best places to visit at the lake district

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Home » Europe » United Kingdom » England » Lake District

12 BEST Places to Visit in Lake District (2024)

England’s Lake District National Park covers over 2,300 square kilometres in the northwest of the country and is one of the most popular destinations for both British and international holidaymakers alike.

As well as lakes, it’s known for forests, mountains, and quaint villages. The area’s history includes several famous literary icons too, including Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter. Although you can have many types of holiday in the Lake District, hiking trails or walking is by far the most popular activity here.

In this post, I’ll take a look at the best places to visit in the Lake District. Since the Lake District is so large, these activities are set across a large area.

If your budget stretches to it, it’s a good idea to rent a car while travelling in this part of England, as public transport is quite infrequent here!

You can make back that money by staying in hostels or at campsites!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Lake District:

These are the best places to visit in lake district, faq on the best places to visit in lake district.

Located slightly north of Ambleside is the idyllic village of Grasmere. One of the cutest towns in the Lake District National Park, Grasmere is perfect for travellers and tourists looking for a quiet, serene and peaceful base surrounded by stunning nature. For photographers, painters, artists and enthusiasts, Grasmere is a wonderful place to stay just to enjoy and be inspired by all the views.

• Climb to the top of Helm Crag.
• Stop for a spot of tea and a clotted cream scone at Faeryland.
• Visit Dove Cottage, home to Williams Wordsworth, Britain’s best-loved poet.

Before you start reading, check out where to stay in the Lake District ESPECIALLY if you are planning on tackling Scafell Pike. You will need a place all booked and ready for those tired blistered toes to rest at the end of the day!

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#1 – Scafell Pike – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in The Lake District!

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• Hike one of several trails to the summit
• Conquer the highest mountain in England
• One of the most famous places in The Lake District National Park!

Why it’s awesome: For starters, it’s the highest mountain in England! So, if you’re a walker or a climber, then Scafell Pike should definitely be on your Lake District itinerary. Although 978m doesn’t sound that high, and it can be done in a day, it’s not an easy hike to the top.

Scafell Pike is at the edge of 3 microclimates, meaning that the weather is notoriously unpredictable! So, if you want to add England’s highest mountain to your list of conquered summits, you’ll need to be adequately prepared!

What to do there: Of course, the best thing to do with Scafell Pike is to hike up it. To be able to say you’ve climbed the tallest mountain in any country is an impressive achievement!

If you’re travelling with the family or you’re new to hiking, the best route to take is the Corridor Route from Styhead Tarn near beautiful Borrowdale valley. That’s on Derwentwater, very near to Keswick! If you’re a more experienced hiker, why not have a go from Ill Crag? If it’s not foggy at the top, you’ll get some fantastic views so make sure you take a camera!

#2 – Dove Cottage

• Visit the former home of poet William Wordsworth
• Learn about the poet in the museum next door
• One of the top points of interest in The Lake District National Park for literature lovers

Why it’s awesome: If you’ve spent a few days walking or the weather’s bad in the Lake District, then you’ll be happy to know that an activity like Dove Cottage is interesting and exciting but doesn’t require a lot of energy or getting wet to visit!

Find out all about arguably England’s most famous poet, who was partly responsible for launching the Romantic Age of English literature. Dove Cottage is in the village of Grasmere, which you can reach by public transport from near Windermere and Keswick.

You could even opt for staying in one of the best hostels in the Lake District near Windermere to get the most out of your experience.

What to do there: Not only can you visit the museum at Dove Cottage to find out more about the life and works of Wordsworth, but you can take part in a guided tour or talk.

Friendly and knowledgeable guides run these approximately 30-minute talks daily, and they’re a great insight into the poet’s life. You can explore Dove Cottage’s extensive library, complete with rare books. And when you’re done there, head out into the gardens to catch some sun or relax on one of the benches!

Windermere is also free fishing for anyone with a fishing license. Grab some travel fishing gear and give it a go!

#3 – Hill Top House (Children’s Author Beatrix Potter’s farmhouse)

• See the former farmhouse of one of the UK’s best loved authors
• Find out what inspired many of her tales
• A Lake District must see!

Why it’s awesome: William Wordsworth wasn’t the only famous writer from the Lake District, as fans of Peter Rabbit will tell you! This beautiful farmhouse, also known as Hill Top, is where the author bought and worked from the royalties of her first book.

When visiting the victorian era house, you’ll see the different aspects that inspired her tales of Peter Rabbit. Plus the house itself is immaculately kept by the National Trust, with its original stone floors and antique furnishings, you can really feel what life would have been like back then.

Each room contains a reference to a different one of her ‘tales’. You can’t pre-book a visit here, so it’s advisable to turn up early. If the house gets too busy you might be turned away!

What to do there: You’ll want to spend some time at Hill Top to feel the magic of Beatrix Potter’s books, but after an hour or two, you’ll be satisfied with what you’ve seen. Luckily, it’s very close to the shores of the idyllic Lake Windermere, so after you visit you could always take a cruise out on the water!

If you can’t get enough of Beatrix Potter and want to learn more, there’s also a museum dedicated to her works in Bowness-on-Windermere. Hill Top House is near Hawkshead in Ambleside.

#4 – Buttermere – A nice quiet place to see in The Lake District

• One of the prettiest villages in the region
• Enjoy lunch at a country pub
• Take a walk around Buttermere Lake

Why it’s awesome: If you enjoy driving, you’ll want to go through the Honister Pass, one of the most beautiful roads in the whole of the UK. And waiting at the end of it you’ll find the charming village and lake of Buttermere.

The village sits between this lake and Crummock water, which was initially one large glacial lake! Hike up to High Stile Ridge to get stunning views of the village and two lakes, and truly appreciate one of the best places in The Lake District!

What to do there: Buttermere is a small and quiet village but there’s still enough to keep you entertained for a day there. Walking around the lakes is an easy and flat hike for even the most inexperienced hiker before you head back to one of two village pubs for a hearty lunch.

In the afternoon, choose between a tea and an ice cream and one of the quaint little eateries, or a more challenging walk. Highly recommended is a walk to Scale Force, the highest waterfall in The Lake District.

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#5 – Ullswater Valley

• Take a lake cruise on the famous “Ullswater steamers”
• Visit one of the quaint towns and villages around the lake
• Try a range of watersports

Why it’s awesome: One of the best places to visit in the Lake District for the sheer number of outdoor activities on offer, it’s no surprise that Ullswater valley has made my list! Referred to by locals as “England’s most beautiful lake” (although that’s probably true of several in the Lake District), it offers something for every kind of holiday.

Traditional villages and hamlets dot the shores of the lake where you can enjoy some of the best places to eat in The Lake District or just stop off for a refuelling coffee before your next walk!

What to do there: There are lots to do on Ullswater. First, is something that is unique to this lake. The Ullswater Steamers are classic vessels that date back to the 19th century and are the perfect way to see this gorgeous lake.

If you’d prefer something more active, then take out a kayak or even just have a swim in the lake! Don’t want to get wet? Helvellyn is very close to Ullswater, but I’ll get to that in more depth later!

#6 – Castlerigg Stone Circle – An unknown (but awesome) place to see in the lake District

• See the most beautiful of England’s stone circles in the UK
• Devise your own theory on its use
• One of the more unusual landmarks in the Lake District

Why it’s awesome: Within a stone’s throw of the biggest town in the National Park, Keswick, you’ll definitely want to add the Castlerigg Stone Circle, one of the more unusual attractions to your Lake District itinerary.

Incredibly, there are over 1,000 stone circles in the UK, with the most famous being Stonehenge in Wiltshire. However, Castlerigg dates back further than that – to over 3,000 years BC!

It’s in a much more dramatic location too and can offer unparalleled views and has unbelievable views of three of the Lake District’s highest mountains: Skiddaw, Blencathra, and Hellvellyn.

What to do there: The first thing to decide is how you’re going to get there. Just a mile and a half east of Keswick, it’s possible to go in the car if you want this just to be a quick in and out activity.

However, for such a beautiful place you may as well spend some time taking in the atmosphere and beautiful scenery. So, instead, why not take a walk or a cycle from Keswick (a walk will only take you half an hour) and stretch those legs!

After all, walking is probably the number one activity when visiting the Lake District!

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#7 – Derwent Pencil Museum – Quite the quirky place in the Lake District

• See the world’s largest colouring pencil
• A great way to fill an hour or two in Keswick
• Learn about the history of pencils and graphite

Why it’s awesome: Often regarded as one of the most unusual museums in the UK, the Derwent Pencil Museum is actually a lot more exciting than it sounds. Surprisingly, if you’re a fan of James Bond, this place might interest you too!

The military inventor and inspiration for “Q” in the James Bond novels approached the Cumberland Pencil Co (now the museum) to help him develop a pencil that British Prisoners of War could use to help them escape!

This is just one of the many stories that you’ll hear at one of the most unusual things to do in the Lake District!

What to do there: As well as the story above, you can learn all about the manufacturing of graphite and pencils here in the northwest of England. Be astounded by the world’s largest colouring pencil too, which is 26 feet long and weighs just under half a ton.

I’m not sure if anyone has ever tried using it though! If you’re an artist or enjoy colouring, stop by the gift shop. Derwent Pencils are some of the finest made in the entire UK!

#8 – Lake Windermere

• Take a boat trip on one of the country’s largest lakes.
• Get views across the lake and fells from Orrest Head
• One of the most beautiful attractions in the Lake District

Why it’s awesome: England’s largest natural lake is a very popular attraction in the Lake District, with many tourists choosing to stay on its shores. And it’s with good reason too!

Bowness-on-Windermere and Ambleside are two of the larger towns inside the National Park and there are plenty of places to stay, eat, and relax. The lake itself offers lots of outdoor activities such as cruises, boating, and even water sports.

On dry land, there are awesome walks with spectacular views! You could easily spend your whole holiday here!

If you do elect to spend your whole holiday here, why not check out the best Airbnbs in the Lake District , with many in the area.

What to do there: There are a plethora of things to add to your Lake District itinerary at Windermere. If you want to hike, then Orrest Head is a great spot as it offers some of the prettiest views of the lake and also to the fells!

Wray Castle, a National Trust property is another great day out, especially if you’re travelling with kids! Earlier on I mentioned Hill Top House and the Beatrix Potter Museum, these are both nearby too.

No trip to Lake Windermere would be complete without going on one of the Windermere lake cruises. If you’re travelling with kids, they will love the Lakes aquarium on the southern end of the lake.

#9 – Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway – One of the Lake District’s coolest historical sites

• 7 mile scenic railway journey
• Ride a traditional steam train
• A Lake District must do!

Why it’s awesome: For all the beauty in The Lake District, it only has one UNESCO World Heritage Site. Yes, I was surprised too! That site is Ravenglass, a village in the west of the national park.

The Ravenglass to Eskdale Railway is a beautifully restored steam engine route that takes you across an estuary and through the rolling, green, Cumbrian hills. There are seven stops on the journey before the final station of Dalegarth, 7 miles away!

What to do there: Taking this steam train is a great activity if you’re travelling with the family, or you just want to have a relaxing and unique day out.

As the journey is only 7 miles, you probably won’t spend the whole day on the train, and it’s more likely to be a half-day trip. That means you can spend the rest of the day strolling around west lakes and checking out some boat tours.

However, with that being the case you can always enjoy the gorgeous village of Ravenglass. Once you’ve walked through the cute streets of the hamlet, head to Muncaster Castle where there is an owl and bird of prey centre!

If you’re a fan of steam trains, you can also catch the Haverthwaite steam railway from Lakeside to Haverthwaite, which is a 5km journey.

#10 – Helvellyn

• Get to the summit of England’s 2 nd  highest mountain
• Get stunning views of Thirlmere and Ullswater lakes
• One of the best places in the Lake District for hiking

Why it’s awesome: With a summit just 30 metres lower than Scafell Pike, Helvellyn is another great achievement for walkers in the Lakes! It’s the highest point on the Helvellyn Range and as with many of the mountains in this area, there’s not just one route to the top.

There are several, with each being suitable for a different difficulty and expertise level. On some of the routes there may be a little scrambling involved, so do be extra careful if you’re climbing in wet or windy weather!

What to do there: If you’re new to hiking and don’t fancy going up Helvellyn alone (the weather can be very changeable the higher up you get), then how about trying it as a guided walk?

Striding Edge is an extremely popular way to get up the mountain and offers stunning views at several points on the trail. So that you don’t go off the beaten track or if you have any difficulty while up there, a guided walk will make sure that you get back down the mountain safe and sound!

#11 – Furness Abbey – One of the most religious places to see in the Lake District

• Explore the Lake District’s most famous ruin
• The abbey dates back to the 12 th  century
• The former home of a wealthy and powerful monastic order

Why it’s awesome: Technically outside the Lake District National Park, Furness Abbey, located in the town of Barrow-in-Furness, is well worth making a detour for. It dates all the way back to 1120 and was in operation for more than 400 years.

However, in the 16 th century, the King at the time, Henry VIII dissolved the abbey. But why’s that? Well, according to him, the Cistercian lifestyle had become too lavish. And he did have a point – at that point, it was the second richest abbey in the UK!

What to do there: Nowadays, you can explore the haunting ruins of the abbey and imagine what life was like all those years ago. There are a number of walks around the abbey that are worth doing too. It’s not just the ruins that are left, as there are some exhibitions on the abbey’s history.

One of the most intriguing is from a grave excavation – you can see a monk’s gemstone ring and crozier! Don’t miss one of the most important religious landmarks in the Lake District!

#12 – Enjoy a Steamer Yacht on the Lake and Coniston Village

• Enjoy a classic steamer yacht ride
• Hire your own motorboat from C oniston boating centre
• See the third largest lake in the national park and where Sir Malcolm Campbell set the world water speed record

Why it’s awesome: Coniston is the third largest lake in the Lake District National Park, but it is the longest, which makes it the top place to be for water sports.

Surrounded by mountains, lush greenery, and is on the steam train route, you can’t miss Coniston when travelling to the lake district.

It’s also where you can enjoy one of the iconic steam yacht cruises or hire a motorboat of your own if you’re feeling adventurous.

What to do there: One of the best things to do at Coniston is to take out a boat and explore this massive lake. If you’re not sure about hiring a boat, I recommend the Coniston boating centre because they are highly experienced. You can also rent a bike and ride along the water’s edge, stroll along the nearby hiking trails, or just enjoy the quaint little village.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Lake District

What should you not miss in the lake district?

The Beatrix Potter Museum is one of my favourite attractions in the lake district, and you should also make sure to take a boat cruise on Lake Windermere.

What is the most beautiful part of the lake district?

Buttermere and Ullswater are in my opinion, two of the most beautiful parts of the lake district.

What can I do in the lake district?

Aside from swimming in the lakes, the lake district is an ideal place for hiking and sailing. I would strongly recommend the Scafell Pike hike as its views are amazing.

Can you swim in the lake district?

Yes, you can swim in any of the lakes. The only exceptions are reservoirs as they are the drinking water supply and privately owned lakes.

Final Thoughts

So, that concludes my list of the best places to visit in The Lake District. I hope that this list has proven useful and informative and has helped you a little bit when deciding to visit places in the Lake District.

Also, you should have a better idea of the best place to base yourself while visiting The Lake District too!

The Lake District is the perfect place for so many different types of holiday. Whether you want to get to know British culture better in the small and quaint villages with a country pub or afternoon tea, or whether you want to get out walking in some of the most beautiful rolling hills and mountains in the UK.

You could even book a spa hotel to disconnect from the world for a few days!

So, now that you’ve enjoyed the list of the best places to visit in The Lake District, I hope that you enjoy your holiday there.

Especially now that you know not only where to visit, but how to travel to The Lake District and live like a local!

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Sophie Steinebach

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The 15 best things to do in the Lake District

From lakeside theatres to cosy pubs, here’s how to spend the perfect three days in the Lake District

Endless woodland areas, ‘gram-worthy rolling hills and jaw-dropping, serene expanses of water – we can only be talking about the Lake District. It’s England’s largest national park and while it’s beauty is well renowned, there’s a whole lot more to it than just some snappable scenery (though the vistas here have got to be some of the prettiest). 

Whether you’re headed for an afternoon, three days or an entire week, the Lake District has plenty of fun activities to get stuck into. Think theatres looking over a lake, enchanting stone circles and beer tasting in some seriously cosy pubs. And yes, even a museum about pencils. We’ve curated the perfect guide which includes all the best places to spend your trip to this magical landscape, so here are the best things to do in the Lake District.

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Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best things to do in the Lake District

1.  see lake windermere.

What is it?  This huge body of water is the largest natural lake in England, and a prime example of the picturesque Lake District.  

Why go?  No trip to the Lake District would be complete without a visit to Lake Windermere, with its exceptional views and bags full of fun activities . You can walk, climb, cycle and even Segway around it, but the most fun is had in the water. Or on it... hopefully. Escape hoi polloi and bag yourself a self-drive or rowboat. Don’t worry, you’ll get all the training and safety guidance you need.

2.  Climb the highest point in England, Scafell Pike

What is it?  Standing at 978m, Scafell Pike  is  the highest point in England. 

Why go?  A   journey to its summit and back will likely leave you with blisters and wind or rain-blasted skin. But you’ll also get a stunning view of the National Park and an enormous sense of smugness. Just make sure you prepare properly! That means checking the mountain forecast and getting the right gear (primarily, decent footwear). Sure it’s fun, but it's also a pretty chunky undertaking.

3.  Watch the birdie at the Cumberland Bird of Prey Centre

What is it? The chance to get close to some of the Lake District’s birds of prey. Why go?  Ever wanted to meet an owl? Pet a falcon or a hawk? Feed an eagle or vulture? Now you can, with the ‘basic experience’ at the Cumberland Bird of Prey Centre lasting for up to two hours. And if you want to stay longer? There are courses lasting a few days or even a week for those serious about their bird-handling skills.

4.  See a play at Theatre By The Lake

What is it? Guess... Why go? This Cumbrian creative hub boats one of the loveliest settings of any theatre, with stunning views of Derwentwater that make a visit to the café as worthwhile as seeing something on the stage. With its varied and always interesting programme though, it’s well worth getting a ticket for as this theatre is a highlight of any visit to the Lakes.

5.  Hike to the Castlerigg Stone Circle

What is it?  A fascinatingly intriguing collection of boulders that dates back to the Neolithic period, putting it on an equal footing with Stonehenge. 

Why go?   From the centre of Keswick it’ll take you roughly half an hour to walk to the circle. Look out for grazing sheep while you’re at it: they roam freely around the stone circle.  If you’re after something free and family or dog-friendly, this is a good option. Plus, the Stone Circle has a solar alignment, so head along for summer solstice – it’s one of the more tranquil midsummer celebrations.

6.  Follow the Beatrix Potter trail at Hill Top

What is it?  The verdant and charming former home of children’s author Beatrix Potter. She bequeathed her house to the National Trust upon her death in 1943, along with thousands of objects and personal effects.

Why go? At Hill Top you’ll see furniture, photos, unusual porcelain, paintings by Potter and much more – and you’ll get the chance to roam her famous garden. If you’re really bitten by the Potter bug, the National Trust offers a downloadable ‘Beatrix Potter trail’, taking explorers around parts of the Lake District that inspired her writing.

7.  Get starry-eyed at Low Gillerthwaite Field Centre

What is it? An activity centre and place to stay in  England’s least inhabited valley. 

Why go?  When the nights draw in early, the Low Gillerthwaite Field Centre leads stargazing events with talks and telescopes. Thanks to its isolated location free of light pollution,  Low Gillerthwaite has  been officially named a Dark Sky Discovery Site and on a clear night you can see the Milky Way with the naked eye. Become a member and bag yourself a whole bunch of perks, including discounted rates, newsletters and invitations to events.

8.  Explore Rydal Mount, William Wordsworth’s former home

What is it?  Where William Wordsworth properly laid his hat, in the postcard-pretty little village of Ambleside.

Why go? The late Romantic poet was born in Cumbria and left his mark all over the Lake District. As a young man, he moved around various spots in Grasmere before he finally settled in Ambleside in 1813, where he lived until his death in 1850. While the poet’s childhood home in Cockermouth is pegged as the Wordsworth abode to visit, this quaint sixteenth-century cottage known as Rydal Mount offers a different view of the man. Wander the stunning gardens that Wordsworth landscaped himself, peek inside his ‘writing hut’ and attic study, see his personal possessions and browse his library.

9.  Have a brew with a view at The Drunken Duck

What is it?  A gorgeous pub, dining room and hotel with good food and a  range of exceptional beers.

Why go? Who could resist a brew with a view? Especially when the view in question is full of fells and your pint has only travelled a few feet from the brewery next door. Barngates Brewery has been crafting lagers, ales and stouts beside the Drunken Duck Inn since 1997. You’ll find a range of their beverages at the inn, as well as a menu of British fusion food. If it’s on, try the Barngates Brathay Gold – it’s an absolute belter of a golden ale. Plus it’s very refreshing… which might come in handy with all that walking.

10.  Pig out on Grasmere Gingerbread

What is it?  This little shop that sells the famous Grasmere Gingerbread is in fact where the sweet, ginger-flavoured treat was born. 

Why go?  Victorian baker Sarah Nelson, who once lived in the cottage, came up with the concoction there in 1854. This delicate, spiced, wonderfully chewy gingerbread has been a big seller ever since, and you can only get it from a few select places. Our recommendations would be the shop, naturally, or the Wordsworth Hotel next door, where you can sit down and enjoy your gingerbread with a cuppa. Trust us on this: try it with cheese, ideally bought from the Keswick Cheese Deli – it’s one of the Lake District's best.

11.  Get cosy at The Mortal Man

What is it? An old-school inn and lodgings that has been here since 1689 and oozes character, from the low, beamed ceilings to the roaring log fire. 

Why go?  Just outside Windermere and Ambleside you’ll find Troutbeck Valley, home to The Mortal Man . The menu is traditional British fare and is especially enjoyable in the garden on a summer’s day. Keep an eye on the events schedule: depending on what nights you’re there, you can either see some live music, spoken word (performers get a free drink) or join in on the quiz.

12.  Tuck into a locally-sourced meal at Old Stamp House

What is it? A unique restaurant offering a taste of the Lake District and a dose of literary history – in 1813, Wordsworth was appointed Distributor of Stamps for Westmorland and he worked out of this very building.

Why go? Ingredients are sourced from the surrounding woodlands, forests, mountains and coastline and turned into contemporary dishes. Roasted wild brill, Herdwick hogget (lamb) and hand-dived scallop are just some of the items on the menu. Make sure you book as it can get busy. And if you’re watching the pennies? Go for lunch – there’s a great-value set lunch menu.

13.  Sink a drink at The Lakes Distillery

What is it?  A top-notch distillery producing gin, whisky and vodka using loads of local produce.

Why go? The Lakes Distillery is a relative newbie to the scene, having only opened in 2014, but it’s fast becoming a go-to- destination in Cumbria. Tours and tastings run daily, and at the weekend you can meet their resident alpacas! There’s also a fully-stocked shop, should you want to take a little something home. Need to soak up some of that booze? There’s a very decent little restaurant here, too.

14.  Visit the quirky Derwent Pencil Museum

What is it?  A quirky – but brilliant – museum about one of the more mundane things in life. 

Why go?  This modest building, which sits in the shadow of the old Cumberland Pencils factory, is home to the world’s first ever pencil. You’ll also find spy pencils from World War Two, an 8m colouring pencil, a café and a shop. Keen artists should take a look at the ‘Artist in Residence’ courses, with notable and local artists hosting classy-looking workshops.

15.  See the last working mine in England

What is it? Honister Slate Mine is the last working mine in England and the producer of green slate extracted from Fleetwith Pike.

Why go? This fascinating place   does a range of activities for all ages and abilities. From the relatively gentle tour through the underground mine shafts to scaling the side and inside of a mountain, as well as crossing a terrifying infinity bridge, you have plenty to keep you occupied here. Fun fact: Honister is also home to the highest café in the National Park. Make a beeline for a surprisingly good souvenirs shop, too – it sells stuff a step above the usual overpriced tat.

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Places to visit and areas of the Lake District National Park

A taste of the lakes.

England's largest National Park is a gem of a place to visit. There are breathtaking lakes, soaring mountains - known locally as 'fells', picturesque valleys and even sandy coastline. Each lake and valley has a distinct character of its own. We would love you to share your experiences, pictures and videos with us through Twitter , Facebook and Instagram .

Popular regions in the Lake District

There are many attractions and places to visit in the Lake District, covering a wide area which is just waiting for you to explore! To make it easier to find the best attractions in the Lake District National Park, we have split them up into the most popular sections. This way you can easily plan out your visit and make the most of your stay.

Enjoy the stunning mountain views around England's largest lake, Windermere and the bustling town of Ambleside. Visit things to do around Windermere. Windermere and the surrounding area is arguably the most famous and popular area in the Lake District.

Explore Coniston

Coniston water is the third longest lake in the Lake District. Get onto the water with boat tours, motor boats, rowing boats, kayaks and paddleboards to hire. Its also a great place for walking and hiking, with guided walks to help show you the way.

Explore Keswick and Derwentwater

Visit Keswick, a bustling market town at the north end of Derwent lake, correctly named Derwentwater. Or explore the quiet valley of Borrowdale at the southern end.

Grasmere and Rydal just north of Ambleside, are two of the smaller more peaceful lakes to visit. Grasmere village is full of charm, places to stay and eat and the famous Grasmere gingerbread shop! You can also visit Wordsworth's grave in the churchyard and buy the legendary Grasmere Gingerbread. With no motor boats, this quieter lake is great for swimming and rowing.

Explore Ullswater and Glenridding

Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, Ullswater is a popular starting point for walkers and climbers. This lovely lake is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery to its south, softening to the gentle hills of the north. The lake is the second largest in England at seven and a half miles long, but is less than a mile across.

Explore the Langdale Valley

Home to a breathtaking valley, countless walking and camping hotspots, Langdale Valley is perfect for those that love the outdoors. The Langdale area runs west of Ambleside up to the Langdale Pikes. It splits into two valleys, Great Langdale and Little Langdale. It includes the lovely village of Elterwater and Chapel Stile.

Explore the Northern Lakes

Visit Buttermere, Crummock, Loweswater and Bassenthwaite lakes, the North Lakes is possibly the most peaceful part of the district with many features of historical interest to be explored. With no motor boats, they are great choice to go for a swim, a kayak, a canoe, a paddleboard, or just a peaceful lake shore walk.

Explore Wastwater

Surrounded by mountains, Red Pike, Kirk Fell, Great Gable and Scafell Pike, Wastwater is the deepest and perhaps the most awe-inspiring of all the lakes, - in Wasdale - to the west of the National Park. The view from the south-western end of the lake near the youth hostel was voted Britain’s favourite view in 2007.

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The Perfect 3 or 4 Days in the Lake District Itinerary

Last Updated on January 17, 2024

by Sarah Dittmore

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

One of the UK’s most alluring destinations in England, planning a 3 or 4 days in the Lake District itinerary is an absolutely unforgettable thing to do in this area in the north of the country. Essential to add to many England itineraries or even to explore if you’re venturing onward to Scotland , you will never regret spending time in the Lake District.

Known for its stunning waterways and gorgeous scenery, the region will take your breath away. However, there’s more to do in the Lake District than just enjoy the views. Whether riding a steam train across the countryside, hiking to breathtaking overlooks, touring buildings from the 13 th century, or just lounging by the lake, a visit to the Lake District is guaranteed to be a blast.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in the Lake District?

One of the first questions that will come up when planning your trip is how many days to spend in the Lake District. Some visitors may be drawn to a longer, weeklong visit and this can be a great way to see the area while also enjoying plenty of R&R at the hotel.

However, the truth is that 3 to 4 days is plenty of time to take in all of the beauty and enjoy some of the quirks and hidden gems of this region.

If you have 3 days in the Lake District, you will have time to go on several hikes, visit the lakes in all of their beauty and see some of the top historic sites in the area. However, if you have 4 days, you will also have time to visit the coast and take in some more highlights of Cumbria.

Getting To & Around the Lake District

Navigating the Lake District is fairly easy. The roads are well-maintained and comfortable to drive with plenty of stops for food and petrol.

Renting a car may be more expensive, and you may need to get comfortable with driving on the left side of the road depending on where you’re coming from, but you may find it is worth it for the freedom and flexibility it gives you on your trip. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare options for car rental.

However, public transport in the Lake District is widely available and relatively affordable. You can get trains to the Lake District from London , Glasgow , and Manchester . You can browse routes here .

Once in the Lake District, the National Express and Stagecoach Bus both offer a variety of routes that connect different towns and tourist destinations around the Lake District.

While the buses will help you get from point A to B, there are some stops along the way in this Lake District road trip itinerary that may make it worthwhile to rent a car instead.

3 to 4-Day Lake District Itinerary

The Lake District is a beloved destination for international and local visitors alike. Referring to both the district and the National Park, the Lake District is known for its sprawling glacial lakes, the fell mountains that surround the waters, and the history and British culture woven throughout the surrounding towns.

With 3 days, you’ll be able to enjoy the water, go for a few hikes, and check out some of the history and literary associations that the area is famous for.

Those who choose to spend 4 days will also have a chance to visit the coast and tour a National Heritage site.

No matter how long you choose to stay, this itinerary will help you make the most of your visit.

Day 1 – Windermere, Wray Castle, Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top & More

Located alongside a lake by the same, Windermere is a picturesque British town featuring Tudor-style buildings and a quaint, laid-back atmosphere. In the town itself, you’ll find plenty of delicious restaurants, cute shops, and even the odd art gallery.

But the main event is Windermere Lake, and what better way to kick off your trip to the Lake District National Park than with a visit to the largest lake in England?

Lounge on the beach, go for a swim, or simply sit by the water and take in the views. However you choose to spend your time, a visit to this jaw-dropping lake is a must.

Orrest Head Viewpoint

To get better acquainted with the beauty of the Lake District, the next item is a visit to the Orrest Head. This easy, 2.8-mile loop hike takes you from Windermere to the Orrest Head Viewpoint, and shouldn’t take more than an hour and a half.

The hike is accessible to all levels and, at the peak, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Lake Windermere and the surrounding countryside.

One of two hikes in this itinerary, the hike to Orrest Head Viewpoint is a great way to get a sweeping overview of the place where you will be spending the next 3 to 4 days.   

Wray Castle

After your hike, it’s time to take in some of the Lake District’s history. Wray Castle is a gothic revival castle that was built in 1840 by a retired surgeon and later inherited by his nephew, Hardwicke Rawnsley, who served as the vicar of Wray Church.

The National Trust has owned the castle since 1929 and in addition to touring the building, visitors can stroll the paths that weave through the estate, picnic on the lawn, or see the photographs of Rupert Potter that hang on display in the dining room.

Visiting the grounds is free, but touring the inside of the castle is ticketed unless you’re a National Trust member.

Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top

Situated just 15 minutes south of Wray Castle, you can continue your tour of the region’s history with Beatrix Potter’s farmhouse.

For both the literarily inclined and those just interested in British history and culture, Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top is a must-see. Though best known for her children’s book series, The Tale of Peter Rabbit , Beatrix Potter also worked as a natural scientist and conservationist.

Beatrix Potter’s house still stands atop a small hill in the Lake District and visitors can explore her house and garden, enjoy a meal at the pop-up café, and shop for souvenirs.

Tickets to enter must be booked in advance. You can also organise a half-day tour that includes a visit to the house as well as some nearby attractions.

Sunset at Kirkstone Pass

Now that you’ve gotten a sense of the region’s history, it’s time to head back to the shores of Windermere Lake in time to watch the sunset. While there’s no bad place to camp out and watch the sunset, a favorite is Kirkstone Pass, the highest pass in the Lake District.

A ten-minute drive up the A592 from Windermere will take you to Kirkstone Pass, Ambleside. From here, you can pull off the road at the car park beside Kirkstone Pass Inn and enjoy the views.

This perspective gives you a sweeping view of the sun setting over the hills and peaks like Scafell Pike, but those who choose to stay by the water won’t be disappointed either, as along the shores of Windermere Lake you’ll often be able to see the way the sky paints rainbow hues across the water.

Day 2 – Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, Stott Park Bobbin Mill & Fell Foot Park

Lakeside and haverthwaite railway.

The Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway is an old-fashioned steam train that runs along a railway that’s been in the region since the 1850s. Watch the country stream by and experience the joys of riding a steam train.

Return tickets cost £10.50 for adults and £6.30 for children. On one end of the railway, in Haverthwaite, you can check out the Haverthwaite Station Tea Room, where you can grab a bite to eat.

On the other end, in Lakeside, head to the Lakes Aquarium to learn more about the local animal life.

Stott Park Bobbin Mill

An oft-overlooked attraction, Stott Park Bobbin Mill is 5000 times more interesting than it sounds. Yes, it is a functioning mill where wooden bobbins are made, but it’s so much more than that.

The passionate tour guides will give you a hands-on introduction to what it was like to work at the mill and you’ll find yourself fascinated and engaged from the moment you arrive until the time you leave.

While you don’t need to book in advance, tickets can be cheaper if you book online.

Fell Foot Park

After the railway and the mill, it’s time to head back to the water. Fell Foot Park is a beautiful, lush park that sits on the southern end of Windermere Lake.

In addition to simply enjoying this lovely park, it’s a great place to settle for an afternoon of water activities.

While at Fell Foot, you can rent kayaks, rowboats, or paddleboards; enjoy a picnic on the lawns; go for a swim in the lake; take a walk in the gardens; or dine and shop at the local cafes and boutiques that are spread around Fell Foot.

Day 3 – Ullswater, Howton & Hallin Fell

Ullswater steamer to howtown.

Now that you’ve spent 2 days exploring the area around Windermere Lake, it’s time to head north to Ullswater, the second-largest lake in the Lake District at about 7 miles long.

One of the best ways to see what Ullswater is all about is to ride the Ullswater Steamer to Howtown Pier. You can start at Howtown Pier and book a return trip, or pick up the steamer at Glenridding Pier or Pooley Bridge Pier and ride it to Howtown Pier.

Return tickets can be purchased in-person or in advance online. Whatever route you take, take your time enjoying the open deck, saloons, and beautiful views.

Hike to Hallin Fell

On the steamer, you’ll get to see the Lake District by water, but once in Howtown, you can explore by land by heading a few miles south to the Hallin Fell hike.

This 1.3-mile loop trail is relatively easy and takes around an hour to complete. The hike itself is a beautiful romp through the countryside, featuring an old stone church and some stone ruins, but the true highlight is the views of Ullswater from the peak.

Ullswater Lake

When you’re done hiking, head back to the lake to enjoy an afternoon by the water. Of course, you can always spend a few hours simply lounging by the lake and exploring the local shops and restaurants, but the more adventurous visitors might enjoy something a bit more active.

Activities include such things s sailing lessons through the Glenridding Sailing Centre or kayaking and cliff-jumping with Lake District Outdoor Activities.

Alternatively, head over to the nearby lake of Derwentwater and the lovely town of Keswick. Poetry fans also could head a bit south and visit St Oswald’s church in Grasmere and see the grave of William Wordsworth. You could also visit the nearby lake of Rydal Water. For those who are only spending 3 days, this marks the end of your Lake District itinerary.

Day 4 – Ravenglass & Muncaster Castle

If you’ve decided to spend 4 days in the Lake District, this is a great chance to head to the coast.

Ravenglass is a small village on the coast of the Irish Sea. It takes about an hour to drive to Ravenglass from Windermere, or 2.5 hours to get there via train. Either way, it’s a gorgeous route through the western half of the Lake District.

Once in Ravenglass, you can visit the sea, hang out on the sandy shores of Drigg Sand Dunes and Beach, and explore the quaint coastal village before heading to Muncaster Castle.

Muncaster Castle

Though the castle has gone through many renovations over the centuries, the first version of Muncaster Castle was erected in the 13 th century atop Roman foundations from 79 AD. The final additions to the estate were completed in 1917.

Now, the castle and grounds are open to visitors at a cost of £19.00 for adults and £9.50 for children (though you can save 10% by booking online). In addition to touring the castle and surrounding gardens, visitors can view the on-side Hawk and Owl Centre, home to birds of prey and featuring daily flying displays.

Muncaster Castle hosts regular events, exhibitions, and festivals, so be sure to check the website before your visit to see what’s on!

Where to Stay near Lake District

The Cavendish Arms – Located in the village of Cartmel, this inn is an excellent mid-range option in the Lake District. There are a number of cosy and comfortable rooms on offer and there is also a breakfast and dinner menu available.

Embleton Spa Hotel – For those looking for a bit of luxury while in the Lake District, then this hotel is an excellent choice. They have a great location, a wonderful spa and restaurant on site and plenty of plush rooms to ensure you have a lovely stay.

Kendal Hostel – If you’re travelling solo or on a tight budget, then this hostel is a great option. They have both dorm beds and private rooms available and good self-catering facilities for those who want to make their own meals.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Lake District hotels!

The Lake District is one of England’s most popular tourist destinations and with good reason. With so many ways to spend your time, from hiking and playing in the water to exploring literary attractions and historical sites, there’s a little something for everyone in the Lake District.

Are you planning to visit the Lake District? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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About Sarah Dittmore

Sarah is a writer for The World Was Here First. A California native, she loves travelling around her home state as well as visiting places further afield. She has spent over a decade travelling the world and writing stories inspired by the people and places she encounters along the way.

Hi Sarah, thank you for the article. I am planning for a family trip for 2 to Windermere end of Dec for 4 days. I will be staying in Windermere. Is there any local tour operator in Windermere I can contact for a 4 day tour you suggested above and could you kindly suggest an approximate cost for 2 persons. Appreciate your help.

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A first-time guide to England's Lake District

Jul 18, 2024 • 6 min read

Get to know the beautiful Lake District with this guide to England's favorite national park. Joe Dunckley / Shutterstock

The 885-sq-mile Lake District  is a hauntingly beautiful part of northwest England  that is considered to be not only the most-visited national park, but also the nation's favorite. The region seduced Wordsworth and other literary giants, and continues to attract sightseers, walkers and adventurers in search of its fascinating heritage and abundant outdoor activities.

Until the mid-19th century the area was barely visited by outsiders – Daniel Defoe described it as "barren and frightful" in 1724 – but the Romantic poets’ idea of "sublime nature" encouraged an appreciation of wild places, and the introduction of the railway to Windermere in 1847 made mass tourism possible.

From Windermere to Scafell Pike, and the best things to do with your family, this first-time guide will tell you everything you need to know before visiting the Lake District.

Why visit the Lake District?

The landscape in the region is spellbinding: shadowy ridges gilded with golden light, shimmering meadows ablaze with wildflowers, and sparkling blue lakes that reflect the whole glorious scene.

Lakes are plentiful, of course: to the west of Windermere is Coniston Water and west of there are Wasdale valley and Wastwater, the deepest lake in England. North of Wastwater you’ll find Lake Buttermere, absurdly scenic from all angles, and east of Buttermere is Derwentwater, with its lovely wooded islands. Further east, Ullswater is arguably the most majestic of all, and is where the daffodils that inspired Wordsworth can be found.

Where in the Lake District should I go?

Here are some of the region's key locations and what you can do there.

Bowness-on-Windermere is still the entry point for most visitors. Its adjacent namesake lake ribbons for 11 glorious miles through the gently undulating southern portion of the park. Taking a cruise here is a classic Lakeland experience, albeit one you’ll share with plenty of fellow sightseers. 

On the western side of Windermere is the village of Hawkshead, a pretty and atmospheric place to stay. It also has important connections to Beatrix Potter. You can visit Potter’s old home, a 17th-century cottage called Hill Top whose setting inspired much of her work. 

Wordsworth was schooled in Hawkshead and lived for a time in Grasmere to the north of Windermere. You can visit his old home, Dove Cottage, where he penned some of the greatest poetry ever written – much of it concerned with the nature he found around him – and see his grave in St Oswald’s Churchyard .

Beyond here, heading further north into the middle of the park, the scenery becomes more wild and dramatic. Bottle-green valleys dotted with sheep and flanked by craggy ridges form great fissures in the landscape. Mountain passes, draped like bootlaces across the unforgiving terrain, link remote hamlets and villages.

The most northerly of the Lake District's major towns, Keswick  has the most beautiful location of all: encircled by cloud-capped fells and nestled alongside the idyllic, island-studded lake of Derwentwater, a silvery curve criss-crossed by puttering cruise boats. It's also brilliantly positioned for further adventures into the nearby valleys of Borrowdale and Buttermere, and is a great base for walking.

What are the best things to do in the Lake District?

Follow one of england's best hiking trails.

The Lake District has some of the finest walking trails in the world. Walk Lakes  is a useful resource and allows you to choose trails by both difficulty and location. Some popular routes include:

• The 5-mile (8km) circuit around Buttermere is surrounded on all sides with mountains and offers consistently stunning views.
• The popular 3-mile (5km) scramble up the 1476ft (450m) peak of Catbells, adjacent to Derwentwater, is slightly more testing and provides one of the best panoramic views in the Lake District.
• For the glory of saying you’ve climbed the highest peak in the country, Scafell Pike beckons. This is doable for anyone with reasonable fitness but should be approached with common sense and waterproofs, not flip flops and a vest. If the weather is kind, you’ll catch a glimpse of Wastwater from the top – a mere puddle on the landscape when viewed from the 3208ft (978m) summit.
• The national park also has a wide range of accessible walks for those who are less mobile. There are 50 routes, right across the national park to suit people of all abilities, including many routes for wheelchair users. You can find full details of those at the park website .

Hit the water, bike or climb

Not surprisingly, there’s an abundance of other ways to enjoy the outdoors in Lakeland, from water-based activities such as fishing and kayaking, to mountain-biking, climbing and gorge walking (often called "ghyll scrambling" in these parts). One of the most exciting adventure activities can be found at the Honister Slate Mine on its vertiginous via ferratas – think cables, cliffs and clinging on for dear life.

What is there to do with kids? 

There are plenty of great family days out to be had in the Lakes, and they're not all reliant on favorable weather. For indoor entertainment, try the World of Beatrix Potter in Bowness. It's divided into areas themed on Potter's more famous stories and is perfect for younger children.

The Ravenglass and Eskdale Steam Railway (known locally as La'al Ratty) makes for a highly pleasant 40 minutes, trundling 7 miles (11km) from the coast through the lovely Eskdale valley to the foot of the Scafell range. Nearby Muncaster Castle , with its impressive castle grounds, has a Hawk and Owl Center with daily flying displays of birds of prey.

Is it easy to get to and around the Lake District?

It's possible to access and explore most of the Lake District using public transport – there are railway stations at Windermere, Oxenholme (Kendal) and Penrith, and an excellent network of local busses, including the legendary 555 that runs the entire length of the national park and is a day out in itself.

For convenience and flexibility, most prefer to use their own transport. The M6 flanks the entire eastern edge of the park, while the A591 and A66 dissect it internally. Most of the Lake District’s roads are rural and mountain passes may be closed in bad weather.

The national park also offers electric car hire options, as well as a network of charging points .

Where is the best place to stay?

The bulk of accommodations is in the four main towns – Bowness, Windermere, Ambleside and Keswick – but almost every village has at least one B&B option. There are also plenty of campsites and youth hostels.

What is the food like?

The county is crammed with passionate food producers and local delicacies. Taste Cumbria has a running schedule for local food markets. There are plenty of excellent pubs to choose from too, from no-nonsense fodder for hikers to fine-dining at the three-Michelin Starred L’Enclume in Cartmel.

What should I pack?

Be properly prepared for the likes of Helvellyn and Scafell Pike, especially in the colder months. You should have a pair of sturdy boots and waterproofs as an absolute minimum. There are many outdoor shops in the area where you can buy extra equipment or layers.

This article was first published Nov 12, 2015 and updated Jul 18, 2024.

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Away With Maja

30 incredible places to visit in the lake district.

The Lake District , in the north of England, is one of my favorite places on earth. I visited for the first time in April 2017, and was completely enchanted. It’s a destination that I return to regularly, and an area I know extremely well. There is so much to see and do in this national park, it can be difficult to know where to start! It took a lot of work to narrow this list down, as truly, there are so many incredible spots. Here are 30 spectacular places to visit in the Lake District.

Table of Contents

What is the Lake District? Where is the Lake District?

The Lake District National Park, sometimes referred to as the Lakes or Lakeland, is a national park in the northwest of England. It’s in the county of Cumbria, with Manchester to the south and Carlisle to the north. The national park was established in 1951 and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017. It covers 912 square miles, and is home to the highest mountain in England: Scafell Pike (978 meters). Windermere, the longest and largest lake in England, is here; Wastwater, which is the deepest lake in the country, is also located here. A quirky thing to note about the Lake District: there is only one official lake, Bassenthwaite Lake. The rest are meres, tarns, or waters.

There are 214 notable fells, called Wainwrights, based on Alfred Wainwright’s books of the Lakes – hiking them (“bagging Wainwrights”) is a common activity for hikers in the Lake District. I’m currently at 53 out of 214!

How to Get Around the Lake District

The best and easiest way to get around the Lake District is by car. Public transportation is limited in the more remote areas, and to get to the starting points for hikes it’ll be easiest to have your own vehicle. Note that there are some single-track roads in the rural areas, including epic (and challenging) drives like Wrynose Pass and Hardknott Pass – narrow switchbacks up and down the mountains. You may need to use passing places if you meet another car; always thank drivers with a short wave or flicking your index finger up if they give way to you. Buses connect many of the main towns and villages – the Lake District has a surprisingly good bus network, particularly around Keswick and Ambleside. For train access, Penrith and Windermere are two of the most convenient stations for exploring the Lake District.

Would you rather take a tour of the Lake District? Check out some of the best tours in the Lakes below!

The Best Places to See in the Lake District: History & Culture

Castlerigg stone circle.

This is probably my favorite place on earth. Castlerigg Stone circle is an impressive Neolithic stone circle, just outside of Keswick. It’s older than Stonehenge – and, unlike Stonehenge, you can actually walk around between the stones. There are beautiful views over the surrounding peaks from here, and it’s free to visit. Seeing the sunrise here remains one of the best moments of my life.

Grasmere is a charming village in the heart of the Lake District. While it’s the home of William Wordsworth, you don’t need to be a literary fan to enjoy visiting here. Stroll around the pretty streets, and be sure to stop at Grasmere Gingerbread Shop. This gingerbread recipe was invented in 1854, and is popular around the world – there will probably be a queue at the shop, but it’s worth it!

Hardknott Roman Fort

This is one of the most unique historical sites in the Lake District. It was established in the early 2nd century BCE, during the reign of Emperor Hadrian, as a strategic fort due to its very remote location. It’s high up in Hardknott Pass, accessible from Eskdale or Wrynose Pass. You can only imagine how isolated the Roman soldiers stationed here felt – it feels like another world!

This is somewhere I’ve actually only visited once in the Lake District, but it certainly won’t be my last visit! This is a beautiful village, with classic English features like cobblestone streets, pretty houses, and plenty of cozy pubs. Don’t miss a stop at the Little Ice Cream Shop for the best ice cream in the Lake District!

Slater’s Bridge, Little Langdale

This is a beautiful, historic packhorse bridge in Little Langdale. Easily combined with a trip to the impressive Cathedral Cave nearby, you can do a short walk from the village to see Slater’s Bridge and the stunning Lake District scenery. Don’t miss it on a trip to the Lakes!

Honister Slate Mine

This is the last working slate mine in England, perched in a spectacular location at the top of Honister Pass. Go underground on a mine tour, and learn more about the history and present workings of the mine. Brave adventurers can steel their nerves on the via ferrata, climbing a steep cliff path at Honister Pass.

Ashness Bridge and Surprise View

There are a number of good walks that start from this area in Borrowdale. But it’s also a good spot to simply enjoy the beautiful Lakeland scenery. Ashness Bridge is an old stone packhorse bridge, on a single-track road. Surprise View offers a gorgeous panorama of Derwentwater – there’s parking available here, so you won’t have to do much hiking!

Ullswater Steamers

Cruise across Ullswater by taking a trip on a heritage vessel. This is a fantastic way to see the surrounding area, without needing to do strenuous hikes. Although, if you’d like to combine a boat trip with a hike, the steamers cruise across the lake – so you could do one section of a walk, and then take a steamer back to your starting point. The most popular embarkation points are Pooley Bridge and Glenridding.

Bridge House, Ambleside

This is one of the most photographed places in the Lake District. But there’s a good reason for that – it’s such a unique place! The stone house was originally built by the Braithwaite family in the 17th century over the beck to avoid land tax. There have been many different uses to the house, but today it’s in the care of the National Trust.

The Best Hikes in the Lake District: Easy

Buttermere (4.5 miles).

This 4.5-mile walk is one of the best low-level, easy walks in the Lake District. There is a path that runs around the entirety of the lake, with very little ascent. It’s a perfect stroll for all ages and ability levels – plus you can stop at one of pubs or tearooms in Buttermere. I also recommend a stop at Gatesgarth for ice cream if they’re open!

Blea Tarn (2 miles)

Blea Tarn is a picturesque lake deep in the heart of Langdale. There’s a well-marked trail that loops around the lake and returns to the car park by the road, which is about 2 miles. The view from the tarn across to the Langdale Pikes in the distance is one of my favorites in the Lake District.

Aira Force (Variable)

This 65-foot waterfall thunders down over the rocks, close to Ullswater. There are a number of trails around here, with several parking options, so the distance will vary depending on where you start. To extend your hike, head up to the summit of Gowbarrow Fall for magnificent views over Ullswater.

Stock Ghyll Force (1.3 miles)

Stock Ghyll Force is a pretty waterfall located in the woodland around Ambleside. Its location does mean that it can be quite popular, but it’s perfect for stretching your legs if you’re pottering around Ambleside for the day. It’s a 1.3-mile loop, but note that you will be walking uphill for a bit of the trail.

Tarn Hows (2 miles)

Tarn Hows is always going to be a special place to me, as it’s somewhere I visited for the first time on my first solo trip to the Lake District in April 2021. This beautiful lake is surrounded by forest and a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The trail is approximately 2 miles, on an accessible paved path. Extend your walk by hiking up to Black Crag if you’d like to bag a Wainwright.

Wastwater (Variable)

There are a number of different walks you can do around Wastwater, including a difficult 8-mile circular route that takes in the challenging (and, in my case, tear-inducing) Wastwater screes. But Wastwater is a top spot for swimming in the Lake District, and there are a number of areas where you can park by the shore and walk down to the water for a dip. This is the deepest lake in England, so it can be a bit chilly – you’ve been warned!

The Best Hikes in the Lake District: Moderate

Catbells (2.3 miles).

One of the most popular Wainwright hikes in the Lake District: Catbells. It’s a short but steep climb to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of Derwentwater, Keswick, Borrowdale, and the Skiddaw massif. This is many people’s choice for their first Wainwright, and with good reason. There are a number of routes you can do, but the easiest is the up-and-down route from Hawes End, approximately 2.3 miles and 345 meters of elevation gain.

Read More: Hiking Catbells in the Lake District

Loughrigg Fell (3 miles)

Loughrigg Fell is really in the heart of the Lake District: close to Grasmere village and Ambleside, with amazing views over Grasmere (lake) and Windermere. This is a walk that I always take first-time visitors to the Lakes on, as it’s a moderate climb up but the views are sensational. I prefer the route from White Moss (although it’s become notorious in recent years for its parking scam) – which is just over 3 miles altogether.

Hallin Fell (1 mile)

If you want big bang for your buck, this little fell in quiet Martindale is one of the top picks in the Lake District. A short 20-minute hike up, and you’ll be rewarded with epic views over Ullswater and the Eastern Fells. Sunrise and sunset are particularly special here. There’s parking at the church in Martindale.

Latrigg Fell (1.2 miles)

Another great short walk with unbelievable views, Latrigg Fell sits under the shadow of Skiddaw and overlooks Keswick. If you can nab a parking spot at the Latrigg car park, it’s just a short 1.2-mile loop to the peak and viewpoint. This is a gentle walk, on an accessible paved trail. There’s also the option to walk up from Keswick, too.

Castle Crag (3.6 miles)

Castle Crag is a lovely little hill in Borrowdale. It’s the smallest Wainwright in the Lake District, but that doesn’t mean it should be skipped. There are a few different route options, but the most straightforward is from Rosthwaite. The up-and-down route is about 2.3 miles, but looping through the woods is much nicer. The circuit is 3.6 miles.

Rannerdale Knotts (3 miles)

This is a top choice for a hike between April and May, during bluebell season. The countryside around Rannerdale Knotts comes to life, with the pretty purple flowers blanketing the area. The walk from Buttermere is just over 3 miles – if the weather is good, reward yourself with a swim in Crummock Water afterwards!

Raven Crag (1.5 miles)

Raven Crag is another smaller Wainwright, with jaw-dropping views over Thirlmere and across to the Helvellyn range. It’s about 1.5 miles out and back, although the incline is pretty unforgiving – it’s a steep climb up. But it’s well worth it for enjoying the spectacular scenery.

The Best Hikes in the Lake District: Difficult

Helvellyn (9.3 miles).

Helvellyn is the third-highest summit in the Lake District. It’s a popular peak, with many different routes up and down. One of the most challenging is the ascent up Striding Edge, a rocky ridge walk, and then descending down Swirral Edge. This route is about 8.7 miles, and should only be done in good weather, by those with hiking experience and competent scrambling ability. When I did this walk, I started from Wythburn Church and did the 9.3-mile loop. But I hope to go back and do Striding Edge someday!

Read More: Hiking Up Helvellyn in the Lake District

Old Man of Coniston (3.7 miles)

This was my first Wainwright and true difficult hike in the Lake District. And wow, what an experience! It got me hooked on hiking, mountains, the Lakes – all of it. Starting from the village of Coniston, or the car park higher up, you’ll pass Low Water before the climb to the summit. While the out-and-back from the car park at the end of Walna Scar Road is about 3.7 miles, you can extend the hike to Swirl How and back past Levers Water for a more challenging 7.3-mile route.

Red Screes (1.4 miles)

There are a number of different routes of Red Screes. One of the shortest, but hardest, is from the Kirkstone Pass. This route is a 1.4-mile hike, with about 345 meters of elevation gain. There are a number of scrambles to navigate, plus one very short stretch along a thin edge. But the views here are tremendous.

Great Gable (5.2 miles)

Like so many other high summits in the Lake District, there are several routes up to the summit of Great Gable. When I hiked this one, I did an out-and-back route from Honister Pass, which was about 5.2 miles in total. But whichever way you climb it, you’ll be rewarded with an amazing panorama over Wastwater. Be sure to see the memorial plaque at the summit to the Fell and Rock Climbing Club of the Lake District, who lost their lives in World War I. Every year, on Remembrance Sunday, there is a service held at the summit.

Kentmere Horseshoe (12.8 miles)

For a truly challenging round in the Lake District, hike the Kentmere Horseshoe. This is a 12.8-mile circuit that takes in eight Wainwrights, with phenomenal views around the Eastern Fells and even Haweswater in the distance. This was one of my first big horseshoe rounds, and I loved it! Note that parking can be difficult here, there are only about 6-7 spots in the village – but a farmer/landowner often opens up their field to accommodate more parking.

The Best Pubs to Visit in the Lake District

The kirkstone pass inn.

This pub is the third-highest in the country – it’s located high up in Kirkstone Pass, at a height of 1489 feet (454 meters)! It’s between Glenridding and Windermere, and you can drive a winding road called the Struggle up from Ambleside to get here! I stayed overnight here and it was such a wonderful experience. Unfortunately, the pub closed a few years ago for renovation works; there’s no set date for reopening as of yet.

Read More: Staying at the Kirkstone Pass Inn in the Lake District

The Kirkstile Inn

The Kirkstile Inn is a fantastic pub in Loweswater, a very small and quiet village close to the lake. Everything I’ve ever eaten here has been fantastic, and there are pretty views from the beer garden. It’s somewhere I try to detour to if I’m anywhere close by in the Lakes.

The Woolpack Inn

Located in remote Eskdale, this pub is something of an institution. The food is great, service is friendly, and you’ll likely be surrounded by lots of walkers. It’s a top place for a pint while exploring Eskdale. They have accommodation available, too.

Where to Stay in the Lake District

16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Lake District, England

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Apr 26, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

England's Lake District is located in Cumbria and named for the 16 glacial lakes that lie in long ribbons among its fells, moors, and green valleys. In this area, which measures only about 48 by 64 kilometers, there are 180 fells of more than 609 meters in altitude, one of which is 978-meter Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England.

Much of the tourist activity is in the southern half of the region, where most of the historic literary attractions lie, while the quieter north's natural features are more appreciated by hikers and nature lovers. The Lakes District provided inspiration for writers, including William Wordsworth, John Ruskin, and Beatrix Potter, whose homes are popular places to visit, as well as artists Gainsborough, Turner, and Constable.

Most of the region is included in the Lakes District National Park . You can travel to the Lake District by train, and you'll find hotel accommodation throughout the region as well as B&Bs in country cottages.

You'll be certain to find the best places to visit and things to do using our handy list of the top tourist attractions in England's Lake District.

See also: Where to Stay in the Lake District

1. Lake District National Park

2. lake windermere, 3. derwentwater, 4. helvellyn, 5. ullswater, 6. beatrix potter's hill top, 7. hike catbells high ridge, 8. dove cottage, 9. castlerigg stone circle, 10. coniston water, 11. levens hall & topiary gardens, 12. aira force, 13. lowther castle, 14. lakeland motor museum, 15. rydal mount & gardens, 16. hire a boat at coniston boating centre, map of tourist attractions in the lake district, england, where to stay in the lake district for sightseeing.

The 1,343-square-kilometer Lake District National Park includes some of the country's largest lakes, its tallest peak, and some of its loveliest scenery. The scenery and nature inspired writers, poets, and artists, some of whom made their homes here.

Several of the lakes have historic boats you can ride , and the entire region is laced with a network of walking and hiking trails . You can explore the area by car, bus, bike, or on foot, and there is train access to Windermere from Kendal, where the park headquarters is located. A park visitor center is at Brockhole and a boating center at Coniston.

Along with the lakes, some of the scenic highlights are the beautiful Newlands Valley , the magnificent views from Sphinx Rock , and the dramatic drive over Kirkstone Pass (the scenery is best going north).

Throughout the park are lakeside villages with activities and places to visit, as well as miles of scenic roads and trails for sightseeing.

The best known and busiest of the lakes, Windermere is about 16 kilometers long, and you can explore it with Windermere Lake Cruises, which also serves as a ferry between points around the lake. You can also rent boats here to explore the lake on your own.

At the southern end of the lake, steam locomotives of the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway carry tourists into the Leven Valley in 1950s-era cars. You can combine that trip with a lake cruise.

Also at the southern end is the Lakes Aquarium, a popular attraction with the UK's largest collection of freshwater fish. At the restored Victorian Fell Foot Park, near Newby Bridge, you can picnic and hire rowboats at the beautifully restored old boathouses to explore the lake and the River Leven. The park also has a good playground for kids.

Less than five kilometers long, Derwentwater is an idyllic lake in the northern part of the national park, and a 10-minute walk from the center of Keswick. On its west is the ridge of Catbells, and extending into the lake on the east is Friar's Crag, a favorite viewpoint. Beautiful Borrowdale Valley opens at its southern end.

Keswick Launch Co . makes a one-hour circuit of the lake on small boats that stop at seven points, where you can hop off to explore, or follow lakeside trails and catch the next boat at another stop. Around the entire perimeter of the lake is a 12-kilometer walk.

In Keswick, it's hard to resist a stop at the quirky Pencil Museum, where you'll learn how they are manufactured and how the discovery of graphite began a whole local industry.

One of the highest peaks in the English Lake District, Helvellyn is also one of its most popular hikes , for both casual climbers and those who relish a rugged scramble. The Helvellyn Horseshoe is a result of two geologic eras, first a volcano that left a bowl-shaped caldera, then the glaciers that scoured it out and carved one rim into the knife-edge ridge known as Striding Edge.

The view from any place along its rim, especially from the summit, is spectacular, out across the lakes and mountains, or looking down onto the high-set mountain lake of Red Tarn .

On the other side of the horseshoe, the trail most casual hikers use runs along the grassy crest of a broad ridge with views across to the knife edge and down into the valley lakes.

At 14 kilometers long and less than two kilometers wide, Ullswater is the second largest lake in the Lake District . Its setting is also beautiful, under Helvellyn Mountain. You can explore the lake on the 1887 Lady of the Lake or the 1889 Raven, both of which leave from the attractive village of Pooley Bridge, whose origins go back to the 16th century.

Ullswater is a particular favorite for hikers and walkers, who can follow the 32-kilometer Ullswater Way around the lake or combine the trail with boat rides for a 12-kilometer hike. Between Pooley Bridge and Aira Force, the Ullswater Way leads to Maiden Castle , a former hillfort with spectacular views of the Ullswater Valley.

Bought in 1905 with proceeds from her first book, the Tale of Peter Rabbit, the 17th-century farmhouse at Hill Top and the surrounding countryside inspired many of Beatrix Potter's books . When she left the house and farm to the National Trust, she stipulated that it be shown in the same condition as when she lived here, and in each room you can see objects that relate to her stories.

Along with the doll house setting for The Tale of Two Bad Mice, you'll see the desk where she wrote. The garden is a charming and seemingly random mix of flowers, herbs, vegetables, and fruit, where you will half expect to see one of her characters scampering away. This is a very popular attraction, and there is often a wait to enter the house; the timed tickets cannot be booked in advance.

Address: Near Sawrey, Ambleside

The distinctive peak of Catbells lures walkers of all capabilities, a short half-day climb to the final fell on a long ridge that separates Derwentwater from the Newlands Valley. The peak is 451 meters high, and you can hike up and back from Keswick for a spectacular view.

Although it's a short climb and the trail is good, it is steep in places. Once on top, strong walkers won't be able to resist following the ridge along the fells of Maiden Moor, High Spy, Dale Head, Hindscarth, and Robinson before descending into the Newlands Valley. It's a 14-kilometer hike, with dramatic scenery along the entire open ridge line.

The first family home of the great British poet William Wordsworth , Dove Cottage is a traditional Lakeland cottage with dark wood-paneled walls and stone floors, heated by coal fires. Still furnished with the Wordsworth family belongings, the cottage looks much as it did when the poet lived and wrote here, and is a mirror of life in the early 19th century.

Next door in a separate museum, you can see memorabilia about the poet, his family, his travels, and his work. The years at Dove Cottage were among his most productive, when he was inspired by the Lakeland scenery and the garden he and his sister planted outside their cottage. He wrote some of his poetry here amid the flowers, vegetables, butterflies, and birds.

Address: Grasmere, Ambleside

Of the more than 300 stone circles in England, Castlerigg is not only among the oldest, it is one of the most atmospheric. It is dramatically sited, with 38 stones aligned with the tallest of the surrounding fells, and the scene uncluttered by admissions offices or souvenir stands. Yours may be the only car there. Occasionally, volunteers may be there to give some more historical background.

Unlike most of England's stone circles, which are Bronze Age burial sites dating from 2000 to 800 BC, this one was constructed about 3000 BC in the Neolithic period. More than 30 meters in diameter, the circle originally had 42 stones, some more than two meters high. For the full dramatic effect, go at sunset.

Author's Tip: You can get from Keswick to the Castlerigg Stone Circle by Stagecoach buses, which provide a good way to get around in the Lake District.

Address: Castle Lane, Underskiddaw, Keswick, Cumbria

About eight kilometers long and less than a kilometer wide, Coniston Water lies beneath the eastern slope of the mountain known as the Old Man of Coniston , which towers above the lake and Coniston Village. You can explore the lake on board the 1859 steam yacht Gondola or the solar-powered Coniston Launch, or go under your own steam, hiring a boat or bike from Coniston Boating Centre.

Scenic boat rides include a stop at Brantwood , home of John Ruskin , one of the most influential minds of the Victorian era. His former home offers insights into his work, as well as fine art and objects collected in his extensive travels. The house is set in gardens that frame views of the lake and fells. In the village is the Ruskin Museum , which tells the story of Coniston from its early Stone Age inhabitants.

At the entrance to the Lake District National Park, Levens Hall began about 1250 as a Pele Tower, and grew into a magnificent Elizabethan manor house. You can tour the interior, with its fine oak paneling and ornate plasterwork, antique furnishings, and works of art.

Beautiful as it is, Levens Hall is more famous for its remarkable gardens. These include the oldest topiary gardens in the world , begun in the 1690s and largely unchanged since that time. Hidden behind a stone wall, these ancient box and yew trees have been trained and sculpted into geometric and freeform shapes, and clipped to form walls and gates. Surrounding these green sculptures are masses of luxuriant perennial flowers and seasonal bedding plants, all grown in the estate's greenhouses.

Beyond are more flowers in one of England's finest herbaceous borders, a rose garden, and kitchen gardens. A wildflower meadow, lawns, and a labyrinth of willows combine to make this one of England's premier garden attractions.

Address: Kendal, Cumbria

A graceful stone arched bridge poised over its top adds the finishing touch to this beautiful waterfall as it drops 19 meters, in stages, through a rocky ravine. The path from the car park to the falls is an easy one, and there are nature trails to follow, including one devoted to the wide variety of local trees.

Those who want to see more of this former hunting ground that inspired Wordsworth's poem I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud can follow the new off-road footpath between Aira Force and Glencoyne Bay.

A scenic approach to this valley is from Ambleside, over the steep and solitary Kirkstone Pass. Or relax on board a ferry and avoid the parking fee; Ullswater Steamers from Glenridding will bring you to Aira Force.

The grand battlemented facade and outer walls are all that remains of the early-19 th -century Lowther Castle , once the region's grandest, with more than 300 rooms. Today, even those walls and towers, with sky showing through the empty windows, make an impressive introduction to the estate and its restored gardens.

Demolished, except for the outer walls, in 1957, the castle ruins and its gardens lay abandoned for more than 50 years and overgrown until the estate's recent recovery as a show garden and adventure playground .

The castle has been preserved as a ruin and today the extensive ruins are a romantic backdrop to the gardens that thrive amid its stones. Courtyards and terraces are planted in parterre gardens, and the magnificent rose garden has been restored to its original curving arabesques.

The grounds are extensive, and you can rent bicycles (mountain bikes or electric) to explore the miles of paths , or take a guided bike tour to discover its secrets. Children love the Lost Castle , a large play structure that echoes the castle in wood, with turrets to climb, passages to wriggle through, zip lines, slides, and lots of places to pretend to be knights and princesses.

Address: Lowther, Penrith, Cumbria

Beside the River Leven, south of Lake Windermere, Lakeland Motor Museum overflows with more than 30,000 cars, motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, microcars, quadricycles , and other wheeled road vehicles and their accoutrements. These are enhanced by films and exhibits on related subjects, such as women's travel fashions, hood ornaments, advertising, and toy cars.

From the everyday "I used to drive one of those" cars to one-of-a-kind vehicles such as the only surviving example of a Turner 1949 Tri-Van, the museum covers nearly everything that rode the roads on wheels in the 20 th century.

A separate display area houses an exhibition on Malcolm Campbell's 1939 water speed record of 141.740 mph, in the powerboat Blue Bird K4 on Coniston Water. Along with a replica of Blue Bird, the exhibition also includes full-sized replicas of the 1935 Blue Bird car and the 1967 jet hydroplane Bluebird K7.

Author's Note: Even for those not enraptured by classic automobiles, the Lakeland Motor Museum is a good afternoon's diversion when the weather makes outdoor activities less enticing.

Address: Old Blue Mill, Backbarrow, Ulverston

Poet William Wordsworth lived at Rydal Mount from 1813 to his death in 1850, at the age of 80. At this home overlooking Lake Windermere, Rydal Water, and the fells, he wrote some of his best-loved works and revised many of his earlier works for publication, including his best-known poem Daffodils.

Larger rooms were added to the original Tudor cottage in 1750, but the original stone floors and wooden beams remain in the dining room, part of the old cottage. Elsewhere, you'll see bedrooms and Wordsworth's attic study. Throughout the house are portraits, mementos, and first editions of Wordsworth's works.

Compared to the garden the poet created at Dove Cottage, the one at Rydal Mount is a more spacious four acres, with terraces, rock pools, rare species, and brilliant displays of blooms in various seasons. It has been kept much as he originally designed it. In good weather, March through October, the tea room spills out onto a garden terrace, and savoring a cup of tea in Wordsworth's garden is one of the most popular things to do for poetry lovers.

Address: Rydal Mount, Ambleside

With all these lakes, you'll certainly want to take to the water at some point in your trip. While several lakes have boat tours, you can explore Coniston Water on your own in a Canadian-style canoe, an open-top kayak, rowboat, or electric motor boat rented from the Boating Center at Coniston .

If you know how to sail, you can also hire a sailing dinghy here and join the others skimming across the lake in the wind. The center also rents stand up paddleboards, and bicycles for those who prefer to explore the shore on two wheels.

Address: Lake Road, Coniston, Cumbria

We recommend these delightful hotels and guesthouses within easy reach of the top tourist attractions in the Lake District:

• The Villa Levens : This Grand Victorian-style country hotel has well-decorated spacious rooms and is close to attractions of the Lake District National Park.
• Lyzzick Hall Hotel : This family run, 3-star country guesthouse offers beautiful views, a wonderful restaurant, an indoor heated swimming pool, a sauna, and a whirlpool.
• Waterhead Hotel : This lakefront, mid-range Ambleside hotel comes with spacious rooms, turndown service, and gingerbread treats.
• Travelodge Kendal : If you're traveling on a budget, this hotel offers good value, clean rooms, and free parking.

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The most beautiful places in the Lake District

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written by Joanne Owen

updated 14.12.2023

With romantic peaks to ramble, idyllic villages to discover, and inspirational literary locations to explore, the Lake District in Cumbria , England , is as much a dream destination for culture vultures as it is for walkers, hikers and nature-lovers. The Lake District is also a top spot for family breaks, with the region’s Beatrix Potter connections and exciting outdoor activities. If you are wondering what are the most beautiful places in the Lake District to visit read on for our top picks, with further inspiration (and practical information) available in our travel guide  Rough Guide Staycations: The Lake District .

1. Lake Windermere: best for beauty-spot boating

2. grizedale forest: best for hikers and bikers.

• 3. Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top: best for little booklovers
• 4. Aira Forces fall: best for romantics and poets
• 5. Cartmel Medieval village: best for foodies
• 6. Ravenglass Railway: best for family fun
• 7. Great Langdale: best for adventurous ramblers
• 8. Castlerigg Stone Circle: best for history buffs
• 9. Honister's Iron Way: best for thrill-seekers
• 10. Bassenthwaite Lake: best for birders

11. Ullswater: best for pastoral pleasure-seekers

• 12. Hardknott Roman Fort: best for ruin-roamers

Travel ideas for England, created by local experts

The Great British Road Trip

Get ready to explore Britain on this unique self-drive road trip. Choose the car of your liking before you hit the road: from the Cotswolds and its picturesque villages over the Beatle's favorite hang-out in Liverpool to Scotland's capital Edinburgh: this trip includes many highlights to be explored

Magical 7-Day Family Adventure in Scotland and England : From Harry Potter to Loch Ness!

Searching for an unforgettable family adventure? Scotland is the perfect destination! With a perfect balance of nature, adventure, and Scottish culture. This 7-day trip offers a delightful mix of activities that everyone in the family will enjoy. Get ready to create life long lasting memories!

Refreshing English Countryside Break

Outside of London, England is known with a countryside full of history, picturesque villages, patchwork hills, and winding country roads. Explore the countryside with its castles, parks, and historical cities such as Oxford.

Walking around vintage England and picturesque Scotland

Visit two traditional capitals, London and Edinburgh, and enjoy a trek through the Loch Lomond national park. This trip will let you discover peaceful Scottish islands by foot, with several days of detailed walking tours included in the trip.

Hiking in out-of-the way Northern Cornwall

Northern Cornwall is a hiker's paradise and this itinerary includes the most scenic parts. You will start your journey in London with some unique activities to get to know the city, before setting off on a 5-day walk across Cornwall. End your trip in Bath and explore the backdrop of Bridgerton.

A walking holiday on the Jurassic Coast

Walking the Jurassic Coast is one of the best ways to truly appreciate the spectacular scenery. Walks range from easy to challenging. 6 days walking are included in this itinerary, as is an extensive pre-program in London and a last night back in the capital.

Ten and a half miles long, and a little over 200ft deep, Lake Windermere - England’s largest lake - is Cumbria’s crowning glory. With some of the best views in the Lake District (to the north, the central fells; to the south, a wooded shoreline), taking a boat trip is hands-down the best way to appreciate the lake’s beauty. And the good news is, there are several options to do just that - from  cruises  to  cross-lake ferries . 

If you’re near Windermere Jetty, be sure to explore the  museum's  matchless collection of Victorian and Edwardian steam launches and historic boats, among them Margaret, the world’s oldest yacht, and Arthur Ransome’s Coch-y-Bondhu, the real-life water craft behind one of his  Swallows and Amazons  boats.

Stunning sunset over Lake Windermere showcasing its scale and serene beauty as one of the most beautiful places in the Lake District, England © Shutterstock

As for where to stay, glamping doesn’t get better than Windermere’s  Low Wray National Trust campsite , with cool accommodation options ranging from tree tents and camping pods, to spacious woodland safari tents. If camping (however glamourous) isn’t your style, you could always book a room in an elegant lake-view guesthouse, like the heavenly Angel Inn . Either way, if you choose to stay in the vicinity of Lake Windermere, you'll be blessed with some of Cumbria's most beautiful views.

Separating Coniston Water from Windermere,  Grizedale Forest’s  emerald expanse is a natural paradise for travellers of all ages and inclinations. Though this ancient forest was somewhat depleted by the eighteenth-century, impressive regeneration has restored oak, spruce, larch and pine woodland to its green glory. As a result, the forest offers rich habitats for badgers, squirrels, grouse, woodcock and woodpeckers, with red deer seen occasionally too.

The Lake District's forests are blessed with atmosphere and beauty all through the year © Matt Gibson/Shutterstock

Head to the Grizedale Visitor Centre to pick up a map of the ten  walking trails , then watch out for forty fabulous woodland sculptures as you wander. The longest trail is the Silurian Way, which passes many of the sculptures as it climbs to Carron Crag, the forest’s highest point. 

In addition, the forest features  nine cycling and mountain bike trails and a children’s play area. Little monkeys will also adore the  Grizedale Go Ape experience, offering as it does all manner of aerial escapades, from the family-friendly Treetop Adventure course, to the dare-devil’s delight Zip Trekking Adventure, which featuress seven forest ziplines over 3km.

3. Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top: best for little booklovers

Chockful of the author’s most beloved possessions, Beatrix Potter’s seventeenth-century  Hill Top farmhouse - a National Trust property - oozes English countryside charm . With the author's furnishings and personal effects exactly as they were when Beatrix lived here - a condition of her will - visitors will be touched by the sight of her boots and hat near a fireside chair, and by the clock ticking in her kitchen. 

Then there's the charismatic cottage garden, replete with a higgledy-piggledy blast of wild flowers, herbs, fruit and vegetables. In need of refreshment? Head next door to the  Tower Bank Arms , which was featured in The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck .

Beatrix Potter's postcard-perfect Hill Top farmhouse - the epitome of English chocolate box charm © A D Harvey/Shutterstock

If you’re travelling with little ones,  The World of Beatrix Potter  takes a more child-centred approach, with all 23 tales featured in sensory 3D form, plus an assortment of interactive attractions, and an adorable themed tea room. For a convenient way to enjoy all the region’s Beatrix Potter sites, this  guided all-inclusive tour  covers Hill Top, the  Beatrix Potter Gallery , the  Armitt museum , and  Wray Castle .

4. Aira Forces fall: best for romantics and poets

Staying with the literature theme, walking the  Gowbarrow trail to the Aira Force waterfall  takes in the dazzling landscape of William Wordsworth’s “lonely as a cloud” daffodil wanderings. From the carpark, it’s only a thirty-minute walk to the fall via a soul-stirring walk through pine-carpeted, lushly-ferned woodland glades, all framed by towering conifers.

It's plain to see why Wordsworth took inspiration from the environs of Aira Force waterfall © Puripat Lertpunyaroj/Shutterstock

Whether viewed from the bottom of its 70ft drop, or from stone bridges that span the top, the cascading, thundering Aira Force fall is unquestionably one of the most beautiful places in the Lake District. Though there are some steep sections to navigate along the way to the waterfall, for a more challenging route in this area, take the adjacent Gowbarrow Fell trail - climbable in an hour from Aira Force car park. 

While we’re on the subject of Wordsworth, head to  Wordsworth House  in the village of Cockermouth to see where the great man was born. The riverside gardens are gorgeous, while the house is presented it was during the poet’s childhood. With an attractive riverside setting and tree-lined streets of stunning Georgian houses, Cockermouth itself has plenty going for it too. While here, you’d do well to enjoy a pint produced by Jennings Brewery - they're been brewing beer here since 1828.

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5. Cartmel Medieval village: best for foodies

The picturesque south lakeland village of Cartmel is a must-visit for foodies and gift-hunters, particularly if you’re into one-of-a-kind antiques and unique hand-crafted talking points. Cartmel’s cobbled streets and winding lanes are speckled with quality artisan food stores (don’t miss the to-die-for sticky toffee pudding sold in Cartmel Village Shop).

With an ethos of harnessing  “the powerful connect between food and nature,"   the village’s celebrated Michelin-starred restaurant,  L’Enclume , draw gourmands from far and wide. If you’re feeling flush you could  stay  in one L’Enclume’s elegant sixteen rooms dotted around the village.

Holker Hall stately home near Cartmel has style and beauy in abundance © kentaylordesign/Shutterstock

While in the area, don’t miss the town's 12th-century  Cartmel Priory , or grand  Holker Hall . A few miles west of the village, this is one of Cumbria’s finest stately homes. Still in use by the Cavendish family, who’ve owned it since the late seventeenth-century, it boasts beautiful 25-acre gardens with a sunken garden, grotto, stone labyrinth, huge sundial, and sweeping views. 

Antique-lovers should head a few miles northeast to Low Newton’s  Yew Tree Barn , a fabulous architectural salvage and antique reclamation yard and gallery. All in all, welcoming Cartmel offers rewarding cultural pursuits in a marvellously quaint milieu.

6. Ravenglass Railway: best for family fun

If you’re wondering what to do in the Lake District with your kids, taking a trip on the  Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway  comes highly recommended. Known as “La’al Ratty”, this narrow-gauge steam train transports passengers from the Esk estuary to the foot of the western fells on a seven-mile, forty-minute ride up two of the Lake District’s prettiest valleys - first along Miterdale under Muncaster Fell and then into the valley of the River Esk - before terminating at Dalegarth station. The ticket allows you to get off and walk from one of the half-dozen stations along the way.

The fun Ravenglass and Eskdale Steam Railway traverses some of the Lake District's most gorgeous valleys © Pecold/Shutterstock

Another fantastic family day out can be enjoyed at Muncaster Castle . Home to the Pennington family since the thirteenth-century (family members still live here today), the castle was built around a medieval tower. With expansive gardens to delight all ages, children - especially - love the owl and hawk displays and castle's ghost stories. For an atmospheric overnight experience, you could  stay in the self-catering Coachman’s Quarters.

7. Great Langdale: best for adventurous ramblers

To enjoy the best rugged walking in the central fells, head for the peerless  Langdale Valley . Flanked by some of the Lake District’s most famous peaks - Crinkle Crags, Bowfell and the Langdale Pikes - Great Langdale sits in an awe-inspiring valley. It’s also one of the oldest occupied parts of the region, with archaeological evidence dating back to the Stone Age. 

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Awe-inspiring views of the Langdale Valley in the Lake District © Shutterstock

The walk to Pavey Ark, a formidable cliff-face rising to 2297ft, can be climbed relatively easily if you approach it up the grassy path to its rear. More daring walkers with a head for heights will want to make the more dramatic climb up the Jack’s Rake cleft - the most difficult commonly used route in the Lake District (in parts, it’s pretty much full-on rock-climbing).

8. Castlerigg Stone Circle: best for history buffs

Striking powerful poses above Keswick , the dramatically sited  standing stones at Castlerigg  are the most prominent reminder of the Lake District’s ancient inhabitants, and the area’s most mysterious landmark. Sitting atop a sweeping plateau, and dwarfed by the encroaching fells, the site comprises thirty-eight slabs of Borrowdale volcanic stone (the largest of which is almost 8ft tall) arranged into a circle.

Thought to have been constructed around 3000 BC with an astronomical or timekeeping function, this is one of Britain’s earliest stone circles. It also boasts the unusual feature of having a rectangle of stone blocks within the circle. And, since the site has yet to be extensively excavated, more mysteries might yet be unveiled - and understood.

Mystery and mountain-backed scenery at the Lake District's Stone Circle © Shutterstock

To explore Castlerigg Stone Circle alongside more of the most beautiful places in the Lake District, this full-day, ten-lake tour  has you covered. And, while in the Keswick area, you can also  rent mountain bikes , or book outdoor activities  like canoeing, ghyll-scrambling, raft-building, crag-climbing and abseiling.

9. Honister's Iron Way: best for thrill-seekers

Rescued by local entrepreneurs in 1996 and now in full operation as a sustainable enterprise,  Honister  is home to England’s last working slate mine , with slate having been quarried from the area since Elizabethan times. 

To get a feel for life as a miner through the centuries, take a mine tour - it’s a fascinating journey through narrow tunnels into illuminated echoing caverns. Though not your typical Lake District beauty-spot of lakes, mountains and woodland, it's attractive in its own way, while the centre's excellent  canyoning activities  take in the majesty of the surrounding mountains.

Formidable Fleetwith Pike - scaled by daredevils who undertake the Honister Slade Mine's Iron Way © Garry Basnett/Shutterstock

The mine’s major attraction is the  Via Ferrata  (“Iron Way”) climbing experience that employs a system pioneered in the Italian Dolomites. Using a permanently fixed cableway and clip-on harness, daredevils follow the miners’ old routes up the mountain face, clambering iron rungs, ladders and supports to reach the top of Fleetwith Pike. 

For an even more intense experience,  Via Ferrata Xtreme  throws in further vertical climbs, cliff-face ladders, an Indiana Jones-style “Infinity Bridge” across a gaping 2000ft chasm, plus a giant scramble net. Don't say we didn't warn you.

10. Bassenthwaite Lake: best for birders

Three miles from Keswick, and the northernmost of the Lake District’s major expanses of water, Bassenthwaite Lake’s shoreline habitat is the best preserved of the region’s National Park. Home to over seventy species of bird and wildfowl, it’s most known for its wild ospreys. 

After recolonising the area in 2001, they've returned every year since to nest and breed on the lakeshore. Usually arriving in early April, their eggs hatch in June, before adults and young head to Africa in August or September.

Bassenthwaite Lake - a Lake District beauty spot beloved by birders © Michael Conrad/Shutterstock

These majestic birds are protected here by the  Lake District Osprey Project , a partnership between the Forestry Commission, Lake District National Park, and the RSPB. To view them plunging to catch fish from the lake, take the quarter-mile path from the Old Sawmill Tearooms to the lower viewpoint, with an upper viewpoint another thirty-minute climb ahead. Seeing these magnificent raptors up close and in action is a breath-taking experience, as is their Bassenthwaite Lake location.

Wordsworth was on the mark when he declared Ullswater , "the happiest combination of beauty and grandeur, which any of the Lakes affords.”  Surrounded by epic mountain scenery to the south, and gentle hills to the north, Ullswater Lake is the second largest lake in England, and walking the 20-mile  Ullswater Way  around the lake is a wonderful way to appreciate its beauty, with some of the best views in the Lake District.

Ullswater Lake curves through the mountains at Glenridding, simply one of the most beautiful places in the Lake District © Joe Dunckley/Shutterstock

Alternately, you could combine walking with cruising - five vintage Ullswater Steamers  operate a year-round service, one of which, Lady of the Lake, might just be the oldest working passenger vessel in the world (it was launched in 1877). 

Services run from Glenridding to Howtown, and on to Pooley Bridge, plus there’s also a route between Glenridding and the National Trust Aira Force Pier. The small village of Glenridding is also a popular starting point for walkers heading up Helvellyn mountain.

12. Hardknott Roman Fort: best for ruin-roamers

Known as Mediobogdum to the Romans, the remains of  Hardknott Roman Fort  are a striking testament to how serious the Romans were about defending their conquests. Commanding a strategic panoramic position below Hardknott Pass, this mighty fortification was built during Hadrian’s reign and originally boasted 12ft thick walls, a double-towered gateway, and multiple granaries and bathhouses, while its commandant enjoyed pretty plush living quarters.

You can roam Roman ruins in epic surroundings at hulking Hardknott Roman Fort © Kevin Standage/Shutterstock

Today most of the lower part of the defensive wall is the handiwork of the original Romans, while the foundations of the granaries and various other buildings have been re-erected. The surrounding heather and bracken provide a beautiful backdrop to this impressive historic site, while the views down into Eskdale and up to the Scafells are out-of-this-world. 

If this guide to the most beautiful places in the Lake District has piqued your interest in visiting the region, take a look at the practical and inspirational Rough Guide Staycations: The Lake District . As a bonus, purchase of the print guidebook comes with access to a free eBook - very handy if you're out and about and don't want to lug it around, but do want all that vital info to hand.

Ready to travel to England ? Find out about the best time to go and the best places to see and things to do in England . For inspiration use the England itineraries from The Rough Guide to England and created by local travel agents in England . A bit more hands on, learn about getting there , getting around England and where to stay once you are there.

We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this does not influence our editorial standards - we only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Header image: crystalline waters and epic mountains in the Lake District, Cumbria, England © Shutterstock

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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21 best things to do in the Lake District

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Think of things to do in the Lake District and, besides wintery stomps or sunny lounges by the spectacular bodies of water, you could be a little stumped. It’s that startling beauty which attracts people to this UNESCO World Heritage Site – but there's also a fantastic culinary scene, and activities galore should the rain dampen a family holiday. The importance that Cumbria places on food is even apparent if you stop off at the county’s award-winning service station, Tebay , on the way. With its farm shop, butchery and deli counter, as well as some spectacular panoramic views, it serves as a taster of what’s to come as you head into Wordsworth Country.

Best things to do in Lake District

1. Ennerdale Water

Lying in the westernmost area of the Lake District, Ennerdale Water is a glacial lake with clear traces of prehistoric activity. More recently, Wordsworth’s work,  The Brothers , was inspired by a visit he made here with Coleridge. Walking the seven-mile loop around the lake isn’t particularly challenging in terms of terrain, other than some scrambling at Anglers Crag – which the views over the water will make worthwhile. Don’t rush this walk on the basis of its relative ease, though – factor in extra time to admire the landscape, which seating areas along the way make even more enjoyable.

Website:   nationaltrust.org.uk

2. Wordsworth House

Located in the market town of Cockermouth, William Wordsworth’s childhood home was saved from demolition (to build a bus garage in its place!) in the 1930s and is now owned by the National Trust. Take a trip into Georgian England via a guided or audio tour and get a glimpse into how life would have looked for Wordsworth and his sister, Dorothy, complete with meals on the table and a kitchen fire ablaze. The site is family-friendly, with dressing up clothes and toys in the children’s bedroom, while the exhibition rooms host an annually changing display. Don’t miss the walled riverside garden, in which the poet frolicked as a child and from which he is thought to have drawn inspiration for his adult works.

Address:  Wordsworth House, Main Street, Cockermouth, Cumbria CA13 9RX Price:  Adults from £8.50, children from £4.20 and families £21.20. Free for National Trust members. Website:   nationaltrust.org.uk

3. Lakes Distillery

Spirits here are made from filtered water from the nearby fells, and on a tour of the distillery, you’ll visit the Still Room and be coached on how casks impact flavour. Afterwards, you have the opportunity to sample the distillery’s whisky, vodka and gin, with a further discount on in-store purchases so that you can take your favourites home with you. Even if you have little interest in sampling the spirits, the on-site restaurant – housed in what was once a cattle parlour – offers robust flavours and locally sourced products.

Address:  The Lakes Distillery, Bassenthwaite Lake, near Setmurthy, Cumbria, CA13 9SJ Price : Adults, £15, teens: £5, children aged 6 to 12, free (children under the age of 6 are not permitted on the distillery tour) Website:   lakesdistillery.com

4. The Lingholm Kitchen and Walled Garden

Large windows offer exceptional views of Skiddaw, which is one of England’s highest mountains – and the premises’ setting, on the shore of Derwent Water, makes it even more scenically alluring. The menu’s ‘Cumbria first’ policy means that you can expect seasonal deliciousness sourced from local farms and producers, as well as baked goods made on-site – a treat even more special if you book in for afternoon tea. It doesn’t stop within the grounds, however – the Lingholm will also point you in the direction of the area’s best pubs and restaurants. There’s a gorgeous walled garden, too, which has a Beatrix Potter connection – as a frequent visitor to the estate, she is said to have drawn inspiration from some of her best-known stories, including The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin and Peter Rabbit, from here.

Address:  The Lingholm Estate, Portinscale, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5TZ Website:   thelingholmkitchen.co.uk

5. Dove Cottage

A visit to Dove Cottage, where Wordsworth spent many years of his adult life and wrote several of his most celebrated works, is an invaluable addition to a Lake District itinerary. Using insights from the poet’s writings and his sister’s journal, snippets of everyday life as it must have been in the early 1800s, have been recreated here. Behind Dove Cottage, the garden that Wordsworth described as “the loveliest spot man hath ever found” has been restored, allowing visitors to experience the enjoyment and inspiration it brought him. Nearby, a museum holds a collection of his works, accompanied by those of his contemporaries, while the grounds of St Oswald’s Church, down the road, are home to his humble headstone – a much-visited site for lovers of literature.

Address:  Dove Cottage, Grasmere, Cumbria, LA22 9SH Price:  a child’s ticket is priced from £6 (5s and under free); adult ticket from £14. Tickets are valid for unlimited visits for 12 months from day of purchase. Entry is every 40 minutes, booking in advance is recommended. Website:  wordsworth.org.uk

6. Grasmere

While visiting Wordsworth’s home, take time to explore Grasmere itself, and enjoy the contrast between its chocolate box prettiness and the majesty of its wild setting. Dry stone wall-flanked streets, quaint tearooms, independent retailers and the Grasmere Brewery lend themselves to gentle exploration, but there are also waterfalls, caves and thickly wooded areas where you might see a rare red squirrel. Just two miles out of the village, the Glen Rothay Hotel joins woodland, which is home to an impressive population of badgers: head here for a drink as night falls for your best chance of spotting one. Also, stop by Grasmere Gingerbread Shop, formerly a church cottage and home of Sarah Nelson, whose 1854 recipe for gingerbread became so prized that she safeguarded it in a bank vault. The recipe remains a secret to this day, and the gingerbread is still wildly popular with locals and tourists alike.

Address:  The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop, Church Cottage, Grasmere, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 9SW Website:   visitcumbria.com ,  grasmeregingerbread.co.uk

7. Wastwater

England’s deepest lake is three miles long and half a mile wide, surrounded on all sides by mountains, including Scafell Pike – England’s highest. All along its southeastern edge, the Screes lend a menacing appearance to the lake, rising above it in a towering formation of rock fragments. There’s evidence of Norse farming from the 9th and 10th centuries, and St Olaf’s Church – one of the country’s smallest – is at the lake’s northern end, featuring exposed roof beams that are believed to have been repurposed from Viking ships. The graves of many climbers who have died on the surrounding fells can be found in the churchyard, while modern-day explorers can tackle the 9km Wastwater Loop for fabulous views of the lake, refuelling at one of the area’s atmospheric pubs, such as the Wasdale Head Inn, afterwards.

8. Blackwell, the Arts and Crafts House

Originally built as a holiday home for a wealthy Manchester family, Blackwell was designed by English architect M H Baillie Scott. Design details such as inglenook hearths, hand-carved oak and stone panelling, plus Art Nouveau-stained glass provide a gorgeous setting for the property’s current incarnation as an Arts & Crafts House, with exhibitions, activities, workshops and events based on objects from the Arts & Crafts collection, as well as loans from public and private lenders. Blackwell’s use as a school from WWII until the mid-70s is celebrated in a permanent exhibition, while refreshments can be taken in the tearoom or on the terrace against a lake setting.

Address:  Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere LA23 3JT Price:  Adults £12, children aged 5- 15 £6. Tickets are valid for multiple visits for 12 months. Under 5s go free. Website:   lakelandarts.org.uk

9. Windermere and Ambleside

As England’s largest lake, Windermere covers 10.5 miles and is surrounded by impressive peaks. Whether you take to the water, hike the lake’s shoreline or explore the surrounding villages, it’s not difficult to see why this is one of the Lake District’s most popular areas. Brockhole House and Gardens, a lakeside Arts & Crafts Villa, has gorgeous gardens with views of Windermere and various pikes, including Langdale Pike and Pike of Stickle; stroll through the grounds before heading out on a lake adventure on a paddleboard, canoe or boat.

Website: windermereinfo.co.uk ; amblesideonline.co.uk

10. Hill Top, Beatrix Potter's House

Beatrix Potter bought this 17 th -century farmhouse in 1905, with the proceeds from The Tale of Peter Rabbit , and left it to the National Trust upon her death in 1943. In accordance with her wishes, it’s been left undisturbed, complete with William Morris wallpaper and the writer’s signature straw hat on a chair. The charming grounds are an informal cottage-garden jumble of herbs, flowers, vegetables and fruits – including the rhubarb patch where Jemima Puddle-Duck laid her egg. A limited number of guests are allowed in the house and can book your visit up to two weeks in advance, with tickets on sale each Thursday.

Address: Near Sawrey, Ambleside LA22 0LF Price: Adult tickets from £15; children from £7.50. Website: nationaltrust.org.uk

11. Theatre by the Lake

A Cumbrian community hub with a spectacular setting on the shores of Derwentwater, this theatre has two stages, one with seating for up to 400 and another for smaller, more intimate audiences. Both present shows by visiting theatre groups, as well a varied programme of their own local productions, and the year always ends with a fun-filled family Christmas show. In fact, numerous productions throughout the year are tailored to be enjoyable for children; the theatre is also wheelchair- and dementia-friendly. An on-site café/ restaurant gives visitors a wide choice of snacks and hot meals to enjoy while taking in the view, which changes in different lights and seasons.

Address: Lakeside, Lake Road, Keswick CA12 5DJ Website: theatrebythelake.com

12. Keswick

Keswick itself – the market town near which Theatre by the Lake is located – might have been lifted from the pages of a picture book and, like Grasmere, makes for an even more compelling view due to its backdrop – in this case, the soaring hulk of Skiddaw mountain. It’s a good base for boat excursions on Derwentwater, or fell walking, with boots available to hire from outlets within the village. Mountain bikes may also be rented for those who prefer to explore on two wheels. The town was granted its market charter by King Edward I in 1276, and the market continues to this day on Thursdays and Saturdays (9am to 4.30pm) with around 60 traders selling a range of local food and drink, as well as crafts.

Website: keswick.org

13. Rheged Heritage Centre

Prepare for the inevitable rainy day by checking out the cultural programme at Rheged Heritage Centre, which offers a variety of exhibitions and workshops. There’s also a gallery, cinema, café, shop and soft-play, as well as a co-working area. The Centre has been sympathetically designed to blend with its surroundings, with Britain’s largest grass-covered roof giving it the appearance of a Lakeland Hill. Address: Redhills, Penrith CA11 0DQ Website: rheged.com

14. Cranstons Cumbrian Food Hall and Café

Founded as a butchery in 1914, Cranstons evolved to become a food hall some 20 years ago and is fresh from a recent renovation. Less than a five-minute walk from Penrith train station, it’s a great place to pick up fresh meat and deli goods, as well as a huge variety of locally sourced produce – ideal if you’re self-catering. There’s also a fresh fish counter, but meat eaters shouldn’t miss the region’s famous Cumberland sausage, while local craft ales and gins, plus honey and preserves, make great gifts to take home. As well as the café upstairs (try the scones), the refurbed food hall has a hot food counter with sausage rolls, pies, butties and meal boxes, as well as self-serve salads and fresh squeezed juice bar.

Address: Cranstons Cumbrian Foodhall, Ullswater Road, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 7EH Website: cranstons.net

15. Cumberland Bird of Prey Centre

Set within sprawling grounds, the Cumberland Bird of Prey Centre has activities ranging in time from one hour to five days, each under the instruction of a fully trained falconer. Guests can interact with species including vultures, owls, falcons and eagles on activities such as Hawk Walks and Owl Experiences, many of which can be tailored to groups or families. Although all of the Centre’s activities have been designed for people participating, it’s also possible to add spectators on to your booking, which should be made in advance. Note that the Centre is closed for winter during February and March.

Address: Sandhill, Moorhouse Road, Thurstonfield, Cumbria CA5 6HB Price : From £45 Website : birdofpreycentre.co.uk

16. Castlerigg Stone Circle

As if the mystique of a stone circle were not enough, Castlerigg is possibly one of the oldest in Britain (it’s thought to have been constructed around 300BC) and has the drama of a mountainous and sometimes menacing backdrop. As a Neolithic, rather than Bronze Age (circa 2000 – 800BC) stone circle, Castlerigg is devoid of burial remains and features 38 large stones, although there were originally 42. There’s been speculation that the placement of the stones may have had astrological significance but whatever their purpose or meaning, they form a broodingly special spot, which hums with the resonance of millennia.

Address: Castle Lane, Underskiddaw, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4RN Price : Free and open during ‘reasonable daylight hours’ Website : english-heritage.org.uk

17. Stargaze at Low Gillerthwaite Field Centre

An accredited Dark Sky Discovery Site, the Centre is set in Ennerdale, at the base of Red Pike, Pillar and Steeple. The nearest public road is about two miles away, making the remoteness of this site even more apparent, and the relative simplicity of the premises, which have been upgraded from 17 th century agricultural buildings, adds to this appeal. There’s self-catering accommodation for up to forty people, with five dorms and a large field for campers. Check the website calendar for forthcoming stargazing events, or simply wrap up warm and enjoy the spectacle of the night sky.

Address: Low Gillerthwaite Field Centre, Ennerdale, Cleator, Cumbria, CA23 3AX Price : Adult (18+) per night £20.50, children 5 – 17 £15. Discounts for members Website : www.lgfc.org.uk

18. Ride on an Ullswater Steamer

While there are several boat tour operators in the Lake District, Ullswater Steamers is one of the oldest, with a fleet of five heritage boats and a 160 year-plus history. With all steamers having covered outdoor seating, as well as indoor saloons, this is an all-weather activity – indeed, while Ullswater Valley is breath-taking on a clear day, it takes on a moody majesty under grey skies, with ancient geological activity contributing to a dramatic landscape. Running 363 days a year, with various embarkation points along the eight-mile route, there are also special events throughout the year, such as gin tasting cruises and dawn photography outings.

Price : Adults from £15, children from £10 Website: ullswater-steamers.co.uk

19. Visit Holker Hall

The name Holker came from Norse invaders and means “a rise in marshy ground” – a name that in no way prepares you for the beauty of this stately home and its 23 acres of grounds. The House was originally built in the 17 th century but rebuilt after almost being lost to a fire: what you now see is Neo-Elizabethan in style, including the tower and cupola, although many interior design features are reminiscent of what was destroyed in the blaze. In the gardens, visitors can wander through a range of distinct styles, including manicured borders and lawns, and untamed areas of wildflowers and woodlands. There’s a café and food hall on site, and picnics within the grounds are welcomed.

Address: Cark-in-Cartmel, Nr Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria LA11 7PL Price : Adults £38.50 for a year from purchase; children under 12 visit for free. Website : holker.co.uk

20. Eat out in Cartmel

It’s hard to go wrong with food in the Lake District, where hearty, local fare abounds. Cartmel is deservedly famous for its sticky toffee pudding but, more recently, it’s also gained Michelin stardust, thanks to chef Simon Rogan. Whether you dine at the laid-back, single-starred Rogan & Co or at the three-starred L’Enclume, you’re in for a gastronomic treat – and L’Enclume, Aulis provides an additional and exclusive six-seater chef’s table experience. There are also many other top-notch eateries in the area, including The Pig and Whistle and The Cavendish Arms.

Address : Rogan & Co, Devonshire House, Devonshire Square, Cartmel, Grange-over-Sands LA11 6QD; L’enclume, Cavendish St, Cartmel, Grange-over-Sands LA11 6QA, Website : roganandco.co.uk ; lenclume.co.uk

21. Go wild swimming

In such a watery area, is there any excuse for not taking a dip? You can swim in most of the region’s lakes and tarns, although not in Ennerdale Water, Haweswater Reservoir, Thirlmere Reservoir nor Kentmere Reservoir. Be aware that some areas may be very cold, even during warm weather, and plan your swim accordingly; you may also encounter blue-green algae, which can be harmful to humans, but more particularly to dogs. There are also several swimming spots to enjoy as you hike the fells, such as Buttermere Infinity Pool (start from the parking area at Gatesgarth Farm) which is backed by a waterfall and has gorgeous views over the valley. Sour Milk Ghyll, about a 4-mile walk from Grasmere, is another option – it’s fed by frothing waterfalls that Dorothy Wordswoth described as “a broad stream of snow.”

Website : lakedistrict.gov.uk

24 Beautiful Places to Visit in the Lake District

There are so many incredible places to visit in the Lake District, so if it’s not on your UK travel bucket list, it should be.

The Lake District (or ‘the Lakes’ as it is affectionately known) in Cumbria is one of the most stunning, rugged and wild parts of the UK. With stunning landscapes, mountains, lakes, and pretty towns, it’s no wonder that this area became the muse of poets and writers such as William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter.

Luckily for me, it’s only an hour’s drive away from my house! I often go there for day trips and weekend breaks, however, you could easily stretch your itinerary to a week or two as there are plenty of activities, hikes and restaurants to keep you busy.

So here are my suggestions on the best places to visit in the Lake District. 

Please Note:  Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate sales help with the running costs of this site, so thank you for your support!

Table of Contents

The Lake District covers a wide area but is small enough so that you can stay in one place and drive to different areas within an hour or two. But if you wanted to minimise your driving times, you could split your time between different places.

To be honest, I can’t really say which part of the Lake District is my favourite – it’s all so lovely!

Kendal is a cute market town and the gateway to the Lake District. The town is famous for the ruins of Kendal Castle and Kendal Mint Cake, which is basically minty sugar cake that is great to take on hikes – some people love it, some people hate it (I love it) – don’t knock it until you’ve tried it.

Bowness-on-Windermere

Bowness-on-Windermere is definitely on my list of favourite places to visit in the Lake District. I have visited many, many time over the years and is one of the most accessible and popular places to visit in the Lakes. There’s so much to do around Lake Windermere, you could stay here a week and not get bored. 

With it being a town, it’s the perfect place to base yourself for your visit to the Lake District, especially if you like a bit of nightlife. There are lots of lovely little shops and restaurants, the  World of Beatrix Potter  and plenty of  activities in and around Windermere , including water-based sports as well as lots of ‘free’ things to do such as hiking and picnicking at the lake. At the southeast of the lake, you’ll find a nice hike up Gummer’s How which has stunning panoramic views.

Where to Stay in Windermere:  Around Windermere, I absolutely love the  Gilpin Hotel & Lake House . It’s a little bit out of town, but it’s amazing! The  Lindeth Fell Country House  is a great choice, a short walk from Bowness. Good options right in town are  The Royal Oak Inn ,  Macdonald Old English Hotel & Spa  (overlooking the lake) and  Bowness Bay Suites . If you’re on a budget, the  YHA Windermere  is a good choice. If you have a group and really want somewhere special, check  this place  out.

Despite having been to the Lake District about a bazillion times, I had never been to the pretty village of Hawkshead until recently but it’s quickly become one of my favourite places to visit in the Lake District.

My friends and I stayed in Hawkshead the night after we did our  Lake District wild camping  expedition with the Mammut Mountain School and it was such a lovely place to be, with cute shops, pubs and restaurants. It’s also home to  Hill Top  – Beatrix Potter’s 17th-century farmhouse, the  Hawkshead Brewery  and  The Little Ice Cream Shop .

Where to Stay in Hawkshead:  We stayed at the  YHA Hawkshead  which was really nice and good value for money, plus the staff were super-friendly! They had rooms as well as glamping pitches. If you like a gorgeous b&b, look no further than  Walker Ground Manor .

Tarn Hows is a beautiful lake and village between Hawkshead and Coniston Water. There’s a relatively short walk you can take around the lake, and what’s great about this particular walk, is that it’s paved and therefore accessible for wheelchair users.

It’s also great if you’ve forgotten your walking boots or you’re travelling with young children. Take a picnic, relax and admire the stunning views.

Coniston Water

Coniston Water is another of the beautiful lakes that the region is named after. You can wander around the village or take a walk up the  Old Man of Coniston  which has stunning views over the lake and village.

If you want to get out on the lake, you can hire boats and paddleboards from the Coniston Boating Centre. They also have bikes for hire too. Stop by the Meadowdore Cafe for a bite to eat and a cuppa. They have the most gorgeously gooey Malteser cake!

Ambleside is a pretty town, just north of Windermere, and is a  great place to spend a few hours, wandering around the lovely shops. A short walk from the town centre lies  Stock Ghyll Force , a 70-foot waterfall that is beautiful in the spring when the daffodils are in bloom.

The area is very popular with hikers due to the  great walks around Ambleside , so don’t forget to pack your hiking boots!

Where to Stay in Ambleside:  One of the most popular places to stay is  The Drunken Duck Inn , which is a hotel and an award-winning restaurant, located between Hawkshead and Ambleside village.

Rydal Water

Rydal Water, situated between Ambleside and Grasmere is a great place to go for a walk. It’s not too difficult so would be. a great place to go with the kids. The last time I went, we had a nice bite to eat at The Badger Bar at the Glen Rothay Hotel and then walked from there, to Grasmere and then back around the lake.

Going north from Ambleside, Grasmere is a beautiful place, described by Wordsworth as “œthe loveliest spot that man hath found” and whilst you are there you can  visit Dove Cottage  where he wrote many of his works and visit  Faeryland Grasmere  Tea & Coffee Garden.

One of my favourite places to visit in the Lake District is  Sarah Nelson’s Grasmere Gingerbread , known for being the best gingerbread in the world. Best in the world? I don’t know, but it’s the best gingerbread I have ever had.

Near to both Ambleside and Grasmere is Loughrigg Fell, which is a great walk for views over Loughrigg Tarn and the surrounding areas. There’s also a lovely view from Pavey Ark looking down over Stickle Tarn. 

Where to Stay in Grasmere:  There are lots of lovely little b&b’s around Grasmere, but I do love  Heidi’s Grasmere Lodge .

Wrynose & Hardknott Pass

Heading west you can take the Wrynose Pass one of  Britain’s most difficult, but beautiful roads with hairpin bends, steep drops and incredible mountain views.

They’re single-track roads, so keep your eyes peeled for hazards and use the passing places when cars come the other way.

Wrynose Pass turns into Hardknott Pass which is even more beautiful. However, just be aware that if this is the route you take up to Keswick from the south, it is the long way around.

Eskdale Valley

At the end of the Hardknott Pass, you’ll find yourself at the Eskdale Valley which has the villages of Santon Bridge, Boot and Eskdale Green. Near to Boot, there is a popular wild swimming spot called Tongue Pot.

Then below it, there is Kail Pot, which is a bit more secluded. To get there, park by the red telephone box by the end of the Hardknott Pass, then follow the River Esk until it forks. Kail Pot is lower down but pretty easy to spot.

A couple of other great places for wild swimming include the Stanley Ghyll Force Waterfall and the peaceful Burnmore Tarn. The Eskdale Valley is a great place to go ghyll scrambling, so check out the activities with  West Lakes Adventure .

One of the most scenic and atmospheric places to visit is Wast water (or Wastwater) in the Wasdale Valley. The lake is the deepest of all the lakes in the area and surrounded by imposing mountains.

The view from the south-western end of the lake near the YHA Wasdale Hall was voted one of Britain’s best views. But wherever you go, you’ll not be disappointed as there are fantastic views from the north side of the lake towards Great Gable, Yewbarrow and Lingmell.

There’s a nice hike called the  Greendale Round , which goes to Middle Fell, Seatallan, Buckbarrow and you can end your walk with a little dip in Wastwater. For views of the sunset, head to the lower slopes of the Wasdale Valley.

Park in the Wasdale car park and then head away from the car, over the footbridge (or stay further south to watch the sun setting on the mountains). There’s also a  National Trust campsite  and a great pub called the  Wasdale Head Inn .

Scafell Pike

Scafell is technically slap bang in the middle of the Lake District and you can access it from both the south and the north. Two popular start points are  Wasdale Head  (south) and  Seathwaite  (north).

If you do attempt to climb the mountain, make sure you are properly prepared with clothing, snacks and some good map reading/compass skills. It’s not uncommon for the mist to descend very quickly leaving you with no visibility.

This happened to me on my Duke of Edinburgh’s Award as a teenager and we had to navigate blind off the mountain – so if you don’t have the skills, you could always take a trip with the experts at the  Mammut Mountain School .

Great Gable

The mountain of Great Gable, near Scafell Pike, is potentially one of the most Instagrammable views in the Lake District! The walk itself is challenging but very rewarding (just look at those views) and like Scafell, you can start it from several places including  Seathwaite  or  Wasdale Head . You can see all the hiking routes  here .

Keswick & Derwentwater

Keswick is a lovely market town on Derwentwater and the main base for the northern part of the Lake District. 

There are lots of things to do  in Keswick and nearby. A few of the Lake District’s most popular hiking routes are also close by, including  Skiddaw ,  Cat Bells, Maiden Moor, High Spy and Castel Crag .

If you have a chance, check out the famous  Theatre By the Lake . There’s a nice, short walk that goes between the theatre and Friar’s Crag, an iconic Lake District viewpoint, which will give you wonderful views over Derwentwater and the surrounding area. If you want to walk a bit further, you can keep going to Strandshag Bay.

For lunch or dinner, Id also highly recommend  The Royal Oak  pub in the centre of town. 

Where to Stay in Keswick:  Keswick has a good range of places to stay, but one of my favourites is  Rickerby Grange . The  Royal Oak at Keswick  is a nice pub, right in the centre of town,  LakeSide House  is a very popular hotel (book early) and if you’re on a budget, there’s a  YHA  too! If you’re camping, I’d highly recommend the  Castlerigg Farm Camping Site  and  Castlerigg Hall .

Castlerigg Stone Circle

Just outside of  Keswick is the atmospheric  Castlerigg Stone Circle , an ancient monument that the Neolithic people (10,000-4,500 BC) used for ceremonies, with its panoramic views of the surrounding area, it’s easy to see why this was picked as a special and revered place. This would be an amazing place to celebrate the summer solstice on the 21st June.

Ashness Bridge & Surprise View

If you go south from Keswick and take the road to the left, you’ll come to Ashness Bridge and Surprise View, two of the prettiest locations in the Lake District, with lovely views over Derwentwater.

Slightly further on, you’ll come to the hamlet of  Watendlath  and the Caffle House Tea Rooms, which is a great place for a rest and a nice pot of tea and a slice of cake!

Borrowdale Valley, the Fairy Glen & Black Moss Pot

Borrowdale is a beautiful part of the Lake District, again just south of Keswick. On my last trip there, my friends and I had been looking to go swimming in Black Moss Pot which is great if you love cliff jumping into freezing cold water.

However, we didn’t make it that far because we found somewhere else that was pretty magical – Galleny Force, also known as ‘The Fairy Glen’, which is just a short walk from the village of Stonethwaite through the Stonethwaite Campsite. This is one of my absolute favourite places to visit in the Lake District.

This was the ideal wild swimming spot we’d been after (without the scary jumps). And if you’d like to see a video of our time there, my friend Sabina made  an awesome vlog !

From nearby Seathwaite, you can also walk to  Styhead & Sprinkling Tarn . 

Where to Stay in the Borrowdale Valley:  If you want to stay close to the Fairy Glen, you can stay at the lovely little  Langstraith Country Inn  or the Stonethwaite Farm Campsite. I also hear great things about the  Chapel Farm Campsite  and the owner, Richard, is a bit of a local legend. Everyone speaks fondly of him!

Honister Pass

From Borrowdale, you can cross the Honister Pass, a beautiful road, that connects the Buttermere and Borrowdale Valleys. This is also home to the  Honister Slate Mine , where you can take part in several activities including guided walks, canyoning and mine tours.

There is a nice scenic circular drive from Keswick which includes Borrowdale, Honister Pass, Buttermere, Crummock Water, the Newlands Pass and then back to Keswick.

At the end of Honister Pass, you will arrive at beautiful Buttermere (above), one of the prettiest places to visit in the Lake District. It’s an easy 4-mile hike around the lake and Buttermere is also a great place for swimming, kayaking or paddleboarding.

When there is no wind, the mountains, surrounding the southern end of the lake reflect in the water. Beautiful, hey?

And if you have time, take a hike up the surrounding mountains for incredible views! Good places to aim for include Haystacks, Fleetwith Pike (picture below. -have a read of my guide to  hiking Fleetwith Pike and wild swimming in Warnscale Beck ), Red Pike, Dubs Hut Bothy and Warnscale Bothy (where you can spend the night) and High Stile.

Buttermere also has several great eateries and pubs including the Bridge Inn, the Croft House Farm Cafe and the Fish Inn. 

Where to Stay in Buttermere:  Right in the village and next to the lake is the  Syke Farm Campsite . If you’re on a budget but don’t have a tent or campervan, you can stay at the  YHA Buttermere .

Crummock Water

Crummock Water is the lake right next door to Buttermere, and equally beautiful. There’s  a great walk  which starts from Lanthwaite car park.

Other great walks include  Grassmoor ,   Mellbreak  and  Low Fell  (you will also get to see Loweswater from these walks).

Close by lies Scale Force, the tallest single-drop waterfall in the Lakes. If you visit during the spring, take a slight detour to  Rannerdale Knotts  to see the beautiful bluebell fields.

Newlands Pass & Newlands Valley

From Crummock Water, you’ll make your way back to Keswick via the Newlands Pass. It is a beautiful drive with pretty hills, waterfalls and the occasional rainbow. It is pretty magical and reminds me of my trip on  Iceland’s Ring Road .

There are some lovely walks around this area and there’s also the Newlands Adventure Centre which has all kinds of amazing activities on offer! My friends had their wedding here!

To the east of Keswick, you’ll find beautiful Ullswater, which is surrounded by hills and a great place for hiking. It’s often named as being England’s prettiest lake so it’s definitely worth visiting if you are in the area.

On the north side of the lake, you can follow the nature trails to a pretty waterfall called  Aira Force  which can also be combined with High Force waterfall and  a walk to Gowbarrow Fell  which has fabulous views.

On the other side of the Ullswater, you’ll find Bonscale Pike, Arthur’s Pike and  Hallin Fell , hikes with amazing views. Then in the far southern end of Ullswater, there’s a great  walk up to Arnison Crag  – whichever walk you decide on, you won’t be disappointed!

If you fancy taking a ferry across the lake, book a spot on one of the  Ullswater ‘Steamers’  (tickets must be booked online and in advance) which leave from Glenridding (bottom of the lake) and Pooley Bridge (top of the lake) and in nearby Dalemain, you can even take a  hot air balloon ride  to see the area from the air. 

Where to Stay in Ullswater:  One of the coolest places to stay in the Lake District is the fabulous,  Another Place, The Lake . The hotel is absolutely stunning and ideally situated, right on Ullswater.

Helvellyn is the third highest mountain in the Lake District and England after Scafell Pike and Sca Fell, so it’s always a popular hike! There are a few different approaches to the mountain, however, perhaps the most spectacular is the one up Striding Edge, combined with Swirrall Edge which makes for a challenging hike with incredible views.

This walk begins from the village of Glenridding, so you could always combine it with a trip on the ferry! For more info on the various walking routes,  click here .

Kirkstone Pass

From Ullswater, you can take the Kirkstone Pass down towards Windermere. The road itself is incredibly scenic and the drive into Windermere is very pretty, when the sun shines, making Lake Windermere sparkle. If you have time, stop at the  Kirkstone Pass Inn , the third highest pub in England, for a refreshing drink.

Another route from Keswick to Windermere is via Thirlmere, which is to the west of Helvellyn. For incredible views, take the short walk up Raven Crag.

How to Get To & Around the Lake District

The easiest way to get to and around the Lake District is to drive. A normal car is fine for most places, but I’d say a 4×4 is preferable on some of the mountain passes, especially in the winter months. My little 1.4 Golf definitely struggled on a few of them.

If you decide to get the train, the main stations are Penrith (in the north, near to Keswick) and Oxenholme The Lake District (in the south, near to Kendal and Windermere). You can easily get to either of these from most major train stations in the UK, including direct trains from London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Preston.

From there you can change trains to get to the smaller train stations, including Windermere and Kendal, the two main tourist centres. To find out more and book your train to the Lake District, click  here .

Without a car, you will be able to get around to some places using buses and taxis, and it will be fine if you are staying in a main town and sticking to that area, but if you want to explore and make the most of your time, you’re going to need your own transport.

If you don’t have transport, I would maybe consider taking one of the great  Lake District tours  on offer or hiring a car.

When to Visit the Lake District

The Lake District is a great all-year-round destination, but you’re likely to get the best weather between May and October. That doesn’t mean that you won’t get nice weather in the winter months or rubbish weather in the summer months – I mean, this is the UK and the weather is unpredictable regardless of when you travel.

I’ve been in the winter and it’s been cold but sunny. I’ve been in the summer and it’s rained the whole time. It’s pot luck really. But the days are much longer in the summer, so there’s much more time to be out exploring. Driving around the Lake District in the dark is not my idea of a good time.

The downside to going in the spring/summer months is that it’s a lot busier and accommodation tends to book up in advance. The Lakes can also be very busy at weekends, bank holidays and school holidays throughout the year.

If you’re driving, you’ll often find queues up the M6 motorway on Friday afternoon/evening and Saturday morning starting from around Preston. This can add an hour or so to your drive time.

I hope this list of places to visit in the Lake District helps you plan a wonderful trip! If you’ve been, do you have any more places to add to the list?

Other UK posts you might enjoy…

• Hiking Gatesgarth to Fleetwith Pike & Wild Swimming in Warnscale Beck
• Wild Camping in the Lake District – A Beginner’s Guide
• Glamping in the Lake District – 18 Amazing Places to Stay
• Scotland’s North Coast 500 Route, Map & 1-Week Itinerary
• 30 Things To Know Before You Drive Scotland’s NC500
• Island Hopping the Outer Hebrides in Scotland: Itinerary & Things To Do
• The Best Things to Do in Liverpool: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary
• 15 Places You Have to Visit in North Devon, England
• Croyde Bay Guide: Where to Stay, Where to Eat & Things to Do
• 10 Places to Visit & Things to Do in North Wales
• 9 Fun & Adventurous Things To Do in Snowdonia National Park

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16 Comments

That was THE BEST TRIP!!! Can’t wait for more adventures with you (Leanne optional). x

Aw it was loads of fun!!!! Can’t wait for our next one either!!! 🙂 Hope you had an amazing time in Israel!! xx

I’m from the Lake District! 🙂 I never get to see enough of it though, Keswick and Bowness are both lovely places. I’m glad you both had a good time!

Hey Rebecca,

You never see enough of the place you live!!! I’m the same with Manchester and Liverpool!!! I definitely need to explore more there!! Thank you!!!!

What a fab trip! I love the Lake District – there’s so much of it I still need to see and your pics have reminded me I need to sort that out! My sister and I are looking for somewhere to spend a few days away with our babies in April – I think the lakes will be perfect!

Thanks Clare it was brill!! It would be a great place to take the babies!!! Hopefully you’ll get good weather too! How are you??? How is motherhood? Haven’t seen you in sooooo long!!! xx

I love this – I am originally from the UK too (the Peak District!) and I think we can sometimes forget there are so many beautiful places to visit where we live. All it takes is a little planning and a weekend away. My partner and I climbed scafell pike in the Lake District a couple of years ago – the scenery around that area is amazing, and we got a great last minute hotel deal. I love your photo with the rainbow umbrella by the way – go girls!

Hey Jennifer – aw I love the Peak District too! I climbed Scafell on my DofE, although that was 20 years ago so don’t remember it much! I’d like to do some more hiking there!

We had so much fun messing about with the umbrella! 🙂 Props are fun!

ps. Jealous of your Bali adventures!! Would love to go there!!

Aww Helen, this looks like a great place – shame about the weather. I always love to geek out a little in the Lakes with a visit to the Keswick Pencil Museum – home to the biggest pencil in the world, apparently! Obviously the scenery all over the Lakes is amazing but you should try out triporia.com which is a comparison site with great accommodation deals but you can evaluate your accommodation by their surroundings which is a great addition that the others don’t offer. Best wishes 🙂

It was raining but the weather made it all the better. I will check the site out. Thanks.

I’m so happy I stumbled upon your blog and this post in particular. I LOVE the Lakes; come rain or shine it’s my favourite place in the UK. It looks like you had a blast even with the weather situation. One thing I’ve found is that the Lake District never disappoints!

Thanks Lorna! I love it too! 🙂 Ah, we had a great time thanks!!! I agree. It’s so near to where I live too! Going back in a few weeks! Hopefully it’s sunnier!

Amazing blog and pics Helen . Thanks for sharing.

This is a lovely post and really amazing pictures!! I also visited Lake District on my Uk trip.. and wrote about it on my personal blog

Hi. What is the name of the place on the last photo? Thank you

These are the pools at Warnscale Beck on the way up to Fleetwith Pike, that’s Buttermere you can see below. I wrote a post on it here: https://www.heleninwonderlust.co.uk/hiking-gatesgarth-to-fleetwith-pike-wild-swimming-in-warnscale-beck/

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Places to visit in the Lake District

Visit the Lake District National Park for sights like no other. Take it all in on a traditional steamboat chugging through tranquil lakes, or scale the highest mountains England has to offer and enjoy a jaw-dropping view. From the top of Scafell Pike it’s easy to see how Cumbria’s lakes captivated William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter. If tranquillity isn’t enough for you, then why not race through the Lake District on a mountain bike or enjoy the scenery from the middle of one of England’s fastest growing music festivals, Kendal Calling. You may as well sample some of the town’s famous Kendal Mint Cake while you’re there too, after all it got Edmund Hillary to the summit of Everest.

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10 amazing viewpoints in the Lake District

England's biggest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site; there's definitely no shortage of things to do in the Lake District.

Take the plunge canyoning in Cumbria

Ever looked at a waterfall and rather than reaching for the camera, thought ‘I’d like to climb down that’? If so, you’re about to discover your new favourite sport – canyoning.

Location: Bowness, Cumbria

Discover The Lakes by Canoe

Canoe along the Derwentwater and discover something special about being close to the water.

Location: Keswick, Cumbria

Take in the sea air on horseback

Experience a horse ride like no other with Cumbrian Heavy Horses.

Location: Whicham Valley, Cumbria

Reach new heights on a Lake District mountain

Climb where only birds fly and explore a hidden underground world in Cumbria’s Lake District mountains, the ultimate place to broaden your horizons.

Location: Honister Pass, Cumbria

Take a wander around Brotherswater

The Lake District in Cumbria is famous for its stunning landscapes of lakes and fells and is the perfect place for family walks of all ages.

Location: Ambleside, Cumbria

December events: Join Santa on the La'al Ratty through Eskdale

Climb aboard the family favourite 'Santa Express' which returns to the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway this winter.

Location: Ravenglass, Cumbria

Tuck into a home cooked meal at The Kirkstile Inn

Enjoy a delicious menu made from the best Cumbrian produce, washed down with a pint of freshly brewed ale at the Kirkstile Inn in the heart of the North Lake District.

Location: Loweswater, Cumbria

Explore the Lakes in a funky electric 'Twizy'

The head-turning electric Renault ‘Twizys’ are now available for anyone to hire.

Location: Ullswater, Cumbria

Create your own goodies at The Chocolate Factory Hawkshead

Take the family on a sweet adventure with a hands-on experience at the Lake District's own Chocolate Factory.

Location: Hawkshead, Cumbria

Wander like Wordsworth around Ullswater

Take a trip to Ullswater and enjoy the fabulous lake and the crowd of golden daffodils which inspired the poet William Wordsworth.

Explore The Lake District's Secret Valley

Rannerdale lies between the smaller lakes of Buttermere and Loweswater, a true hidden gem in a place brimming with atmosphere and local legend.

Location: Buttermere, Cumbria

See unusual sculptures in Grizedale Forest

Discover the unexpected, the quirky, the confounding and the confusing in Grizedale Forest with a whole host of art inspired by the landscape.

Location: Windermere, Cumbria

Step back in time and live like Wordsworth in Cumbria

A visit to Wordsworth House and Garden is a unique opportunity to experience late 18th-century life at first hand.

Location: Cockermouth, Cumbria

Take in 'Swallows and Amazons' landscapes on a relaxing cruise

Take a trip around the landscape used in the film ‘Swallows and Amazons’ and discover what inspired Arthur Ransome to write his famous book.

Location: Derwentwater, Cumbria

Release your inner Wordsworth with Words by the Water Festival

Don’t miss this exciting literature event, a festival of words and ideas, set by the lake surrounded by the Lake District fells.

August festivals: Kendal Calling

Kendal Calling is the most fun you can have in the countryside with fields full of activities and attractions.

Location: Penrith, Cumbria

Take a walk round Cumbria with Jennings Adventure Ale Trails

Stunning scenery, cosy accommodation, good food and real ale are all on offer with Jennings Adventure Ales trails in the Lake District.

Discover Lowther Castle & Gardens

Of the many treasures waiting to be discovered in the Lake District, Lowther Castle is a particular gem.

Explore world-famous gardens at Levens Hall

Discover the Elizabethan house and world-famous gardens, a place of discovery, a place to drink in its rich history, a place that all ages enjoy.

Location: Kendal, Cumbria

Take a guided tour through a Cumbrian mine

Explore the relationship between the geology of the Lake District area and the quarrying of local limestone, sandstone, granite and slate in Cumbria.

Location: Threlkeld, Cumbria

Experience a stunning Lakeland waterfall walk

Don’t miss a trip to the Taylor Gill Force to see fabulous streams and waterfalls set against a backdrop of stunning scenery.

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With its patchwork green valleys, craggy cliff faces and farmland laced with limestone walls, it’s little wonder that the Yorkshire Dales National Park is a film star in its own right.

Ambles through woodland lanes pausing at thatch-roofed tearooms and village pubs, canoe trips down bubbling streams and canters across heathland; that's what days in the New Forest are made of.

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Places to Visit

Places to visit in the lake district & cumbria.

There is probably a greater variety of things to do and places to visit in the Lake District & Cumbria than anywhere else in the UK. Discover where to go and things to do in the Lake District.

Things to do in the Lake District for Families

Including family attractions, things to do in the Lake District with children, what to do when it’s raining in the Lake District and the most popular Lake District attractions for all ages.

Things to do in the Lake District landscape

Explore the mountains, fells, valleys and dales and visit the lakes and tarns of the Lake District & Cumbria. Discover hidden places to visit in the Lake District forests, woods, waterfalls, rivers and caves.

Historic Places to Visit in the Lake District & Cumbria

There is a wealth of historic places to visit in the Lake District & Cumbria, including some of the earliest stone circles in Britain, the remains of the Roman Empire, abbeys and priories, ancient churches, castles and pele towers, through to more recent industrial history such as water mills, and mines.

Visit by Area, Lake District & Cumbria

Cumbria is home to the Lake District National Park which sits in the hilly centre of the county. This is the most popular with visitors however the area of Cumbria outside the National Park is becoming more popular with visitors looking for a quieter holiday. Nearly all Lake District attractions are within easy daily driving distance of anywhere in the larger area of Cumbria.

Places to Visit in the Lake District

The most popular area to visit in the Lake District is the area around Windermere. This is also known as the South Lakes and is slightly more accessible from the south of England. The area around Keswick and Derwentwater, or North Lakes, is an extremely close second in popularity.

The East Lakes includes the beautiful lake Ullswater and the Penrith Area. The West Lakes is pretty and unspoiled and includes the Eskdale Valley and Wastwater, voted England’s favourite view. Both the east and west Lakes are recently becoming more popular places to visit in the Lake District.

Places to Visit in Cumbria

There are lots of things to do in the Lake District but did you know that the area outside the National Park is also beautiful, and that some of the best attractions in Cumbria can be found here?

Book your accommodation with Visit Cumbria

If you have found Visit Cumbria’s “Places to Visit in the Lake District” page useful please help to support us by booking your accommodation though our pages. It takes a lot of work, and quite a bit of money, to keep Visit Cumbria’s 1,500+ free information pages online and updated. We don’t receive a penny of public funding and rely on a network of local contributors and volunteers. Your support helps us to maintain our independence and impartiality and is genuinely very much appreciated. Thank you.

Lake District Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 6, 2024

Our Lake District Travel Guide includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for one of the most beautiful areas of England. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to the Lake District!

PLAN YOUR TRIP TO THE LAKE DISTRICT

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016 the beautiful Lake District National Park in the North West of England is one of the most popular destinations for visitors.

With stunning lakes and mountains, quaint towns and villages and literary connections (Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth are just two famous names associated with the area) the Lake District has much to offer visitors during all seasons.

• Lake District Travel Guide

Lake District Travel Guide – Best things to do, attractions to see & places to visit

Accommodation in the lake district, how to get to the lake district from london, tours from london, from liverpool, manchester, & chester, multi-day tours, experiences, tickets and tours in the lake district, when is the best time of year to visit the lake district, can i get around the lake district using public transport, books to read about the lake district, uk travel guides.

LAKE DISTRICT ITINERARY

BEST TOWNS AND VILLAGES TO VISIT IN THE LD

THINGS TO DO AT LAKE WINDERMERE (England’s largest lake)

BEST WALKS & HIKES IN THE LAKE DISTRICT

The LD is located in the North West of England. Read more about the top 10 places to visit in the North West.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN THE LAKE DISTRICT

(location & accommodation guide)

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN LAKE WINDERMERE

Find more options in my Accommodation Guide for England.

The LD is located in the North West of England, approximately 300 miles from London.

Option 1 – By car

The Lake District National Park is located 300 miles to the north west of London.

Plan at least 5 hours to drive from London to the Lakes. Note that parking is limited in the Lake District and the roads can be congested particularly in the busy summer months.

Directions can be found here

🚙 Considering a road trip around Scotland? Not sure if you’re up to driving in the UK? We recommend using a Tripiamo guide to familiarise yourself with it before your journey. Previous UK Travel Planning users have said this has made them feel much more comfortable getting behind the wheel. Find out more in our guide to renting a car in the UK 🚗

Option 2: By train

Take the train from London Euston to Oxenholme and change trains for Windermere.

Good to know – Public bus services are pretty good so it is possible to get around independently without a car.

Option 3: By bus

It is possible to take a coach from Victoria Coach Station. The journey takes nearly 12 hours though so is not the best option if you have limited time.

This is the cheapest way to travel to the LD from London so if you are on a budget this may appeal. Click here for coach times and prices from National Express.

Read more – How to get around the UK (Complete Guide to Transportation in the UK)

Best tours to the Lake District from London, Liverpool, Manchester, Chester & Edinburgh (& multi-day options)

If you prefer to take a tour (one, two, three or even four days in the Lake District!), tours are available from some cities in the UK to the National Park.

These are my recommended tours (take a look and compare costs if you are not sure whether to take a guided tour or do the trip independently)

• Lake District Tour with Cream Tea & Cruise – Discover the world of Beatrix Potter on this full day trip from London to the Scenic Lake District.
• Lake District Day Trip from London with Afternoon Tea – Discover the romantic landscape of England’s Lakes on a 13-hour tour, with round-trip train transfers from London. Discover the home of Beatrix Potter and medieval Hawkshead Village. End the day with a traditional afternoon tea.
• From Liverpool : Lake District Sightseeing Adventure Day Trip
• From Chester: Lake District Full-Day Guided Sightseeing Tour
• Lake District 3-Day Small Group Tour from Edinburgh
• Lake District 4-Day Tour – Explore the rugged Lake District on this 4-day experience from Bowness-on-Windermere, including hotel or B&B accommodation. Enjoy a 10 Lakes Spectacular tour with a lake cruise and visits to the pretty villages of Buttermere, Grasmere, and Keswick.

With so many things to do and places to visit in the Lake District, I recommend planning your itinerary and purchasing tours, tickets for Windermere lake cruises, cruise boats and experiences as soon as you can to avoid disappointment, especially during the busy summer months.

These are the most popular day trips, tours and experiences available:

• Many Lives of Beatrix Potter: Full-Day All-Inclusive Tour
• Ten Lakes Full-Day Tour (Departs Windermere or Oxenholme)
• Half-Day Tour of Beatrix Potter Country and Places

FAQs & Tips for visiting the Lake District

The Lakes are a wonderful destination to visit at all times of the year. Spring is particularly beautiful with daffodils and newborn lambs frolicking in the fields.

Summer can be very busy so if you plan to visit during peak season ensure you book accommodation, tours and attractions in advance.

If you do visit during autumn and winter ensure you have checked the weather forecast and packed accordingly (especially if you are planning to walk or hike)

Yes! Public transport is regular and reliable in the Lakes, particularly in the summer. Driving can be frustrating an finding a car park very difficult.

It is easier to purchase a Park and Explore ticket which for £18 covers all day parking at one of a number of car parks in the Lake District.

Once you have parked up purchase a Lakes Dayrider ticket which offers unlimited travel for up to 5 people travelling together on Stagecoach bus services in the Central Lakes Dayrider zone. That works out at just £3.67 per person for parking and travel all day!

Read more – Books to read before you visit the Lake District

You can find more practical tips, resources and advice in all my England travel guides which include:

• York Travel Guide
• Cornwall Travel Guide
• Bath Travel Guide
• Jurassic Coast and Dorset Travel Guide
• Cotswolds Travel Guide
• Chester Travel Guide
• Best UK travel guide books

Looking for more inspiration for your travels in England? Check out my England Travel Planning Guide which has loads of ideas, tips and resources to plan your itinerary.

30 must-see places in the Lake District

There are so many wonderful places to visit in the Lake District that sometimes it’s hard to pick! So here’s our quick guide of 30 locations in the Lake District that you must see during your stay. And if you can’t fit them all in during one trip, well, you’ll just have to visit time and time again! For even more information, take a look at out guide to the best things to do in the Lake District during summer .

And don’t forget to take a look at our cottage search to find your dream holiday cottage!

1. Derwentwater

With stunning views into the “jaws” of Borrowdale , small islands to explore, and boat hire available, there’s lots of excitement to be had on Derwentwater.

2. Windermere

Windermere is England’s longest lake and the Lake District’s most popular! Explore all the attractions on the shore or take in the sites from the water with a cruise.

3. Hill Top

Once home to Beatrix Potter , Hill Top is a time-capsule of the beloved author’s life. 

4. Scafell Pike

If you’re a keen, well-prepared walker, England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike , has to be on your bucket list! If you’re not a walker, you can still admire the impressive fell from the valleys of Eskdale or Wasdale .

The pretty market town of Keswick is an eternal favourite thanks to its gorgeous views, variety of activities, and easy access to Derwentwater and the surrounding fells.

6. Bowness-on-Windermere

Bowness sits right on the shores of Windermere and is the perfect place for exploring the stunning South Lakes.

7. Wastwater

Famous as England’s deepest lake and for the dramatic screes that tumble into the water, Wastwater is also a tranquil spot to reflect while you take in the rugged Wasdale scenery.

8. Helvellyn and Striding Edge

Voted England’s favourite walk, Helvellyn is a popular ascent for well-equipped and knowledgeable walkers. It also makes an impressive backdrop to beautiful Ullswater.

9. Dove Cottage, Grasmere

Once home to Romantic poet William Wordsworth , Dove Cottage now offers a glimpse back in time, with personal belongings of the Wordsworth family on display.

10. Honister Pass & Honister Slate Mine

One of Cumbria’s highest and steepest roads, Honister Pass offers spectacular views across Borrowdale . Honister Slate Mine at the top is a fascinating look into the area's history and gives you the chance to test your mettle with its Via Ferrata.

11. Buttermere

Often regarded as England’s best view, Buttermere makes for an easy, family-friendly walk with gentle paths and a tunnel carved into the rock on the north-east side.

12. Ravenglass

The only coastal village in the Lake District, Ravenglass is a peaceful place where you can step back in time to explore its Roman heritage .

13. The Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway

Known locally as the La’al Ratty , this miniature steam train tootles along the valley from Ravenglass on the coast, to Boot in the heart of Eskdale .

14. Catbells

The iconic, family-friendly fell is perfect if you’re looking for some hillwalking without too much effort!

15. Muncaster Castle

Proudly looking over the valley, Muncaster Castle near Ravenglass boasts a fascinating history, gorgeous gardens, and regular events.

16. Orrest Head

Said to be where Alfred Wainwright first got a taste for the region, Orrest Head is an easy fell walk that rewards you with stunning views over Windermere .

17. Aira Force

One of the most spectacular waterfalls in the Lake District, Aira Force near Ullswater is surrounded by woodland and has viewing platforms to make the most of the sight of cascading water. Best visited after heavy rain!

18. The Bowder Stone

Apparently defying gravity, the Bowder Stone in Borrowdale is a 2,000-tonne, 30-foot-high rock standing precariously on its edge.

19. Surprise View and Ashness Bridge

This popular viewpoint is one of the most photographed in the Lake District and it’s not hard to see why!

20. Lowther Castle

Though now a ruin, this still-spectacular castle dates back to medieval times and has plenty to explore in its extensive grounds including beautiful gardens and The Lost Castle play area.

21. Rannerdale

The ‘hidden’ valley is awash with beautiful bluebells in the spring. Remember to avoid trampling the flowers so future visitors can also enjoy the spectacle too!

22. Theatre by the Lake

Sitting on the shores of Derwentwater, the Theatre by the Lake provides an exciting programme of performances throughout the year.

23. Whinlatter Forest

England’s only true mountain forest, Whinlatter has many waymarked footpaths, mountain biking routes, and a Go Ape! high ropes course.

24. Blackwell, the Arts & Crafts House

Overlooking Windermere , Blackwell is a Grade I-listed building that is a masterpiece of Arts and Crafts design.

25. Tarn Hows

This pretty tarn offers an easy, accessible walk that takes in some of the gorgeous scenery of the South Lakes . 

26. Bridge House, Ambleside

One of the most iconic and most photographed buildings in the Lake District, Bridge House in Ambleside is a tiny house that was built over Stock Beck in order to escape land tax!

27. Stanley Ghyll

Follow flowing rivers through the tranquil woodland of Eskdale to reach the wonderful Stanley Ghyll waterfall thundering into the splash pool below.

28. Steam Yacht Gondola, Coniston

Take a trip across Coniston on a rebuilt Victorian steam-powered yacht and enjoy a taste of tourism from the past.

29. Wray Castle

Looking somewhat unusual on the shores of Windermere , Wray Castle is nonetheless a fascinating and quirky Victorian folly that’s well worth a visit!

30. Castlerigg Stone Circle

Sitting high above Keswick and with breathtaking panoramic views, this mysterious stone circle is the oldest in Britain.

There's so much to be seen in the Lake District that we couldn't possibly include them all in this quick guide! You can take a look at our in-depth guides for more ideas, or get in touch if you would like more suggestions from our friendly, local team!

You can use our cottage search to find the perfect self-catering cottage for your stay.

You might also enjoy:

• 10 of the Lake District's best kept secrets
• Top 9 views in the Lake District
• 9 family-friendly fell walks
• Best walks in the Lake District

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.

Read more like this

The great british lake off, things to do in coniston, the best things to do in the lake district for summer.

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30 Must Visit Places In Lady Lake

Published: August 23, 2024

by Birgit Kidwell

Looking for a charming getaway in Florida? Lady Lake might be just the spot for you. This small town offers a mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and fun activities. Whether you're into outdoor adventures, shopping, or learning about local history, Lady Lake has something for everyone. Imagine spending your day exploring scenic parks, visiting unique shops, or enjoying a meal at a cozy restaurant. With its friendly atmosphere and variety of attractions, Lady Lake makes for a perfect vacation destination. Ready to plan your trip? Here are 30 must-visit places in Lady Lake that you won't want to miss!

30 Must Visit Places in Lady Lake

Lady Lake, Florida, offers a mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and modern attractions. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or just looking for a fun day out, this town has something for everyone. Here are 30 must-visit places in Lady Lake.

Outdoor Adventures

For those who love the great outdoors, Lady Lake has plenty of parks and natural spots to explore.

Lake Griffin State Park Enjoy boating, fishing, and hiking in this beautiful state park. Don't miss the mammoth live oak tree, one of the largest in Florida .

Heritage Park A small, serene park perfect for picnics and leisurely walks. The park also features a lovely gazebo and a butterfly garden.

Veterans Memorial Park This park honors military veterans and offers a peaceful setting with walking paths and memorials.

Lady Lake Dog Park A great spot for your furry friends to run and play. The park is divided into sections for small and large dogs.

Guava Street Athletic Complex This complex offers various sports facilities, including baseball fields, tennis courts, and a playground.

Historical Sites

Dive into the rich history of Lady Lake by visiting these fascinating historical sites.

Lady Lake Historical Society Museum Learn about the town's history through exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and documents.

Paquette's Historical Farmall Museum A unique museum showcasing vintage tractors and farm equipment. It's a must-see for history enthusiasts and farm equipment lovers.

The Villages Historical Society Discover the history of The Villages, a nearby community, through exhibits and guided tours.

Lady Lake offers plenty of family-friendly activities that will keep everyone entertained.

Uncle Donald's Farm A petting zoo where kids can interact with farm animals. The farm also offers hayrides and educational programs.

Spanish Springs Town Square Enjoy live music, dining, and shopping in this vibrant town square. It's a great place for an evening out with the family.

Orange Blossom Hills Golf & Country Club A family-friendly golf course with beautiful scenery and challenging holes. Perfect for a day of golfing with the kids.

Lady Lake Skate Park A fun spot for skateboarders and BMX riders. The park features ramps, rails, and other obstacles.

Shopping and Dining

Indulge in some retail therapy and enjoy delicious meals at these popular spots.

The Villages Market Square A bustling shopping area with a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Rolling Acres Plaza A shopping center with a mix of retail stores, dining options, and services.

La Palma Mexican Grill Savor authentic Mexican cuisine at this popular restaurant. The menu features a variety of dishes, from tacos to enchiladas.

Billy's Cafe A local favorite for breakfast and lunch. The cafe offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious homemade meals.

Arts and Culture

Immerse yourself in the local arts and culture scene by visiting these venues.

The Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center Enjoy live performances, including theater, concerts, and dance shows, at this state-of-the-art venue.

Savannah Center A cultural hub offering a variety of events, from art exhibits to live performances.

Lady Lake Public Library A great place to relax with a book or attend one of the many programs and events hosted by the library.

Unique Attractions

These unique attractions offer something a little different and are definitely worth a visit.

The Villages Polo Club Experience the excitement of a polo match at this premier polo club. The club also hosts various events throughout the year.

The Grand Oaks Resort A beautiful resort offering horseback riding, carriage rides, and a museum dedicated to carriages and equestrian history.

The Villages Golf Cars Explore The Villages in style by renting a golf car. It's a fun and unique way to see the sights.

The Villages Grown Visit this innovative farm and market to learn about sustainable farming practices and purchase fresh, locally grown produce.

Relaxation Spots

Sometimes, you just need a place to unwind. These spots offer the perfect setting for relaxation.

Lake Miona Park A peaceful park with a beautiful lake, perfect for fishing, picnicking, or just relaxing by the water.

Paradise Park A lovely park with walking paths, a pond, and plenty of shaded areas to sit and relax.

Spanish Springs Lanes Enjoy a fun and relaxing day of bowling at this popular bowling alley.

Nearby Excursions

If you're willing to venture a little outside of Lady Lake, these nearby attractions are worth the trip.

Silver Springs State Park Located about 30 minutes away, this park offers glass-bottom boat tours, kayaking, and hiking.

Ocala National Forest A vast forest offering a variety of outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, and swimming in natural springs.

Mount Dora A charming town known for its antique shops, art galleries, and annual festivals. It's a great day trip destination.

Leesburg Bikefest Held annually in nearby Leesburg, this event is one of the largest motorcycle rallies in the country, featuring live music, vendors, and bike shows.

Lady Lake Awaits

Lady Lake offers a mix of natural beauty , historical sites , and modern attractions . Whether you're into outdoor adventures or prefer exploring local history , this charming town has something for everyone. Take a stroll through Lake Griffin State Park , visit the Lady Lake Historical Society Museum , or enjoy a round of golf at one of the many courses. Don't miss the local shops and restaurants that give Lady Lake its unique flavor.

Planning a trip here means you'll experience a blend of relaxation and excitement . From boating on the lake to hiking trails, there's no shortage of activities. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories. Lady Lake is waiting to show you its best.

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