Rothay Manor's tasting menu impresses Lake District diners

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 8 Nov, 16:36 · Archive

Rothay Manor Hotel in Ambleside has earned praise for its tasting menu at Rowan restaurant, combining skilled service with accomplished cooking.

Rothay Manor Hotel in Ambleside has impressed diners with its tasting menu experience at Rowan restaurant. The Grade II-listed country house hotel holds 4 AA Red Stars and features 23 individually styled rooms and suites. It is situated between Ambleside and the shores of Windermere.

The restaurant is headed by chef Simon Ulph, who arrived at Rothay Manor in 2026 following a role at The Stafford London, where he worked alongside Michael Caines and was instrumental in securing a Michelin star. His previous experience includes positions at The Ledbury, St Leonards, Climat and Northcote. His cooking at Rowan combines modern British cuisine with subtle European and Japanese influences, with seasonality and local provenance central to the menus.

The tasting menu experience extends beyond the food itself. Reviewers noted that the service team brought considerable knowledge and expertise, alongside strong interpersonal skills. The dining experience was described as accomplished, sophisticated and creative, yet entertaining and approachable rather than overly serious.

The hotel's bar provides a welcoming space for pre-dinner drinks, with a relaxed atmosphere conducive to conversations between guests. The overall design of the hotel feels luxurious without being overbearing, a quality that extends throughout the venue.

How it is being reported

• REVIEW: Rothay Manor, Ambleside - a must for Lake District foodiesI tried the tasting menu at Rothay Manor in Ambleside - but was the food really the star of the show?Cumberland News · 8 Nov, 16:28
• REVIEW: Rothay Manor, Ambleside - a must for Lake District foodiesI tried the tasting menu at Rothay Manor in Ambleside - but was the food really the star of the show?Westmorland Gazette · 8 Nov, 16:28
• REVIEW: Rothay Manor, Ambleside - a must for Lake District foodiesI tried the tasting menu at Rothay Manor in Ambleside - but was the food really the star of the show?NW Evening Mail · 8 Nov, 16:28

In this story: Rothay Manor · Ambleside · Simon Ulph · Rowan · Michael Caines · The Stafford London · Windermere

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