Farm shops in the Lake District

What could be better than some tasty produce directly from one of the many farm shops in the Lake District? You won’t get much fresher than this, with meats, vegetables, dairy products and more going straight from farm to shop counter, where you can take your pick from the best quality foods around.

So, whether you’re packing a picnic or planning an evening in at your holiday cottage, you’ll have your pick of the best food and drink at these Lake District farm shops.

Tebay Services Farmshop & Kitchen, Orton

A service station isn’t the first place you’d think of for local produce, but Tebay Services Farmshop is one of the best farm shops in Cumbria. Perhaps the most famous on our list, this spot is a favourite stop-off point for many travellers heading to and from the Lake District on the M6 motorway.

Working with 70 producers within the locality, Tebay Services Farmshop has rightfully become an institution. Enjoy a delicious meal during your driving break before stocking up the boot with goodies for later.

Cocklakes Farm Shop, Penrith

If you’re staying in the North Lakes, Cocklakes Farm Shop near Penrith is easy to reach and serves up excellent food, including succulent meats and sweet baked goods. Sample some treats in the shop, where you’ll receive a warm welcome, then take your pick from the shop counter. Helpful staff are on hand to assist you in making the perfect selection.

The Sawmill Café and Farm Shop, Wasdale

Sitting right by the river in the tranquil valley of Wasdale, The Sawmill Café and Farm Shop is worth its very own dedicated trip. And, if you’re hiking in the area, you’ll definitely want to call in for some post-walk refreshments.

Sit out on the café terrace and watch the river roll by while you enjoy their locally sourced meals. Particular treats include a luxury Herdwick lamb burger, good-sized full English breakfasts, and even seafood from the nearby coast. Pop into the shop once you’re done for an excellent selection to take home with you.

Low Stanger Farm, Cockermouth

You won’t find a shop at Low Stanger Farm, but if you’re on your way from Buttermere, Cockermouth, or Crummock Water, swing by to pick up organic seasonal fruit and vegetables from the gate. This small farm has orchards with over 80 varieties of apples, traditional breed cattle, and several conservation sites.

Call Michelle on 01900 823558 for more information.

Hayton Farm Shop, Brampton

With a farm shop, in-house bakery, and ice cream parlour, Hayton Farm Shop near Carlisle brings you plenty of taste sensations! The shop itself is small but lovely, selling chutneys, biscuits, sweets and gifts.

Why not combine it with a trip to the border city of Carlisle, where you’ll find lots of entertainment, attractions and shops?

Plumgarths Farm Shop & Café, Kendal

The shelves at Plumgarths Farm Shop are fit to burst! Jam-packed with produce, this independent, family-run business began over 100 years ago when the current owner’s great-grandfather delivered milk locally. Best known for its traditional butchery counter, your mouth will be watering from the seasonal lamb, BBQ packs and 'meat for a week' parcels.

Other treats can be found too, including Lakes Distillery gins, seasonal vegetables, local eggs, and Luxury Lakes ice cream.

Low Sizergh Barn, Kendal

Covering three storeys of a converted barn, you’re truly spoiled for choice at Low Sizergh Barn. As well as the expected local food and drink, you can purchase crafts, clothing and gifts, and children can wander the mystical fairy trail.

Low Sizergh Barn sits on a working farm that is highly focused on healthy farming practices that puts animal welfare and environmental health at its heart. It’s dedicated to ‘farming for the future’ and has a Countryside Stewardship Agreement with Natural England.

Yew Tree Farm, Coniston

Yew Tree Farm, once owned by Beatrix Potter, is a well known Lake District feature, photographed many times for its picturesque location and traditional look. While you can’t visit an actual shop at their site, you can order some of their exquisite meats online. Or head to Herdwicks Café and Bistro in Coniston, which is owned by them.

If you have a taste for the best quality, then this is the place to go: you can have the same produce on your table as you’ll find at Michelin restaurants. Their famous Herdwick lamb is a must-try, but you’ll also find pork, game, poultry and beef.

Lakeland Farm Visitor Centre, Windermere

Make a day of it at Lakeland Farm Visitor Centre near Windermere. This Lake District farm shop is a real experience, with activities that teach about different areas of farming and how the profession has shaped the landscape. You can also try out archery, wool spinning and dry stone walling!

Then, of course, you should browse the farm shop where you’ll find hampers, toys, local artwork, a butchers counter and much, much more.

More Lake District farm shops

As well as these excellent Lake District farm shops, you’ll find many other independent farms selling the likes of potatoes, eggs, meats and pies throughout Cumbria. Keep a sharp eye for road signs that point you in the right direction. You’ll often head down charming country roads and farm lanes to discover hidden gems and delicious food direct from the makers.

Find even more inspiration in our guide to shopping in the Lake District.

Self-catering cottages in the Lake District

A self-catering holiday cottage is the perfect place to sample all the foodie delights you’ve bought at these farm shops! Browse the options now.