Why You’ll Love Cartmel: Foodie Finds, Local Shops and Hidden Gems
She certainly packs a punch for such a small place. Cartmel really does have it all.
Cartmel is one of those places that people fall in love with instantly. It’s small, pretty and packed with amazing food, brilliant independent shops, history at every turn and a relaxed, village-y charm. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you already adore it like me, here’s my friendly guide to the best things to do in Cartmel – from Michelin-starred meals to cosy pubs, quirky shops and the famous racecourse.
Best Things to do in Cartmel
1. Cartmel Racecourse – Always a fun day out
Let’s start with a big one: Cartmel Racecourse. It’s one of the most unique and fun racecourses in the country – family-friendly, full of character and set right in the heart of the village. Even if you’re not a racing person, it’s such a great day out. Think picnics, local food stalls, live music, cheering crowds and that gorgeous backdrop of fields and fells. All right in the historic village.
2. Cartmel Priory – A little piece of history
You can’t go to Cartmel without wandering through the Priory. Whether you’re a church lover or history lover – I’ve not met anyone who doesn’t think it’s pretty special. It’s over 800 years old and genuinely beautiful – inside and out. The architecture, the arches, the space, the stained glass – it’s one of those places that makes you stop for a moment. The village grew around it, so it’s at the very heart of Cartmel’s history.
3. The Food Scene: Aka why Cartmel is a Foodie dream
Cartmel is tiny but mighty when it comes to food. You could spend an entire weekend here eating and still feel like you’ve barely scratched the surface. Trust me – it’s elasticated waistbands only for me now.
A few favourites:
- Unsworth’s Yard – microbrewery, pizzeria, wine shop, cheese shop… it’s basically heaven.
- The Cavendish Arms – brilliant food, warm atmosphere, perfect for lunch and dinner.
- Pig and Whistle – a cosy, characterful pub with great food. New menu and decor, so check it out.
- Cartmel Coffee – ideal for a caffeine stop and a great piece of homemade cake.
- Cartmel Cheese Shop – if you love cheese, go. Enough said I think.
- Michelin-starred restaurants – yes, plural! Cartmel is home to Simon Rogan’s restaurants including the world-class L’Enclume, which needs no introduction.
- And don’t leave without popping into the Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding Shop. It’s iconic for a reason.
4. Shopping – Check out these Indies
One of my favourite things to do in Cartmel is simply wander around the little streets and explore the shops. Here are some you shouldn’t miss:
- Cartmel Vintage – so many treasures and quirky finds. Antiques Roadshow have headed here before because it has such a great collection. Our kids always come away with dinky cars and Marvel figures and I love the Babycham glasses and cocktail sets.
- Perfect English – gorgeous homeware and gifts. I have bought many a birthday, baby shower and Christmas present here. Some great, unique finds.
- Rogan’s Shop – beautiful ceramics, tableware and foodie bits. So if you’ve eaten there – you could take away a little reminder.
- Kerr & Sons: The Old Bookshop – a charming bookshop that feels like a time capsule. A treasure trove in the most beautiful spot in Cartmel.
- Cartmel Gallery – local art and contemporary pieces to explore. Plus interesting ceramics, pottery and gifts.
They’re all independently run and genuinely lovely to browse.
5. Lakeland Segway – try something a little different
If you fancy something fun and a bit unexpected, try Lakeland Segway, based right in Cartmel by the racecourse. The team will take you from Cartmel to the Holker Hall estate with views over Morecambe Bay. There are great woodland paths and the tour guides will tell you about the local area.
Pratical Tips
Parking can get busy at weekends, particularly on race days. Paid parking is available at Cartmel Racecourse, but check arrangements ahead of major events. There are also limited spaces around the Priory and in the village square. Check the signs carefully for time limits and restrictions.
We often walk from The Pheasant Lodge. Allow around 40 minutes via the quieter back route or 30 minutes along the main road. Both routes include sections without pavements, and the main road can be busy with traffic. Local taxis are another option. Get in touch if you’d like our recommendations.
Why Cartmel Village is worth the visit.
Cartmel packs in everything you want from a Lake District village. Incredible food, brilliant pubs, history, shopping, countryside, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Plus it looks pretty picture perfect too. Whether you’re here for a race day, a Michelin-starred lunch, a stroll around the Priory or a bit of browsing, Cartmel is one of those you’ll want to come back to.
And if you’re staying at The Pheasant Lodge, you’re only a couple of miles away – close enough to pop in for coffee, dinner or a lazy wander at any time.
If you have any tips or ideas you’d like to add, we’d love to hear them – so please leave a comment below.
Hannah – Host at The Pheasant Lodge x