Recently, we were discussing our favourite places to eat near Windermere, and it turns out the list is a long one. From small cafes to Michelin Star restaurants, we've all got our favourites. Some are great for a light lunch, others perfect for a celebration evening out. Of course, once upon a time, a trip to the Lake District was all about adventure and the breath-taking scenery. And while that's still very much the case today, with seven Michelin Star restaurants, you're just as likely to visit for the fantastic food, as you are to scale a summit. Given the current situation, it's more important than ever to support our local businesses. So, we thought we'd share five of our favourites with you, covering everything from a special occasion to a catch-up brunch, and everything in between. What's even better about this list, is that they are all within five miles of our Windermere cottages. HRiSHi First on our list is the Michelin starred, four AA rosette HRiSHi, where Head Chef, Hrishikesh Desai, uses locally sourced ingredients to create modern British cuisine with a twist. Diners can choose from a variety of modern British menus, including plant-based options, with a delicate hint of Indian influence in some of the dishes. Whether you opt for a traditional three course meal, a stunning seven-course tasting menu, or a decadent take on afternoon tea, you will be captivated by the wonderful array of flavours. Gilpin Spice Next door to HRiSHi is the two AA rosette Gilpin Spice, a more informal dining experience boasting an open kitchen serving tapas-style pan-Asian sharing dishes. The menu at Gilpin Spice is inspired by Cumbria's rich history as a centre of the spice trade, with influences picked up along the spice trail including the Philippines, the Indian sub-continent, Malaysia and Japan. Gilpin Spice is well worth a visit - wonderful, creative dishes and fantastic service. The Brown Horse Inn, Winster Nestled in the beautiful Winster Valley, the Brown Horse Inn is cosy and welcoming in all seasons. This 1850's coaching inn has been beautifully decorated, retaining the original features, giving it a warm, traditional feel. On warm, summer days, you can sit outside and soak up the wonderful views. When the nights draw in, enjoy comfort dishes with a touch of elegance, including slow-cooked meats, Stornoway black pudding or Thai green curry. The owners try to keep the menu as local and as close to nature as possible. And you will definitely receive a warm welcome. The Angel Inn, Bowness In the centre of Bowness is the Angel Inn, a firm favourite with families, serving fantastic locally sourced beers, a superb range of wines and freshly prepared food. The Angel Inn was 'born' in 2005 and has been run by the same family since it opened. Their ethos is to provide a warm and friendly atmosphere and welcome for all ages, whether you're sitting down to eat or just popping in for a quick drink. Homeground Our final choice is Homeground in Windermere. Established in 2015, Homeground is a boutique coffee house which was winner of Cumbria Food and Drink Awards 'Best cafe' in 2016 and 2018. Open during the day for walk-ins only, this is the place to go for a skinny flat white, a slice of cake and warm, friendly service. It does a great brunch too. It's our go to for important meetings! Of course, we've barely touched the surface when it comes to great places to eat near Windermere, let alone the rest of the Lake District. I'm sure we'll get on to them at some stage. But rest assured, if you are visiting, give one of the above a go. You won't be disappointed.