Explore Cartmel & Beyond
The Cavendish Arms is the gateway to the full Cartmel experience. We're local experts who help our guests discover the best of the village, the region, and the Lake District.
Explore Our ItinerariesHow to Experience Cartmel
Whether you're here for a race day, a food pilgrimage, or a romantic escape, we've crafted some example itineraries to help you make the most of your time in our area.
For the Racing Enthusiast
Race Day Perfection
Experience the thrill of Cartmel Racecourse with the perfect base at The Cavendish.
Arrival at The Cavendish, settle into your room
Coffee and pastries in the village
Stroll to the Priory
Pre-race lunch at The Cavendish (book in advance)
Arrive at the racecourse (5-minute walk)
Enjoy the Racing
Return for celebratory drinks at the bar
Dinner (book in advance)
Insider Note: Race days book out months in advance. If you're planning a visit around racing, secure your table and room as early as possible.
Book Your Race Day Stay
For the Culinary Explorer
The Foodie Weekend
A gastronomic journey through Cartmel’s exceptional food scene.
Arrive and explore Cartmel village at golden hour
Dinner at The Cavendish
Leisurely breakfast
Visit Cartmel Village Shop for provisions
Drive to Holker Hall for gardens and food markets
Dinner at L’Enclume (booked months ahead)
Late breakfast at The Cavendish
Visit the Priory
Insider Note: This itinerary combines our kitchen with our famous neighbour's world-class dining. We're proud to be part of Cartmel's incredible food scene.
Book Your Foodie Weekend
For Couples
The Romantic Escape
Unwind together in one of England’s most romantic villages.
Arrival and check-in
Pre-dinner drinks at our bar
Candlelit dinner
Breakfast at your leisure
Scenic walk: Hampsfell or Cartmel Valley
Return for dinner
Sleep in, no rush
Visit the Priory, walk the village
Insider Note: Our rooms blend 500 years of history with modern luxury. Request a room with a view for the full romantic effect.
Book Your Romantic Escape
For Families
The Family Adventure
Create lasting memories exploring the Lake District together.
Arrive and check in, lunch at The Cavendish, explore Cartmel
Dinner at The Cavendish
Drive to Grizedale Forest (Go Ape or sculpture trail)
Lake Windermere cruise or watersports
Beatrix Potter attractions in Hawkshead
Final dinner at The Cavendish
Insider Note: While The Cavendish is primarily an adult-focused establishment, families are welcome and we can recommend the best family-friendly activities in the area.
Plan Your Family Visit
The Village of Cartmel
Historic, intimate, and utterly charming—Cartmel has been welcoming travellers since the 12th century. Here's how to experience the village like a local.
Cartmel Priory
12th century Augustinian priory, still an active church. Stunning Gothic architecture and intimate cloisters. Free to enter, donations welcome.
"Visit at sunset when the light streams through the east window—it's otherworldly."
Visit WebsiteCartmel Village Shop
Home of the world-famous sticky toffee pudding. Also stocks local produce, gifts, and provisions.
"The sticky toffee pudding sells out by 2pm on Sundays—arrive early or pre-order for collection."
Visit Website
Cartmel Racecourse
One of Britain's most picturesque racecourses. Race days throughout the year. Smart casual dress code.
"Book your table at The Cavendish well in advance for race days—the village fills up quickly."
Visit Website
Village Walks & Exploring
Mediaeval market square and cobbled streets. Independent galleries and antique shops. Scenic walking routes around the village.
"The circular walk from the village to Hampsfell is 3 miles and offers spectacular views across Morecambe Bay."
Visit WebsiteWithin 15 Minutes
Cartmel sits at the heart of the Furness Peninsula, with some of the Lake District's finest attractions just moments away.
Humphrey Head Nature Reserve
10 min driveScenic cliffs and beaches with stunning views out to sea.
"Unusual plants and geology, with access to the sea and local footpaths along the coast. Perfect for wildlife watching."
Holker Hall & Gardens
10 min driveStately home with award-winning gardens. Food & Craft Markets (seasonal dates). Deer park and woodland walks.
"The Food & Drink Festival in June is not to be missed—artisan producers from across Cumbria gather here."
Grange-over-Sands
10 min driveEdwardian seaside town with promenade. Views across Morecambe Bay. Independent shops and cafés.
"Revitalised historic town with easy access to unique nature."
Cartmel Valley Walks
From our doorGentle walking routes through farmland and woodland. Spectacular views of the Lakeland Fells.
"Ask at reception for our printed walk cards with routes of varying difficulty—all starting from our door."
The Wider Lake District
From Cartmel, the entire southern Lake District is within easy reach. Here are our team's recommendations for day trips.
Lake Windermere
25 min driveEngland's largest natural lake. Lake cruises and watersports. Lakeside villages: Bowness, Ambleside.
Beatrix Potter Country
30 min driveHill Top House (her former home). The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction. Hawkshead village.
Grizedale Forest
20 min driveSculpture trail through ancient woodland. Go Ape high ropes course. Mountain biking trails.
Historic Market Towns
15-20 min driveUlverston (birthplace of Stan Laurel). Kendal (the gateway to the Lakes). Traditional market days.
Seasonal Highlights
Cartmel and the Lake District transform with the seasons. Here's when to visit for specific experiences.
Spring
March - May- • Lambing season in the Cartmel Valley
- • Gardens coming to life at Holker Hall
- • Lighter evenings for post-dinner walks
- • Easter race meeting
Summer
June - August- • Holker Hall Food & Drink Festival (June)
- • Peak racing season
- • Longest days for exploring
Autumn
September - November- • Wild swimming in local tarns
- • Foraging season (mushrooms, berries)
- • Cozy fireside dining at The Cavendish
- • Game season begins on our menu
Winter
December - February- • Festive atmosphere in the village
- • Crisp countryside walks
- • Intimate candlelit dinners
- • Possible snow-capped fells in the distance
Local Partners
We're proud to work with and recommend the finest experiences in the region. Here are trusted partners we'd happily send our own family to.
Ready to Experience It All?
The Cavendish Arms sits at the heart of everything Cartmel has to offer. Book your stay with us and we'll help you craft the perfect visit.
Contact Us