Cumbrian restaurants have been named among the best in the UK by a prestigious guide.
Now in its 35th year, Harden’s remains one of the UK’s most trusted dining guides, built on genuine customer feedback rather than inspector reviews.
Its latest edition, released this week, draws on 30,000 reports from 2,500 diners and showcases 2,800 venues across the country, spanning everything from street-food favourites to the most ambitious fine-dining destinations.
Cumbria continues to shine on the national stage, recording the highest number of top-100 restaurants outside London.
Its top 100 UK restaurants guide features L’Enclume at Cartmel at number 2, Heft, near Cark-in-Cartmel at 47, the Cedar Tree at Farlam Hall, near Brampton at 67, Forest Side in Grasmere at 70, Allium at Askham Hall, near Penrith, at 77, Cottage in the Wood at Whinlatter, near Keswick at 84 and the Old Stamp House in Ambleside at 92.
Simon Rogan’a Aulis London also features on the list at 55.
It was Cottage in the Wood’s first listing under the stewardship of co-owners Jack and Beth Bond.
The couple said: “Being included in Harden’s Top 100 for the first time as owners is a huge moment for us. It shows where we stand among the best in the country and highlights the dedication of our entire team.
“The Cottage in the Wood is what it is because of their hard work, passion and consistency. This recognition is a tremendous boost for everyone, and we’re incredibly grateful for all they do.
“It’s always great to be featured in lists such as Harden’s, as it can help you determine where you sit nationally and where you need to develop as a team.
“Being listed in Harden’s UK Top 100 for the first time in our own right as owner is pretty big news for us. It recognises the level of work everyone in the team puts into making The Cottage what it is.
“Recognition like this is a huge pat on the back for all that they do, and we want to thank them for their hard work and commitment.’’
Heft had also made the list for the first time.
Co-owners Kevin and Nicola Tickle said: “When your restaurant is featured in a UK-wide dining list, it is pretty significant and shows that we are doing things the right way, especially featuring for the first time in Harden’s top 100 UK restaurants.
“Everyone on our team has worked exceptionally hard this year, and this ranking is a reflection of their dedication and commitment to ensuring that each of our guests is well cared for.
“We want to thank each member of our team, as well as our suppliers and guests, who make Heft such a special place.”
