Award sponsored by

About the award

Each year the AA independently inspects hundreds of restaurants across the British Isles. Introduced in 2000, this award recognises restaurants that provide cuisine of a truly excellent standard, as well as demonstrating innovation and ambience and providing a high standard of hospitality.

The Old Stamp House Restaurant, Ambleside, Cumbria 

A real labour of passion for both chef Ryan Blackburn, and his brother Craig who runs the customer-facing side of the operation. Both had long careers in Cumbrian hospitality before opening here in 2014.

The Old Stamp House is a basement property, situated almost below street level, accessed via a small set of stairs. There have been big changes in the last year with an extension, new bar and additional seating.

The space is split into two rooms with a small bar and finishing kitchen. Walls are whitewashed or slate grey with black beams, dark brown tables and a slate floor. Expect an intimate atmosphere, with a small, efficient team, offering an individual and personal approach. Local Cumbrian produce is a key driver here, creating a genuine sense of place and celebration of a diverse landscape and larder.