A number of Cumbrian pies have been named among the best in the country in national awards.
The British Pie Awards honour the best pie-makers across Britain, from small independents to large-scale producers.
Dedicated to recognising excellence in pie-making, pies are judged on appearance, pastry quality, filling, flavour, and overall presentation.
There are over 20 categories and The Ruddings Hotel in Braithwaite, near Keswick, was Cumbria’s top award winner, bringing home the gold for its steak pie in its category as well as being highly commended overall.
The kitchen at The Ruddings is led by head chef David Webster, supported by executive chef Ele Knight.
David said: ““The British Pie Awards are incredibly competitive, so to receive a gold award and be highly commended, placing us in the top three, is something we’re extremely proud of.”
Ele added: ““Pies are such an iconic part of British food culture, so to have ours recognised at a national level is a brilliant achievement for the whole team.
“It reflects the care we put into sourcing great ingredients and executing dishes properly. It’s a fantastic recognition of the hard work and dedication that goes into our kitchen every day.”
Among other pies earning their crust in the British Pie Awards 2026 were:
- Ravenstonedale Steak and Corby Blonde pie – silver in steak and ale pie category
- Roast chicken and mushroom pie, Wagtail Kitchen, Kendal – bronze in chicken and mushroom pie category
- Steak and Blacksticks Blue pie, Wagtail Kitchen, Kendal – bronze in steak and cheese pie category
- Hav’A Meat & Potato Pie, HMP Haverigg – bronze in meat and potato pie category
