10 Best Things to do in the Lake District

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…

Apex Guiding

43 Lowther St
Penrith
Cumbria
England
CA11 7UQ

07791474101

Based in the heart of the stunning Lake District National Park, Apex Guiding offers walking, climbing and fell running excursions to suit you. Apex Guiding don’t offer general packages as they believe your time in this magnificent part of the country should be spent doing exactly what you desire, so expect a tailor-made experience here.
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Aquatic Quays Marina, Windermere

Glebe Rd
Bowness-on-Windermere
Windermere
LA23 3HE

01539442121

Take to Britain’s most famous lake at Aquatic Windermere. Hire an easy to drive electric boat for up to ten people and cruise the lake that inspired by Arthur Ransome’s Swallows and Amazons and sat on the front doorstep of Beatrix Potter’s home. As you sail down the 10.5-mile lake, you’ll easily see how Windermere came to inspire so many.
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Ark Sailing

Langdale Chase Hotel
Ambleside Road
Windermere
LA23 1LW

07879334852

Based on Lake Windermere, Ark Sailing offers sailing lessons against a stunning backdrop in the Lake District. Whether you would like individual tuition or tuition on your own boat or simply to be taken across the lake with a professional at the helm, Ark Sailing can help.
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Barrow and Stile End, Braithwaite

Keswick
Lake District
Cumbria
England
United Kingdom
CA12 5TS

The route up Barrow Fell and Stile End makes for the perfect introduction to fell walking. With a gentle ascent and simple directions to follow, beginners can follow this trail to the two peaks and take in stunning Lake District views.
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Bassenthwaite Lake

Cockermouth
Cumbria
CA13 9YD

Bassenthwaite Lake is amongst the largest in the Lake District National Park. You can find this natural wonder between Skiddaw and Cockermouth.
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Image Credits: David Purchase - CC BY-SA 2.0

Beacon Fell

Beacon Fell
Ulverston
Cumbria
LA12 8EL

Beacon Fell is an 836-foot fell settled in the southern area of the Lake District National Park. It makes for a beautiful hike, with the Beacon Tarn and views over Water Yeat and Coniston Water.
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Beatrix Potter Gallery

Main St
Hawkshead
Cumbria LA22 0NS

Explore the fascinating life of Beatrix Potter, discover some of her original writings and illustrations and unearth the inspirations behind her influential stories.
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Bigland Hall Equine Group

Bigland Hall
Brow Edge Rd
Ulverston
LA12 8PB

01539530333

Take a horse or pony ride in the Lakeland hills under the instruction of Bigland Hall Equine Group’s knowledgeable and experienced instructors. From beginner to intermediate and advanced tuition and show jumping and dressage training, there’s something here for everyone.
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Binsey Loop

Wigton
Cumbria
England
United Kingdom
CA13 9SX

Binsey lies on the western edge of the Lake District, apart from the other fells. Because of its location, it is often overlooked but a trip to Binsey is more than worthwhile due to its panoramic views of Solway Firth, Dumfries & Galloway, and the Isle of Man in the distance. Binsey Loop is a moderately difficult walk, suitable for older children.
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Image Credits: GavinJA - CC BY-SA 3.0

Blackwell The Arts and Crafts House

Blackwell
The Arts & Crafts House
Bowness-on-Windermere
LA23 3JT

01539446139

Step back in time to the early 20th century at Blackwell. Designed by Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott, this grade I listed building is one of the UK’s finest examples of Arts & Crafts architecture. With almost all of the original features intact and with magnificent views over Windermere and the Coniston Fells, Blackwell is a truly inspiring building.
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