OVER the past few years vegetarianism and especially veganism have been in the public eye and have been growing in popularity.

And in Cumbria, there are a number of great places which serve up a variety of delicious vegan dishes.

This week we asked readers to share their recommendations.

In no particular order, here are a number of the best places:

1 QUINCE & MEDLAR, CASTLEGATE. COCKERMOUTH

The restaurant is a big hit with readers Caroline Earle and Claire Macleod.

Marie Fowler said: "We've being going to Quince & Medlar for years now, never a bad meal always lovely, and we've introduced friends, who like us have carried on going there for meals."

Lynda Margaret said: "Quince & Medlar for both food and service excellent."

2 VEEVA! STATION ROAD, COCKERMOUTH

The coffee shop offers a number of gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.

Rachel Tate said: “VeeVa! in Cockermouth has a veggie selection but also then accommodate me in making any of their other offerings veggie too.”

3 ALLONBY TEA ROOM, THE SQUARE, ALLONBY, MARYPORT

The tea room, and gift shop, located at The Square, was highly recommended by several readers for their vegan options.

Gary Sarah Mcarthur said: “Allonby Tea Room is highly recommended, love this place.”

4 KAT’S KITCHEN, MAIN STREET, KESWICK

The vegan restaurant, on Main Street, has a number of rave reviews from readers.

Rachael Rheinbach posted: “Kat’s Kitchen of Keswick for pure dedication to the vegan menu that’s always top class.”

Lauren Beaty said: “Ran by the most lovely lady ever!

“Brilliant smoothies and great food as well.”

5 THE SCREES INN, NETHER WASDALE. SEASCALE

Vicky Johnston is a big fan of the inn.

She said: “The Screes in Nether Wasdale.

“A really extensive veggie and vegan menu, innovative and beautifully cooked and presented. Delicious.”

6 THE PLOUGH INN, WREAY GARDENS, WREAY

The restaurant, located near the M6 just south of Carlisle, was recommended by Jane Kirby.

She said: “The Plough Inn, Wreay, do veggie burgers, fajitas, starters and mains on their special boards and have vegan options too.

“For bigger parties over 10 and pre-ordered they have a full vegan menu available on request.”

7 FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD, CROSBY STREET, CARLISLE

The gourmet grocery shop, on Crosby Street, Carlisle, has gained a reputation as the go to places for vegan goodies.

It serves a range of vegan products, from cupboard essentials to chocolates.

Rachael Rheinback said: “They even order in what you need if they don’t have it.”

Dawn Thompson-Howard said: “Food, Glorious Food for chocolate, treats and dairy-free cheese.”