The Ilex And Brasserie - South Lakeland

We were staying nearby and decided to dine at this restaurant one evening for their pop up pizza. It turned out to be a great choice! The location was beautiful, the staff was very friendly, and the food was delicious. The pizzas were a bit too cheesy for our liking, but the dough was excellent. We suggest adding a vegetarian option other than plain for the future.

A group of 4 guests staying at Dove Cottage on the Estate visited The Ilex Restaurant for breakfast. We enjoyed delicious buns and fresh scones, although we wished there was a full breakfast option available for guests staying on the Estate. On Saturday evening, The Bess Barrel Pop Up Bar was open with live music and superb pizza with a light and crusty base. Ben, the Pop Up Bar and Restaurant Manager, provided excellent and friendly service. All the staff, including Victoria who helped us enter the Hall Gardens, were wonderful and even took the time to chat with us after their shifts. Overall, it was a very enjoyable weekend break and experience.

When the kebabs arrived, they smelled wonderful. However, upon taking a bite, I was disappointed. Underneath the pitta bread was a watery mess (which I assume was tzatziki), the chicken was flavorless and seemed to be made from low-quality cuts of meat. At £7.95 each, I was shocked to find a piece of gristle in my kebab, something I had never experienced before with chicken. My girlfriend's kebab even had chicken skin in it. After a few bites, we decided to leave the kebabs uneaten and walk away, feeling let down by the disappointing meal.

Having just spent around 2 hours in the Gardens we popped into the Bar for lunch. My wife had the soup of the day served with sourdough bread which I had Coronation Chicken sandwiches and salad. Perfectly adequate on a warm day. Afrer lunch it was back to the Gardens .......

Pleasant light lunch in relaxing atmosphere. Sat outside with very good service and food. Will be back over autumn and winter. A bit of relaxation in a mad world. One to travel to but worth it. Lovely view, gardens and house.