I’ve been sat on this post for so long, as we visited Ambleside for my birthday in March, just a couple of weeks before lockdown.
Now the country has started to open up more and people are choosing to holiday in the UK rather than abroad, I wanted to share my favourite vegan spots in Ambleside.
I love to go hiking but feel like rural towns don’t always have the best options for vegans. Ambleside, which is in the heart of the glorious Lake District, is definitely an exception though.
Ambleside Manor
I couldn’t write this post without including Ambleside Manor, the amazing vegetarian B&B we stayed at. Located a short stroll from the centre of Ambleside, it’s the perfect spot to rest your head and enjoy an amazing breakfast to kick-start your day in the Lakes.
We stayed in Room 2 (suite) as it was a special occasion but all the rooms are gorgeous, with high ceilings, comfy beds and delicious shortbread waiting for you on arrival.
The breakfast was the best part, with plenty of options for veggies + vegans. We had the full breakfast with scrambled tofu instead of eggs, alongside a daily smoothie and fresh filter coffee.
A standard room starts from £110 per night.
Fellinis
Owned by the same people as Ambleside Manor, Fellinis offers vegetarian fine dining with a modern twist.
Expect decadent risotto, comforting pastry dishes and some classic puddings that have been veganised.
We didn’t actually manage to eat here but we’ll definitely be back to try it, as everyone I’ve spoken to has given it rave reviews.
Gandhi’s Cafe
Another vegetarian lunch spot that’s super vegan-friendly. After a long walk around Loughrigg Fell and Rydal Falls, we stopped off in Gandhi’s Cafe for a much-needed refuel.
Mat had their Thali, which was a mouthwatering selection of small Indian dishes, and I had the creamy & delicious ‘George’s Korma’. They also have lighter bites like soups, sandwiches and salads.
Make sure you don’t leave without grabbing one of their cakes or raw desserts.
Zeffirellis
When we arrived in Ambleside, Zeffirellis was our first port of call. This Italian-inspired vegetarian restaurant is also owned by the same people as Fellinis & Ambleside Manor and is a little more casual than its sister restaurant.
Their speciality is pizza and pasta dishes, with lots of vegan options available. We came here for lunch but I think it would’ve been better in the evening, as they have their own cinema upstairs and lots of live performances.
The Apple Pie Cafe
You absolutely must visit this little cafe while you’re in Ambleside. As the name suggests, apple pie is their speciality and they bake most items on site.
We dived into The Apple Pie Cafe on an overcast day and enjoyed their famous vegan-friendly hot apple pie with an oat milk flat white by the fire. Blissful. I was desperate to go back on our way home!
Bar eS Tapas
Nestled down a side street in the centre of Ambleside, Bar eS serves up Mexican tapas and craft beer in their rustic and cosy restaurant & bar.
They have a separate vegan menu, so make sure to ask for it when you’re being seated, and also serve up vegan beers & wines.
We tried a bit of everything and it was all delicious. Definitely recommend the tacos, quesadillas and chips & dips. I was way too full for dessert (*sob*) but they also have vegan churros & ice cream!
Grasmere Gingerbread
Ok so this isn’t in Ambleside, but Grasmere is only a short drive or bus ride away. It’s the most picture-perfect village you could hope to visit.
Grasmere Gingerbread was created in 1854 by Sarah Nelson and her former home is now The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop. They still bake it in her little cottage to the secret original recipe.
You’ll be able to smell the delicious vegan-friendly gingerbread as you approach the shop, so there’s no missing it!
Don’t forget to grab some gingerbread for your friends & family too, it’s so moreish that you won’t be able to share your personal stash!
Is there anywhere else you’d recommend in Ambleside for veggie/vegan food? Let me know in the comments below!
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