Vegetarian Guide to the Lake District

Now in its 19th year – the guide includes guest houses, hotels, restaurants, pubs and shops that cater for vegetarians and vegans.

The Viva! Vegetarian Guide to the Lake District continues to be an indispensable guide for anyone lucky enough to be visiting this beautiful part of the country. Whether you are planning a weekend break or a longer holiday, this guide will provide you with the information you need to help make your stay perfect.

The Viva! Vegetarian Guide to the Lake District contains up-to-date information on where to find the tastiest veggie restaurants, the most welcoming of hotels and guesthouses and a whole array of wholefood and health shops, leaving the veggie or vegan traveller to relax and take in the delights of the Lake District and surrounding area without worrying where their next meal is coming from!

Viva la Lake District!

From ambling through Ambleside and windsurfing on Windermere to munching Kendal mint cake (vegan!) on the bank of the River Kent – whatever your age and whatever your inclination, there’s something for everyone in the Lakes. And as a vegetarian or vegan, the area’s excellent selection of exclusive cafés, shops, restaurants, B&Bs, hotels and pubs are bursting with tempting treats to ensure your stay is a happy one.

The Lake District National Park’s 2,292 square kilometres cover high fells, dales, tumbling becks, serene lakes, enchanting villages, towns and beautiful beaches – each containing their own hidden treasures ready for discovering. But you don’t have to ramble through the picturesque Lyth Valley or trek to the top of the Langdale Pikes to get a good view (although trust me, it’s worth it!). Families can find walks perfect for
pushchairs or little legs, such as around Friar’s Crag in Keswick, the limestone fringe of Winster Valley or through the Grizedale Forest. Plus throughout the year there are many events and colourful festivals.

The more robust can take to the water for a different eye’s view of the Lakes, as Coniston, Derwentwater, Ullswater and Windermere all have water-sport centres, boat hire facilities and organised minicruises
(even a Venetian Gondola, which sets sail from Coniston Pier for you romantics). Then get your breath back with a coffee and cake at the exquisite Lancrigg Vegetarian Guest House in Easedale or another veggie/vegan eatery.

With more than 3,500 kilometres of rights of way, walkers, riders and cyclists of all abilities can explore
the magnificent countryside. Remember to stock up on delicious edibles in one of the local health food
shops beforehand for sustenance (the full vegan breakfast at The Whale Tail Café in Lancaster also comes heartily recommended!).

The natural splendour of the Lake District has seduced and inspired many of the nation’s favourite writers, poets, artists and craftsmen such as Beatrix Potter, William Wordsworth and John Ruskin.

Make sure you take time to discover the gorgeous towns and villages – almost as striking as the landscape around them. Climb the hill to the ruins of Kendal Castle and absorb the view of the vibrant town and fells beyond. Drop into Ulverston and visit the famous Laurel & Hardy Museum and twice-weekly street market. The bustling village of Ambleside has an array of speciality shops plus the Armitt Museum – all with Lake Windermere and Stock Ghyll Force (a spectacular 70 foot waterfall) only a short walk away.  So engulf yourself in the beauty of the Lakes – because you’re worth it! (And don’t forget to flash your Viva! supporter’s card and enjoy discount throughout your stay.