OVER the past few years vegetarianism and especially veganism have a surge in popularity with the general public.

In Cumbria, there are a number of great places which serve up a variety of delicious vegan and veggie dishes.

In no particular order, here are a number of the best places, as recommended by you, our readers:

1 TIMMY'S BAR & KITCHEN, CARLISLE

The Botchergate eatery has an army of fans that rave about its tasty dishes.

Caitlin O'Neill said: "Timmy's Bar & Kitchen obviously is a winner."

Lee McDermott posted: "Timmy's Bar & Kitchen I'm not vegan or vegetarian but regardless, the food is lush."

Bethany Michelle Ronson said: "Unreal food, especially the bhaji burger."

Amy Prescott said: "Timmy's Bar & Kitchen hands down number one, so so delicious."

Anne-Marie Lewis-Skipper said: "I'm not even vegan but we go there because the food is amazing."

Vicky Riot said: "Amazing food and a lovely chilled atmosphere."

Rachael Blaylock said: "Easily the best."

2 ALLONBY TEAROOMS, ALLONBY, MARYPORT

Another very popular choice among readers.

Val Gilmour said: "Allonby tearooms has amazing food and caters very well for vegetarians, vegans and meat eaters alike."

Christine Dee posted: "Amazing fresh cooked meals."

Danielle Holyoake, said: "The tearooms have a vegan menu along with a choice of vegan cakes and a vegan afternoon tea."

3 KAT'S KITCHEN, KESWICK

The eatery on Main Street has been recommended by readers Shi Leigh and Kathleen Stobbart.

Shi said: "Kat’s Kitchen in Keswick and Upfront Gallery both have great options."

Kathleen said: "Just go , food amazing."

4 IN THE MEANTIME, CARLISLE

The bar and eatery on English Stret comes with a recommendation from readers Louise Waugh and Rachael Cross.

5 BAR Es, KESWICK

Nicole Lorraine Benson recommends the bar on New Street

She said: "Bar Es in Keswick has a complete vegan menu which entirely translates the options from the normal menu and the food is absolutely delicious."

6 CASA ROMANA, CARLISLE

The restaurant on Warwick Road is recommended by Vicki LW for its vegan menu.

She said: "Casa Romana do a great vegan menu and a great gluten free one too.

"In fact, all their menus are great.

"They even have a lighter options menu for those who want to have a lovely meal out but reduce the calories"