The last few times we’ve been out for food, we’ve gone to lazy Daisy’s in Windermere, really nice food, and not to expensive. A mate goes to brambles cafe also in Windermere, through the day, he likes it for the wifi, and cakes.
The lighthouse is nice, but a bit more expensive than the others.
If you like a punch up with your pint, the queens opposite the lighthouse is good! Otherwise the watermill is down the road in Ings, good selection of ales and food.
In Bowness I like the angel for food and drink, always a decent pint there.
Plenty of choice in Windermere, no need to go to Ambleside, and queue with all the people who are there buying a new jacket!