The Cavendish Arms

We only ended up at the Cavendish because everywhere else in Cartmel was shut, but we were glad we did. The staff were friendly, and the food was very good. I'd especially recommend the rare breed pork tagine. With food, drinks and a cocktail, the bill came to £120 including tip for two. Given the quality, that felt okay, though it does show how expensive eating out has become.

The room was clean and comfortable, with a few nice extras for a cuppa: ground coffee and a cafetière, loose teas, and Tunnocks caramel wafers. There was canned still water too. Breakfast was delicious, especially the full English and the smoked salmon with eggs.

We went to the Cavendish Arms again today and the food was phenomenal, as always. That mash is the best I've ever had, and the sticky toffee pudding was so good last time that Grandad couldn't even speak after eating it. Today's meal didn't disappoint either. We'd forgotten our daughter's felt tips for colouring, so we cheekily asked if they had any. The lovely man working there went home to get some for us. Such a kind thing to do. The service and food are both fantastic. Thanks so much for having us, we'll be back!

The food was excellent throughout, and the garden was nice. We had a comfortable, cosy room with a good bed, robes and an interesting selection of teas. It was on the small side, though, and the furnishings and decor felt a little tired compared with the rest of the pub. The staff were friendly, helpful and jovial. On Thursday they were clearly working very hard, and service slipped a little as a result. They could have used another person out front. We stayed two nights; some rooms allow dogs if you call ahead. They were happy for us to leave our little dog in the room while we had lunch at L'Enclume, which we really appreciated.