The Lake District is England’s largest National Park and a wonderful place to spend time. As well as the stunning bodies of water for which the region is named, the area is blessed with rugged mountains (often referred to as ‘fells’), quaint towns and villages, and even coastline.
The national park covers 2,362 square kilometres (912 square miles), so there is plenty of space for outdoor exploration. Such is the scale of this part of North West England that many visitors find it is a challenge knowing the best places to go and what to do in the Lake District. Even those lucky enough to live within the park will struggle to take in everything this region has to offer. There is so much to enjoy here that many visitors find themselves coming back again and again, and they need never have the same experience twice.
With that in mind, we’ve put together a list of some of the finest locations in the Lakes, and outlined some of the very best activities and attractions to complement the surroundings. Whether you’re an experienced hiker looking to explore the park’s trails, or simply looking to enjoy the natural environment, there is something for everyone here. We hope this guide will enhance your visit to a truly breathtaking part of England.
Windermere and Ambleside
At 10.5-miles in length, Windemere is England’s largest natural lake. It’s also one of the Lake District’s most popular places to visit and an incredible location for all kinds of watersports. Those seeking a water-based adventure will find a selection of options to choose from at Windermere Marina Village in the pretty lakeside town of Bowness-on-Windermere. From kayaking and paddleboarding to sailing and scenic cruises, there are plenty of opportunities to get out on the water and experience the views. The town of Bowness is a great place to spend time, and with thriving independent shops, cafes, pubs, and restaurants it’s a popular base or day trip location for many visitors. Head to the Windermere Walk scenic trail for a relaxing walk with fantastic lake views.
Buttermere
A flat and easy walk around the entire lake makes beautiful Buttermere a great destination for walkers of all abilities. There are amazing views to enjoy and on a warm day, the lake is also a good location for a swim.
Those looking for a slightly more challenging walk than the flat path around the lake could try Haystacks. This was a favourite of famed local guidebook author Alfred Wainwright, who called it the “best fell top of all”. He liked it so much he chose to have his ashes scattered there when he died in 1991. Such was the popularity of Wainwright’s guides that walkers still try to tick off his list of 214 fell tops, sometimes called ‘Wainwrights’. Visitors can also see a memorial to him in the local St James’ Church.
Ullswater and Glenridding
Choosing which of the Lake District’s 16 notable bodies of water is the most beautiful is no easy feat. After all, each has its own charm and qualities. However, allow us to suggest Ullswater as a real contender for this honour. With its calming waters surrounded by mighty peaks, this is a marvellous place to be, whether on water or land.
There are few better, or more unique, ways to experience this lake than by hopping aboard a traditional steamer. Ullswater ‘Steamers’ have been operating cruises here for more than 160 years. Trips run throughout the year and offer spectacular views of the mountains, including the Lakes’ third-highest peak – Helvellyn.
Ullswater is the perfect base for experienced hikers keen to tackle the iconic hike up Helvellyn. Climbing the 950 metres to the summit via Striding Edge is on the bucket-list of many keen walkers. Another natural attraction nearby is the impressive Aira Force waterfall, which you can access by following a scenic trail through ancient woodlands.
Grasmere
Grasmere has many qualities, but for many people the first thing that springs to mind when they hear the name is its association with William Wordsworth. The famed poet lived at Dove Cottage from 1799 to 1808. He described Grasmere as “the loveliest spot that man hath ever found”, and most visitors find it hard to disagree with those sentiments. His former home is now open to the public and is well worth seeing, offering a great insight into his life here.
With Grasmere Lake and Rydal Water within easy reach, there are numerous walking trails to explore and opportunities to take to the water. Rydal is a great spot to hire a rowing boat or take a swim as there are no motorboats, making for a far more relaxing experience. It’s easy to understand why Wordsworth and many thousands of others after him have fallen for the charms of this gorgeous part of the world.
Coniston
Coniston offers visitors a wonderful mix of scenery and history. A boat trip out on the lake is sure to be among the highlights of any visit, but many people come here to do the famous Old Man of Coniston walk. This moderately challenging hike, with a 2,633 feet (803 metre) climb to the summit, is often mentioned in discussions about the Lake District and England’s best walks. Those who complete it will be suitably rewarded with spectacular views from the top. Be sure to do your research and prepare carefully if you decide to try it, as the circular 13.9-kilometre route takes on average 4.5 to 6 hours to complete.
Coniston is also famed for its association with author John Ruskin. It’s worth making a trip to the Ruskin Museum, as it gives interesting details about his work and life, as well as the history of the village.
The Lake District is a wonderful place to visit at any time of year, so now is a great time to go and experience it for yourself. Make sure to note the locations mentioned in our guide to make the most of your time there.
