Lakeland Bread Maker Plus Review UK 2026
Quick verdict
Score: 8.2/10
Best for: Baking fresh, additive-free bread at home
Not for: Anyone short on cupboard space or who only eats bread occasionally, where shop bread is simpler
Bottom line: A practical bread maker for fresh home-baked bread with minimal effort.
The Lakeland Bread Maker Plus is a bread-making appliance from This bread maker, a UK kitchenware retailer brand. Buyers are weighing whether it is suitable for everyday home baking, with bread makers designed to handle mixing and kneading automatically.
Key specifications
| Area | What's specified |
|---|---|
| Brand | Lakeland |
| Model | Bread Maker Plus |
Pros
- Fresh, additive-free bread for less than shop prices
Cons
- Takes up cupboard space when not in use
- The kneading paddle can leave a small hole in the base of the loaf
- Home-baked bread stales faster than shop bread, as it has no preservatives
Loaf Sizes and Capacity
Loaf sizes and capacity matter because they determine how much dough can be baked per cycle, and they also influence how well a recipe fits the machine. The pan capacity governs dough volume, so using a recipe with a larger batch can lead to overflow, while smaller dough may rise unevenly. Matching ingredients to the machine's capacity helps produce consistent loaf shapes. Since loaf sizes are not listed, the instruction manual is the place to confirm the correct dough quantities for this model.
Programmes and Settings
After considering loaf sizes and capacity, it makes sense to look at the programmes and settings, because the chosen programme affects mixing time, rise time, bake time, and the final texture. The Lakeland includes different programme options for varying bake styles, and it uses adjustable settings such as crust colour. During setup, the user selects the programme, then confirms loaf size and desired crust tone, if available. Once started, the machine runs through mixing, resting, proving, baking, and cooling cycles to support consistent results.
Gluten-Free and Special Diets
For people who avoid gluten or follow special diets, the bread maker can help with controlled ingredient use, but the title does not confirm gluten-free capability, dedicated gluten-free programmes, or any separate settings. Results therefore depend on selecting a suitable gluten-free bread recipe and following it closely, including ingredient quantities, hydration, and any rising instructions specified by that recipe. If a person also avoids dairy or eggs, the machine will still be recipe-dependent for appropriate substitutions, rather than offering guaranteed dairy-free or egg-free modes. Cross-contact risk is not described, so careful cleaning and use of separate ingredients matter when baking gluten-free loaves.
Ease of Use and Controls
When bread diet needs and ingredient choices are handled carefully, the next thing people usually notice is how easy the Lakeland is to operate, since the title itself does not confirm specific gluten-free programmes or separate diet modes. The controls are typically aimed at simple step-by-step use, with the user following each stage from measuring ingredients to starting a cycle. A clear interface helps. Users still need to read directions for timing and ingredient order, because process steps can affect results. Overall, operation feels straightforward, though fine control options are not stated.
Crust, Timer and Dispenser
Crust setting, timer controls and any built-in dispenser matter most for people who want repeatable results without extra steps. The bread maker offers not stated crust options, so exact browning control is unclear. It includes a timer, yet the maximum delay, step size and whether it holds dough automatically are not stated. If a dispenser is present, it could add ingredients at the right point to reduce manual timing errors. Overall, straightforward planning is supported, but key details around crust and timing control remain unclear.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning and maintenance help the Lakeland Bread Maker Plus stay in good working order and support consistent baking results over time. After each loaf, unplug the unit, allow it to cool completely, then wipe the outer case with a damp cloth. The baking pan and kneading paddle require careful cleaning: remove crumbs, wash the parts by hand, and dry them fully before storing. If dough residue bakes on, warm water and gentle soaking can help, and abrasive tools should be avoided to protect the surfaces. Regularly checking for trapped crumbs in corners reduces lingering odours and helps maintain even heating.
Who Is This Bread Maker For?
The Lakeland suits people who want a largely hands-off way to bake bread at home, particularly if they value consistent loaf results without mixing and kneading from scratch each time. It suits busy households that still want fresh bread, because the machine takes care of key steps after ingredients are added. It may also be practical for home bakers with limited counter space. It is less suitable for people who prefer full control over every stage, since repeatable programmes can restrict customisation. It is also less ideal for those looking for highly unusual recipes beyond standard bread styles.
Where to Buy in the UK
Finding where to buy the bread maker in the UK is easiest by starting with The Lakeland's own retail channels, since this can make it simpler to verify the exact model and what is included in the box. Shoppers can also check major UK kitchenware stores and online marketplaces, but listings may differ, so it helps to read the product title and description carefully. To avoid mistakes, buyers should compare delivery time and return policy, and check whether accessories are listed as included, because some sellers do not describe the contents. If the model is difficult to find, waiting for seasonal stock updates may help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the bread maker worth it?
If you eat a lot of bread, this bread maker lets you bake fresh loaves at home for less than shop prices, with no additives and the smell of fresh bread. You add the ingredients and it does the mixing, proving and baking - check the current Amazon UK price, as it changes often.
What size loaf does the Lakeland make?
Match the loaf size to your household: roughly 500-700g for 1-2 people and 900g-1kg for a family. Bigger isn't always better, as bread is best eaten fresh.
What are the downsides of the Lakeland Bread Maker Plus?
A bread maker takes up cupboard space, the paddle can leave a small hole in the bottom of the loaf, and home loaves stale faster than shop bread because they have no preservatives. It also takes a few hours per loaf, though most of that is hands-off and a timer handles it overnight.
Is home-made bread cheaper than shop bread?
Usually yes - the flour, yeast and a little electricity for a loaf often cost less than a comparable bakery or premium shop loaf, and you control exactly what goes in. The machine pays for itself over time if you bake regularly.
Is the bread maker easy to clean?
This bread maker is straightforward - the non-stick pan and paddle lift out and wash by hand (avoid the dishwasher, which can damage the non-stick), and a wipe of the inside keeps it fresh. Soak the paddle if dough sticks around it.