Visit our beautiful destination, packed full of stunning landscapes and amazing things to see and do. Find us in the Northwest corner of England, easily accessible by rail and road. We have three railway stations on the West Coast mainline, with Manchester and Liverpool being our closest international airports.
We are a year-round destination famous for the awe-inspiring scenic beauty of our lakes, mountains and over 150 miles of coastline, three National Landscapes as well as two UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the Lake District National Park and Hadrian’s Wall.
Our region is home to world class attractions. Learn about local history and culture at one of our many fascinating museums, take a serene lake cruise to immerse yourself in incredible scenery, or step back in time with a ride on a characterful heritage railway.
These landscapes have also inspired a host of famous writers, poets and artists including William Wordsworth, John Ruskin and Beatrix Potter. Visit the special places where they lived and worked to learn more about these literary icons.
From mountain walks, rock climbing and Via Ferrata to gentle strolls, rowing boats, and family friendly cycling, Cumbria’s unique terrain also provides an outdoor adventure for all ages and abilities.
This is the perfect place to spend time relaxing and exploring, creating memories to last a lifetime. Read on to discover the best things to do in the Lake District, Cumbria.
5 Unforgettable Experiences in The Lake District, England
Take a Scenic Lake Cruise in the Lake District
A lake cruise is a must for anyone exploring the magnificent Lake District scenery and a fabulous way of opting for a more sustainable journey.
Ullswater ‘Steamers’ offers scenic lake cruises on historic, elegant vessels around Ullswater. Passengers can combine their cruise with a walk on the Ullswater Way or a visit to Aira Force. They also offer gin cruises and fish and chip supper charters.
Windermere Lake Cruises operate a variety of sightseeing tours on England’s longest lake. Combine your cruise with a walk along the Windermere Way or with a visit to a nearby attraction such as Lakes Aquarium, the Lakeland Motor Museum, or the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Steam Railway. In summer they offer evening buffet cruises with live music.
Also on Lake Windermere, the Windermere Jetty Museum runs cruises aboard a fully conserved wooden Edwardian steam launch and a vintage motor vessel, like the 1930 Penelope II.
For more options, head to Coniston Water for a cruise with Coniston Launch Co. and National Trust Steam Yacht Gondola or choose Keswick Launch Co. for a cruise on Derwentwater.
The Lake District’s Best Local Food and Drink
Get ready to indulge in a host of delicious food and drink experiences as you sample the very best of our local produce. From sweet treats to Michelin star dining, this region is home to some of the best food in the Lake District.
Iconic sweet treats from the Lake District, Cumbria include the famous Grasmere Gingerbread® invented by legendary Victorian cook Sarah Nelson in 1854 and the energy filled Kendal Mint Cake which was taken on the first successful summit of Mount Everest.
Visit the pretty Lakeland village of Hawkshead for great independent shopping, including a visit to the Hawkshead Relish shop, known for its tasty jams and chutneys.
A superb range of local produce can also be enjoyed at the Farmshop at Tebay services as well as at the Cranstons Food Halls in Brampton, Carlisle, Orton Grange and Penrith.
There are plenty of places to try local craft beers or spirits. Book a tour at Jennings Brewery or Keswick Brewery – or get hands on and make your own distilled gin at Shed One in Ulverston.
As for fine-dining, Cumbria has the highest concentration of Michelin stars in the UK outside of London. L’Enclume in Cartmel is known for its sustainable practices while Pentonbridge Inn partner with Netherby Hall, allowing you to arrive at dinner via horse and carriage.
Explore the Lake Districts Literary Attractions
1. Discover Beatrix Potter’s Lake District
2026 marks the 160th anniversary of Beatrix Potter’s birth, while 2027 is the 125th anniversary of the publication of one of her best-loved tales, The Tale of Peter Rabbit.
Find out more at her former home of Hill Top (with a Christmas opening new for this year) or head to the Armitt Museum to view some of her original artwork.
The World of Beatrix Potter™ Attraction is an interactive museum which brings to life her most enchanting tales. Don’t miss the official Peter Rabbit™ Café on-site meanwhile Mountain Goat Tours offers a dedicated half-day excursion, ‘Beatrix Potter’s Favourite Countryside’.
2. Follow in the Footsteps of William Wordsworth
Visit Wordsworth Grasmere to learn more about the literary icon, William Wordsworth. Explore Dove Cottage where he created much of his greatest work and view handwritten manuscripts and centuries-old letters in the museum. Unique experiences include enjoying a tasting menu at Wordsworth’s own table. Nearby, Allan Bank in Grasmere, once home to Wordsworth, now includes a small art gallery and scenic grounds.
At Hawkshead Grammar School Museum, sit at the desk where Wordsworth carved his name – and then stop by his first home at Wordsworth House and Gardens in Cockermouth.
3. Visit John Ruskin’s Historic Home
On the shores of Coniston Water, Brantwood is the historic home of John Ruskin – a famous art critic, social thinker and writer from the 19th century. Now a heritage attraction, visit for exhibitions, talks, and to explore the extensive gardens.
In Coniston village, find out more about John Ruskin with a visit to The Ruskin Museum. It’s also a chance to learn more about Coniston’s local history, and the story of Donald Campbell and Bluebird K7.
These literary landmarks are among the most fascinating things to see in Keswick and the wider Lake District.
Outdoor Activities to Try in the Lake District
The Lake District, Cumbria, is the perfect place to connect with nature and switch off from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Choose activities to unwind and relax while soaking up and exploring the incredible landscapes.
Our scenery is world famous with fantastic walking and cycling options. Climb a Wainwright for great mountain views, wander along the England Coast Path beside amazing beaches or visit a stunning waterfall. Cycling includes everything from family friendly traffic free trails to thrilling mountain biking. Plenty of guided options allow you to take advantage of expert local knowledge. Many accessible trails also ensure there’s an option for all levels and abilities.
Organised and guided activities include rock climbing, scrambling, bushcraft, foraging and Via Ferrata at Honister, England’s last working slate mine. Or get out on the water with water centres offering canoeing, rowing, paddleboarding, kayaking and self-drive boat hire. For sporting events, there’s swimming, ultrarunning and triathlon events as well as traditional sports on display at country shows.
Animal lovers can choose from birds of prey displays at Muncaster Castle, the Herdwick Experience at Yew Tree Farm or walks with alpacas. For mindful experiences, there’s forest bathing, yoga and meditation on offer. There truly is something for everyone among the outdoor activities in the Lake District.
Where to Stay in the Lake District
Whatever you are looking for, The Lake District, Cumbria offers accommodation options to suit everyone.
If you are looking to relax and disconnect in comfort, there’s welcoming country guest houses, cosy self-catering or secluded chalets in tranquil, rural settings.
For those after luxury options, look out for five-star, award-winning properties around the county. You’ll find Relais & Châteaux accommodation offering world class spa facilities and Michelin star dining.
For something a bit different, you could even stay in a castle, with accommodation on offer at Muncaster Castle and Augill Castle.
Start Planning Your Lake District Escape
From scenic lake cruises and literary landmarks to outdoor adventure and world class dining, the Lake District has attractions to suit every kind of traveller. Whether it’s a relaxed few days exploring Keswick and its surrounding villages, or a fully packed itinerary covering the best the region has to offer, there’s no better place to disconnect and create lasting memories.
Ready to bring the Lake District into your clients’ next UK itinerary? At Best of Scotland Holidays, we specialise in building tailor-made travel programmes across England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland, designed around each traveller’s interests, pace and budget.
Get in touch with our team today to start planning a bespoke Lake District journey or combine it with other destinations for a seamless multi-region UK trip.
