Things to Do in Lake District, United Kingdom

The Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northwest England, is a breathtaking region of glacial lakes, rugged mountains, and charming villages that has inspired poets and writers for centuries. This compact area encompasses 16 major lakes including Windermere, Coniston Water, and Ullswater, surrounded by dramatic fells and peaks that offer some of England's most spectacular hiking and outdoor adventures. The region seamlessly blends natural beauty with literary heritage, being the former home of William Wordsworth, Beatrix Potter, and other notable figures. Beyond its natural splendor, the Lake District offers a perfect mix of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and traditional English hospitality. Visitors can explore historic houses and gardens, cruise pristine lakes on vintage steamers, hike to stunning viewpoints, or simply enjoy the cozy atmosphere of traditional pubs and tea rooms. The region's well-preserved villages like Grasmere, Hawkshead, and Ambleside provide excellent bases for exploration, each offering unique character and access to different parts of this remarkable landscape.

Top Things to Do in Lake District

Lake Cruises and Boat Tours

Experience the Lake District's stunning scenery from the water aboard historic steamers and modern cruise boats on lakes like Windermere, Coniston Water, and Ullswater. These leisurely cruises offer unique perspectives of the surrounding fells and access to remote areas, with many featuring commentary about local history and wildlife. Some cruises can be combined with scenic railway journeys or walks to create memorable full-day experiences.

Booking Tip: Book directly with operators like Windermere Lake Cruises or Ullswater Steamers for best prices (£8-15 for basic cruises). Visit during weekdays in shoulder seasons for fewer crowds. Look for combination tickets that include train rides or attraction entries for better value.

Fell Walking and Hiking

The Lake District offers hiking opportunities for all levels, from gentle lakeside strolls to challenging fell walks up peaks like Helvellyn, Scafell Pike, and Catbells. The region features well-maintained footpaths, stunning viewpoints, and the chance to experience England's highest mountains. Popular routes include the Fairfield Horseshoe, the Old Man of Coniston, and easier walks around Tarn Hows or Buttermere.

Booking Tip: Guided walks cost £25-50 per person and are recommended for challenging routes or beginners. Book through local guide services 2-3 days ahead in peak season. Always check weather conditions and carry proper gear - many accidents occur due to inadequate preparation.

Literary and Cultural Tours

Explore the Lake District's rich literary heritage through visits to historic homes and guided tours focusing on famous residents like William Wordsworth, Beatrix Potter, and John Ruskin. Key attractions include Dove Cottage, Hill Top Farm, and Rydal Mount, each offering insights into the lives and works of these celebrated figures. Many tours combine multiple sites and provide context about how the landscape influenced their creativity.

Booking Tip: National Trust properties cost £8-12 for individual sites or consider an annual membership (£72) if visiting multiple locations. Book timed entry slots online, especially for Beatrix Potter attractions. Guided literary walks cost £15-25 and often provide deeper insights than self-guided visits.

Scenic Railway Journeys

The Lake District's heritage railways offer spectacular journeys through pristine countryside, including the famous Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway and the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway. These vintage steam and diesel trains wind through valleys, forests, and alongside lakes, providing access to remote areas and connecting with boat services. The railways themselves are attractions, featuring restored stations, period carriages, and knowledgeable staff sharing local history.

Booking Tip: Return tickets cost £12-18 for adults, with family tickets offering good value. Book online for slight discounts and guaranteed seats during peak times. Consider rover tickets if planning multiple journeys, and check for special events like dining trains or Santa specials.

Adventure Activities and Water Sports

The Lake District's lakes and rugged terrain provide excellent opportunities for adventure activities including kayaking, wild swimming, rock climbing, and mountain biking. Professional outdoor centers offer equipment rental and instruction for activities like ghyll scrambling (waterfall climbing), sailing, and winter mountaineering. The region's varied landscape means activities are available year-round, from summer water sports to winter hiking and climbing.

Booking Tip: Half-day activities cost £40-80, full days £80-120. Book with established centers like Honister Slate Mine or local adventure companies 3-7 days ahead. Ensure operators are properly insured and qualified - look for Mountain Leader or BCU certifications for guides.

Getting There

The Lake District is easily accessible by car via the M6 motorway, with the journey from London taking approximately 5-6 hours and Manchester about 2 hours. Train services run regularly from London Euston to Oxenholme (3.5 hours), with connecting services to Kendal and Windermere, while the West Coast Main Line also serves Penrith for access to the northern lakes. National Express coaches provide budget-friendly options from major UK cities, though journey times are longer than trains. Manchester and Liverpool airports are the closest international gateways, both about 2 hours away by car or public transport.

Getting Around

Public transport within the Lake District includes regular bus services connecting major towns and villages, with the comprehensive Explorer ticket (£12-15 daily) providing unlimited travel on most routes. Many visitors rent cars for maximum flexibility, though parking can be challenging and expensive (£3-8 daily) in popular areas, especially during peak season. For a more sustainable approach, consider staying in one base location and using the excellent network of buses, boats, and trains, supplemented by walking between nearby attractions. Cycling is popular on quieter roads and dedicated paths, with bike rental available in most towns.

Where to Stay

Windermere and Bowness

Ambleside

Grasmere

Keswick

Coniston

Ullswater and Pooley Bridge

Food & Dining

The Lake District's dining scene celebrates local ingredients including Herdwick lamb, Cumberland sausage, and fresh lake fish, alongside traditional pub fare and afternoon teas. Many establishments focus on farm-to-table dining, with several Michelin-recommended restaurants offering refined takes on regional cuisine. Traditional pubs serve hearty meals perfect after hiking, while numerous tea rooms and cafes provide the quintessential English experience of scones, cakes, and proper tea. Local specialties include Grasmere gingerbread, Kendal mint cake, and locally brewed ales, with many establishments offering vegetarian and vegan options alongside traditional fare.

When to Visit

The Lake District is beautiful year-round, but late spring through early autumn (May-September) offers the warmest weather and longest days for outdoor activities, though this is also the busiest and most expensive period. Winter brings fewer crowds, cozy pub atmospheres, and stunning snow-capped mountain views, though weather can be unpredictable and some attractions have reduced hours. Shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) provide an excellent balance of decent weather, manageable crowds, and reasonable prices, with autumn offering spectacular fall colors and spring bringing blooming daffodils and lambing season.

Insider Tips

Purchase an annual National Trust membership if visiting multiple properties - it pays for itself after 3-4 visits and includes free parking at many locations

Pack waterproof clothing regardless of season as Lake District weather can change rapidly, and always inform someone of your hiking plans when heading into the fells

Book accommodation well in advance for summer visits and weekends, as the region's popularity means quality options fill up quickly, especially during school holidays and festival periods

Things to Do in Lake District