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The company, which has bases in the North Yorkshire and North East coastal towns of Whitby and Whitley Bay, is taking over the site of The Boatman’s Café in Bowness-on-Windermere from late spring 2026, bringing with them their high-quality and luxury take on the British staple.
Trenchers has a long history of serving up multi-award-winning fish and chips having established themselves in the 1980s. This new venture will see them move to Cumbria for the first time. The high-profile location overlooking Bowness Bay will see the business located adjacent to the Windermere Lake Cruises coach park.
The £1 million plus project has commenced this autumn and will see a major upgrade to the existing site as the new property is brought up to a standard for which Trenchers is synonymous.
Commenting on the acquisition Trenchers CEO Kyle Mackings said: “We’re so excited to be opening a new venue in Cumbria. Our fish, chips and seafood products see visitors and locals lining up around the streets of Whitby and Whitley Bay so I’m sure that it will prove as popular in the Lake District.
“The refurbishment will take us right through winter creating important jobs in Cumbria and bringing income to the local economy. Local suppliers and contractors are already being used for the initial structural work and we anticipate doing the same for the interior fit out.”
Once completed the venue is expected to create a further 50 new roles with full, part-time and seasonal positions available. Recruitment is set to begin in early 2026.
Windermere Lake Cruises Managing Director, Nigel Wilkinson commented: “The Boatman’s Café has long been part of the visitor economy in Bowness, however now is the right time for a much-needed upgrade. We’re excited to welcome Trenchers to the area. Their high-quality offering will no doubt prove popular with locals and tourists and we’re already working very closely with them to discuss special incentives for locals, groups and the coach operators who regularly use the current café.”
In addition to offering take-away and general dining, Trenchers also plan to introduce options for large group bookings and coach parties – perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or organised tours.
Trenchers fish and chips has enjoyed huge success to date with multiple awards and recognitions (twice winning Fish & Chip Restaurant of the year). The company prides itself on cooking the traditional way, using rich, flavourful beef dripping and English potatoes, while always serving their meals with a fresh wedge of lemon and their trademark tartare sauce.
They also offer vegan and vegetarian plus gluten-free fish and chips on request. Trenchers are also committed to sustainable and responsible practices including the recycling or all the oil and banning the use of single use plastics.
While the work is carried out the Café at Pier 1 in Bowness will provide drinks, snacks and larger meals.
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