Situated in Northwest England, the Lake District is centered around the main towns of Keswick, Windermere, Ambleside and Bowness-on-Windermere.
If you’re planning an activity holiday in the UK and are looking for spectacular scenery and wildlife, history and culture, this is a great place to visit. No matter what your interests are, there are so many things to do in the Lake District, and it can be easy to miss out!
Here are three ways you can take full advantage of getting to know this magical place.
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1. Walking in the Lake District
There’s no point visiting the Lake District if you don’t get among the scenery on your doorstep. Whether you’re a complete beginner or seasoned hiker, a Lakes walk or three is a must for any outdoor enthusiast.
Tip: If you’re not sure which way to turn first, the Lake District National Park suggest these 13 walks worthy of world recognition. Chances are that you’ll spot some local wildlife, including fell ponies and red deer, Herdwick sheep and red kites, without even trying.
If you are traveling with children or want the scenery without strenuous hiking, there are buggy friendly paths around the blue waters of Tarn Hows.
The Guidester Difference: With so many options, it’s easy to miss those gems that really make for the ultimate experience. Your personal trip planner by Guidester will alert you to explore beyond the waterfalls to hidden bodies of water such as Stickle Tarn in the Langdales or Blea Tarn above Grasmere.
If you are a hardened hiker, you will likely have your heart set on conquering Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England. It’s a ‘bucket-list must-do’, and there are plenty of guided walks available to ensure you reach the summit safely.
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2. The Lake District from the air
To get a real appreciation for the geography and scale of the incredible landscape of the Lake District, you have to take to the skies. Whether you prefer gently floating above the fells and lakes in a huge hot air balloon, gliding in a light aircraft, soaring high in a helicopter or paragliding or even skydiving back down to earth, there are many exhilarating ways to experience the Lake District from the air.
Did you know? The Peak District is England’s largest national park and home to its deepest and longest lakes, along with rugged fell mountains. The area is bursting with opportunities to explore the great outdoors and get a taste of adventure!
If you’ve always wanted to fly your own aircraft, the Lake District is your perfect opportunity to tick this off your bucket list too. Flying lessons can be arranged from nearby Carlisle Airport, allowing you to cruise at 2000 feet in a light aircraft and get a wonderful birds-eye view over coast and country.
—> Read More: From Chatsworth to Castleton: Exploring the Best of the Peak District
There are also options to take a gyrocopter flight out from a privately owned airstrip near Keswick/Ullswater – which you can book through your Guidester personal travel guide – combining superb views with tuition from a highly experienced pilot. Here’s a sneak peek of the experience.
3. Water activities in the Lake District
The Lake District has more than 16 lakes plus numerous tarns – the clue is in the name! It even has a stretch of coastline. Windermere is England’s largest lake, and it’s surrounded by picture postcard villages and dramatic peaks.
You can take a cruise from Bowness to Ambleside (and back) or rent a boat and explore at your own pace. Choose from luxury motor boats, traditional cabin boats or classic rowing boats for hire and spend a fun filled afternoon with friends or family on the water.
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Ullswater is regarded by many as England’s most beautiful lake. Surrounded by the area’s highest peaks, the best way to explore this 9 mile long body of water is by Ullswater Steamer, which allows you to cruise around the entire lake or stop and explore some of the best walking routes and visitor attractions nearby.
Tip: Derwent Water and Coniston are other great locations for boat hire and there’s a wealth of activities for everyone including windsurfing, sailing, paddle boarding and canoeing, plus great facilities even if you’re a watersport novice or don’t have your own equipment.
From peaceful lakes among dramatic mountain scenery to thundering waterfalls hidden in enchanted woodland, the Lake Districts has some of the most breathtaking scenery in the UK, and there’s no reason why you shouldn’t experience some of the best of the Lakes by water.
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