Where to Find the Best Local Produce in The Lake District

The Lake District, renowned for its stunning landscapes and fresh air, is also home to a thriving local produce scene. Locating the best local produce in this picturesque region not only supports local farmers but also offers an opportunity to enjoy the freshest ingredients. Here are some of the best places to find local produce in the Lake District.

1. Local Farmers' Markets

Farmers' markets are a great starting point for sourcing local produce. The Lake District hosts several markets, including:

• Keswick Market - Held every Thursday and Saturday, this market features a variety of local vendors offering fresh fruits and vegetables, artisan cheeses, and homemade jams.
• Cartmel Farmers' Market - Taking place on the first Saturday of each month, this market showcases local meats, baked goods, and organic produce directly from the farms.
• Bowness-on-Windermere Market - This seasonal market is perfect for picking up local delicacies and seasonal fruits, often accompanied by live music, enhancing the shopping experience.

2. Farm Shops

Another excellent place to find fresh produce is at the numerous farm shops scattered throughout the Lake District. Some popular ones include:

• The Grange Farm Shop - Located in Grange-over-Sands, this shop offers a wide range of locally sourced produce, including seasonal vegetables and fruits, as well as meats and dairy products.
• Gilpin Farm Shop - Situated near Windermere, this shop specializes in organic produce, homemade preserves, and locally sourced meats, ensuring quality and freshness.
• Harrison’s Butchers and Farm Shop - Found in the heart of the Lake District, this farm shop has a selection of fresh fruit and vegetables alongside their award-winning meats.

3. Pick Your Own Farms

For those who enjoy the experience of gathering their own produce, the Lake District offers several pick-your-own farms. These farms provide a fun family activity and the opportunity to choose seasonal fruits:

• Levens Hall and Gardens - Known for its historic gardens, this location also has a pick-your-own area for strawberries, raspberries, and more during the summer months.
• Woodlands Farm - Located near Ambleside, this farm opens its fields for guests to pick their own berries and vegetables in a beautiful setting.

4. Local Co-operatives

Co-operatives are an ideal way to get fresh local produce while supporting the community. Look for:

• Cartmel Village Shop - This co-operative supports local suppliers and offers a diverse range of local produce, from fresh bread to seasonal vegetables.
• Keswick Co-operative - This shop emphasizes local and organic goods, making it easy to find fresh produce sourced from nearby farms.

5. Restaurants and Cafés Focused on Local Ingredients

Many restaurants and cafés in the Lake District pride themselves on sourcing their ingredients locally. Establishments that focus on sustainability and fresh produce will naturally reflect the best of what the region has to offer:

• The Drunken Duck Inn - This gastro pub is committed to using local produce in their menu, featuring dishes made from seasonal ingredients.
• Lakeside Hotel and Spa - Their in-house restaurant emphasizes local produce and offers dishes that change with the seasons, highlighting the culinary diversity of the Lake District.

Exploring the Lake District for local produce is not just about the food – it’s about connecting with the land and the community. Whether you’re visiting farmers' markets, picking your own fruits, or dining at local restaurants, discovering the tastes of the Lake District is sure to be a delightful experience.