The Coast to Coast West boasts dramatic upland scenery and stunning panoramic views. Whilst those are obvious highlights of the trip, the food can be just as important, especially after a taxing day of walking. As a keen foodie, the thought of every meal kept me motivated during the day, and I finished the trip with so many recommendations and tips!

Where to eat on the Coast to Coast West

St Bees: if it’s a sunny day, you will want to have a drink in the garden at the back of the Queen’s hotel - for a lovely vibe and cheap pints.

Ennerdale Bridge: lovely pub food at the Shepherds Arms. Worthy mention: Shepherds Lakeland lamb pastie.

Rosthwaite: for a fancier meal, pay a visit to the Scafell Hotel restaurant: it’s on the pricier side and two-course minimum, but lovely fresh produce and an excellent wine selection

Grasmere is one of the biggest touristic towns with many options, but one of the best meals can be found at Tweedies Bar and Lodge. Make sure to find yourself a spot in the bar area to be able to order food from 6 pm. The actual restaurant is located next door, but it’s almost always booked out, so if you would rather have a proper dinner there, we recommend calling and booking in advance. Worthy mention: Venison Rump and the Tweedies Beef Burger

Patterdale and Glenridding: there are various options in these two closely connected villages, so a taste of fish and chips or a burger can be found anywhere

Worthy mention: the lovely garden bar at the Old Water View: is open to everyone (not just for visitors of their B&B). Here you can enjoy a pint surrounded by the sound of the water from the stream while looking toward the hills where you’ll be walking tomorrow. 

Shap: The local fish and chip shop is a must for a quick dinner after a long day’s walk. Shap Chippy has all a chippy can offer, affordable prices and award-winning grub. If you stay at the New Ing, you are welcome to eat your meal in their cosy dining room or serene garden.

Kirkby Stephen: On our last night, we treated ourselves to something different than the established pub grub. The Mango Tree delighted us with lovely Indian food right in the heart of the market square.

Worthy mention was the cutest little pub, the La'l Nook, full of chatty locals and a great atmosphere to have a pint and a friendly chat in!

You certainly won't go hungry on the Coast to Coast West!

Note: all the pubs mentioned above and restaurants offer a typical menu from the area, made of local produce and fresh vegetables. There are vegetarian and vegan options, but for the most part, there will be a majority of local meats and produces on offer, all provided by the area in which these small local eateries are nested.

For more information on the Coast to Coast West, visit our website.