FOUR months on from being awarded its first-ever Michelin star, Allium at Askham Hall has seen a sharp upturn in business – and the trend looks set to continue.
Staff at the restaurant near Penrith say they have introduced a new booking system and have upped staffing to meet customer demand, after Allium was presented with a coveted Michelin star last October.
Not only has Allium’s entry to the UK’s elite group of Michelin-starred establishments prompted more bookings, but it is attracting a more diverse range of customers, ranging from Cumbrians visiting the restaurant for the first time to staying guests saying they have made a special journey from London and South East to sample the food.
With just a handful of Michelin-starred wedding venues nationally, there has also been a positive knock-on effect for Askham Hall’s reputation for weddings.
It comes as Cumbria was last week included on National Geographic’s ‘Cool List’ 2020, with Askham Hall cited by the prestigious travel guide as part of “the UK’s most exciting trio of restaurants”.
Owner of Askham Hall, Charles Lowther, says: “There is no doubt that gaining a Michelin star has massively increased awareness of what we do and cemented our reputation both within the county and at a national level. The signs for 2020 look positive and we are proud to be playing our part in putting the Lake District on a map as ‘the’ ultimate foodie destination outside London”.
Head Chef, Richard Swale, adds, “It has been a fantastic few months for us all, but we can’t rest on our laurels. Maintaining quality is absolutely vital and we will continue to push the boundaries to make the very best of the fantastic local produce on our doorstep”.
A seven-course tasting menu is £75 per person. To book, contact: 01931 712350 / enquiries@askhamhall.co.uk
