8 Fascinating Facts about the Lake District

The Lake District is one of the most scenic and popular tourism spots in the UK, and it’s not hard to see why.

However, this post looks into the region’s interesting facts, rather than its undoubted natural beauty.

If you need further convincing, check out our 8 fascinating facts about the Lake District below…

1. There’s only one actual lake in the Lake District

It seems unlikely given it’s name, but you will only find one official lake in the Lake District. There are 16 bodies of water flowing in the area, but only Bassenthwaite Lake has the name ‘lake’ in it.

2. It rains. A lot

The Lake District gets more than its fair share of rainfall. In fact, the hamlet of Seathwaite is the wettest inhabited area in the UK, experiencing approximately 3.5 metres of rain each year!

3. It’s England’s largest National Park

Stretching 2,292 square kilometres, the Lake District National Park is the second largest throughout the UK. It’s second only to the Cairngorms, standing at an impressive 4,528 square kilometres.

4. It’s home to England’s deepest natural lake

Wast Water, close to Nether Wasdale, is a glacial lake sinking to 243 feet deep. It doesn’t come close to being the deepest in the world however, with Lake Baikal in Russia plummeting to 5,387 feet.

5. It’s also home to the UK’s largest natural lake

Windermere is considered the bustling hub of the Lake District, standing at 11 miles long.

6. You might spot a Red Squirrel

The increasingly endangered Red Squirrel is native to the Lake District. The region remains one of the few woodland areas in the UK you can still observe them.

7. It’s home to England’s highest peak

Scafell Pike is England’s highest peak, at 3210 feet. Enjoy this and many other walks in the Lake District on your next visit.

8. It’s hugely popular with tourists

There are only approximately 40,000 residents of the Lake District, but tourists flock in their millions. Around 17 million people pay visit to the Lakes annually, which is the equivalent of roughly ¼ of the UK’s population.

If you’ve been inspired to make the Lake District your next holiday destination, please visit our Lake District Cottages page. Also use our handy Lake District Travel Guide for ideas on how to spend your holiday in this magnificent region.