The Lake District has become synonymous with fine dining, a true foodie destination. But alongside the gastro pubs and Michelin-starred restaurants, we are lucky to have some fantastic local cafés. Somewhere to grab a cup of coffee and a slice of cake with a friend, or a quick work lunch with colleagues.

So, in the unlikely event that you find yourself at a loose end while staying in one of our Matson Ground cottages, why not try one of our favourite Lake District cafés?

Homeground Coffee + Kitchen, Windermere
Homeground Coffee + Kitchen in Windermere is a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike. Located right in the heart of Windermere, this is a great spot for brunch. Or just a seriously good cup of coffee.

Blackwell The Arts and Crafts House Tea Room
Blackwell's charming Tea Room serves delicious light lunches, cakes and an array of tempting treats. The outdoor terrace boasts amazing views of Lake Windermere and the Lakeland fells beyond. And wherever possible they use the finest locally sourced ingredients. Well worth a visit, especially on a sunny day.

The First Floor Café at Lakeland
Whether it's a hearty Cumbrian breakfast, a quick coffee and a slice of cake or their new Cumbria Posh Dog, there's something for everyone at the First Floor Café at Lakeland. As the name says, the café is located on the first floor, above Lakeland's flagship kitchenware store. So once you've finished in the café, why not pop downstairs and have a serious browse?

The Café at Brockhole
Just outside Windermere is Brockhole with its stunning house, amazing gardens and wealth of activities for the whole family. There are also a number of dining options where you can enjoy anything from a tasty treat to a delicious BBQ. And all with fantastic views of Lake Windermere.

Windermere Jetty Café
Fancy lunch with a view? The Windermere Jetty Café sits right on the lake shore, so whether it's breakfast, lunch or just a coffee, you can be guaranteed some of the best views in the Lake District.

Our Favourite Ullswater Cafés
Of course, if you're staying in one of our Ullswater cottages, Windermere is a bit of a trek. But don't worry, there are plenty of options in Ullswater. Here are a few of our favourites.

The Secret Garden at Pooley Bridge
Behind the Village Stores and Post Office in Pooley Bridge you'll find the Secret Garden, a lovely riverside venue offering homemade meals, cake, coffee and a fully licensed bar. The perfect way to finish a day on the fells.

Fellbites Café
Located at the bottom of Helvellyn in the picturesque village of Glenridding, Fellbites is a small café by day and restaurant by night.
It's within walking distance to steamers, shops and is the start or finish to many walks. Absolutely perfect if you fancy a snack before a walk or maybe some lunch after.

Aira Force Tearoom
If you're visiting Aira Force, why not pop into the tearoom where there is a range of hot and cold drinks, home bakes, sandwiches, hot pasties and ice-creams to enjoy?

Ramblers Bar and Candleroom at the Inn on the Lake
The final recommendation in our favourite Lake District cafés is the Ramblers Bar and Candleroom at the Inn on the Lake. It's situated within the hotel's grounds and is a popular choice whether you've just scaled Helvellyn or are simply passing through. Children, dogs and boots welcome!

Sourdough - who knew?
Sourdough was enjoyed by the ancient Egyptians in around 1500BC. In fact, it was the only form of 'leavened' bread until commercial yeast became available a few hundred years ago.

During the Gold Rush of California in 1849, sourdough bread became a staple in the area around San Francisco. Miners liked it because it was durable and the bread went on to become very popular in the newly settled state.

In 2013, Sourdough September was born. This was the brainchild of the Real Bread Campaign in an effort to spread knowledge of all things bread. The main purpose was to help households across the globe rely less on factory made and processed loaves (i.e. filled with preservatives).

By spreading their love of sourdough, it's hoped to get more and more people baking. And if baking isn't your thing, then hopefully you will appreciate locally baked bread and artisanal loaves which are often a lot healthier than shop-bought options.