Visit a beautifully restored 19th-century sawmill beside the River Irt in Nether Wasdale. The Sawmill Café & Farm Shop combines a working waterwheel and heritage millrace with freshly prepared food and a shop celebrating Lake District producers.
A café inside a working piece of Wasdale history
The original sawmill has been carefully restored, retaining the waterwheel and machinery that make the building such an unusual place for breakfast, lunch or coffee. Enjoy river views from the garden or covered veranda, or sit inside near the wheel and watch the water pass through the old millrace.
Local food and farm shop
The café serves cooked breakfasts, light lunches, cakes and hot drinks, with vegetarian and vegan choices. The adjoining farm shop stocks local meats and cheeses, preserves, other regional food and gifts made by independent makers. The business places particular emphasis on supporting nearby producers.
Visiting information
- Location: The Sawmill, Nether Wasdale, Seascale, Cumbria CA20 1ET.
- Opening times: Listed as daily, 9.30am–4.30pm in 2026. Check directly for seasonal or special-day changes.
- Food service: Breakfast usually 9.30–11.30am; lunch usually noon–3pm, with other food and refreshments available at other times.
- Bookings: The café says table reservations are not generally required.
- Facilities: Parking, accessible facilities and dog-friendly areas are advertised; contact the business for specific requirements.
- Finding it: What3Words: owner.loved.tastier.
Combine your visit with Wasdale
This is a rewarding stop while visiting Wastwater, Nether Wasdale and the dramatic western Lake District. It is particularly handy for exploring Wasdale without needing to drive all the way to Wasdale Head.
View The Sawmill Café & Farm Shop. For menus, opening times and direct enquiries, visit the official Sawmill website.