Review on Miller Howe Hotel
Miller Howe gained worldwide fame during the reign of its founder John Tovey, and it is still one of the best-known hotels in the Lake District. Now in the capable hands of Martin and Helen Ainscough, it has recently been restored to something like its former glory with many original features, artworks, porcelain and antique pieces of furniture on show.
The setting remains as spectacular as ever: from the conservatory you can gaze over the Langdale Pikes, Bow Fell, Crinkle Crags and other evocatively named sights, and all around are acres of glorious landscaped gardens within sight of Lake Windermere itself.
Dining at Miller Howe has always been about putting on a show, and something of Tovey's legendary theatrical blockbusters remains. The structured no-choice bonanza still operates, although it has been bolstered by lots of à la carte alternatives including a full vegetarian menu (caramelised shallot tarte Tatin with Crottin goats' cheese, for example).
First come canapés, then an amouse bouche (say, butternut squash soup) before a starter like roast squab pigeon with creamed cabbage, thyme and juniper jus. Next is a sorbet, followed by a main course such as roast loin of Kentmere lamb with aubergine caviar and jus pipérade or roast cod with wilted Little Gem, peas and pancetta, while desserts could include sticky toffee pudding and an assiette of blood orange. Big names dominate the wine list, with some unusual New World stuff preceding bottles from Europe's elite producers.
Miller Howe Hotel is also featured in: Michelin Guide, Hardens, AA Guide
Rate this RestaurantCuisine
Modern British
Restaurant Opening Times
Breakfast: 8.15 - 9.45am
Lunch: 12.30 - 1.45pm (3.30 - 5.30pm Afternoon Tea)
Dinner: 6.45 - 8.45pm
Accepted credit cards
Visa, Master Card, American Express