Nestled on the tranquil shores of Ullswater in England’s Lake District National Park, the legendary Sharrow Bay Hotel holds a cherished place in the story of British hospitality. Widely credited as the birthplace of the now-iconic sticky toffee pudding, the hotel was also a trailblazer in luxury countryside lodging, farm-to-table dining, and bespoke guest experiences. Though its doors closed in 2020, Sharrow Bay’s legacy continues to resonate with travelers, chefs, and hospitality lovers around the globe.
A Historic Retreat by Ullswater
Located in Cumbria’s scenic northeast, Sharrow Bay Hotel was often described as the first true country house hotel. Originally an Edwardian fishing lodge, the property was transformed into a beacon of British luxury by Francis Coulson and his partner Brian Sack in the mid-20th century. Their vision married the genteel comfort of a private estate with the elegance of fine dining, offering an unrivaled guest experience set against the stunning backdrop of the Lake District.
Culinary Legacy: Birthplace of Sticky Toffee Pudding
Among the many accolades earned by Sharrow Bay, one contribution stands out as both delicious and globally influential—its role in perfecting sticky toffee pudding. While the dessert’s origins remain debated—with competing claims from Canada and elsewhere—Sharrow Bay’s version remains the most revered.
Developed in the 1970s by Coulson and his team, the hotel’s sticky toffee pudding combined moist sponge cake made with dates, bathed in a lush toffee sauce, and served with lashings of locally sourced cream. The dessert became a hallmark of Sharrow Bay’s menu, its fame growing as word spread through celebrity guests, travel writers, and gourmet circles. Today, versions of this indulgent treat appear in restaurants across the world, yet none quite match the original served beside Ullswater.
Ahead of Its Time: Local Ingredients and Seasonal Menus
Long before the term “farm-to-table” entered the culinary lexicon, Sharrow Bay was sourcing its ingredients from nearby farms, fisheries, and dairies. Fresh Jersey cream, delivered from local herds, was a key ingredient in their desserts. Penrith Station became a drop-off point for fish freshly caught from the Irish Sea, and the kitchen baked bread twice daily.
This emphasis on locality was not just culinary—it reflected a philosophy of supporting the community and delivering authentic regional flavors. The hotel’s attention to detail extended to handmade croissants, house-baked pastries, and meticulously plated fine dining experiences that left guests enchanted.
Unmatched Hospitality in the Heart of the Lake District
What truly set Sharrow Bay apart was its blend of understated luxury and heartfelt service. Guests were not treated like clients but welcomed like old friends. Whether celebrating anniversaries, enjoying family holidays, or simply escaping city life, visitors found peace, beauty, and gourmet excellence in one of England’s most poetic settings.
Celebrities, artists, and even royalty counted among the hotel’s guests over the decades. Yet the hotel retained a warm, unpretentious atmosphere that reflected the personalities of its founders. Coulson, in particular, was known for engaging with guests personally, offering stories, recommendations, and the occasional behind-the-scenes look at the kitchen.
Closure and Future Revival
In 2020, Sharrow Bay became one of many victims of the COVID-19 pandemic, shuttering its operations after more than 50 years of excellence. Its closure marked the end of an era not only for Cumbria but for the entire UK hospitality industry. Yet, there is hope on the horizon.
The owners of nearby Askham Hall, a Michelin-starred country house hotel in Penrith, announced their intention to revive Sharrow Bay. Plans include restoring its iconic interior, reintroducing its famous menus, and once again welcoming guests to the shores of Ullswater. While the timeline for reopening has not yet been confirmed, the hospitality community eagerly anticipates the return of one of the Lake District’s most beloved institutions.
The Enduring Appeal of Ullswater and the Lake District
Part of Sharrow Bay’s magic lay in its unrivaled setting. Ullswater, often considered the most beautiful of the Lake District’s lakes, offers serene waters, dramatic hills, and unspoiled trails. From the reflective beauty of moonlight on the lake to the sweeping vistas of Helvellyn and surrounding peaks, the location made every stay feel like a retreat into another world.
As Coulson once said, “The moonlight on Ullswater does more for the soul than a dozen gourmet meals.” While his culinary achievements remain legendary, it was the union of location, legacy, and love for hospitality that gave Sharrow Bay its unique charm.
A Culinary and Cultural Legacy That Lives On
Even in its current dormant state, Sharrow Bay’s influence continues to shape the Lake District’s tourism and hospitality industry. Cumbria remains a beacon for food lovers, hikers, and heritage tourists alike, and the story of sticky toffee pudding is still told at dinner tables and cooking schools worldwide.
Whether it’s through recreated recipes, fond travel memories, or the long-anticipated reopening, Sharrow Bay Hotel remains an enduring symbol of what hospitality can achieve when infused with passion, place, and authenticity.
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