The Old Stamp House Restaurant

“Creative and contemporary cooking in Wordsworth's old place” - AA Inspector
AMBLESIDE, CUMBRIA

Our Inspector's View
William Wordsworth was Cumbria's 'Distributor of Stamps' back in the 19th century, and this is where he plied his trade. Today, the organic and foraged ingredients on show make this is a thoroughly modern sort of restaurant and it has become quite the foodie destination. Situated below street level and accessed via a small set of stairs, chef Ryan Blackburn and his brother Craig, who works front of house, have created something special here. Dishes are explained as they are placed. Chefs normally make a point of bringing some of the dishes themselves – Ryan likes to present a personal appearance to his strong local following. Recommendations are freely made for both food and wine indicating a deep knowledge of the product. Cumbrian local produce leads the way, with 6 or 8-course tasting menus and a smaller lunch menu. The presentation is always thoroughly creative.
Awards, Accolades & welcome Schemes
Facilities – at a glance
Vegetarian menu
Private dining
Features
- Seats: 30
- Private dining available
- Steps for wheelchair: 5
- Assist dogs welcome
- Days Closed: Sunday to Monday
- Lunch served from: 12.30
- Lunch served until: 2
- Dinner served from: 6
- Dinner served until: 9
- Wines under £30: 11
- Wines over £30:
- Wines by the glass: 20
- Cuisine style: Modern British
- Vegetarian menu
Also in the Area
About The area
Discover Cumbria
Cumbria's rugged yet beautiful landscape is best known for the Lake District National Park that sits within its boundaries. It’s famous for Lake Windermere, England’s largest lake, and Derwent Water, ‘Queen of the English Lakes'. This beautiful countryside once inspired William Wordsworth and his home, Dove Cottage, in Grasmere is a popular museum. Another place of literary pilgrimage is Hill Top, home of Beatrix Potter, located near Windermere. Tom Kitten, Samuel Whiskers and Jemima Puddleduck were all created here.
Much of Cumbria is often overlooked in favour of the Lake Distirct. In the south, the Lune Valley remains as lovely as it was when Turner painted it. The coast is also a secret gem. With its wide cobbled streets, spacious green and views of the Solway Firth, Silloth is a fine Victorian seaside resort. Other towns along this coastline include Whitehaven, Workington and Maryport. Carlisle is well worth a look – once a Roman camp, its red-brick cathedral dates back to the early 12th century and its 11th-century castle was built by William Rufus.
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