It’s an accolade many restaurants dream of. It’s considered the ultimate stamp of approval, and the hallmark of fine dining… of course, we’re talking about Michelin stars.

The Lake District is a foodie’s dream, because not only does the area boast superb local produce, and world-renowned food and drink brands, but we’re also home to not one, not two, but FOUR Michelin-starred restaurants.

Considering there are many areas throughout the UK that have yet to land their first star, it is certainly quite the coup for us. Our place as a go-to British foodie destination was cemented in October last year when it was officially announced that we had doubled our tally of Michelin-starred restaurants.

Alongside Simon Rogan’s two-star establishment, l’Enclume, in Cartmel, and The Samling, near Ambleside, LDHA’s very own Forest Side in Grasmere and the Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, near Windermere, both gained a star.

Here at LDHA, we couldn’t be more proud to work with the talented teams at the Forest Side and the Gilpin Hotel & Lake House.

Forest Side’s star was especially poignant, as Grasmere hasn’t had a Michelin-starred restaurant since the closure of Michael’s Nook in 2002. However Forest Side, which only opened its doors in February, ended the dry spell spanning over a decade.

Speaking at the time of the announcement, head chef Kevin Tickle, said: “We built a strong foundation from the very beginning and over the last nine months we’ve notched it up and up, going through the gears, taking what we do to new levels. It’s always been about the food we create at Forest Side. Everything is about our surroundings and our sense of belonging to this place. The food we create is a reflection our collective passion for the amazing larder we are lucky to call home.’’

The Gilpin Hotel & Lake House is detailed in the official Michelin guide as “A series of intimate, individually styled dining rooms in a charming country house hotel; start with an aperitif in the comfy lounge or funky bar. Precisely prepared, original dishes are very attractively presented and provide a fitting sense of occasion; some have interesting spicing. Service is excellent.

Gilpin’s Executive Chef, Hrishikesh Desai, said: “There are many dishes which are based on my childhood memories of food… this is how I approach creating new menus at Gilpin, always using the finest local produce, but adding my own twist.”

We’re not sure about you, but all of this talk of incredible food is making us rather peckish! Remember you can get your hands on some amazing deals and discounts with LDHA, sign up here.