Just Off The Motorway – Carnforth (M6 Jn 35)
Do you really want to eat at the motorway service station? OK it’s convenient but the food is expensive, often very average too and the surroundings uninspiring at best. In Just Off The Motorway we showcase the best places to grab a bite to eat and relax when it’s time to break your journey. And best of all, they’re only just off the motorway…
In between the Lake District and Lancaster, Carnforth is perhaps most famous for its railway station which was the setting for David Lean’s classic wartime film, Brief Encounter. The station’s Refreshment Room, restored to match the movie set, is just one of the dining options just a few minutes from the motorway exit, many of which come with a bonus lake or canal view.
Waters Edge
Part of the South Lakeland Leisure Village, you can relax Med-style here on the extensive decked area (or inside) enjoying the views out over the lake and tucking into a British menu with Italian and Spanish influences. Accommodation and a beauty spa too.
Clearwater Bistro
Fab views out over the fishing lake and rolling north Lancashire countryside. You can drop in for breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea at this fully licensed venue and dine inside or out. The property extends over 68 acres.
The Refreshment Room
Take in a bit of movie history and dine 1940s style on Platform 1 of Carnforth Station. The café faithfully recreates the film set from the movie Brief Encounter and offers home-cooked food, a licensed bar and full table service.
Longlands Hotel
Set next to Tewitfield Locks on the Lancaster Canal, this family-run restaurant, hotel and pub is also a popular wedding venue and welcoming log fires await you in the winter months. Choose from the Pub Classic or the Pub Pizza menu.
The Canal Turn
Refurbished to the tune of £250,000 in 2016 and now under new ownership, this canalside pub is right in the heart of Carnforth. In summer the floor-to-ceiling sliding windows open up or you can sit outside by the canal on the terrace. Food is home made and locally sourced.