37 of the Best Indoor Activities in the Lake District

Discover the best indoor activities in the Lake District

Looking for things to do in the Lake District when it rains? Fear not. Use our guide to the best indoor activities in the Lake District to help plan your day.

Everyone can find something to do in our guide, whether they want to visit historical sites, take in the breath-taking lakeside vistas from indoors, or see a show at one of the best theatres in the region.

The Lake District isn’t known for its reliable weather and in spite of its beautiful hills and mountains, the region is one of the wettest in England.

Things to do in the Lake District when it rains include a tour at one of the many museums including the Derwent Pencil Museum, Lakeland Motor Museum, or the local Kendal Museum.

Other indoor activities can be found at Rheged Discovery Centre, The Puzzling Place, and The World of Beatrix Potter.

Continue reading to discover the best indoor activities in the Lake District…

Image Credits: Peter Turner - CC BY-SA 2.0

Abbot Hall Art Gallery

Kirkland
Kendal
Cumbria
United Kingdom
LA9 5AL

01539722464

Set in a grade I listed building that was built in 1759 and restored by the Lakeland Arts Trust in 1962, Abbot Hall Art Gallery is home to the nationally significant Lakeland Arts Collection. The gallery boasts an exceptional 18th-20th century fine art collection and runs an exciting temporary exhibition programme every year.
view more information
Image Credits: Antiquary - CC BY 4.0

Allan Bank

Allan Bank
Grasmere
Ambleside
Cumbria
LA22 9QB

01539435143

The National Trust gem of Allan Bank is perched on the outskirts of Grasmere in the Lake District. This isn’t a typical stately home, as its interiors are bare, with the focus centring around the grounds.
view more information
Ambleside Wall

101 Lake Rd
Ambleside
Lake District
LA22 0DB

01539433794

Reach new heights at Ambleside Climbing Wall. From beginners to experts, from indoor to outdoor climbing in the stunning Lakeland mountains, you’ll receive all the training and encouragement you need to reach your climbing goals.
view more information
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.
view more information
Brantwood

The Brantwood Trust
Coniston
Cumbria
LA21 8AD

015394 41396

A beautiful historical house and museum exhibiting fine pieces of art, furniture and personal belongings of its former owner, John Ruskin, overlooking stunning views of Coniston Water.
view more information
Image Credits: John Salmon - (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Brewery Arts Centre

122A Highgate
Kendal
LA9 4HE

01539 725133

Kendal’s central hub of culture and entertainment with a full calendar of comedy, theatre and live music productions.
view more information
Canyon Ride

Center Parcs
Whinfell Forest
Cumbria
England
United Kingdom
CA10 2DW

01768893000

Rainy days are no problem at Canyon Ride, the subtropical swimming paradise based in Whinfell Forest. Heated to 29.5c all year round and featuring an array of lush, tropical plants and trees, you’ll feel a million miles from grey skies. Take a dip in the wave pool, make a splash in the water play area or kick back in a private cabana.
view more information
Image Credits: CompleteAnonymity - CC BY-SA 4.0

Carlisle Castle

Castle Way
Carlisle
Cumbria
England

03703331181

Standing tall in the city, Carlisle Castle has withstood many sieges, held captive a royal prisoner, and been home to the King’s Own Royal Border Regiment. Here, you can explore the medieval castle rooms, learn about the turbulent history, and discover Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life.
view more information
Image Credits: Anthony O'Neil - (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Cartmel Priory

The Vicarage/Priest La
Cartmel
Cumbria
England
LA11 6PU

015395 36261

The 13th-century Cartmel Priory can be found in the centre of Cartmel village just outside of the Lake District National Park. Over the centuries, The Priory has witnessed war, raids, and ruin but stands firm today and offers a warm welcome to all visitors.
view more information
Image Credits: Tom Parnell – CC BY-SA 2.0

Dalemain Mansion and Historic Garden

Dalemain Mansion and Historic Garden
Estate Office
Dalemain
Penrith
CA11 0HB

01768486450

Dalemain Mansion sits on the site of a Saxon settlement and features sections dating back to the 14th century. Thoroughly modernised in the 1920s, the house is still home to the Hasell-McCosh family although it remains open to the public in peak season.
view more information