One of our favourite social media hashtags is #notjustlakes – because our gorgeous Lake District is absolutely packed with things to do all year round, whatever the weather. Which means that you can create the perfect Lake District holiday for you whenever you choose to visit.
The majority of our recommendations are within an hour’s drive (or much less) from us. Brief overviews follow below – or click through for more detailed suggestions in each category.
The Lake District is rightly considered one of Britain’s, if not the world’s, best walking destinations. There is a good walk and an inspiring view just about everywhere you go.
Our cottages provide a perfect base for walking adventures. Underbarrow’s peaceful countryside is great for relaxing strolls, and the surrounding fells offer glorious views of the nearby Lyth Valley. A short drive nearby, Windermere is well suited for walks around the Lake or in the surrounding hills, where you can take in the magnificent scenery.
Further afield, but still easily reachable by car, are memorable walks around the Langdales and Tarn Hows. The mountains of Scafell Pike (England’s highest mountain) and the ascent along Striding Edge to Helvellyn provide a rewarding challenge for experienced hikers.
Our accommodation is also an ideal base for cycling adventures. Some of the Lake District’s best routes are right outside your door. Cycle hire is available throughout the Lake District making it easy to travel from town to town by bike.
Underbarrow’s quiet roads and fields are well suited to both mountain and road biking. A little further away, the western shore of Lake Windermere is perfect for leisurely rides, and Fellfoot and Brockhole parks are ideal for young children just learning to ride. Grizedale Forest is a must-visit for cycling enthusiasts with rides to suit every skill level.
The Lake District is a great shopping destination – packed with hidden gems, artisan crafts, and designer boutiques. Every one of the Lake District’s historic towns is home to a mix independent and high street shops, where you can find food and drink, fashion, art and crafts, outdoor gear, and Lake District specialities (such as the Herdy stores in Grasmere and Kendal, Bowness, Hawes and Keswick).
If you’re looking for local ingredients for a delicious home cooked meal, you won’t have to look far. The Lake District is brimming with fine food retailers and artisan specialists offering high-quality, locally-produced ingredients.
There’s nothing quite like a good meal out after a day out in the Lakes. Everywhere you look you’ll find great places to eat: Michelin Star restaurants, cosy gastropubs, and welcoming tearooms.
Amanda is hugely knowledgeable about our local food scene so do ask for recommendations.
As well as beautiful scenery, the Lake District is also packed with activities and great days out that can be enjoyed whatever the weather: family days out at the Haverthwaite-Lakeside and Ravenglass-Eskdale railways, adrenaline-fuelled adventures on Coniston and Windermere, local art at Blackwell, and fascinating history at Cumbria’s many museums.
Nature lovers will appreciate the Lake District’s many freely accessible nature reserves, where you can find protected Red Squirrels, and the elusive Otter, both of which thrive in Cumbria’s nature-friendly environment.
Gundog training in the grounds at Broadoak, suitable for gundog breeds, during the year we have holiday, charity events and workshops along with regular group classes.