The Lake District and Cumbria provides a rich larder; Herdwick Hogget from the surrounding fells, freshly landed fish and shellfish from West coast harbours and a host of wild foods. The Cottage in the Wood is located in the heart of Whinlatter Forest, between Keswick and Cockermouth and has established a reputation for creative food and friendly service over the years. The Restaurant has been awarded one Michelin star and is listed in Good Food guides.
Restaurant
Under the direction of chef Sam Miller
Restaurant
Under the direction of chef Sam Miller
Restaurant
Under the direction of chef Sam Miller
Restaurant
Under the direction of chef Sam Miller
Passion For Produce
Raising the bar for Cumbrian dining excellence, head chef Sam Miller has a true passion for Northern produce. His inventive creations draw on the produce of Cumbria and our neighbours in the North.
With over two decades of culinary experience, and a career that includes Europe’s top restaurants , Sam’s sophisticated flavour pairings and exemplary attention to detail is renowned.
What the Michelin Guide said
The Michelin Guide says Chef Director Ben Wilkinson “had made the place his own and there is a quiet confidence to his cooking.”
“Top quality ingredients and classic techniques take the lead, and there is a certain sophistication to the well-balanced flavour pairings – and while skilfully making the dishes look eye-catching, he manages to avoid over-elaboration.”
“Like the food, the service is natural and honest, and you leave feeling that they really do care about every little detail here.”
Tranquil Woodland Setting
At The Cottage in the Wood, we pride ourselves on offering a setting that is bursting with charm. Simultaneously cosy and airy, guests dine surrounded by views of England’s highest mountain forest, where red squirrels frequently roam.
When night falls, candles are lit and the Lake District’s starry canopy emerges above the woodland. The magic of the night makes everything seem a little brighter.
A Few Other Things
Before you dine with us, please feel free to view our sample tasting menus below. Both Lunch and Dinner menus are set Taste menus. We amend our Michelin Star restaurant menus regularly to reflect the seasonal produce that is available to us. We kindly ask that you book a table in advance.
While we are able to adjust our menu with advance notice for some dietary allergies and requirements, including vegetarian/pescatarian, it is not possible to adapt the menu for complex dietary needs. Dairy products are used throughout our menus so would not be suitable for guests with severe lactose intolerance or those who require a dairy free diet.
We are pleased to welcome children if their parents feel they will enjoy the Full Taste menu that we offer. The Restaurant is not suitable for babies and toddlers.
Our menus are designed for short breaks of 1 or 2 nights. Please call before booking if you need to discuss.
Please note: Restaurant online reservations are available until the 31st January. Check social media and our home page for any late cancellations.
Why Not Stay Over at our Michelin Star Restaurant?
Fall asleep to the babbling of our beck and awaken to the songs of the many bird species found within the forest. The Cottage in the Wood’s boutique accommodation offers a peaceful and tranquil location with a vast array of wildlife.