When you think of Carlisle, you probably think English/Scottish border, Hadrian’s Wall, Roman history and…well, then you might start to struggle.
Let me enlighten you about Carlisle. Think romantic getaway, a relaxed yet refined dining experience from a Michelin-star menu, an open kitchen supplying the theatre in a cosy stylish restaurant, and a bedroom that reflects the stunning surrounding landscape.
Let me introduce you to the best reason for a visit to Carlisle – Pentonbridge Inn.
This modest looking former coaching inn is surrounded by hedgerows, sheep and cattle, and a myriad of country walks. Inside however, there’s the perfect blend of a fine-dining restaurant and a cosy country pub.
Little did the team know when we were invited to visit, that we were celebrating our wedding anniversary, and Pentonbridge Inn turned out to be the perfect place to celebrate. Intimate, relaxed, comfortable, with attention to detail, and let’s not forget that Michelin-star menu!
The Rooms
Once checked in, we were shown to our room. One of nine cosy and stylish bedrooms that take inspiration from the “Debatable Lands” of England and Scotland, with room names from Border Reiver clans, infamous for raiding and marauding their neighbours. Our own room was decorated with soft tones, and touches of tartan, wood and slate. In the large bathroom, a super double walk in shower, his and hers vanity unit, the fluffiest of towels and the all-important mirror lighting for applying makeup – if you know, you know!
One other thing I really need to point out is the joy my husband had when he discovered the TV which popped up at the end of the bed! I knew the next thing out of his mouth would be “We need one of these!”. I think it’s a ‘man thing’!
Another important fact is that for those guests with four-legged friends, the barn rooms are equipped with a dog bed, bowls, and treats, and there are so many great walks you will be spoilt for choice. So no need to leave them behind.
The Ambience
We had a couple of hours to kill before dinner, so we headed to the bar for a drink or two, chatting to the knowledgeable bar staff about the history of the inn, and taking time to really look around at the stunning views through the windows and appreciate the charm of the well thought out interior.
The whole design is open plan and perfect for a fully immersive experience. Close to the bar is a small lounge area with a wood burning stove, this flows seamlessly into the main restaurant area where you will find head chef Chris Archer and his team creating a stunning 8-course tasting menu in an open kitchen.
Service is relaxed yet professional, the team are knowledgeable and friendly, and this is a team who add to the experience, making sure it is a truly memorable one.
The Food
The main reason you visit Pentonbridge Inn; is to enjoy the food of head chef Chris Archer and his team. And what a menu this is, well worthy of its Michelin-star, first awarded in 2023 and retained in 2024 and 2025.
So let’s get into it…
To start the proceedings we were served a trio of bite sized deliciousness comprising of Limousin Beef, Garden Beetroot and Montgomery Cheddar canapes. What a way to start. If we could have had just these three things on repeat we would have been happy. The flavours were extraordinary and left us wanting more.
Next came a dish which had us puzzled; Savoury Custard and Fresh Peas. What an amazing combination this turned out to be, it was light in texture and flavour, and was utterly delicious.
This was followed by the first of two fish courses; Wild Scottish Mackerel, garden tomato, nasturtium, caviar. Beautifully cooked, the Mackerel was rich in flavour and perfectly complimented by the other elements on the plate.
But then came North Sea Halibut, Langoustine, cauliflower. The Halibut was sweet and firm, the langoustine was succulent and the cauliflower added a crunch. For us this was a perfect combination and a dish we are still talking about.
Cumbrian Spring Lamb, smoked garden beetroot, haggis, carrot. A few things on that plate had me salivating in anticipation – spring lamb and beetroot to be precise. Never having tasted haggis I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I was not to be disappointed. Beautiful tender lamb combined with the savoury, peppery haggis was perfectly balanced with the sweetness of the beetroot and carrot. Loved it!
Kit Calvert & Yorkshire Blue with spiced buckwheat cracker and chutney was an optional course. But we were here to get the full experience and we do love a bit of cheese, combined with a glass of port.
To complete the menu there were two desserts dishes. First Stuart Wright’s Honey, milk. Followed by ‘Mille Feuille’, Scottish raspberry, white chocolate. The first one, we had no idea of what to expect. We were served a delicate, soft ice cream texture that just oozed the most delicious honey flavour, served with crunchy honeycomb. A delicious combination.
But the ‘Mille Feuille’ was amazing! Just amazing, and was the perfect end to an exquisite meal.
Or so we thought. Until indulgent, handmade Petite Fours arrived, and I have to be honest, I was too full to eat them. So did what any self-respecting Yorkshire person would do and took them to our room for later.
It was an unexpected bonus when head chef Chris wandered into the restaurant to chat with each table, gaining feedback on the menu and favourite dishes. More chefs should take the time to do this.
After a great sleep in the comfiest of beds, we enjoyed a breakfast of granola and local yoghurt with fruit compote, a very more-ish and indulgent Kouign-amann pastry followed by Chefs Breakfast of Back Bacon, Stornoway Black Pudding, Mushroom, Hash Browns and the creamiest Scrambled Egg we have ever tasted. Plus fruit juice, tea, toast and preserves.
All too soon, with our bellies full of great food once again, it was time to leave Pentonbridge and Carlisle.
Pentonbridge Inn is one of those special places where as soon as you enter, you feel the stresses of the week just drain from you. Where a close-knit team works seamlessly and perfectly to create a wonderful experience for every guest. And Carlisle? We will definitely be back.
What about you…
Pentonbridge Inn, B6318, Penton, Carlisle CA6 5QB, England.
Tel: 01228 577041
Review and images by Angela Riches and Dave Riches
Feature image and some images taken by professional photographer Jonathan Becker
