Known as the "Foodie Capital of Cumbria," Cartmel is a stunning medieval village on the Cartmel Peninsula. With its 12th-century Priory, racecourse, and concentration of Michelin stars, it offers a unique blend of history and high-end gastronomy.
Quick Facts
Things to Do in Cartmel
Cartmel Priory
Dominating the skyline, this magnificent 800-year-old church is one of the finest ecclesiastical buildings in Northern England. Founded in 1190 by William Marshal (later the 1st Earl of Pembroke), it was intended for Augustinian canons from Bradenstoke Priory in Wiltshire.
The Priory miraculously survived the Dissolution of the Monasteries because Marshal had stipulated that an altar should serve the villagers – this saved the church when King Henry VIII's commissioners came calling in 1537, though four monks and ten villagers were still executed for resistance.
Highlights to Look For:
- The unique diagonal tower – the only one of its kind in the UK
- 26 medieval choir stalls with intricate carvings of unicorns, mermaids, apes, peacocks, and a Green Man
- Cromwell's Door – still pitted with bullet holes from 1640s when Roundhead troops stabled horses in the nave
- The Harrington Tomb – commemorating John, 1st Baron Harrington (d. 1347)
- The bread shelf – continuing an 18th-century tradition of charity
- Medieval stained glass fragments in the huge east window
Open daily 9:30am–5:30pm (3:30pm in winter). Free entry with donations welcome. Guided tours run Wednesdays 11am–2pm.
Priory Gatehouse (National Trust)
This striking 14th-century gatehouse is the only surviving monastic building besides the church. Built around 1330–40 following devastating raids by Robert the Bruce, it served as both a ceremonial entrance and defensive structure.
The "Great Room" above the archway was used as a monastic court and later as a manorial court – this dual purpose saved it from demolition. Now managed by the National Trust, it contains exhibitions about Cartmel's history.
Free entry for National Trust members. Located on the village square.
Cartmel Racecourse
One of Britain's most picturesque and atmospheric racecourses, Cartmel has hosted National Hunt racing since 1856 – though local legend suggests monks raced mules here centuries earlier! The compact course is unique: the finishing straight cuts directly through the crowds, creating an electric atmosphere.
Despite its small size, Cartmel consistently achieves the third-highest average attendance of any jumps track in Britain (after Aintree and Cheltenham), with crowds exceeding 20,000 on peak days. The village transforms into a festival during race weekends, with picnics, funfairs, and celebrations spilling across the grounds.
2025 Race Dates:
- Sat 24th May
- Mon 26th May
- Wed 28th May (evening)
- Fri 27th June
- Sun 29th June
- Sat 19th July
- Mon 21st July
- Sat 23rd August
- Mon 25th August (Cartmel Cup)
Insider tip: The August Bank Holiday Cartmel Cup weekend is the highlight of the season. Book accommodation well in advance!
Cartmel Village Shop & Sticky Toffee Pudding
No visit to Cartmel is complete without sampling the world-famous Sticky Toffee Pudding. Jean and Howard Johns began making their recipe in 1984, first at their restaurant in nearby Grange-over-Sands, then from the back kitchen of this charming village shop.
The recipe uses only the finest ingredients: pure cane sugar, free-range eggs, fresh cream, butter, and dates. Word spread quickly, and today you'll find Cartmel puddings in Fortnum & Mason, Selfridges, Waitrose, and Harvey Nichols – but nothing beats eating one warm, topped with ice cream, sitting in the village square.
The shop itself is a treasure trove of local delights: handmade chocolates, ginger and lemon puddings, local cheeses, and countless other temptations.
Located on the village square, opposite the Priory Gatehouse.
Unsworth's Yard
This delightful hidden courtyard off the main square houses a collection of artisan producers that perfectly encapsulates Cartmel's foodie credentials:
- Cartmel Cheeses – Award-winning artisan cheese shop with local and international selections
- Unsworth's Yard Brewery – Craft microbrewery producing ales inspired by the local landscape
- The Wine Shop – Carefully curated wine selection with knowledgeable staff
Perfect for a leisurely afternoon of tasting and browsing – and stocking up on supplies for a gourmet picnic at the races.
Holker Hall & Gardens
Just a mile from Cartmel, this magnificent stately home has been the Cavendish family seat for over 400 years. The current house was largely rebuilt after a fire in 1871 by celebrated Victorian architects Paley and Austin, in warm red sandstone with an elegant Elizabethan style.
The 25-acre gardens are the real showstopper – a glorious mix of formal landscaping and woodland wilderness. Highlights include the famous Great Holker Lime (one of Britain's 50 great trees, with a girth over 8 metres), the cascade, labyrinth, and sunken garden. The estate holds the National Collection of Styracaceae, flowering beautifully in early summer.
Visitor Information:
- Open Wed–Sun, 10am–4pm (Hall 11am–4pm, guided tours only)
- Dogs welcome in gardens (on leads)
- Courtyard Café and Gift Shop on site
- Free entry for RHS and Historic Houses members
Where to Eat
L'Enclume 3 Michelin Stars
Simon Rogan's flagship restaurant, ranked No.1 in the world by La Liste 2025. Set in a 13th-century former blacksmith's workshop, it offers an extraordinary 20-course tasting menu showcasing produce from "Our Farm" a mile away in the Cartmel Valley. Also holds a Michelin Green Star for sustainability and five AA Rosettes. Book months in advance.
Rogan & Co 1 Michelin Star
L'Enclume's more relaxed sibling, just yards away. The same commitment to exceptional ingredients in a casual, bistro-style setting. A more accessible way to experience Simon Rogan's cooking.
Aulis Cartmel
An intimate 6-seat chef's table experience adjacent to L'Enclume. Watch experimental dishes being created in the development kitchen – the birthplace of L'Enclume's menu innovations.
The Cavendish Arms
A 450-year-old coaching inn with low beams, crackling fires, and excellent pub food. Full of character and a favourite with locals and visitors alike.
The Royal Oak
A friendly village pub on the square, perfect for a pint and casual meal. Great outdoor seating overlooking the River Eea.
Henrock at Linthwaite House
Another Simon Rogan restaurant, set within a beautiful country house hotel overlooking Windermere. A short drive from Cartmel for those wanting to explore more of the Rogan empire.
Where to Stay
L'Enclume Rooms
16 individually designed rooms dotted around the village. The ultimate foodie getaway with breakfast included and first-choice dinner reservations.
The Priory Hotel
Located right beside the Priory, offering comfortable rooms, a welcoming bar, and stunning views of the ancient church.
Aynsome Manor Hotel
A charming country house hotel just outside the village with lovely gardens and a traditional feel.
Holiday Cottages
Numerous self-catering options in and around the village – ideal for longer stays or families.
Getting There
By Car
From the M6, take Junction 36 and follow the A590 towards Barrow. Cartmel is signed off the A590 – approximately 15 minutes from the motorway. Limited parking in the village; additional parking at the racecourse during events.
By Train
The nearest station is Cark-in-Cartmel (also known as Cark & Cartmel) on the Furness Line between Lancaster and Barrow. It's about 2 miles (30 minutes' walk or 5 minutes by taxi) to Cartmel village. Trains run regularly from Lancaster.
By Bike
The Morecambe Bay Cycle Route (Route 700) passes nearby, connecting Cartmel to Grange-over-Sands and the wider Lake District cycle network.
Walks from Cartmel
Hampsfell Hospice
A moderate circular walk (approximately 4 miles) leading up to Hampsfell, where you'll find the "Hospice" – a quirky limestone tower built in 1846 as a shelter for walkers. Climb to the roof for a viewpoint compass and stunning 360-degree panoramas of Morecambe Bay, the Coniston Fells, and across to the Yorkshire Dales.
Difficulty: Moderate | Time: 2–3 hours
Route GuideMount Bernard Circuit
A gentle circular walk (approximately 3 miles) taking you through peaceful farmland and woodland to Mount Bernard, with lovely views back towards the Priory and racecourse. Perfect for a morning stroll before lunch in the village.
Difficulty: Easy | Time: 1.5–2 hours
Cartmel to Holker Hall
A pleasant walk along country lanes and footpaths to the magnificent Holker Hall and Gardens (approximately 2 miles each way). Combine with a visit to the Hall, café, and gardens for a lovely half-day outing.
Difficulty: Easy | Time: 1 hour each way
Grange-over-Sands Promenade
Drive or cycle the short distance to nearby Grange-over-Sands for a flat, scenic stroll along the ornamental promenade with stunning views across Morecambe Bay. The Art Deco Grange Lido (currently being restored) is a highlight.
Difficulty: Easy | Time: 1–2 hours
Morecambe Bay Cross-Sands Walk
One of England's most unique outdoor experiences, the guided Cross-Bay Walk has been taking travellers across the treacherous sands of Morecambe Bay for nearly 500 years. Before the railway arrived in 1857, this was the main route from Lancaster to Furness – and Cartmel Priory's monks were the original guides.
Today, the royally-appointed King's Guide to the Sands, Michael Wilson (a Flookburgh fisherman), leads charity walks from Arnside to Grange-over-Sands between May and September. The 6-8 mile walk crosses ever-shifting channels, quicksands, and mudflats – a humbling reminder of nature's power. The bay is home to extraordinary wildlife, including vast flocks of wading birds.
Safety Warning
Never attempt to cross Morecambe Bay without an official guide. The bay is notoriously dangerous, with fast-moving tides, deep channels, and areas of quicksand. Many people have lost their lives here.
Book walks: Visit guideoversands.co.uk for dates and charity walk information.
Annual Events
Cartmel Races (May–August)
Nine race days throughout the summer, culminating in the famous Cartmel Cup on August Bank Holiday.
Cartmel Agricultural Show (August)
Traditionally held the first Wednesday of August at the racecourse. Livestock shows, dog competitions, arts & crafts, and local food.
Holker Garden Festival (June)
Three-day celebration of gardening, food, and countryside life at nearby Holker Hall.
Holker Winter Market (November)
Festive market at Holker Hall with artisan producers, Christmas gifts, and seasonal treats.
Local Experiences & Tours
Explore the wider Cartmel Peninsula and South Lakes with guided tours and experiences. Book easily via our trusted partners.