The Lake District, England Attractions
The Lake District, England is one of the most beautiful places in the UK. With rolling hills, beautiful lakes, and amazing views. With so many Lake District attractions to visit and lots of things to do in the Lake District, it’s no wonder why more than 15 million people visit this wonderful place each year.
If you are looking for what to do in the Lake District then read on. No matter if you want a relaxing caravan holiday, or to go hiking, climbing, boating, or riding, the Lake District is the perfect place for a great day out or a family holiday. To help you plan your holiday in the Lake District National Park, I have put together what I believe are the best things to do.
Here are the best Lake District Best Things To Do
Meet the stars at Low Gillerthwaite
One of the best things to do in the Lake District during the summer evenings is a visit to The Low Gillerthwaite Field Centre
At the Low Gillerthwaite Field Centre in the Ennerdale Valley, you can view the night sky at its best. It’s an amazing experience. It is designated as an accredited Dark Sky Discovery Site. Its isolated, mountainous environment ensures that it is largely unaffected by light pollution; even the northern lights have been seen there.
In the winter season, when the new moon cycles come around, the centre hosts Dark Sky Discovery weekends. Friendly expert staff are available to assist you in taking full advantage of the gorgeous night skies. In the event of bad weather, they have a warm and comfortable room with a log fire as well as a hostel where you can stay overnight.
Cruising around Windermere Lake
If you are looking for Lake District things to do then you must visit Lake Windermere. Cruising around Windermere Lake is a popular pastime. People from all over come to enjoy the picturesque views from the water, provided by Windermere Lake Cruises.
Lake Windermere is the largest natural lake in England and a perfect illustration of the stunning Lake District.
A trip to the Lake District will never be complete without a visit to Lake Windermere due to its attractive scenery and different activities. Hiking, cycling, and Segwaying are all options, but the most fun can be found in the water. If you feel adventurous, you can rent a boat or a rowboat. You will be provided with all the necessary training and safety measures. Leave the crowds behind and experience the Lake District at its best.
Visit The Lakes Distillery
What does this distillery specialize in? This popular distillery produces gin, whisky, and vodka with a plethora of local ingredients.
The Lakes Distillery is a fairly recent addition to Cumbria but is quickly becoming a popular attraction. They offer daily tours and tastings, and on weekends you can even meet their resident alpacas! You can also purchase items to take home from the well-stocked shop. If you need something to soak up the alcohol, there’s a great restaurant on-site as well.
Visit The Lake District Haunted Castle – Muncaster
There are lots of Lake District things to do, but if you like haunted castles and like to be scared, then how about visiting UK’s most haunted castle – Muncaster
Venture into Muncaster Castle and discover its history. This castle is known as the United Kingdom’s spookiest, so a night here is only for the courageous! You can also explore the 70-acre woodlands with gardens that have been around since the 18th century.
Take in the views over Ravenglass, the only coastal village in the Lake District National Park, you can enjoy the magnificent scenery, with a view of the Esk Valley, and up to the highest peak in England – Scafell Pike.
Visit Grasmere Gingerbread
The Lake District, UK, has so many wonderful places to visit and lots of things to do for people from all walks of life and interests. One popular tourist attraction in the Lake District is The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop.
Throw away all preconceived notions about gingerbread. Grasmere gingerbread, which was first created in 1854 by Sarah Nelson, is far different than any other gingerbread you have experienced. It is a cross between a cake and a biscuit. In the middle, it’s gooey a crumbly texture on top. People come from all corners of the globe just to have a taste of this original recipe.
Nestled between St. Oswald’s Churchyard and the Wordsworth Hotel, you will find Grasmere Gingerbread Shop which is in Sarah Nelson’s original home. The aroma of the gingerbread is hard to ignore, and the atmosphere of the village of Grasmere is delightful. It is a typical, picture-perfect village situated in the Lake District.
Have a leisurely wander around Lake Buttermere
If you are looking for what to do in the Lake District with a camera, then you must visit Lake Buttermere. I love it here.
The Lake District is home to the stunning Buttermere, it is one of the most beautiful lakes you will ever see. It is a beautiful place to visit with your camera or for those that love walking. On your walk, you can admire the wild and craggy mountains and hills.
You must visit the Syke Farm tea room, which offers delicious homemade ice creams, and enjoy a nice cup of tea.
Climb a Fell
A visit to the Lake District would not be complete without ascending one of its hills.
One of the most popular things to do in the Lake District is to climb a fell. People come from all over the world just to climb a fell in the Lake District.
For beginners, the best one to try first is Orrest Head. It is a perfect choice and is located above Windermere. It’s just a brief walk and should not take more than sixty minutes.
If you are familiar with Alfred Wainwright the guidebook writer, then this is the first Fell that he climbed, and which made him fall in love with the Lake District.
Climb the highest point in England, Scafell Pike
One might ask, “What is Scafell Pike?” It is the highest peak in England, reaching a height of 978m.
A trip to the top and back will give you some sore feet and a face full of wetness or wind. But you’ll also get a beautiful view of the Park and a feeling of pride. Be sure to get ready for the journey! That means researching the mountain weather and getting the right equipment (mainly, quality shoes). It may be enjoyable, but it is also an intense experience.
For hikers, this is one of the best Lake District attractions on offer.
Read The Cat Bells Walk, Lake District
Visit the quirky Derwent Pencil Museum
If you are looking for what to do in the Lake District on a rainy day, then a great place to visit is the Derwent Pencil Museum.
This small building sits in the shadow of the former Cumberland Pencils production factory, It is the home of the original pencil. Additionally, there are spy pencils from World War II to see, an 8m colouring pencil, a cafe, and a shop. Those who love art should check out the ‘Artist in Residence’ classes, where renowned and local artists present sophisticated workshops.
Visit the Cumberland Bird of Prey Centre
What a great opportunity to have an up-close experience with some of the Lake District’s birds of prey.
If you have ever wanted to get up close to an owl, stroke a falcon or hawk, or even feed an eagle or vulture then you can with the thanks of the ‘basic experience’ at the Cumberland Bird of Prey Centre. This experience can last up to two hours, but for those who wish to stay longer, there are courses available over a few days or even a whole week to hone your bird-handling skills.
Take a walk in Wordsworth’s shoes at Dove Cottage
The Lake District has so much culture, and one of the best popular Lake District attractions for Literature lovers is the Dove Cottage.
The prominent Romantic poet of the late period was born in Cumbria and left his mark in the Lake District. Dove Cottage was the home of William Wordsworth from 1799 to 1808. You can tour the beautiful cottage and the rooms where he wrote his most renowned works. The adjacent museum is also a must-visit, with its collection of manuscripts and unique memorabilia.
The picturesque cottage is situated close to the village of Grasmere, and it is easy to comprehend the reason why the poet was influenced by the incredible views in the area.
Visit The Drunken Duck and Barngates Brewery
Barngates Brewery is a notable producer of beer with a long history in the beverage industry. They have created some of the most popular beer types available today, and their commitment to quality is unmatched. Their brewing process has been perfected over the years, ensuring that their customers receive the best beer every time.
The Drunken Duck is a beautiful pub, restaurant, and hotel that serves high-quality dishes and a selection of exceptional brews.
What could be better? Who could refuse a cold one with a spectacular sight? Particularly when the landscape is comprised of hills and your beer has only been transported just a few steps from the adjacent brewery. Barngates Brewery has been creating ales, stouts, and lagers close to the Drunken Duck Inn since 1997. You can find an array of their drinks at the inn, as well as a selection of British fusion cuisine. If it’s available, you should sample the Barngates Brathay Gold – it’s a terrific golden ale. Plus, it’s very invigorating… which could come in handy after all that trekking.
Visit The Mortal Man
Since 1689, this old-fashioned inn and accommodation have been providing visitors with its unique atmosphere, from its cosy, wood-beamed ceiling to its warm, roaring log fire.
The Mortal Man in Troutbeck Valley is just outside Windermere and Ambleside. With traditional British cuisine and a pleasant atmosphere in the garden on a summer’s day, The Mortal Man can be a great spot to relax. Additionally, the events schedule offers a variety of entertainment options such as live music, spoken word (with complimentary refreshments for performers), or a quiz night.
If you are looking for what to do in the Lake District on a nice summer’s day, then The Mortal Man is a popular choice.
Follow the Beatrix Potter trail at Hill Top
The National Trust is a recognized organization that works hard to protect the heritage of the nation. They take care of important landmarks and the history of the country, safeguarding it for future generations.
If you are looking for what to do in the Lake District, then how about a visit to the former home of children’s author Beatrix Potter?
This delightful, lush estate was once the home of Beatrix Potter, a celebrated author of children’s books. After she died in 1943, she left the house and thousands of possessions to the National Trust.
Heading to Hill Top is a must if you want to catch a glimpse of Potter’s furniture, photos, porcelain, and paintings. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to wander through her renowned garden. For those who are truly captivated by Beatrix Potter, the National Trust provides a downloadable tour guide of the Lake District that was the source of her creative writing.
See The Lake District Sights Riding An Electric Bike
The Lake District, England is like a heaven on earth. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the world. One of the best ways to explore the Lake District is by riding an electric bike. It’s a great way of visiting lots of different villages without getting too exhausted.
Over the years there has been a huge development in the number of electric bikes available in the Lake District. There are lots of charging stations available, with most of them situated at pubs and cages. So, you don’t have to worry about running out of juice.
You can either bring your own electric bike or hire one. If you want to see the sights and see things that you would never appreciate in a car, then this is one of the best things to do in the Lake District.
Explore The Trails At Whinlatter Forest Park
When you go to the Lake District, don’t miss out on the only mountain forest in the UK: Whinlatter Forest Park. It’s a great place to visit in the Lake District for people who love outdoor activities and adventure. The park offers a wide range of walking paths, bikes to rent, and even a high ropes course. Trails of different lengths make it suitable for everyone, including families.
Between April and September, you can view the osprey camera, which will show you live footage of the native osprey population from their nest.
Visit Castlerigg Stone Circle
If you are looking to visit the Lake District and you love history then how about a visit to Castlerigg Stone Circle?
Castlerigg Stone Circle is believed to be around 5,000 years old and is a remarkable British landmark which is one of the oldest British circles. No one really knows why it is built or what it was used for, but it is a very interesting place to visit in the Lake District.
You can admire the breathtaking sights of the mountains and the surrounding area.
Take A Leisurely Stroll With A Pack Pony
Native fell ponies are sadly endangered, even though the late Queen’s favourite mount being one. Fell Pony Adventures offers a lovely experience for people visiting the Lake District from short hikes to 4-day camping adventures. The beautiful Black ponies will carry your gear for you.
Horse-riding In The Lake District
A lot of people who visit the Lake District like to enjoy a magical horse riding experience. I must admit, this is not really for me. I have tried horse riding before and didn’t really enjoy it. However, horse riding experiences have become one of the popular Lake District things to do, if that is what floats your boat.
You can explore the Lake District on a horse and enjoy the magical countryside at your leisure.
Take A Boat On The Lake District Lakes
I love boats and I love water, so one of the best things to do in the Lake District for me is to take a ride on a nice boat on the lakes.
There are lots of choices of boats to enjoy travelling on the Lakes, but for me, the Ullswater Steamers which is one of the oldest is the best.
You can enjoy the stunning landscape of Ullswater valley while also taking advantage of some of Lakeland’s renowned walking paths which the boat connects you to.
Visit the last working mine in England
The Honister Slate Mine is the last operational mine in England, famous for its production of green slate from Fleetwith Pike.
There is an array of activities for all ages. From a leisurely tour through the underground mineshafts to scaling the side and inside of a mountain, and even crossing a daunting infinity bridge, you’ll find something enjoyable to do. An interesting. Honister is also home to the highest cafe in the National Park.
