Guide to the Lake District in Winter

Things to do in the Lake District in Winter

There is nothing quite like the Lake District in the winter. It is common for people to visit the Lake District for spring and summer weekends, but the true magic is found in winter. With serene lakes and snow-capped mountain peaks, the Lake District serves as the ideal winter getaway.

Nothing compares to gazing over snow-covered mountains, exploring the quaint stores in honeypot towns, and savouring pub grub by the crackling fire of a country inn.

If you’re looking for somewhere inside, there are so many indoor activities in the Lake District to enjoy. Catch a live show at the Brewery Arts Centre, or be wowed at the Derwent Pencil Museum!

Whether you go to Cartmel, Grasmere, Windermere, or Ambleside, you’ll discover icy lakes, festive events and a bunch of winter attractions that cater to everyone.

Discover the beauty of the Lake District in Winter and find things to do below…

Ennerdale Brewery

Ennerdale Brewery
Chapel Row
Rowah
Ennerdale Bridge
Cumbria
CA26 3XS

01946862977

This family-run brewery based in Cumbria produces a range of fine cask and bottled ales, brewed using traditional methods. Ennerdale Brewery real ale is brewed with whole-leaf hops, freshly milled barley, live yeast, and spring water from Croasdale Fell, making it a true local treat.
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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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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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Hawkshead Brewery

14 Back Ln
Staveley
LA8 9LR

01539 822644

A modern brewery in the Lake District, producing a distinctive selection of flavorsome beers and open for educational tours and tastings sessions.
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Image Credits: Tomoaki INABA - CC BY-SA 2.0

Hill Top Farm

Near Sawrey
Ambleside
LA22 0LF

The National Trust’s Hill Top was once Beatrix Potter’s farmhouse. The renowned author bought Hill Top Farm with money made from her books. Nowadays, visitors can come and see the maintained gardens and historic interiors firsthand.
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Image Credits: Andrew Abbot - CC BY-SA 2.0

Holker Hall

Cark
Grange-over-Sands
Cartmel
LA11 7PL

015395 58328

Holker Hall is a beautiful, historic estate that spreads over 200 acres. It rests on the southern outskirts of the Lake District National Park and offers visitors access to the hall, gardens, cafe and gift shop.
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HRiSHi

Crook Rd
Kendal
LA23 3NF

015394 88818

Ready to try an array of dishes inspired by the Lake District? Come to HRiSHi. This chic restaurant sits within the Gilpin hotel and boasts four AA rosettes and a Michelin Star.
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Kendal Museum

Station Rd
Kendal
LA9 6BT

01539 815597

Kendal Museum is a fantastic day out for all the family, with exhibits, a shop, play area and café available. Treat the little ones to a day out here and enjoy an insight into the area’s natural history and archaeology.
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KendalWall, Lakeland Climbing Centre

KendalWall, Lakeland Climbing Centre
Unit 27
Lake District Business Park
Mint Bridge Road
Kendal
LA9 6NH

01539721766

Open year-round Kendal Wall is the perfect all-weather activity in the Lake District. The climbing centre features a whopping 25m main wall, auto-belays, bouldering, routing roof, training room, dry toolbox, and a kid’s climbing wall.
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Keswick Alhambra Cinema

36 St John's Street
Keswick
CA12 5AG

017687 72195

A vintage picture house in Keswick with a programme that features top movies, opera, and live performances.
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