CUMBRIA has once again earned itself a place on the global culinary map after two of its restaurants retained their Michelin status.

The Samling hotel, near Ambleside, and Cartmel's L'Enclume both held onto their Michelin-stars in the Great Britain and Ireland 2016 guide.

Nestled on the shores of Windermere, the 11 bedroom Samling hotel was first awarded a star in 2013 and has maintained its place in the culinary catalogue every year since.

General manager Alasdair Elwick said: “The award is testament to the team’s hard work and dedication over the past twelve months.

“We are however always aiming to push our offering forward. Our growing operation and development kitchen provide the cornerstone for our cuisine development.

"Much of what you currently see on the menu is now grown at the hotel, offering incredibly fresh produce each day. I cannot thank the owners enough for all the support they have shown us.”

This week the hotel will be launching a restaurant in Harvey Nichols, Leeds, as part of a two day celebration.

And down towards the Cumbrian coast in Cartmel, L'Enclume has again been awarded its two stars.

Simon Rogan's renowned eatery was first awarded one Michelin star in 2008 and gained its second in 2012.

Ian Stephens, managing director for Cumbria Tourism, said: "Cumbria and the Lake District host the UK’s top restaurant, L’Enclume, plus another other Michelin-starred restaurant The Samling.

"These together with the wealth of other excellent eateries across the county provide the perfect opportunity to showcase our amazing produce, including our seafood, game, meats, cheeses, preserves and puddings.

"Our county is without doubt one of the UK’s greatest larders and our importance within the UK’s foodie make-up is being rightly recognised as our reputation continues to grow.’’