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10 Best Things to do in the Lake District

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Use our guide to discover the best things to do in the Lake District

From picturesque Lakeland adventures to high peaks in the countryside, find an abundance of Lake District things to do here. Choose to walk or cycle around the incredible landscapes and National Trust properties in the Lake District.

Lake District hikes

You can’t visit the Lake District without embarking on one of the many scenic walking trails which follow picturesque routes. Choose from moderate challenges for prominent walkers including the Borger Dalr Trail and the impressive Catbells. Those looking for easier routes can stroll around Buttermere, whilst more difficult trails await at Scafell Pike and the Cumbria Coastal Way. These are just a few free things to do in the Lake District that you can enjoy for a dog-friendly day out.

Things to do in the Lake District for families

If you’re looking for classic things to do in the Lake District, visit these staple attractions. Start by visiting the historic Lowther Castle, The World of Beatrix Potter or the Coast Aquarium in Maryport. Alternatively, explore the iconic lakes of Windermere, Derwentwater and Ullswater on your Cumbrian adventure. There’s even the intriguing Grizedale Forest, historic Kendal Castle, and beautiful Loughrigg Fell to discover.

You don’t need to worry about the unpredictable English weather, as there’s a whole host of indoor activities in the Lake District to enjoy. And, during winter time, there are so many things to do in the Lake District in winter.

Things to do in the Lake District for Couples

From canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding on Coniston Water, to boat trips around Windemere, there are plenty of Lake District things to do for couples. Watch a show at the Theatre by the Lake or enjoy rock climbing at Kendal’s Lakeland Climbing Centre before returning to your Lake District accommodation.

Explore the rest of our guide and find even more things to do in the Lake District…

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  • Grisedale Pike

    Keswick
    Lake District
    Cumbria
    England
    CA12 5SX

    Grisedale Pike is a fell in the northwestern area of the Lake District National Park. From the top of the fell you can see as far as Scotland and the Isle of Man on a clear day. Walking to the summit is simple and clearly marked from just outside of Braithwaite Village.

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  • walking boots

    Grit Fell

    Lancaster
    Lancashire
    England
    LA2 9EQ

    Grit Fell is a solitary hill sitting between Clougha Pike and Ward’s Stone in the Forest of Bowland. Covered in heather and bogs, it makes for a tricky walk and many approaches are treacherous. Access Grit Fell from Clougha Pike for the safest route.

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  • Grizedale Forest

    Grizedale Forest

    Blind Lane Car Park
    Ulverston
    Cumbria
    LA12 8LQ

    One of the top things to do in the Lake District is the majestic setting of Grizedale Forest. Discover this unique and intriguing area of woodland, with exciting sculptures and plenty of walking and cycling trails, it is the ideal day out to appreciate a more tranquil environment.  

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  • pair of hikers and a dog hiking up mountain

    Hallin Fell

    Penrith
    Cumbria
    England
    CA10 2NF

    A walk up Hallin Fell is the perfect route for beginners. Situated on the southern end of Ullswater, Hallin Fell is also a less visited fells and makes for a peaceful and secluded walk. From the top of the fell you can take in magnificent views of Ullswater.

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  • Hardknott Pass, Ravenglass

    Hardknott Pass

    Ulpha
    Broughton-in-Furness
    Cumbria
    England
    LA20 6EQ

    Hardknott Pass is a winding hill pass that zigzags its way from Eskdale to Duddon Valley. It’s known to be one of the steepest roads in England and makes for a wild cycle or hike!

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  • Hardknott Roman Fort

    Hardknott Roman Fort

    Hardknott Pass
    Holmrook
    CA19 1TH

    0370 333 1181

    Take a step back in time to the 2nd century when this remote and dramatically sited fort was founded under Hadrian’s rule. From the remains you will be able to make out the headquarters building, commandant’s house, and the bath house.

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  • Harter Fell, Lake District

    Harter Fell

    Harter Fell
    Eskdale
    Holmrook
    Cumbria
    United Kingdom
    LA20 6EF

    The beautiful peak of Harter Fell is perched in the southern area of the Lake District National Park. Come here for a scenic walk to remember.

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  • hiker in the mountains at sunset

    Hawthornthwaite Fell

    Lancaster
    Lancashire
    England
    LA2 9DW

    Hawthornthwaite Fell is one of the larger hills in the Forest of Bowland. Close to Bleasdale and Fair Snape Fell, this fell has a north-facing position on the south-western range. The summit can only be accessed from the south and a walk here is likely to be free of crowds.

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  • Family hiking through a forest

    Hayeswater from Hartsop

    Penrith
    Cumbria
    England
    CA11 0NZ

    Hayeswater is one of the remotest tarns in the Lake District and was formed by glacial activity. To reach the tarn, you will walk through stunning pastureland, pass waterfalls and an old stone barn. This walk will take around 2 hours with children in tow and is around 2.5 miles long.

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  • haystacks, lake district

    Haystacks

    Cockermouth
    Cumbria
    England
    CA13 9XA

    Haystacks is a hill situated at the south-eastern end of the Buttermere Valley. Made famous by Alfred Wainwright, this popular fell features an undulating summit, tarns, and hidden recesses. From the top you can take in views over Buttermere and Crummock Water.

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