The Horse & Rainbow

You'll find The Horse & Rainbow tucked into Highgate, that stretch of Kendal where the town's got proper character. It's the kind of place that feels genuinely local—all exposed brick, decent lighting that doesn't assault you, and a crowd that's there because they actually want to be, not because it's Instagram-friendly. The kitchen takes its food seriously without being annoying about it; expect seasonal British fare done right, paired with beers that someone's actually bothered to source. Whether you're after a midweek pint or settling in for dinner, there's no side-eye if you're just grabbing a drink at the bar.