Rothay Manor hotel
Rowan RESTAURANT
A contemporary British restaurant in the heart of the Lake District.
Embark on a uniquely British culinary journey at Rowan, Rothay Manor’s restaurant in Ambleside. Under the direction of Michelin-starred chef Simon Ulph, dining here is defined by precision, creativity and a deep reverence for exceptional ingredients.
Having been instrumental in securing a Michelin star at The Stafford alongside Michael Caines, Simon brings a refined and expressive approach shaped by experience in some of the UK’s most celebrated kitchens, including The Ledbury, St Leonards, Climat and Northcote.
At Rowan, his menus present a modern interpretation of British cuisine, layered with subtle European and delicate Japanese influences. Guided by the seasons and the surrounding landscape, each dish celebrates provenance, flavour and a sense of place.
Taking inspiration from the wild beauty of the Lake District, our kitchen crafts plates that showcase the finest local ingredients — from heritage meats sourced through Lake District farmers to seasonal fruits from the Lyth Valley, and the freshest seafood from the nearby coast.
Alongside our signature dining experience, Rowan offers luxurious yet relaxed afternoon teas and traditional Sunday lunches — perfect for a leisurely midday indulgence.
Soak up the sun on our terrace overlooking the gardens, or unwind with a carefully chosen wine, signature cocktail or classic English tea after a scenic walk. Choose from our à la carte, house or tasting menus and enjoy dining that is both elegant and welcoming.
Rowan is open to both hotel guests and non-residents, welcoming all to experience exceptional food in a truly special setting.
à La Carte
At Rowan, our British restaurant in the Lakes, we embrace the rhythm of the seasons and the richness of our local landscape. Our à la carte menu is casual yet refined, perfect for lingering over a few courses with loved ones. Each dish highlights fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, allowing the natural flavors to shine with minimal intervention.
Tasting menu
The tasting menu at Rowan offers a curated selection of dishes that showcase the best ingredients of the moment.
Guided by seasonality and a passion for flavour, our kitchen creates a series of courses designed to be enjoyed together as a complete experience. Expect clean, confident cooking, with a focus on balance, detail, and a sense of place.
Menus change regularly, allowing us to remain closely connected to what’s fresh, available, and at its best.
house Menu
Our House menu at Rowan is designed to suit any appetite—whether you’re stopping in for something light or sitting down to linger over a fuller meal during your stay or visit to Ambleside. Dishes are crafted around fresh, local ingredients and a spirit of unfussy hospitality for a quintessentially British culinary experience.
