Free Things to do in the Lake District

Are you looking for free things to do in the Lake District? There are a lot of wonderful spots to have a picnic, go wild in adventure play areas, explore nature, and enjoy lots of natural treasures.

The Lakes is one of the best holiday spots in the UK for all budgets, and it ensures a lifetime of wonderful memories for the whole family.

Find a list of free things to do in the Lake District that are sure to keep the whole family occupied. Then sit back and take it easy, knowing that you have a whole week planned out that won’t put a strain on your finances.

From admiring Aira Force waterfall to hiking along the Hardknott Pass, there are lots of free things to do in the Lakes.

Continue reading to find the best free things to do in the Lake District…

Hesket Newmarket to Caldbeck

Caldbeck
Wigton
Cumbria
England
CA7 8DU

Take this walk from the pretty village of Hesket Newmarket to Caldbeck and pass picturesque woodland as you go. Made up of well-maintained foot paths, this 3.5-mile route is suitable for younger children although assistance may be required during steeper sections.
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Heughscar & the Cockpit from Pooley Bridge

Penrith
Cumbria

Walk the wild and untamed landscape surrounding Pooley Bridge and discover the Cockpit stone circle before heading to the manageable summit of Heughscar. From the summit you can take in incredible views of Ullswater. This walk is five miles long and takes around two to three hours.
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Hope Park Keswick

Hope Park Keswick
30A Lake Road
Keswick
Lake District
Cumbria
CA12 5DG

01768773607

Hope Park is just a short stroll from Keswick town centre and is brimming with traditional games, activities, and picnic areas, making it the ideal spot for families. Here you can tuck into delicious local ice cream before challenging friends or family to a game of crazy golf or taking a woodland walk.
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Kendal Castle

Kendal Castle
Sunnyside
Kendal
LA9 1DJ

Visit the ruins of the 13th-century castle and imagine life here centuries ago. From Kendal Castle, you can enjoy magnificent views of the town and the hills beyond, making it more than worth the trip.
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Keswick Lakeside Round

Keswick Lakeside Round
30A Lake Road
Keswick
Lake District
Cumbria
CA12 5DG

This short walk starting in Keswick is ideal for families with younger children. Along the way, little ones can spot geese, ducks and swans and even stop by a woodland play area. The route is around one and a half miles and will take one hour to complete.
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La’al Ratty and Stanley Force, Eskdale

La'al Ratty and Stanley Force, Eskdale
Boot
Holmrook
Eskdale
CA19 1TG

Discover this incredible 60ft high waterfall deep in the Eskdale Valley as you wind through ancient woodland and across footbridges. Suitable for dogs and children over four, this walk takes around one to two hours depending on your pace.
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Image Credits: Chris Combe - CC BY 2.0

Latrigg

Latrigg
Keswick
Lake District
Cumbria
CA12 4PQ

Latrigg is one of the lowest fells in the Lake District, making it manageable for most walkers. While it may not reach as high as other fells, the views over Keswick and the valley of Borrowdale make it more than worth a climb.
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Muncaster Fell

Ravenglass
Lake District National Park
Cumbria
England
CA18 1SU

This scenic, Marilyn hill is situated in the southwestern part of the Lake District National Park. Standing at 758 feet tall, Muncaster Fell is an easy-to-moderate hike and offers lovely views of the surrounding country.
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Image Credits: Graham Robson - CC BY-SA 2.0

Scafell Pike

Holmrook
Lake District National Park
Cumbria
England
CA19 1TH

Scafell rests in the western part of the Lake District National Park. This dramatic peak stands at 3,162 feet, making for a challenging yet rewarding climb or hike!
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Stagshaw Gardens

Stagshaw Gardens
Ambleside
LA22 0HE

01539446027

National Trust-owned Stagshaw Gardens sit on the northern top of Lake Windermere in Ambleside. With fells, woodland, parks, and a Roman fort on offer, this area is great for family days out. Spring is the best time to visit Stagshaw Gardens as it is then that the gardens burst into life.
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