For 30 years, from 1813-1843 in a building on the corner of Church Street in Ambleside, it is a little known fact that William Wordsworth was the distributor of stamps for Westmorland. Today, that same (now) listed building, has a more enjoyable and infinitely more satisfying use, as Stampers Restaurant.

In the cosy, atmospheric cellar of Ambleside's former Stamp House, Stampers has become one of the town's favourite dining places. It has been owned since 1984 by Heather Tennant, who is also the chef, and boasts a much loved menu that features local specialities as well as dishes of worldwide inspiration.

Situated on the basement floor, Stampers enjoys an intimate feel and has seating for 30 covers. From its very first days under Heather’s careful eye, quality food has been the restaurant’s watchword – fresh food sourced locally and prepared on site to order. The venue has a repeat clientele of around 85% - unusual in a predominantly tourist area – with some clients who have been regulars since the restaurant opened in 1984. Vegans, lacto-vegetarians and coelics are catered for and the menu offers an intriguing range of what Heather terms ‘well-cooked, normal food’.

The idea behind Stampers remains true today as it did when the doors first opened, source the finest raw ingredients from local suppliers wherever possible, blend with imagination and create dishes that customers will love for their flavour. Fashion, trends and gimmicks are definitely not on the menu here. The attractive décor, warm welcome and general ambience of this well loved restaurant adds to the experience and encourages you to linger a little longer, past dessert to coffee, liqueurs and conversation.

Beef, Lamb and Pork reared in Cumbria from Cambrian Products Ltd, and Plumgarths Farm Shop, (a favourite of Prince Charles!). Venison from Grizedale Forrest, supplied by Cartmel Valley Game Supplies. They are also traditional smokers and do the most delicious king prawns, beef and pork fillet, chicken and of course fish, in fact anything, we want – smoked to order. Decedent full cream Ice Creams and Sorbets made in Kendal by English Lakes Ice Cream, and farm-made cheese from Low Sizeburgh Farm Shop and café.