In a region known for exceptional food and hospitality, standing out is no small achievement. Yet The Brown Horse Inn has done exactly that, earning the title of Restaurant of the Year through a combination of quality, consistency and genuine connection with its customers.
This is not just a restaurant. It is a place rooted in history, driven by family and shaped by the people who walk through its doors.
A historic inn with a modern heart
The Brown Horse Inn is no newcomer to the hospitality scene. Originally a 1800s coaching inn, it has been part of the local landscape for generations.
Today, it is run by Craig and Shaun, who took over the business in 2018 after years of working alongside their father. That transition was more than just a change in leadership. It was a continuation of a family legacy, combined with a fresh determination to take the business even further.
Their vision was simple. Build on what already existed, respect the history, and deliver food and service that people would come back for time and time again.
Food that starts locally
One of the defining features of The Brown Horse Inn is its commitment to local produce.
This is not just a talking point. It is embedded in the way the menu is created. With strong connections to local estates and shoots, the team is able to offer game that has been sourced just miles away.
From estate to plate, the journey is short, transparent and rooted in the local area.
That approach not only supports local suppliers but also ensures freshness and quality. It gives diners a real sense of connection to what they are eating, something that is becoming increasingly valued.
High standards in a welcoming setting
While the food is a major draw, it is only part of the experience.
The Brown Horse Inn prides itself on serving home-cooked food to a high standard, but in an environment that feels relaxed and welcoming rather than formal or intimidating.
It is the kind of place where you can celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a meal without any fuss. That balance between quality and comfort is what keeps customers coming back.
On busy weekends, serving over 150 customers a day is not uncommon. It is a reflection of both the demand and the trust people place in the team.
A journey shaped by resilience
Like many in the hospitality industry, The Brown Horse Inn faced significant challenges during COVID-19.
Sudden lockdowns, changing restrictions and uncertainty created a difficult environment. But rather than stepping back, the team adapted.
They introduced outdoor dining, contactless collections and takeaway deliveries, doing everything possible to continue serving their community while staying within guidelines.
Those efforts were not just about keeping the business running. They were about staying connected to customers during a time when that connection mattered more than ever.
Proud moments along the way
There have been many highlights since Craig and Shaun took over, but one stands out in particular.
In 2020, Shaun was named Chef of the Year, a remarkable achievement just two years after taking over the business. It was a moment that recognised not only individual talent but the direction the business was heading.
Alongside awards, there are the everyday proud moments. Busy services, successful events and a team working seamlessly together to deliver great experiences.
Those moments may not always make headlines, but they are the foundation of long-term success.
A place that feels like home
What truly sets The Brown Horse Inn apart is how it makes people feel.
One story captures this perfectly. A former staff member chose the inn as the venue for her wedding, despite having access to some of the most beautiful locations in the Lake District.
Her reason was simple. It felt like family.
That sense of belonging is something that cannot be manufactured. It comes from genuine care, consistency and the relationships built over time.
Supported by the community
While visitors play an important role, it is the local community that forms the backbone of the business.
Through quieter winter months, when tourism slows down, it is local customers who continue to visit for date nights, celebrations or simply a meal out.
That loyalty is never taken for granted.
In return, The Brown Horse Inn supports the community through regular donations to the local food bank and contributions to local events and fundraisers.
It is a two-way relationship built on mutual support.
A well-earned recognition
Winning Restaurant of the Year came as a surprise to the team.
Surrounded by high-end restaurants and strong competition, it was not something they expected. That makes the achievement even more meaningful.
The reaction was one of genuine excitement and gratitude. It is a recognition not just of the food, but of the entire experience the team works hard to deliver every day.
A team effort
Behind every successful service is a dedicated team.
From the kitchen to front of house, every member plays a role in creating the atmosphere and quality that customers have come to expect.
This award is as much theirs as it is anyone else’s. It reflects their hard work, attention to detail and commitment to delivering the best possible experience.
Looking ahead
For The Brown Horse Inn, the future is not about dramatic changes.
Instead, the focus is on continuing to do what they do best. Creating unique and interesting dishes alongside well-loved classics, maintaining high standards and looking after the customers who support them.
Sometimes, consistency is the most powerful strategy of all.
A heartfelt thank you
The message from the team is clear:
“A huge thank you to our customers, suppliers and supporters. Without you, and your votes, none of this would have been possible.”
It is a reminder that success in hospitality is never achieved alone.
Congratulations to The Brown Horse Inn on being named Restaurant of the Year. A place where history, quality and community come together to create something truly special.
