Unmissable fine dining restaurants in the UK

Cumbria is home to some of the UK’s best fine dining restaurants, and this one is a real hidden gem. The Cottage in the Wood allows you to experience Michelin dining in a woodland setting. The Michelin Guide 2020 said: ‘top quality ingredients take the lead and there is certain sophistication… well-balanced flavour pairings… the service is natural and honest’.

At The Cellar you’ll find just one tasting menu, inspired by seasonal Scottish produce and locally foraged ingredients from the coastline and countryside. The team works passionately with local farmers, suppliers and producers to bring guests the best produce available throughout the seasons, enabling them to create a purposefully designed and thoughtful dining experience.

Overlooking the Great Hall you’ll find this intimate and sophisticatedly romantic restaurant. Boasting a Michelin star and four AA rosettes, Àclèaf is a space to gather around the table and taste exquisite menus created by Head Chef Scott Paton. This is a jaw-dropping showcase of inventive British fare, using only the finest locally sourced ingredients. Àclèaf is a unique dining experience that’s exclusive to Boringdon Hall.

Championing the finest produce and honouring the ingredients is a passion for Executive Chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen and the brigade at Northcote. Sophisticated surroundings and garden views connect Michelin star dishes to the landscapes they originate from, with an exciting wine list to complement the creations. This is a fantastic opportunity to experience fine dining with real Northern hospitality.

L’Enclume in the Lake District holds an incredible three Michelin stars. The restaurant won its coveted third star in 2022 and successfully kept it again in 2023. The restaurant holds many other prestigious awards, including a Michelin Green star, recognising its commitment to sustainability. Since opening in 2002 diners from all across the country and beyond have been flocking to the idyllic riverside location in the historic village of Cartmel to experience Simon Rogan’s distinctive culinary style. Situated in a former 13th-century blacksmith workshop in the village of Cartmel, L’Enclume continues to inspire from within year on year.

The Waterside Inn is a French three Michelin starred restaurant with rooms by the River Thames. A legendary name, a restaurant with a unique heritage… and all in a sublime setting. Since 1972, diners have been flocking to the picturesque village of Bray simply to visit The Waterside Inn. Today, the team celebrates Alain Roux’s carefully balanced, classic French cuisine, exquisitely cooked and prepared with a light touch and a subtle modern twist elevating the freshest, finest, carefully sourced ingredients to something simply delicious.