Whether you’re visiting for the scenery, the food, or the exciting activities, the Lake District is a destination that rarely disappoints. Culturally rich and naturally pretty, the Lake District is a rewarding, educational, and enriching place to go on holiday.
Popular for independent travellers and lodge holidays in the UK alike, there’s plenty to do in the Lake District. If you’re struggling to fill your itinerary, try adding one of these ten exciting things to see and do to your holiday schedule.
1. Tie your shoes and go for a walk
From short walks to challenging mountain trails, the Lake District is home to some of Britain’s best walking routes. Pack a comfortable pair of shoes and embark on a lengthy mountain walk, a quick tour around the lakeside, or a quick journey to one of the region’s stunning waterfalls.
2. Steam, sail, or paddle across the lakes
There’s no better way to enjoy the Lake District than from on the water. Travel on Windermere, Derwentwater, or any other of the other lakes on local ferries, yachts, and even historical steamboats. Some boat trips can be combined with rides on the historic Lake District railway.
3. Watch entertaining local theatre
From Hollywood blockbusters to local productions, the Lake District is a great place to catch the latest in entertainment. The Theatre by the Lake, located in Keswick, is an excellent place to watch local dramas, comedies, and entertaining productions.
4. Visit the impressive Aira Force
Aira Force is one of the Lake District’s most impressive waterfalls. A favourite of local poet William Wordsworth, the waterfall can be accessed after a short walk through some of the Lake District’s best countryside. Wear a comfortable pair of shoes and pack a spare coin to place inside the famous Aira Force wish tree.
5. Learn about William Wordsworth
Lake District poet William Wordsworth was one of the Romantic Age’s most well known poets. Literary gurus holidaying in the Lake District will want to visit Dove Cottage – William Wordsworth’s residence from 1799-1808 –located in the small town of Rydal.
6. Conquer formidable local fells
You don’t need to be a mountain climber to conquer some of the Lake District’s best fells, particularly if you’re visiting during the summer. Pack some comfortable shoes and climb up Cat Bells, or explore the more exclusive trail at Friar’s Crag.
7. Enter the World of Beatrix Potter
Travelling with the children? Spend a morning or afternoon exploring the World of Beatrix Potter in Windermere. This charming attraction is home to several different exhibits that draw you into the wonderful world of Peter Rabbit and Beatrix Potter’s other enchanting characters.
8. Conquer your fear of heights
The Lake District is a great place to conquer your fear of heights, whether you opt for an exciting ropes course or a rock climbing lesson. Several tour agencies offer guided rock climbing tours of the Lake District’s top cliffs, while the region has its own high ropes courses for visitors interested in pushing their limits.
9. Go on a mountain biking adventure
Those remarkable mountains aren’t just for walking. If you’re an adrenaline addict holidaying in the Lake District, make sure you spend at least one afternoon racing down one of the Lake District’s many downhill mountain biking trails. Bikes can be rented from a variety of local adventure tourism companies.
10. Learn about local aquatic life
The Lakes Aquarium, located at the southern tip of Lake Windermere, is an excellent place to learn about the Lake District’s unique aquatic life. See the aquatic life of the Lake District up close and personal, or visit new exhibits dedicated to the sea life of Africa, Southeast Asia, Hawaii, and the Mediterranean.