Granny Dowbekins is a much-loved riverside café and restaurant in Pooley Bridge, at the northern end of Ullswater. With homemade cakes, traditional lunches, afternoon teas and terraces overlooking the River Eamont and the village bridge, it is a welcoming stop for walkers, families and visitors exploring this beautiful corner of the Lake District.
A riverside café with local history
Granny Dowbekins traces its tradition of serving cream teas back to 1904, when the butler and housekeeper of the Rampsbeck Hotel first welcomed guests. Today, the Dudson family runs the business, carrying on the tearoom tradition with freshly prepared food and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
There are two indoor seating areas, a covered terrace and a large riverside garden. Outdoor tables enjoy views towards Pooley Bridge and the River Eamont, making the café particularly appealing on a fine day.
Breakfast, lunch and homemade baking
The menu focuses on generous, home-cooked favourites using local ingredients where possible. Visitors can choose breakfast dishes, sandwiches, quiches, pies, lasagne and other hot meals, with cakes and scones prepared on site. Fruit or plain scones with clotted cream and jam, alongside savoury cheese-and-chive scones, are among the house specialities.
Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free options are advertised, as well as dishes for children. Ask the team about ingredients and cross-contamination if you have an allergy or coeliac disease.
See the official food information and current menu.
Afternoon tea beside the River Eamont
Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea with sandwiches, savoury treats, cakes, a clotted cream scone and tea. The café offers a special Afternoon Tea for Two, with vegan and gluten-free versions available when booked at least 48 hours in advance.
Most guests are welcomed on a walk-in basis during the day. Advance bookings are primarily available for afternoon tea, groups of ten or more, and parties where someone has mobility requirements. Ordinary afternoon tea may also be ordered on arrival, subject to availability.
The Garden Room, overlooking the river, can be hired for private occasions for groups of 14–20; enquire directly about arrangements.
Check the official booking policy and afternoon tea arrangements.
Opening times
Please check the café’s latest hours before visiting. The opening-times notice on its official website covers dates up to 2 November 2026 and does not yet establish a regular timetable for the remainder of November and winter. Seasonal hours and kitchen service can change, so contact the café before travelling or making a special journey.
Dog-friendly seating and practical details
- Dogs: welcome in the café’s spaces, although the number of large dogs in the tearoom may occasionally be limited.
- Seating: indoor tearooms, a covered terrace and a large riverside garden.
- Parking: parking is available across the road, with limited free spaces in the village square when available; check local restrictions and charges.
- Accessibility: the café accepts booking enquiries from visitors with mobility needs. Contact the team about specific access or seating arrangements.
- Telephone: 01768 486453.
- Email: grannydowbekins@hotmail.com.
Where to find Granny Dowbekins
Address: Granny Dowbekins Café & Restaurant, Pooley Bridge, Ullswater, Cumbria CA10 2NP.
The café is beside Pooley Bridge, overlooking the River Eamont. It makes a convenient stop when visiting the village, taking an Ullswater cruise or exploring the lakeshore.
Get directions on Google Maps.
Explore Pooley Bridge and Ullswater
Plan the rest of your visit with our Pooley Bridge guide and Ullswater guide. You can also explore Ullswater Steamers or discover more independent local businesses.
Independent editorial listing, not a paid partnership. Menu items, opening hours and booking conditions are subject to change; confirm directly with Granny Dowbekins before visiting. Featured photograph © Steven Barber.