Things to do in the Lake District and Cumbria

However long you intend to stay in the Lake District hotels , you will find a fantastic range of accommodation to suit your requirements. Boutique Hotels, luxury hotels, budget guest houses and even themed hotels in Windermere can be found at reasonable prices.

Grasmere and Windermere hotels are among the most stylish in the region and the finest Lake District boutique hotels are situated between Windermere and Bowness.

Stunning views and some of England´s most beautiful scenery provide the backdrop to a wide choice of things to do and see in the Lake District. If you like eating and drinking, you will find a great range of pubs, inns and fine dining restaurants in Cumbria, and for the more adventurous, a wide choice of outdoor activities. Rock climbing, walking and hiking in this region are among the most popular pastimes, and attract visitors from all over the UK.

Rock climbing originated in the Lake District on the crags of Wasdale Head in the 19th Century, and today there are plenty of lakes hotels dotted around the area, plus self -catering cottages. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, there are climbs to suit everyone, and an unbeatable variety of landscapes and terrain to conquer.

If culture and heritage are more your thing, visit the Cumbria art galleries and art exhibitions, which are open all year round, or visit the old Norman churches at Allonby and Aspatria.

Beatrix Potter Gallery at Hawkshead

The Beatrix Potter Gallery at Hawkshead has a display of original watercolours painted by Beatrix Potter to use as illustrations for her children´s stories. Exhibits are changed annually and this 17th Century building was once the office of her husband, William Heelis, a solicitor.The building remains relatively unscathed since his day, and it is located next door to, the author´s inspiration for Tabitha Twitchet´s Shop. Telephone: 015394 36355.

Lake District Attractions

Attractions in the Lake District are situated all over Cumbria, and there are a wide range of things to see and do in Windermere, Bowness, Ullswater, Kendal, Grasmere, Keswick, Cockermouth or Coniston, where the late, great Donald Campbell died in his attempt to break the water speed record in 1967 in his boat ´Bluebird.

Luxury hotels and cheap hotels in the Lake District can be found online or from the tourist information centres in the region, where you can also pick up details of things to do and see in Cumbria. If you are looking for outdoor pursuits, visit Grizedale Forest, with its challenging run of rope bridges and zip slides, which provide fun for all the family. Younger children can enjoy visiting Peter Rabbit and friends.

Places to go in the Lake District

The beauty of the Lake District is its diverse landscapes, its stunning lakes and its wealth of things to see and do all year round. Whatever time of year you plan to visit Cumbria, you will always find something to do.

The lakes at Windermere are among the most beautiful in Europe, and there is no better way to enjoy the view than by taking a lake cruise on a traditional launch or steamer.

You can start your journey from Bowness, Ambleside or Lakeside and enjoy the spectacular views of mountains and lakes, secluded bays and islands along the way. You can even break up your journey and explore the surrounding countryside. Bowness is the real heart of the Lake District, and is a perfect holiday town, which has not been spoilt by commercialism. Traditional cafes, bars and restaurants mingle with modern shops and attractions, such as the popular ´World of Beatrix Potter.´

Ambleside is set among green fields and majestic mountains, and is a popular stop-off point for visitors enjoying a lake cruise.

Lakeside is situated at the southern most end of the lake, and is home to the award-winning Lakes Aquarium, where you will find the UK´s largest collection of fresh water fish, and a range of fascinating displays and exhibitions. Also, well worth a visit is the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Steam Railway, which is on the opposite side of the lake. Enjoy the stunning river scenery of the Leven Valley, before you sail back to your hotel. If you are looking for somewhere special to stay, consider booking a themed hotel or a boutique hotel in Windermere or Bowness, and make the most of elegant surroundings and superb food.

Where to go in the Lake District

Spectacular events, combined with stunning scenery, make Cumbria one of the most visited regions of England, and there are no shortage of annual events, festivals, fairs and competitions to keep everyone entertained. Winter, Spring, or Autumn in Cumbria, you will always find special events being arranged in the surrounding villages, and Christmas in the Lake District is magical.

You can marvel at the skills and traditions which have helped to shape the Lake District over the past few hundred years, and experience the rural economy which has become world famous. Christmas breaks in the lakes book up quickly, and you are advised to book early if you are considering a few days away during this busy time.

You may want to go camping, self-catering, enjoy a Windermere break in a luxury hotel, or even check in to a boutique hotel in the Lake District, and you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to booking your holiday.

Outdoor Adventure Playground

A fantastic day out for all the family is the outdoor adventure playground at Brockhole, which offers visitors rope walks, slides, swings, scramble nets and zip wires. Picnic areas are situated in over 30 acres of gardens leading down to the lake shore, including Birkett Wood. A covered area is also available if the weather takes a turn for the worse, and a unique ´landscape literature´ features works of art from local artists and schoolchildren. Qualified instructors and guides make sure this is a safe and fun environment for all the family.

Accomodation in the Lake District

Accomodation in the Cumbria and the lake district includes: self catering cottages, boutique hotels, luxury hotels, romantic hotels in Windermere, spa hotels, honeymoon hotels and gay hotels to name but a few, and Windermere breaks are among the most popular holidays in England. Wherever you decide to stay in the Lake District you will be close to some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe, and it is worth taking your time to tour around the area at your own leisure and enjoy the views over the lakes, and the fabulous restaurants, cafes and bars at lakeside villages on route.

Recommended hotels in windermere

Aphrodites boutique themed Hotel

If you are planning a weekend break in the lakes or a holiday in the beautiful region of Windermere or Bowness, check out the organic Aphrodites Lodge Hotel. This themed boutique hotel prides itself on being eco-friendly, and also offers organic, fair-trade food which is locally produced.

Themed suites include: The Parisien, the Cleopatra, the Tarzan and Jane and the Flintstones to name but a few, and many of the suites boast outdoor hot tubs, patios and saunas. Some suites at the Aphrodites Lodge Hotel have large separate lounges with log burning stoves or open fires, and if you are looking for a romantic break in the Lake District or a break in an organic and environmentally-friendly hotel near Windermere and Bowness, you will be hard pushed to beat the Aphrodites.

An eco-policy states that the Aphrodites Hotel has been assessed and significant environmental aspects include: the use of renewable shared electricity, the use of carbon neutral fuel for the biomass boiler, the use of water resources and the generation of waste water, food miles and the generation of disposal of waste and packaging.

Also boasting a stunning fountain which dances to light and music (I understand the inspiration came from the amazing fountain at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas), the Aphrodites Lodge Hotel offers visitors elegance, style and comfort in a stunning setting with organic produce and an eco-friendly environment.

21 The Lakes boutique hotel

If you are looking to stay somewhere different between Windermere and Bowness, check out the fabulous 21 The Lakes Hotel. Enjoying one of the best locations in the Lake District and just a walk away from Bowness and Windermere, 21 The Lakes is a boutique hotel which is perfect for a weekend break in the lakes, a romantic getaway or a Christmas break in the Lake District. Honeymoon hotels in the Lake District don´t come much better than this, and you can enjoy exclusive, award-winning suites at reasonable prices which include: saunas, hot tubs, widescreen TVs, spas and every extra you would expect from a luxury hotel in Windermere.

Once the second home of a wealthy Edwardian gentleman, 21 The Lakes has been transformed into one of the Lake District´s most elegant hotels. Attractive period features combine beautifully with stylish decor, to make 21 The Lakes one of the most sought after stays in the Lake District.

Lakes mountains and waterfalls

Water is obviously the feature the Lake District is famous for, and anything you can do on water you will find in Cumbria and the lakes and waterfalls are stunning. Windermere, at 10.5 miles long, is England´s longest lake, and Wastwater is the deepest, with a depth of 79 metres. Take your time to discover the lakes and views, the hills, rivers and waterfalls that make up so much of this stunning region, and the beautiful, rugged coastline. Only five peaks in England are over 900 metres high, and they are all situated in Cumbria. Visit Scafell Pike in the Wasdale Valley which, at 978 metres high, is the country´s highest peak.

Unmissable views of Cumbria and the lakes include: Surprise View, overlooking Derwentwater, Orrest Head overlooking Windermere, Ruskin´s View at Kirkby Lonsdale and the amazing Hartside in the North Pennines.

Some of the most popular lakeside areas to visit in Cumbria include:

Bassenthwaite Lake

Bassenthwaite Lake is owned by the National Park Authority, and is 4 miles long and 70 feet deep. Home to the rare vendace fish species, and offering some wonderful waterside walks, Bassenthwaite is well worth a visit.

Brotherswater

Located close to Kirkstone Pass, Brotherswater lies among stunning scenery and is known for its large trout. Enjoy a day at Brotherswater, and make the most of the local restaurants and gift shops.

Buttermere Lake

Buttermere is surrounded by the peaks of the Haystacks and Feetwith Pike. If you enjoy walking, this is the ideal place to visit, and the 4 mile walk around the lake offers fantastic views. Buy a Lake District map and plan your route before leaving, to make the most of your time in Cumbria.

Coniston Water

Perhaps best remembered as the place where Donald Campbell tried and failed to beat the water speed record in his boat, ´Bluebird´, Coniston Water is the third largest of the lakes at 5 miles long, and offers visitors boat trips, hiking and guided walking tours.

Crummock Water

If you are looking to book a break at one of the lakes hotels, take time out to visit Crummock Water, which boasts incredible views. The lake is 2.5 miles long, and is flanked by steep sides of Skiddaw slate.

Derwentwater

Popular with walkers and hikers, Derwentwater is a quiet lake which attracts the outdoor types. If you want a relaxing holiday in the Lake District, you can find plenty of small hotels and Lake District cottages close to Derwentwater.

Elterwater

One of the quieter regions of the lakes, Elterwater is just a few miles from Ambleside, and lies behind Loughrigg and Silver How at the entrance to Great Langdale.

Ennerdale Water

The most westerly of the lakes, Ennerdale Water is the most remote area of Cumbria, and is the only lake without a road next to it. If you want to explore Ennerdale, you will need to get your walking boots on long before you reach the lake.

Esthwaite Water

Esthwaite Water is a natural lake, flanked by the larger lakes of Windermere and Coniston Water. If you are staying in a Windermere hotel, you can amble down to Esthwaite Water, and take a trip to Hawkshead, which is one of the prettiest villages in England. Esthwaite is a quiet area where you can enjoy the views without being surrounded by thousands of visitors. If you are a fishing fan, this lake boasts a huge number of trout and pike.

Grasmere Lake

Grasmere Lake lies south of the village of the same name, and is perfect for visitors who want more gentle walks and lower ground. For fans of poetry and literature, Grasmere was said to be the favourite lake of famous poet, William Wordsworth, who lived nearby. Grasmere and the Lake District inspired much of Wordsworth´s most famous work, including ´The daffodils.´ Book a hotel at Windermere or Bowness and make the most of your stay in this beautiful area.

May the force be with you

The word ´force´ is used in many part of northern England as a synonym of the word ´waterfall´ and it comes from the old Norse word ´fors´.

Aira Force Ullswater Valley

Aira Force is a stunning waterfall at Ullswater Valley, which falls over 70 ft and is spanned by bridges. If you are looking to stay near Ullswater, you will find many Lake District Hotels nearby, including boutique hotels in Windermere and Bowness. A one mile round walk around Aira Force can be extended, and you will also find a cafe and ample car parking close to the waterfall.

Colwith Force

If you fancy a walk through woodland, visit Colwith Force at Brathay, which falls over 55 feet, and is surrounded by stunning scenery. Park at the bottom of the hill and walk half a mile through oak woodland to reach the falls. Hotels and accommodation in the Lake District are plentiful, and whether you are looking for five star luxury or bed and breakfast accommodation, you will find it in Cumbria.

Dalegarth Falls

Dalegarth Falls at Eskdale consists of a narrow gorge on Stanley Ghyll, which can be reached on foot but extreme caution is advised. This is a dramatic and deep gorge which offers stunning views over the water and local woodland, and can be reached by a steep hike upstream. If you are fit and healthy, enjoy your trek, and the views will make it all worthwhile.

Dungeon Ghyll Force

Dungeon Ghyll Force is a natural trust property in Great Langdale. With a 40ft drop and spectacular scenery, a visit to this waterfall is a must for visitors who want to enjoy the beauty of the Lake District and its landscapes.

Fisher Place Gill

With thunderous cascades of water, paths and a footbridge, Fisher Place Gill is one of the more popular places to visit. Towards the western side of the lake, the road widens for parking, and you can enjoy fantastic views of the surrounding countryside and the falls.

Galleny Force

Situated in Borrowdale, Galleny Force is also known as Fairy Glen near Stonethwaite, and the area boasts a range of large pools and small falls, plus wooded areas along the river. Lakes hotels in Bowness and Windermere can be booked online and late deals can be found on many Lake District holidays.

Hell Gill Force

Hell Gill Force is situated at Great Langdale on Whorneyside Fell, and its high mountainside position offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and landscapes.

Levers Water Falls

Situated at Coniston in the upper copper mines area, Levers Water Falls are famous for the surrounding walks and its copper mining which dated back to the 17th Century. Don´t miss out on the beautiful falls at Church Beck, which are en route to the 1,500 feet Levers Water Reservoir nearby.

Lodore Falls

The Lodore Falls are situated in Keswick, which, along with Windermere and Bowness, is home to some of the most elegant and stylish boutique hotels in the Lake District. These 40 ft falls are surrounded by natural woodland, and parking is just half a mile away. You can also reach the Lodore Falls by taking a launch from Derwentwater.

Hiking in the Lake District

Probably one of the best places to eat, drink, walk, relax, hike and bike, the Lake District is home to some of the most beautiful, rugged peaks and gently sloping hillsides to suit every visitor. Accomodation is plentiful, and whether you are seeking a boutique hotel in Windermere, a cheap hotel in Bowness or a self-catering cottage, you will find it at the Lakes. For the more adventurous visitors, some of the best places to hike include:

Black Combe

Black Combe is a long ridge which rises from the sea, and is linked to the Ulpha Fells, which run north into the centre of the Lake District. This is the perfect place to get away from it all and enjoy the tranquility and peace of Cumbria.

Blencathra

Blencathra is rumoured to be Everest conquerer, Chris Bonnington´s favourite peaks in the Lake District, and is 868m high. For the more experienced hikers and climbers, Blencathra, also known as Saddlebacks has six peaks including Sharp Edge.

Bowfell

Bowfell rises at the head of Langdale, and is a beautiful conical peak with spectacular views all round.

The Old Man of Coniston

The Old Man of Coniston is one of the most popular walks for visitors to the lakes, and rises to a height of 2,635 ft.

Great Gable

Great Gable was chosen at the motif for the Lake District National Park, and is the perfect mountain for climbers and walkers who enjoy a challenge. If you book a hotel room at Windermere, Great Gable is an easy drive.

Grisedale Pike

Grisedale Pike is a popular choice for walkers in the Lake District, and it offers fantastic views of Derwentwater and the Helvellyn Mountain Range in the distance.

Windermere Borrowdale and Cumbria

Wherever you have visited in the world, you will be hard pressed to find more beautiful countryside, lakes and scenery than those in Winderemere, Borrowdale and the rest of Cumbria.

Cumbria boasts the five tallest mountains in England, the deepest lake, two national parks and some of the most outstanding areas of natural beauty in the world. The environment is unique and the diverse landscape is made up of lakes, waterfalls, mountains, forests and fells. It´s little wonder that William Wordsworth was inspired to write some of his most famous poetry while living in the Lake District. Along the coast, you can walk out over sand dunes and marvel at the views of the sandstone cliffs.

About Borrowdale

Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful places in Cumbria is Borrowdale, with its green uplands and woodlands covering the hillsides. Impressive stone walls divide the pastures and fields, and the deep water of the River Derwent sits below. The valley of Borrowdale is home to Scafell Pike, Great Gable and Glaramara, and this is where Seathwaite lies – the wettest inhabited place in England. If you are lucky enough to be staying in a hotel in the Lake District or a self-catering cottage, visit Seatoller, with its old cottages at the foot of Honister Pass.

The Langstrath Valley leads trough to Stonethwaite and out to the open fells where sheep graze. If you are visiting Borrowdale, take the time to explore Rosthwaite, with its rocky outcrops.

Windermere information

Most famous for having the longest lake in England, there is much more to Windermere than the lake. Beautiful countryside around Windermere surrounds the lake at the southern end of the Lake District, and some of the best boutique hotels can be found close by.

The town of Windermere is about 1km from the lake itself, and although Bowness on Windermere is closeby, it is a completely different town. Originally, Windermere was made up of three hamlets – Birthwaite, Applethwaite and Heathwaite. When the railway was built at Applethwaite in 1857, bringing wealthy land owners from Lancashire, it was decided to call the whole area ´Windermere´ after the lake to avoid confusion among visitors.

Windermere town has a wealth of hotels to suit all tastes and budgets, and is the perfect place to stay during a holiday to the lakes. Windermere has its own rail link and bus terminals, and is close to all major attractions the area has to offer.

You can find guest houses, boutique hotels, luxury hotels and budget hotels in Windermere and Bowness, and the surrounding region boasts some of the finest restaurants in Cumbria.

Make a difference and go green in the Lake District

In a world of looming climate change, there is no better way to show your appreciation of the Lake District and help preserve its beauty and landscapes, than by staying at an environmentally-friendly hotel with an eco policy, and one which offers organic, fair-trade food where possible. You can do your bit for the countryside and the environment by staying at a hotel in the Lake District which is a member of The Tourism and Conservation Partnership, which boasts over 50 Cumbrian businesses which have been independently audited to prove their environmental credentials. If you are serious about conservation and you don´t mind getting your hands dirty, many businesses in Cumbria will invite you to get actively involved. Be seen to be green, and enjoy a fantastic holiday in the Lake District, knowing you are helping the environment at the same time.

Search Our Site...