Lake District: Recently opened restaurant makes Michelin Guide

The Schelly in Ambleside has claimed a spot in the prestigious Michelin Guide within three months of opening its doors.

(Image: Phil Rigby Photography) It is the latest venture from the team behind The Old Stamp House, which can be found next door.

Both restaurants run by brothers, Ryan and Craig Blackburn, adhere to a simple seasonal food philosophy.

On announcing The Schelly’s inclusion in the Michelin Guide their bulletin said: ‘’Ambleside, a delightful little town in the Lake District, has always been a lovely place to visit – but now you have extra incentive thanks to this second venture by Ryan and Craig Blackburn.

Cartmel Valley Cumberland Sausage and Egg Yolk Sauce (Image: Phil Rigby Photography) “They already run the Michelin Starred Old Stamp House up the road and now they’re delighting visitors and locals alike with a simpler offering of sensibly priced small plates, with each one still providing bags of flavour.’’

The first UK edition of the Michelin Guide was published 50 years ago and has remained a highly sought after endorsement of the UK’s leading restaurants ever since.

The Schelly joins 1148 restaurants across the UK to be currently listed in the Guide.

The Michelin Guide said: “A delightful operation from the team behind Old Stamp House just a minute’s walk away, this deservedly busy restaurant is named after a local fish found in only four nearby lakes.

(Image: Phil Rigby Photography) “It’s indicative of the distinctly Lakeland feel to the menu, which is epitomised by the presence of lip-smacking Herdwick hogget shoulder plus a dish of mushrooms found around the woods in Ambleside.

“Sit at the counter to see the chefs or by the window to people-watch the tourists passing by. The Sticky toffee madeleines cooked to order ensure you’ll leave on a sugary high.’’

Longtown Tomato Panzanella (Image: Phil Rigby Photography) Head Chef Dan Hopkins along with chef-owner Ryan Blackburn make a point of cooking with fresh seasonal produce, to ensure every dish they produce delivers on flavour and quality without the faff, all the while keeping the restaurant’s food innovative and exciting.

The Schelly’s co-owner Ryan Blackburn said: “Being included in the Michelin Guide is unexpected, especially after we only opened the doors three months ago.

“Head chef Dan, my brother Craig and the rest of the team have just tried to do our best to bring the restaurant to life and I guess that’s paid off.

Tomato and Crab Toast (Image: Phil Rigby Photography) “We couldn’t be prouder of everyone who works with us; for us, this is a real team effort. We’ve taken our time and hopefully, the work we’ve put in has helped build a solid foundation for the future.

“Achieving this recognition reflects the hard work, dedication, and passion of every single member of the team working at The Schelly since we opened our doors in August.’’