Carlisle, the western Lake District and coast, which encompasses popular towns such as Silloth, Keswick, Whitehaven and Cockermouth, is home to an array of food and drink themed independent businesses, each offering great ideas for Christmas gifts and experiences.
This season businesses are encouraging shoppers to buy local.
Food themed gifts are aplenty at Bryson’s of Keswick.
Pick up local specialities such as Borrowdale Tea Bread, Westmorland Fruit Cake, Cumbrian Fruit Cake and Lakeland classic Plumbread, alongside a host of classic sweet treats.
Nearby is Keswick Cheese Deli, an Aladdin’s cave of more than 90 cheeses including local, national and international varieties, although the speciality is Cumbrian handmade cheeses from farms such as Thornby Moor Farm and The Torpenhow Cheese Company.
Similarly, Shill’s of Cockermouth has a fantastic cheese and chocolate counter.
Local institution Cranstons produces first class hampers of everything from Cumbrian store cupboard staples to farm fresh sausages, bacon, pies and more.
All its products are made in-house and its stylish food halls stock a wide range of local produce from pasta and sauces to dairy and ales from a list of over 50 local suppliers.
The official original recipe Cumberland Sausage can be found at the RB Woodhall Shop in the sleepy village of Waberthwaite near Whitehaven.
Enjoying both Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status for its Traditional Cumberland Sausage and a Royal Warrant this much-acclaimed family business is known for its fine range of bacon, hams and Traditional Cumberland Sausage.
Food themed experiences are as much a part of the festive season as shopping and Carlisle, the western Lake District and coast is spoiled with an array of hotels, cafes and restaurants where tasty afternoon teas are an institution to savour.
Armathwaite Hall near Cockermouth offers a taste of luxury in a magnificent property set in stunning grounds.
Nearby two other venues offer very different experiences.
Bassenthwaite Lake Station’s afternoon tea is aboard a replica Orient Express Train carriage that featured in a Hollywood movie.
Meanwhile, Lakes Distillery combines afternoon tea with a distillery tour and tasting.
For a modern city option try The Halston in Carlisle while The Ratty Arms at Ravenglass is a great choice for those wanting to combine a little history and culture by taking a trip on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway as part of the experience.
Be sure to check out Visit Lake District’s virtual Christmas Market for more ideas of where to buy food and other themed gifts this Christmas at www.visitlakedistrict.com
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