A FIRST-TIMER’S GUIDE
The Lake District is England’s largest national park, located in the northwest of the country. The area is known for its beautiful natural environment, from the calm lakes to the rolling green hills and the idyllic small towns nestled within the woods. It is the perfect place to escape the city and embrace the outdoors.
QUICK LINKS
HIKING
It should be no surprise that one of the top things to do in England’s largest national park is hiking. The rolling hills and rugged fells provide some of the best hiking trails in the UK, while the lake shores and places like Hodge Close Quarry provide more leisurely strolls and peaceful walks. For trails with challenging ascents and panoramic views, we recommend the Coledale Horseshow, Helvellyn or Scafell Pike, England’s highest peak.
SMALL TOWNS
Perfectly complementing the gorgeous natural beauty of the Lake District are the charming small towns and villages. You can explore quaint streets lined with cosy cottages, artisanal shops, colourful gardens and warm, welcoming cafes and pubs. Ambleside and Windermere are well-known favourites, but you can’t miss their quieter and just as picturesque neighbours Hawkshead and Braithwaite. Also worth a mention, although technically just outside the Lake District, is the beautiful town of Cartmel.
HISTORICAL SITES
The Lake District is rich in history, with many fascinating historical sites open to the public, including castles, abbeys, forts and baths. One of the most captivating sites is the Castlerigg Stone Circle. Not only is this Neolithic site an intriguing wonder to walk within, but it also offers sweeping views of the district, including the mountains Helvellyn and High Seat.
LAKES
You can’t visit the Lake District without spending time at one of the many serene lakes. After a morning of hiking, what better way to rest your legs than relaxing on the waterfront in a tranquil setting, admiring the mountains you’ve just conquered. Some of the most popular lakes include Buttermere, Windermere and Ullswater.
OUR GOOGLE MAPS
When planning our travel destinations, we pin our bucket list of sites to see and recommended places to eat and drink on Google Maps. We are then never lost for ideas when travelling, and can easily share these lists for our friends and family to use too.
Click here to see our Google Maps for Top Things To Do in the Lake District.
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