From dramatic mountain views to tranquil waters, there are adventures in the Lake District for every kind of traveler. As someone who grew up here, I still never get tired of the area.
Plan a week of outdoor excitement and challenging walks, or simply relax with peaceful moments surrounded by nature. This iconic region might be popular, but don’t let that stop you exploring.
In this post, discover what makes the Lake District such an unforgettable destination for your trip around northern England. This breathtaking corner of the UK fully deserves a place at the top of your travel list. Find out why.
Where Is The Lake District?
The Lake District is located in the northwest of England, within my home county, Cumbria. This truly stunning region is where I grew up and is home to some of the country’s most dramatic and picturesque landscapes.
As England’s largest national park, it’s known for its lakes, rolling valleys, and rugged fells, all woven together by charming towns and villages that have to be seen to be believed.
Its compact size make it easy to explore for maximum adventures in the Lake District on a weekend or longer visit. Enjoy scenic walks, peaceful lakeshores, or traditional market towns you may never want to leave.
Where To Stay In The Lake District
For a short weekend break, you may prefer to stay in on of the Lake District’s central hubs such as Windermere, Ambleside, or (my favorite) Grasmere. From here the popular places to visit in the Lake District are generally close at hand and easy to explore without long travel times.
For a longer stay of a week, spreading out to bigger towns like Keswick, or quieter areas like Coniston or the western lakes might be better. They offer a more relaxed pace and better access to a wider range of walks, scenery, and lesser-known spots. You’re also better able to experience more of the region at leisure.
For weekend getaways, book one of the many Bed & Breakfasts in the Lake District. One of my favorites is The Gables Guesthouse in Ambleside. On a longer stay, try a self-catering apartment or cozy cottage stay where you can cut down costs by making your own meals.
How Long Do You Need In The Lake District?
The short answer: more time than you think. It’s a place I rarely feel ready to leave whenever I visit. A long weekend is enough for visitors to get a taste of the beautiful National Park. Take in a couple of classic walks, maybe a scenic boat ride, and a pub or two.
However, 4 to 7 days is the sweet spot if you really want to explore the Lake District. That gives you breathing room to hop between villages, tackle a few longer hikes, and soak up the whatever other adventures in the Lake District you might want to do without feeling like you’re racing the rain.
Trust me, once you’re there, you’ll already be planning your return trip. The biggest decision you’ll need to make is where to focus your time and energy, as there’s so much to choose from.
Why You’ll Want Your Own Adventures In The Lake District?
Take a look at some pictures of the Lake District, and you might not need much convincing. Anyone who visits will rave about their time there, not just this biased local.
If you’ve ever wondered what makes this part of England so special though, you’re about to find out. Let’s dig into my personal top reasons to visit.
MARVEL AT UNBELIEVABLE VIEWS
Standing at a lake edge, watching reflections in the calm water, or stood on a hilly peak after a workout and a half to get up there. That’s the Lake District for you, unbelievable views at every turn.
There are so many places in the Lake District to get a good view with plenty of options for every fitness level. You don’t have to be a mountaineer to be rewarded with a world class vista that has inspired many a painter.
My personal favorite – the shoreline of Windermere. Easy to get to. Parking, toilets and food options close by. And stellar scenes across the large lake with the hills in the background.
LOCAL’S TIP: Shh…looking for somewhere a bit quieter than the shores of Windermere? Head to the little bridge around the side of Rydal Hall for a great view of a 350 year-old slate grotto and waterfall.
TAKE LONG (OR SHORT) ADVENTUROUS WALKS
The number one reason to go for a nice walk in the Lake District is for a view, in my opinion. But it’s also just super fun to leave the car behind, get out in nature and find a trail. Breathe in the fresh Cumbrian air, maybe pack a picnic, and wildlife spot until your heart’s content.
For a somewhat challenging walk consider tackling local fells such as Catbells, The Old Man of Coniston trail, or my favorite Haystacks. The latter has a wonderful view over Buttermere along the way.
Taking things a little lighter? See the waterfalls at Aira Force near Ullswater, or walk the wooded trail at Ennerdale Water. Wherever adventures in the Lake District you choose, look out for sheep and keep your dogs under control around them.
SEE CUTE FUZZY SHEEP
We love our sheep in the Lake District, which is good because they are everywhere. But Cumbrians are very protective of their sheep, especially the beloved Herdwick sheep, known locally as Herdies.
These Lake District native hill dwelling sheep are extra fuzzy to help them withstand the elements of northern England. But the main reason everyone loves them? They’re pretty cute, and their soft faces almost make them look like they’re smiling.
You’ll encounter them wherever your adventures in the Lake District take you. And if you really want a Herdy to take home, head to the Herdy UK shops in Keswick, Grasmere, Ambleside, Windermere or Kendal. I have a ridiculous amount of Herdy items at home representing my county’s famous sheep.
WANDER QUINTESSENTIAL ENGLISH VILLAGES
Did you even go to the Lake District if you didn’t fall in love with its idyllic villages and small towns? Cute cottages made of local slate, boutique shops and mountain framed cobble-stone streets winding every which way. You deserve a break from any strenuous adventures in the Lake District with a visit to their quintessential English villages.
Poke your head in art galleries where you can take home the local landscape on canvas or any kind of countryside related crafts.
Pop into a local bakery like the historic Grasmere Gingerbread which I’m not ashamed to admit I order online to ship to my new home in Canada. Or the Hawkshead Relish Company with its locally made jams, dressings and chutneys.
Hawkshead and Grasmere are two of my favorite villages. But I recommend spending time in Ambleside, Coniston or Glenridding if you have time.
ENJOY SOME UNIQUE TOURS
Go home with a great story about some of the most unique adventures in the Lake District. Visiting small villages, and taking photos of the views are great, but maybe you want a little more action in your vacation?
How about an underground tour of a historic (but still operating) slate mine? Honister mine takes visitors on a deep, dark journey with all kinds of cool stories. Or what about a ride on a fancy boat at Ullswater Steamers? They have the oldest passenger boat in the UK dating back to 1877.
Prefer to stay on terra firma? Go for a walk with alpacas or visit with wolves in the Lake District. Or for a fun and unique journey enjoy a steam train ride at the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway on La’al Ratty (that’s local speak for “little railway”).
WALK IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF LITERARY GREATS
The Lake District has been a muse to many, both artists and writers. But we are known for two very famous literary greats who had homes here and loved the Lake District so much they left much of their estates for future generations to enjoy.
William Wordsworth, a famed Poet Laureate, was born and died in the Lake District. Visit one of three of his former homes: Wordsworth House in Cockermouth where he was born, Dove Cottage where he lived for 10 years and wrote his most famous poem, and Rydal Mount where he resided for 30+ years until his death. He’s probably best known for his poem Daffodils.
I wandered lonely as a Cloud
That floats on high o’er Vales and Hills,
When all at once I saw a crowd
A host of dancing Daffodils;
Beatrix Potter is another well known local writer. Originally from London she settled in the Lake District after one too many vacations being inspired by the country life there. As a child did you ever read The Tale of Peter Rabbit? That’s Beatrix Potter.
Once upon a time there were four little Rabbits, and their names were Flopsy, Mopsy, Cotton-tail, and Peter
Many of her tales revolved around animals, and at her former home Hilltop near Sawrey you can even see some of her early drawings and the garden which inspired some of her stories. Want something even more kid friendly? Visit The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction in Bowness-on-Windermere. Here you can walk around larger than life creations of Potter’s famous stories, or enjoy a Peter Rabbit-themed afternoon tea in the cafe.
EAT DELICIOUS AFTERNOON TEAS
Speaking of afternoon tea, what better way to relax after some outdoor adventures in the Lake District than with a fancy meal of tiny sandwiches and cakes?
One of my favorite things to do in the Lakes is enjoy one of their delicious and inventive afternoon teas. Not always cheap, but in my opinion a worthwhile activity. And many are in beautiful stately homes and country manor houses, with wonderful lake views.
The Daffodil Hotel & Spa in Grasmere is one of my favorites, as is the stunning Storrs Hall on lake Windermere. For an English tradition with a French flair, try The Wild Strawberry in Keswick, and for a budget friendly tea there’s Bryson’s Of Keswick tearoom.
LOCAL’S TIP: Love trains, or Agatha Christie? Sit aboard the “Murder On The Orient Express” movie train at Bassenthwaite Lake Station for a unique early 1900s dining experience. This afternoon tea is exceptional.
VISIT ANCIENT HISTORIC SITES
If you’re familiar with Cumbria and northern England you might know about Hadrian’s Wall, a nearly 2000-year-old Roman defense system. Although this doesn’t fall within the Lake District, there’s a smaller Roman Fort right in the heart of the Lakes.
Ambleside Roman Fort is free to visit, and can be easily missed if you don’t pay attention. It is in the middle of a field surrounded by fields. But it’s worth checking out. See the old granary, and the spot where the entrance gates would be, as well as the commanding officers house.
Now we get to my favorite site. If your adventures in the Lake District take you rambling up hills and looking for impressive views, you’ll love Castlerigg Stone Circle. It’s like Stonehenge, but smaller, and actually much older – over 5000 years old in fact.
You can’t beat the view from the top, or the atmospheric weather that usually surrounds it. Nor, the ice cream truck parked along the road to the field where you’ll find the stone circle. Perfect for a rewarding treat after a day of outdoor activities.
RELAX IN COZY LOCAL PUBS
Muddy boots, muddy dog, they don’t care – everyone is welcome at the many cozy Lake District pubs. Whether in small villages or large towns, or on the side of the road with nothing but the view in either direction, you’ll find a pub almost anywhere.
Roaring fires and great pub grub, you can’t beat it. Pop in for a light lunch or a quick pint to shelter from the rain, or stay for dinner and close the place down with live music or some pub trivia. Enjoy a local ale or a more popular beer on tap, hopefully on a sunny day when you can take advantage of a nice beer garden.
BECAUSE 18 MILLION PEOPLE A YEAR CAN’T BE WRONG
Facts! The popularity of the Lake District has been solid with visitors for hundreds of years and shows no signs of slowing down.
This is an adventure playground for those who love land and water based activities. There are plenty of opportunities for exhilarating experiences both underground and above the ground.
The Lake District is also ideal for those who just want to enjoy a peaceful spot with a nice view. Need inspiration? The Lake District is the perfect place for artists, writers and naturalists. It’s also a popular filming site for movies and TV shows. No matter what you’re into, this gorgeous national park will have something for you.
Is The Lake District Worth Visiting?
As the only English UNESCO World Heritage Site that is also a National Park, the Lake District National Park is undoubtedly worth visiting. Between breathtaking scenery, English literature connections, and outdoor adventures, what’s not to love?
The tranquil lakes and charming villages are my favorite things about my home county’s pride and joy national park. But the scenic walking trails and fun, unique activities are a close second. Yes, even when it’s raining.
Take in lunch with a view, lakeside at Lake Windermere or Grasmere or challenge yourself with a hike up the slopes of Scafell Pike. Then finish it up with a nice cold pint of local ale in a dog-friendly pub. No matter if you’re a go-go-go kind of traveler, or just want to watch the world go by, the Lake District offers something memorable for everyone.
Coming home to the Lake District is always one of my favorite things. It could be a day trip from my hometown Carlisle, or a longer visit spending a few days enjoying more of what the Lake District has to offer. But rain, or shine, a day in the Lake District is never a day wasted.
If you’ve enjoyed this post leave a comment or share using the social media buttons below. What adventures in the lake district would you add to your list? Been before – what did you enjoy most?
