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A group of four guests toasting mugs of coffee

In search of somewhere to put your feet up and refuel whilst you’re exploring the Lake District? Look no further than local favourite, Chesters By The River.

Idyllically positioned on the banks of the River Brathy, Chesters By The River is one not to be missed!

Continue reading to discover why Chesters By The River is one of our favourite places to eat in the Lake District…


What is Chesters By The River?

Overlooking the glistening waters of the River Brathay, in the pint-sized village of Skelwith Bridge, is Chesters By The River.

 

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Chesters By The River is a much-loved local café, opening its doors daily between 9am and 4pm. Whether you’re looking for light bites, lunches or desserts, this Cumbrian café has you sorted.

The café has a bright and modern interior, comprising a handful of tables for an intimate dining experience.

The outdoor seating area is complete with a roaring wood burner, perfect for dining alfresco on those chilly afternoons. If the weather is on your side, take a seat in the sunshine and admire the magical views stretching across the water.

Chesters By The River doesn’t accept bookings, so be sure to head down early to avoid disappoinment!


What’s on the menu at Chesters By The River?

 

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Set a short distance from Ambleside, this charming cafe is best known for its exclusively vegetarian menu.

Choose from a mouth-watering menu of homemade flat breads, soups, and sausage rolls. There’s also a wide variety of vegan options available, including falafel, buddha bowls and wood-fired pizzas.

 

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After re-fueling with a hearty meal, you can satisfy your sweet tooth with an indulgent slice of lemon meringue pie, flapjacks, or crunchy tiffin. If you’re too full to enjoy a dessert, fear not, you can take your favourite sweet treat home with you.

There’s also dairy-free milk alternatives available for those with intolerances or preferences. Look forward to sipping an oat milk latte to the soothing sound of the river flowing nearby.


Is Chesters By The River vegan?

Although the menu at Chesters By The River is not exclusively vegan, there are vegan alternatives available.

 

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Whether you’re visiting for breakfast, lunch, or a light bite inbetween, you’ll be spoilt for choice here.

Items on the menu that are marked with “vegan option” can be adapted to exclude non-vegan ingredients. There’s also dairy-free milk alternatives available, so you can enjoy a morning coffee your way!


Is Chesters By The River pet friendly?

A corgi sat at a table in a cafe with a mug of coffee on the table

As with many cafes in the Lake District, Chesters By The River prides itself on being pet-friendly! In fact, their slogan “bad dog, no biscuit” even makes reference to our four-legged friends!

There’s lots of lovely dog walks nearby, including the trail to Skelwith Force. Let sleeping dogs lie as you tuck-into a slice of cake following a two-foot adventure through the surrounding woodland.


Is there a shop at Chesters By The River?

This Lake District cafe is attached to a delightful little shop. Once a timber store, the shop is full to the brim with all sorts of knicknacks, from books to accessories and home decor.

Whether you’re window shopping or in search of a keepsake to take home, this charming little shop is well worth a mooch.

There’s also an on-site bakery serving a delicious selection of sweet and savoury home-baked goods. Why not purchase a tasty treat to give as a gift when you return home? Or pick something to enjoy all by yourself, we wont tell anyone!


Where is Chesters By The River?

Chesters By The River is situated on the banks of the River Brathay, in the heart of the village of Skelwith Bridge.

A short distance from Lake Windermere and the Langdale Pikes, this Lake District café is perfectly positioned for a pit stop following a day of adventure.

Make note of the full address below to add to your Sat Nav!

Chesters By The River
Skelwith Bridge
Near Ambleside
Cumbria
LA22 9NJ


Is there parking available at Chesters By The River?

A parking sign with trees in the background

There is a small car park at Chesters By The River available at no additional charge. Owing to its popularity, the car park at this Lake District cafe can be busy at times, and finding a space may be difficult.

There is plenty of roadside parking available throughout the village, however, we would recommend parking further afield and enjoying a scenic stroll.

Leave the car in Ambleside, Elterwater or Loughrigg and earn yourself a well-deserved treat!


Have we tempted you enough to add a visit to Chesters By The River to your itinerary of things to do whilst you’re in the Lake District?

Browse our wonderful range of holiday lodges in the Lake District and secure the perfect base for your next adventure!

And should the weather not be on your side, give our guide on things to do in the Lake District when it rains a read.


This blog was adapted from original content written by Lake District Lodge Holidays