious. All the staff are very knowledgeable about the food, friendly and helpful and are a credit to the hotel. We were sat in the conservatory for breakfast which has amazing views. Opted for the cooked breakfast which was really tasty, quality local produce and cooked perfectly. Even the toast and home made marmalade was top quality. I was worried that it may be pretentious being a Michelin star hotel, but we couldn’t have been made to feel more comfortable and welcome! Well done, thank you and hope to be back one day.

Wasn’t “average” but wasn’t “ very good”. It’s a beautiful location this little restaurant is situated. A wonderful drive with beautiful scenery to admire on the journey! We were staying over and looking forward to the culinary delights on offer. We were invited for a coffee on arrival which was nice after a long journey and some sweet treats by the fire was a lovely welcome. The room was tiny as was the shower room. Could barely move freely around the bed it was so tight. I know it’s a cottage but it was a little hit dated and the furniture reminded me of what you might find at my grandmas! The tasting menu was ok, some dishes were delightful and others not so much. There was a nice nod to local produce with each dish being named by the environment it was sourced from. It was nicely presented but none of the courses really stood out enough to make either of us go “wow”. Breakfast was nice, lovely to see the view from the restaurant and watch the birds on the bird feeders. Because it was dark on check in (we came in winter) you don’t appreciate the views and scenery that the cottage has to offer until morning.

I cannot begin to describe the utterly amazing experience that I have just enjoyed having lunch here. Fantastically, professional, knowledgeable and friendly staff. As for the food, nothing that I can put on here in my own words can do justice to the exquisitely sublime meal that I have consumed. Every single course was truly fantastic. The whole wonderful experience was perfect. Thank you so much to the entire team at The Cottage in the Wood. You have left me with the fondest memories of a dining experience that I think I will ever have again... Until I return.

My wife and I booked for dinner at the Cottage in the Woods. On arrival we were bowled over by the friendly and welcoming staff, such a pleasure. The restaurant has a warm and welcoming feel with a lovely seating area separate from the main dining rooms. We both ordered the Taste Cumbria selection on the menu, my wife had the vegetarian and I had the meat selection. From the snacks to the dessert the food was outstanding. My wife and I were astounded at the sheer beauty of everything that was delivered to our table, each course exquisitely described by the knowledgeable staff. During the meal my wife asked if it would be possible to have the recipe for the treacle bread as it was to die for, at the end of the meal the waitress brought the recipe from the kitchen. This I thought was a lovely touch as some chefs would not share their recipes. I cannot find fault at this fantastic venue, staff first class, food beautiful and location stunning.

We stayed at the cottage on a dinner bed and breakfast basis , from a lovely greeting everything is faultless from start to finish. We enjoyed a pre dinner drink in the cosy lounge in front of a wood burner a lovely start to what would be a fantastic dinner , the food is sublime with each course cooked and presented beautifully you can have the wine flight option if you like . The service is brilliant from all the team all in all a utterly excellent experience.

We had an overnight stay here with the taster menu included in the price. I must admit that as a couple we would not normally spend so much on a meal but it was a gift for our anniversary. However I can say it was...

Located high up in the hills of Whinlatter Forest, this is an absolute gem! No doubt most people there for dinner were hotel residents, but we were there just for dinner. The staff were all most attentive and pleasant which added to a v enjoyable...

Wonderful Cumbrian tasting menu, well matched wines, served in a relaxed environment by attentive and helpful staff.

We booked lunch during our week's stay in the northern lakes. My wife & I both had the Cumbria Tasting menu with the additional scallop. The service was relaxed but attentive, food was excellent, overall including wine and drinks we thought it was terrific value...

I always read the average/poor reviews particularly if the overwhelming majority are good/excellent, just to see what people had an issue with. And I'm not sure I was eating at the same restaurant as some of those reviewers. Before I get onto the food I'll...

This delightful restaurant is located on the road ascending Whinlatter Pass in Cumbria. The staff were personable and very professional, delivering great food (and, I believe, very good wine – my wife enjoyed the wine flight!). We chose the tasting menu which was stimulating and...

We booked a meal for our wedding anniversary. They managed to squeeze us in even though they were heavily booked and gave us an anniversary card on arrival! The food was excellent, and very well cooked and presented. The staff were helpful and engaged. A...

We booked an overnight stay and dinner package at The Cottage in the Wood as a 40th birthday treat. Considering the restaurant has a Michelin star, we felt that the cost of the room and dinner package (which also includes breakfast) was very reasonable and...

We booked whilst on our honeymoon knowing that the food would be very special. Very nice to find a congratulatory card from the staff of the Cottage on our table - Cath couldn’t have been friendlier or more welcoming. Service was prompt and an explanation...

My parents and my wife visited for dinner one Saturday evening in May after waiting for COVID to relax. It was worth the wait! Firstly what a fantastic setting, I’ve been passed dozens of times and know the area well but it is stunning every...

We were lucky enough to book a table following a cancellation and were completely blown away by the whole experience. The whole team there made us feel welcome and the views from the restaurant were stunning, adding to the whole ambiance of the evening. We...

To whom it may concern, If you are hungry in this restaurant, you'll still be hungry when you finish eating, and you will definitely be financially out of pocket. So look elsewhere!

We received a very warm welcome from Kath and her team at this delightful place. The location is stunning, high on Whinlatter Pass, tucked into the forest. Red squirrels scamper on the terrace and colourful birds flutter around the bird-feeders in the terraced garden. The...

We had high hopes of our visit here given its "star" but it did not compare well with others with stars we have visited. The building is rather drab outside although in a beautiful setting. Inside it was very minimalist and the conservatory was cold....

Before arrival we had spoken with the restaurant who had rearranged our meal to suit the current 10pm COVID-19 measures. We opted for the Taste of Cumbria (8 course version) and the wine pairing, the food was unbelievable and made even better as it was...

No puedo alabar este lugar lo suficiente. Fantástico de principio a fin; cada detalle ha sido pensado y hecho bien. Un lugar encantador con hermosas vistas en un entorno muy tranquilo.Teníamos el menú de 8 platos Taste of Cumbria y, como era de esperar, la comida era increíble. La carta de vinos y el menú de cócteles son amplios y tienen un precio muy razonable. El ambiente es relajado, acogedor y sin pretensiones y, aparte de la comida fantástica, la verdadera estrella es el servicio. El equipo es servicial, atento y amable y realmente hace que la visita sea una experiencia perfecta en general. Nos sentimos muy bien atendidos.Vale la pena el precio, ¡y más! ! ¡Por la calidad, sentimos que era una ganga!

Everything is just amazing. Great food, really good matching wines and the added bonus of red squirrels and a myriad of birds to watch from the dining room windows! I want to live here!

Wonderful experience - amazing food coupled with live entertainment (squirrels!). Very reasonably priced, we were pleasantly surprised. We will definitely come back. Thank you, Becky and Brendan

Fantastic location, with excellent views, wild red squirrels feeding outside. Very helpful, friendly and supportive waitress, Food fantastic, will definitely come again. For a Michelin 1 star reasonably priced. Very pleasant atmosphere

La ubicación y las vistas desde la cabaña en el bosque, incluso en un día de clima muy cambiante, son insuperables, con posiblemente la excepción de la comida que se sirve aquí. El almuerzo de tres platos que elegimos fue impecable en todos los niveles.Magnífico, simplemente magnífico.Una pequeña crítica. Hubiera sido bueno haber sido informado del aumento de precio desde que se realizó nuestra reserva.

Reservé este restaurante en febrero para el cumpleaños de mi esposa. Nos preocupaba no poder cenar aquí debido a COVID - 19, pero afortunadamente el restaurante ahora está abierto con las medidas adecuadas en su lugar.Desde el momento en que llegamos hasta la mañana en que nos fuimos, nos hicieron sentir muy bienvenidos y nos sentimos más como estar en la casa de alguien que en un hotel. El servicio fue excepcional en todo momento.Ambos fuimos por el menú de degustación de Cumbria con vinos emparejados y no nos decepcionó en absoluto. Soy muy afortunado de haber comido en unos pocos restaurantes con estrellas Michelin en mi vida, pero este es uno de los pocos que lograron sorprenderme con cada plato, con cada bocado de comida transportándome a un lugar diferente del hermoso paisaje. dentro de los lagos. Absolutamente sensacional desde el primer bocado hasta el último bocado de queso.

Fantastic food and a very pleasant atmosphere. All the staff are amazing. We definitely will come back.

Unbelivable quality and presentation with excellent service to boot - whats not to like ? great restaurant with nearly 180 degree views of the forest around you

¡Qué fantástico restaurante!Mi esposa y yo visitamos el restaurante para almorzar el sábado pasado y ya estamos planeando nuestra visita de regreso con amigos del "sur".Optamos por el menú degustación que consistía en un amuse - bouche y 5 platos. Desde el delicado parfait de hígado de pato con semillas de cebolla negra hasta el suculento cerdo asado con guisantes, puré de nabo y paleta estofada; todos los platos fueron increíblemente pensados y claramente cubiertos con cuidado y pasión. El mejor pescado para mí fue el venado braseado con una emulsión ahumada, hinojo agrio de alcaparras ketchup y semillas de mostaza en escabeche. Dulce, amargo, rico, ahumado. . . . fue increíble.Los postres también eran muy sabrosos. Me encantó el parfait de limón aromatizado con abeto de Douglas que rodea la cabaña. ¡Buen toque!Tuvimos la suerte de estar sentados en el invernadero con vista al jardín cuidadosamente cuidado, competir con aves raras y ardillas rojas. Más allá del jardín hay una vista impresionante del valle, dominada por la imponente montaña Skiddaw.Muchas gracias a Monika y a nuestro camarero parisino (¡lamento mucho no haberle preguntado ni su nombre!) Por estar tan atentos pero al mismo tiempo manejar tan bien la incomodidad que es el distanciamiento social.Nos vemos de nuevo pronto. Paul y Hayley

Just had a 3 night break stay at 'Cottage in the Woods' and would like to say a big thank you to Kath and Liam and all the wonderful staff for a most memorable stay. We were greeted with a very warm welcome and shown to our cottage room, which had all the facilities required plus lots of little extras.Exceptional food and presentation with Ben and his team showing passion commitment and pride in their skills they are truly worthy of the Michelin star status.If you want peace and tranquility, nestled in beautiful grounds and woodland, a place to relax, recharge and indulge then we would highly recommend a stay here.We will definately be returning until then keep safe.Tony & Julie

Honestly some of the best food I have ever tried! Couldn’t recommend this place enough and will most certainly be visiting again when next in the Lakes!

Stayed in one of the rooms for two nights and ate in the restaurant both evenings. Unlike some Michelin starred restaurants CITW has both an a la carte and tasting menus so a two night stay is possible. We ate a la carte one evening and had the tasting menu the next. The size of the courses is what we would expect from such a fine dining restaurant - if you stay here for a cooked breakfast that will set you up for a day on the fells for sure!!The food was of a high standard and we thought it was good value for money compared to other one starred restaurants. Three course a la carte at £50 per head and £70 per head for the 6 course (plus a couple of amuse bouche) tasting menu. Wine list is varied and reasonably priced. Would recommend the wine pairing with the tasting menu. Lastly the service - super friendly and personal. Couldn't fault it - both food and wine service excellent. the owners and staff are clearly very proud of what they have achieved and rightly so but they don't shout about it - just get on with making sure everything is just right. Would recommend.

See my review of cottage in the wood you won’t be disappointed! the food and welcome are amazing as is the service from all the staff.

Deserves their new Michelin star. Great modern English cooking. We spent very happy 3 hours working our way through their vegetarian and pescatarian tatsing menus. Wine list reasobaly priced too (£25+). Our third time eating here, we'll be back next year.

Nos hemos alojado en los lagos durante años, pero nunca había encontrado este lugar antes. Nos quedamos a las afueras de Braithwaite, así que también estaba muy cerca.Realmente acogedor y nos atendieron muy bien: servicio y personal de alta calidad. La comida era magnífica, así como una gran selección de vinos.Pero realmente fue la comida que brilló por aquí, inmensamente agradable de tener una comida tan brillante.

La cabaña en el bosque está haciendo casi todo bien. La bienvenida a la llegada es cálida y genuina, hay mucha atención por parte del personal, hay un delicioso aperitivo incluso antes de entrar al restaurante. Cada plato es una experiencia de sabor maravillosamente cocinada y presentada y el restaurante tiene un "ambiente" cálido y relajante.Los precios son sobre dónde esperarías esta calidad.Si quisiera que la noche fuera absolutamente perfecta, los platos del plato principal traídos a nuestra mesa (éramos 4 y todos pedimos de manera diferente) habrían sido más generosos en términos de tamaño de la porción. Básicamente fue un segundo abridor. No soy filisteo y entiendo que la buena comida se trata de calidad más que de cantidad; Sin embargo, creo que el principal era muy pequeño y probablemente podría haber sido servido en un molde.Sin duda, otros no estarían de acuerdo, y terminaré diciendo esto: si amas la excelente comida, disfrutarás comiendo aquí.

Fuimos atraídos aquí por la estrella Michelin que previamente lo descartó por ser demasiado caro. Qué equivocados estábamos. Comimos fuera del menú del almuerzo y todo lo que comimos fue absolutamente delicioso. No dudaríamos en recomendarlo. Y, finalmente, nuestros jeans y suéter fueron perfectamente aceptables.

Desde que nos mudamos a Cumbria hace 4 años, intentamos encontrar un restaurante para celebrar nuestro aniversario, algo especial acorde con el momento. La cabaña en el bosque fue recomendada y desde entonces hemos visitado cada año en nuestro aniversario.Decir que es un gran restaurante no le hace justicia, y utilizo esa comparación basada en comer en otros restaurantes con estrellas Michelin en el sur de Inglaterra. Siempre supimos que la comida y el servicio eran de los más altos estándares, al principio no habían logrado la Estrella Michelin, de hecho ahora también han obtenido otros premios desde entonces, y bien merecidos lo son.Desde el momento en que llegas sabes que estás de enhorabuena, la ubicación es increíble y durante el día las vistas de Whinlatter son impresionantes. Tan pronto como entras por la puerta, te saludan de una manera amigable y profesional, haciéndote sentir especial pero no abrumado con ese tipo de servicio "en la cara" que algunos restaurantes parecen pensar que representa un servicio de primera clase. Todo el personal es muy amable y acogedor, y complementan toda la experiencia.El menú es variado sin estar demasiado 'ocupado', ofreciendo una selección variada, que incluye un menú de degustación, que es mi elección personal, complementada con los vinos que han sido cuidadosamente seleccionados para mejorar el plato. Los sabores se combinan de manera única mejorando cada parte del plato, muy bien pensado, y la presentación es excelente.El servicio es de primera clase, el personal conoce la comida y el vino, y sirve de una manera apropiada para una experiencia gastronómica de primera clase.No puedo alabar lo suficiente este restaurante, la ubicación, la comida y el servicio se combinan para justificar el más alto galardón, y continúan cumpliendo con las expectativas por encima de todos los aspectos.De hecho, ahora hemos decidido duplicar las frecuencias de visita y visitar para almorzar en un futuro próximo.Así que gracias al equipo por hacer de nuestra ocasión especial una ocasión especial.

We had the Taste Cumbria 6 course tasting menu with the accompanying wine flight and the result was sheer perfection. The best restaurant I have eaten in by far. Wonderful hosts and staff and the visiting red squirrels just add to the magic!

My wife and I had an amazing experience at Cottage in the Woods. Having never experienced a Michelin star restaurant before we were very excited. We were not disappointed. I had never tasted anything like it. Great view, excellent food and top service.

What a treat of a restaurant. The attention to detail for each course was fabulous. Michelin star so well deserved. Fabulous service, amazing food,wine and lovely surrounds. Still thinking about the pear dessert! Everyone should try this experience.

We were lucky enough to be able to get a reservation on our latest trip to the Lakes for the recce of the Lakeland 100 course.

We've intended to eat at the Cottage in the Wood for ages based on favourable reviews, but it's a bit far from us (over 60 miles), but the recent news of a Michelin star nudged us to make the effort for lunch a couple of days ago. We had the 3-course lunch menu (2 choices for each course) for £30 (there is also a £50 tasting menu; dinner prices are considerably more, of course), and found the food to be up to Michelin standard. The courses were as described on their website, and despite some comments from other reviewers about small portion sizes we found them to be adequate and each plate had several exquisite and clever components with plenty of matching flavours. The only adverse comment is that my wife thought the rose veal in her main course was rather lacking in flavour.. There were no canapés (maybe there are with the tasting menu?); the home-made bread was excellent, and was replenished when asked. The cheese board (at extra cost) was interesting, with a couple I had not come across before, very tasty, and the amounts were O.K. (just!); the home-made paper-thin biscuits were great, but difficult to get the cheese on, so a fork to eat the cheese with (as is usual in French restaurants) rather than just a knife would have been useful (but forks were provided when requested -- a trivial point, but it all helps to create a memorable experience!). There is a good wine list with several not too expensive, and a few are available by the glass. We had an excellent Cotes de Brouilly for £38, I've seen it much more expensive elsewhere. Nice atmosphere, lovely views across to Skiddaw from our window table, and a friendly, knowledgeable waitress. So we were well pleased and consider it to be good value; I hope the award does not go to their head and they automatically bump up their prices for the same food -- we expected foodies to be queuing up the hill from Keswick, but there was only one other table taken. And that seems to be a general thing up here -- we have eaten at other Michelin starred and similar quality restaurants in the area, e.g. Forest Side, Samling, Old Stamp House, Hipping Hall, etc., and found the same each time at lunch, just one or two tables occupied, not sure how they turn a profit, it's not like London where similar places are booked solid for months ahead. Maybe sales of rooms with dinner packages do the trick, especially in the summer season, but with rooms at such places in the £200--300++ per night region (the Cottage in the Wood currently has 2 nights midweek DBB, including the tasting menu, for £430--610 depending on the room), cost-conscious northerners may be put off! Anyway, we wish them continuing success and look forward to returning for another meal.

Have been here several times in the past couple of years and re-visited following the announcement of their success in the award of a michelin star for the restaurant. Food was good - we chose from the a la carte and were not disappointed. If there was one thing we would ask - have a wider range of wines by the glass please - a pinot Grigio was available by the bottle but not by the glass !!

This was my second visit to The Cottage in the Wood having eaten here 3 months ago while on a walking trip with friends. This time I visited with my wife and if anything it was better than before and confirmed my views that this is a great ‘fine dining’ restaurant. The location is a little off the beaten track being part way along the Whinlatter Pass very near the Forestry Visitor Centre but it’s worth the drive. We sat in the pleasant conservatory part of the restaurant with views of Skiddaw in the distance. The (silver) service was spot on throughout our meal, being friendly and informal. There are just 2 menu options, a £50 a head 3 course with about 6 or so choices per course covering most tastes, or a full tasting menu at £70 with optional wine flight. As with my first visit, my wife and I went for the 3 course option and thoroughly enjoyed everything we had. Portions are small but superbly cooked and presented with an imaginative use of ingredients to compliment the meat or fish. We had lamb and halibut on this visit. I noticed vegetarian options. The wine list is thankfully short but has most styles to match the food. All in all a great meal and we are bound to return when we are next in The Lakes.

Sumptuously delicious dinner with nice dining environment, and very attentive and friendly staff! Very very nice Michelin star restaurant. Memorable!

Excellent flavours and interesting textures throughout the £50 menu.

Our family of 3 visited The Cottage in the Woods for dinner and thoroughly enjoyed our evening. Setting was beautiful, food was delicious and service stellar. We would recommend booking early and requesting seats with a view (which for good reason goes quickly). We stayed in Windermere and this was 100% worth the drive!

We had a fabulous meal here as part of our honeymoon in the Lakes. The staff were so friendly and knowledgeable. The food was divine. We absolutely loved the tasting menu and the variety and different ideas. We would certainly recommend this little find off the beaten track, well worth the drive up and the views on route.

Good accomodation.Great good.Friendly, welcoming staff.Magnificent setting.Even the weather didn't spoil our stay.

Abit of a long drive to an isolated area in the woods but definitely worth it. We as a group ordered the tasting menu of Cumbria and we're amazed by the well executed venison and phenomenal lamb. The trout and scallop were also very delectable. The staff are super friendly and very attentive. Overall we enjoyed the night and for £70pp, could not reccomend eating here anymore !

We had a perfect evening with an amazing menue in this high class restaurant. The corresponding wines were selected perfectly.

It was over 6 months ago that we stayed and dined for two nights at this unique hotel and restaurant and enjoyed it so much, we said we would return. We have never gone back to the same hotel ever before as a choice. Well we have now been back and the experience was once again a warm delight.

We were in the area for 2 nights and chose this restaurant after seeing it on Trip Advisor. Very welcoming on arrival. Sat and had an aperitif while looking at the menu. We've done a lot of tasting menus, so decided to chose the 3 courses for £50. Two additions, an tiny bowl of smoked haddock soup and what I can only describe as a deconstructed crumble. I had the turbot and my husband had the duck. All dishes are beautifully presented and not over facing. The treacle bread was delicious. I would recommend it to food lovers who are visiting the area.

Exceptional food, perfect service and magnificent location. This was our third visit and it gets better every time. Can’t wait to go back!

My Husband And I visited here yesterday for his 30th Birthday. I was a last minute choice but the gentleman we booked with on the phone was very accommodating and checked about allergies.

We visited The Cottage in The Wood at the end of April 2019, as an anniversary treat!

Stayed one night on our way to Scotland. Restaurant was excellent with brilliant food and service and a fantastic view. We will definately be back.

Reservamos para el almuerzo y elegimos el menú de 3 platos 30. El encantador propietario nos recibió al llegar, y nos sentamos en la extensión del invernadero en la ventana, con vistas al valle y observando cómo se alimentan las aves en el jardín. Realmente es un lugar encantador. La mesa estaba hermosamente puesta, y nuestra camarera era encantadora y eficiente. La dueña mencionó su "pequeño equipo", pero lo que cuenta es la calidad y no la cantidad. La comida se veía divina, y los sabores eran excepcionales. Fue una comida muy especial. Se trajo pan caliente a la mesa, y tengo que mencionar los panes de melaza mini, simplemente deliciosos. Disfruté mucho de una terrina de pollo, seguida de la carne de cerdo de Eden Valley, y luego del durazno escalfado con arroz con leche. Rara vez comía 3 platos, pero era tan fácil comer una comida tan encantadora. De hecho, tomamos café y exquisitos petit fours después. No puedo recomendar este restaurante lo suficiente.

Fantastic Cumbrian tasting menu and matched wine. All lovely and left not feeling stuffed full of pointless heaps of carbs. Views from the dining room were stunning and the service lovely and friendly and helpful.

Came here as part of a weekend trip to the Keswick Mountain Festival, excellent food, service, wine and views. Make sure you try to get the conservatory seating. Staff are so friendly and helpful. Had the chicken, duck and peach rice pudding

Tuvimos una comida de celebración familiar de cumpleaños mientras visitábamos el Distrito de los Lagos durante el fin de semana de Pascua. Qué gran noche.

My girlfriend and I were staying in Keswick and we always try and find the best restaurant in the area. We got it absolutely right this time around. The setting, the service and the food / wine were bang on the money. Very good indeed. Go check it out, you won’t be disappointed.

We went here for a family lunch for Mother’s Day (a week late!) and had the Taste Cumbria menu, which is every bit as good as it sounds. The food was amazingly good - the cheese plate particularly recommended. Venison and trout also excellent. Service lovely - friendly and attentive but never over-bearing. The staff were happy to bring extra glasses so that we could share and try different wines. Setting and views across to a snow-capped Skiddaw were beautiful - will definitely come here again.

The food here is exquiste and delivered by a very friendly but unobstrusive top class service. Situated in beautiful surroundings The Cottage in the Wood is cosy and inviting. We sent for the taster menu and it certainly did entice our taste buds! I can confidently say it's one of the best meals I've ever had. So if you're up in the Lakes for a holiday or a local that hasn't tried this restaurant yet then I highly recommend you do. It will be well worth the visit.

If you're not hungry, have money burning a hole in your pocket and fancy a trek up a fell this is the place for you. You'll be met by pleasant and attentive staff who'll satisfy your needs. You may need to take some packing up for the journey home though.

We had a delightful meal with excellent, friendly service and delicious food. There was a large selection of vegetarian food.

I was lucky enough to be treated to dinner here by some visiting friends and we were not disappointed. Each dish was presented beautifully, the portions were just right to enjoy the three course menu, the wine recommendations for each dish was spot on. Definitely recommend for a fine dining treat and definitely coming back.

Stunningly presented, well chosen locally sourced food. Such magical but unexpected combinations of flavours! Lovely to look at but so much better to eat!

I booked a table for lunch for my sister and me as my birthday treat for my sister while we were staying nearby - and it didn't disappoint. The view across to a snowy Skiddaw was an idyllic backdrop to a special meal. I loved the intensity of the flavours of the food, the attentive and friendly service as well as the personal touches, such as a birthday card from the owners for my sister; and contact made in advance to warn us of roadworks closing the Whinlatter Pass at the Braithwaite end. There was plenty of time to enjoy the meal followed by coffee and petits fours in the drawing room sitting by the cosy wood burner. We will be back.

Another fantastic visit to this amazing place. The food here is outstanding. The staff are attentive. The decor is cosy and inviting. Cannot say a bad word about this place. Amazing

Our second visit here, did not disappoint. The experience is outstanding and the food and wine to match. We had the Taster Menu, which I thought would be too much but found it just the right side of full

Comimos aquí anoche como una celebración de nuestro aniversario de boda, de hecho, esto fue una repetición del año pasado. Como puede ser el caso cuando intenta repetir una gran experiencia, puede dejar de querer, pero no en este caso, la excelencia servida en abundancia.

El restaurante tiene dos caras, una acogedora sala con calefacción de leña interior y un invernadero curvo con vistas a través del valle hasta la montaña Skiddaw con ardillas rojas que se alimentan frente a su ventana. La cena de cena y degustación son variadas y de excelente calidad e imaginación sin ser pretencioso. Excelente vino, servicio y amables dueños y personal. Ah, y el desayuno es relajado, una variedad recién cocinada que es saludable o no, según su elección. Absolutamente nada negativo o incluso promedio aquí. Simplemente excelente

La cabaña en el bosque tiene un desafío hasta diciembre. ¡El camino que sube desde Braithwaite está cerrado! Cuando llamamos para reservar una mesa para el almuerzo, no podrían haber sido más útiles. Informado del problema, sugirió rutas alternativas, se ofreció a conducir y recogernos de Braithwaite y devolvernos después del almuerzo. También sugirieron paseos locales que podríamos hacer antes de llegar para el almuerzo.

Muy buena comida (utilizando los estándares de Nueva York y Londres) y un ambiente amoroso. Delicioso whisky sour seguido de amuse bouches, gougeres, excelentes aplicaciones y platos principales de pato y cerdo. Algunos pueden decir porciones pequeñas, pero pensamos que eran correctas. Importante: casi cancelamos porque las obras viales en el puente en Braithwaite hacen que los 10 minutos en automóvil de Keswick sean más como 30 minutos, pero Liam recogió después de cruzar un puente a pie y nos alegramos mucho de haberlo hecho. Asi que va a. Vaya aquí y no deje que las obras viales cuestionen el pequeño esfuerzo adicional.

Este hotel restaurante fue elegido por mi esposa y fue una gran elección desde la bienvenida que nos dieron a la deliciosa comida y el vino que disfrutamos.

Service and ambience faultless. We ordered from the a la Carte menu. Lovely bread then a delicious amuse bouche came first. My meal was perfect and beautifully cooked and presented.

Stopped at the hotel for four nights and ate in every evening, the food was lovely and well presented. The wine matching to each course was great, normally I do not drink white wine but followed the recommendations of the hotel and drunk some lovely white wines with the different courses.Lovely service by lovely staff.

Pure perfection. The Menu is a taste experience. The owners Kath and Liam have a wonderful team. The chefs are so clever the ingredients they put together set your taste buds alive it's truly delicious. Fine wines chosen to compliment the meal. Locally sourced produce used in each dish. Taster menu available and a wine flight that continues to add to the whole dining experience.

Unexpectedly found ourselves in the Camper-van very close by, so booked a table. From start to finish the food and wine pairing were very good attention from the staff impeccable so five stars. However the food prep and experience just a little clinical. Some may like this others may not....