The question of what to do at the Lake District is less about finding an activity and more about choosing between a thousand moments of pure bliss, each one etched into the breathtaking landscape of Cumbria. This isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience that awakens the senses, a sprawling canvas of nature’s finest work waiting to be explored.
From the moment you arrive, you are enveloped by a world of majestic fells, their rugged peaks scraping the clouds, and serene waters that mirror the ever-changing sky. This iconic scenery is dotted with charming villages that seem frozen in time, holding tales of a rich literary history and serving up incredible culinary delights. To truly grasp the scope of what awaits, understanding the full spectrum of
what can you do at lake district is the perfect first step in planning an unforgettable journey.
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What Our Readers Say About The Lake District
Before we delve into the details, it’s worth hearing from those who have walked these paths before. Feedback often paints the most vivid picture, with visitors consistently praising the unparalleled beauty and the sheer variety of experiences. Many describe their trips as a “recharge for the soul,” highlighting the tranquility found by the water’s edge in Ambleside or the sense of accomplishment after a hike up Orrest Head. The consensus is clear: whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a seeker of peace, the Lake District delivers an experience that lingers long after you’ve returned home. It’s a place that feels both epic and intimate, a sentiment echoed by countless travellers who leave a piece of their heart among the hills.
Embrace the Call of the Fells: Hiking for All
You cannot truly talk about what to do at the Lake District without starting with its world-famous fells. This is the heartland of British hiking, a place immortalised by Alfred Wainwright and beloved by generations of walkers. The beauty of walking here is its incredible accessibility. You don’t have to be a seasoned mountaineer to enjoy the panoramic views; there is a trail for every pair of boots.
The Challenge of the Giants
For those who seek the thrill of the summit, the Lake District presents iconic challenges that reward every ounce of effort. Scafell Pike, England’s highest peak, is a formidable but achievable goal for a fit walker. The journey to its rocky summit is a pilgrimage, offering a rugged, almost lunar landscape near the top and views that stretch across the entire national park on a clear day. Another giant, Helvellyn, offers one of the UK’s most famous and exhilarating ridge walks: Striding Edge. This is not for the faint-hearted, requiring a good head for heights and careful footwork, but the feeling of traversing its narrow spine with Red Tarn glistening below is an adrenaline rush like no other. These ascents are more than just walks; they are adventures that test your resolve and fill you with an unparalleled sense of achievement.
Gentle Strolls and Woodland Wanders
If the high fells seem daunting, fear not. The region is crisscrossed with lower-level paths that offer just as much beauty with a fraction of the strain. A circular walk around Tarn Hows, a stunning beauty spot with man-made origins, provides breathtaking views of the Langdale Pikes without a strenuous climb. The paths are well-maintained, making it perfect for families and those seeking a leisurely afternoon. Similarly, Grizedale Forest offers a completely different experience, with miles of waymarked trails weaving through towering trees. Here, art and nature collide, as you can discover unique sculptures dotted throughout the woodland, turning a simple walk into a treasure hunt. These gentler options prove that you don’t need to conquer a peak to capture the essence of the Lakes.
Life on the Water: Making a Splash
The “lakes” are, of course, the district’s namesake, and to ignore them would be to miss half the magic. These vast bodies of water, from the bustling Windermere to the tranquil Buttermere, offer a completely different perspective of the landscape and a host of activities to enjoy.
Serene Cruises and Historic Steamers
One of the most relaxing ways to see the fells is from the deck of a boat. The Ullswater Steamers offer a truly historic experience, gliding gracefully across what many consider England’s most beautiful lake. You can hop on and off at various piers, combining a cruise with a walk along a section of the 20-mile Ullswater Way. On Windermere, the largest natural lake in England, a fleet of cruisers connects the popular towns of Bowness, Ambleside, and Lakeside. A boat trip here is an essential part of the Lake District experience, allowing you to sit back, feel the gentle breeze, and watch the fells, woodlands, and grand houses drift by in a stunning panorama.
Expert Quote: “To understand the Lake District, you must see it from the water,” says Dr. Alistair Finch, a local historian and Cumbrian trail expert. “The fells look different, more imposing, more ancient. A steamer on Ullswater or a quiet kayak on Derwentwater connects you to the timeless rhythm of this place.”
Active Adventures on the Lakes
For the more adventurous, the lakes are a playground for watersports. You can hire a kayak or a canoe on Derwentwater and paddle out to its small islands, creating your own Swallows and Amazons-style adventure. The rise of stand-up paddleboarding has found a perfect home here, offering a peaceful yet engaging way to explore hidden coves and shorelines at your own pace. On Coniston Water, you can even follow in the footsteps of Donald Campbell, who made his fateful water speed record attempts here. From sailing to windsurfing, the opportunities to get on, or in, the water are endless, providing a refreshing and exhilarating counterpoint to a day spent on the fells. This type of lakeside activity is a world away from other holiday styles, such as those seeking specific places to stay at lake of the ozarks, offering a uniquely British charm.
Beyond the Fells: Culture, History, and Cosy Villages
While nature is the main draw, the cultural landscape of the Lake District is just as rich and compelling. The region is steeped in history, art, and literature, all nestled within some of the most picturesque villages you will ever encounter. This offers a wealth of options for what to do at the Lake District on days when you want a break from strenuous activity.
The Charm of Cumbrian Villages
Exploring the villages is an activity in itself. Grasmere, famously described by William Wordsworth as “the loveliest spot that man hath ever found,” is an unmissable stop. Here, you can visit Dove Cottage, where the poet wrote some of his most famous works, and sample the legendary Grasmere Gingerbread. A short distance away, Ambleside and Bowness-on-Windermere offer a livelier atmosphere, with a fantastic array of independent shops, galleries, and eateries. In the north, the market town of Keswick, nestled between Skiddaw and Derwentwater, serves as a brilliant base for exploring the northern fells and boasts a wonderful theatre and a quirky pencil museum. Each village has its own unique character, a tapestry of slate-roofed cottages, ancient pubs, and welcoming tea rooms.
A Journey into Literary and Artistic History
The Lake District’s dramatic landscapes have inspired artists and writers for centuries. The most famous resident is arguably Beatrix Potter, and a visit to her 17th-century farmhouse, Hill Top, is like stepping directly into one of her books. The house and its gardens have been perfectly preserved, providing a magical insight into the world of Peter Rabbit and Jemima Puddle-Duck. The region’s connection to the Romantic poets, including Wordsworth, Coleridge, and Southey, is profound. You can feel their presence everywhere, from Wordsworth’s homes in Grasmere and Rydal to the views that inspired their revolutionary poetry. The dramatic landscapes have always been a catalyst for storytelling, a tradition that resonates across cultures, from a Cumbrian poem to powerful international stage productions such as guards at the taj theatre by the lake.
What to Do at Lake District When It Rains?
Let’s be honest: it rains in the Lake District. A lot. But a rainy day is no reason to despair; in fact, it offers an opportunity to discover a different side of the region. The moody, mist-shrouded fells can be incredibly atmospheric, and there are plenty of wonderful indoor activities to keep you entertained.
Museums, Galleries, and Indoor Attractions
When the heavens open, you can dive into the area’s culture. The Ruskin Museum in Coniston tells the story of the area’s heritage, from its early stone-age inhabitants to the famous Bluebird water speed record attempts. In Kendal, the Abbot Hall Art Gallery houses an impressive collection of art, including works by local artists like George Romney and modern masters like Barbara Hepworth. For families, The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction in Bowness is a magical experience, bringing her beloved characters to life in a captivating exhibition. These attractions offer shelter from the rain but also a deeper understanding of the people and stories that have shaped this unique corner of England.
Expert Quote: “Some people see rain and stay inside,” notes Dr. Alistair Finch. “But a Cumbrian local knows that the rain brings out the colours. The greens become greener, the slate roofs glisten, and the waterfalls are at their most spectacular. A rainy day is just a different kind of beautiful here.”
The Sanctuary of Cosy Pubs and Cafes
A rainy day is the perfect excuse to indulge in one of the Lake District’s greatest pleasures: finding a cosy pub with a roaring fire. Imagine settling into a comfortable armchair with a pint of local ale after a damp walk, the sound of rain drumming against the windowpane. The region is packed with historic inns, like The Kirkstone Pass Inn, one of the highest pubs in England, or The Drunken Duck Inn, renowned for its incredible food and its own microbrewery. Alternatively, you can while away an afternoon in a charming tea room, warming up with a hot cup of tea and a generous slice of cake. A rainy day here isn’t a ruined day; it’s an invitation to slow down and savour the simple, comforting pleasures of Cumbrian hospitality.
A Taste of Cumbria: The Local Food and Drink Scene
Exploring what to do at the Lake District should definitely involve your taste buds. The region has a proud culinary heritage, built on the high-quality produce farmed from its fertile valleys and sourced from its hills and waters. From Michelin-starred dining to hearty pub classics, there is something to satisfy every palate.
Local Delicacies and Must-Try Foods
No trip to the Lakes is complete without sampling some of its unique local specialities. Cumberland sausage, a long, coiled, and spiced pork sausage, is a staple on menus everywhere and a true taste of the region. For something sweet, the aforementioned Grasmere Gingerbread is a must-try – a unique, spicy-sweet cross between a biscuit and a cake. The region is also famous for its sticky toffee pudding, with the village of Cartmel claiming to be its rightful home. You’ll also find excellent local cheeses, damson gin made from the Lyth Valley’s famous fruit, and a burgeoning craft beer scene. These flavours are an integral part of the Cumbrian experience. While accommodation here often involves charming B&Bs or historic inns, it’s a very different vibe from the log-cabin culture you might find when looking for cabins at table rock lake branson mo, yet both offer a unique connection to their local environment.
From Michelin Stars to Hearty Pub Grub
The food scene in the Lake District has exploded in recent years, and it is now home to more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other UK county outside of London. Establishments like L’Enclume in Cartmel offer innovative tasting menus that showcase the very best of local, foraged ingredients, providing a world-class dining experience. However, you don’t need a fat wallet to eat well here. The local pubs are the backbone of the food scene, serving up generous portions of comforting classics. A hearty steak and ale pie, fresh fish and chips, or a traditional Sunday roast in a country pub after a long walk is one of life’s great pleasures and an essential part of any visit. The power of a landscape to inspire stories and create lasting memories is universal, capturing our imagination and making us wonder about fictional worlds, even prompting questions like why was x ray at camp green lake, all while we are grounded in the tangible beauty of our surroundings.
The sheer diversity of the Lake District is its greatest strength. It is a place that can be as wild and challenging or as calm and restorative as you want it to be. You can spend your days scaling peaks and paddling across vast lakes, or you can wander through historic homes and enjoy a quiet pint by a crackling fire. It caters to every pace of life and every type of traveller. The answer to what to do at the Lake District is simple: come and discover your own perfect version of it. Whether you are seeking adventure, peace, culture, or culinary excellence, you will find it here in abundance, nestled amongst the most beautiful and inspiring scenery England has to offer.
Comments
Eleanor Vance
★★★★★
An absolutely magical trip in October 2023. We stayed near Grasmere and the autumn colours were breathtaking. The walk around Rydal Water was gentle but so rewarding. And yes, the Grasmere Gingerbread lives up to the hype! We’ve already booked to come back next year.
Ben Carter
★★★★★
As a keen hiker, I finally ticked Scafell Pike off my list this May. The weather was on our side and the views from the top were just immense. It’s a tough climb but worth every step. We refuelled at the Wasdale Head Inn afterwards – a proper walker’s pub.
Sophie and Tom Williams
★★★★☆
We visited with our two kids (7 and 9) in August. They absolutely loved The World of Beatrix Potter and taking the steamer across Windermere. It was very busy, which is the only reason for 4 stars, but the scenery is undeniable. Grizedale Forest’s sculpture trail was another huge hit.
David Chen
★★★★★
I came for a solo trip to focus on photography in early spring. The area around Buttermere and Crummock Water was unbelievable, especially with the morning mist. It was so peaceful. The light is just different here. A fantastic place to disconnect and get creative.
Maria Gonzalez
★★★★★
My partner and I came for a foodie weekend in November. We had a meal at L’Enclume which was out of this world. But we also loved the cosy pubs and the amazing local produce at the Keswick market. Don’t miss the Cartmel sticky toffee pudding!
Richard Shaw
★★★★☆
A great week spent cycling around the quieter lanes near Coniston. The landscape is challenging on a bike but so beautiful. My only small gripe is that some of the main roads can be a bit intimidating with traffic. Stick to the back roads for the best experience.
Chloe Davies
★★★★★
First time paddleboarding and I can’t imagine a better place to learn than Derwentwater. We hired boards in Keswick and spent a whole afternoon exploring the islands. It was so serene. The town itself is lovely too, with lots of great outdoor shops.
Liam Murphy
★★★★★
Came here on a rainy weekend in February, and you know what? It was still brilliant. We did a few low-level walks and then spent the afternoons in cosy pubs. The Kirkstone Pass Inn felt like a real adventure to get to. Don’t let the weather put you off!
Isabelle Dubois
★★★★☆
We visited Dove Cottage and Hill Top, which were fascinating for any literature or Beatrix Potter fan. Grasmere is as pretty as a postcard, though it does get very crowded. I’d recommend visiting on a weekday if you can. The history here is palpable.
Henry Baker
★★★★★
Spent a long weekend in Ambleside in June this year. The walk up to Loughrigg Fell gives you one of the best 360-degree views for relatively little effort. The town is a great base with plenty of restaurants and pubs for the evening. Can’t wait to explore more of the fells.
