Chesters By The River

Such an amazing place for food, all freshly cooked/baked. Staff friendly and service is brilliant, well worth a visit if you're in the area. Lots of Vegan/ plant based options!

I went to Chesters years ago and have raved about the food ever since. Recently planned a trip back to Ambleside and chose to stay close to Skelwith Bridge because of Chesters. Was then rather sad to be told of some poor reviews (admittedly on Facebook), but I can confidently say it’s at least as good as it ever was. The staff are lovely; it can be busy but the staff were so genuine and kind, looking after everyone so calmly. Then the magic words when I asked “which of your cakes are vegan?” “All of them.” I could barely believe it, after most places will offer a flapjack or a beetroot cake, here you had the choice of brownies, stuffed croissants, doughnuts, fruit scones, cakes and more, then the savoury pies, and pastries. It’s amazing! And don’t worry if you’re not a herb munching emo hippy, the food tastes so good you won’t notice! The location is still as beautiful, with the river, the fells, and the covered outdoor seating. On sunny days you can spot an F-15 or Typhoon if you’re quick. It was already busy on a wet morning in March at 10, so I imagine it’s crazy when tourist season gets going. The car park is small, and turning can be tricky depending on how others park. I recommend a walk off Loughrigg early for stress free, and well earned, perfect snacks.

I come here more than I care to admit. Mostly because they are a reliable place to get a great coffee and cake that are gluten and dairy free. The outdoor seating is beautiful and picturesque and the shop next door is perfect for interior inspiration or picking up gifts.

Incredible selection of vegan savoury and sweet foods. We loved everything we tried particularly the aloo gobi pasty, sausage roll, bhaji, and blackcurrant scones. Service was good. Lots of seating. A wonderful gem!

Great place. Great savoury and dessert options in very nice location. However, never thought I'd ever say this but, there was far too much jam in the jammy doughnuts! It was like half a jar of strawberry jam! The photo shows the point where I had to stop eating the doughnut. Perhaps it was just this doughnut?

They have a huge array of pastries and salads. We LOVED everything we tasted. I wish they offered actual cutlery and plates as well. It is in a great location to have a little wonder around and the shop next to it has some really authentic cards. Will definitely visit again!

Absolutely brilliant experience. It warms my heart to find plant-based eateries who make a real effort to prove this food can be delicious, interesting and just plain better than your typical meat-based rubbish. This is the future!! The amazing staff and friendly atmosphere just adds to the enjoyment of having coffee and food here. Can’t recommend enough!

What a perfect stop to warm up and choose from their HUGE array of pastries and cakes. We took Thai curry pastry and sticky toffee cake, wowzers! Definitely worth going back again, and again....