95 Things to do in the Lake District

Discover the best things to do in the Lake District for Families

From agricultural activities to paddling on the sea in a kayak, there’s lots of superb things to do in the Lake District for families.

A visit to the Beatrix Potter World? What about some quad riding, Go-Karting, or a ride on segways for the family? Go Ape in Grizedale Forest and Whinlatter will raise your adrenaline level, and you can also test your mettle on the Infinity Bridge at Honister Slate Mine.

There are many indoor Lake District activities for families too for when the weather isn’t on your side! Such activities include the National Trust property of Allan Bank and exploring the interesting Derwent Pencil Museum!

Other things to do in the Lake District for families include visiting Fell Foot Park, exploring Grizedale Forest and discovering Beatrix Potter’s farmhouse, Hill Top Farm!

Discover a wealth of activities in the lake district for families…

Image credits: David Dixon - (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Sizergh Castle

Ashbank Ln
Kendal
LA8 8AE

015395 60951

Located just south of Kendal is the truly exquisite Sizergh Castle and its beautiful grounds where visitors are welcome to come and explore the historical building and enclosed woodlands.
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Image Credits: Martinvl - CC BY-SA 4.0

Steam Yacht Gondola

Coniston Pier
Lake Rd
Coniston
LA21 8AN

015394 32733

The Steam Yacht Gondola is a beloved attraction in Coniston. At this National Trust gem, you can enjoy sailing on Coniston Water with all the family and canine companions.
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Image Credits: bayphotographic - CC BY 2.0

The Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway

Haverthwaite Station
Nr Ulverston
Lake District
Cumbria
LA12 8AL

015395 31594

Hop aboard the historic Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway in the picturesque Leven Valley at the southern end of Windermere. Developed in the 19th century during the height of the Industrial Revolution, this railway once played an important part in local industry. Today, it takes passengers on a ride through the stunning local landscape.
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The Puzzling Place

Museum Square
Keswick
CA12 5DZ

017687 75102

Keswick’s optical illusion exhibition showcases antigravity, interactive optical illusion exhibits, artwork, sculptures, and a hologram gallery.
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Image Credits: Paul Hermans - CC BY-SA 3.0

The Ruskin Museum

Coniston
Lake District National Park
Cumbria
LA21 8DU

015394 41164

The Ruskin Museum has been an important part of Coniston’s community since 1901. Come here to learn about the village’s history, including its iconic inhabitants, John Ruskin and Donald Campbell CBE.
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The World of Beatrix Potter

The World of Beatrix Potter
The Old Laundry
Bowness-on-Windermere
LA23 3BX

015394 88444

Jemima Puddle-Duck, Peter Rabbit and Miss Tiggy-Winkle are three of Beatrix Potter’s characters whose stories have been recreated in this magical Lakeland attraction.
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Theatre by the Lake

Theatre by the Lake
Lakeside
Lake Road
Keswick
CA12 5DJ

Situated on the edge of Derwent Water is the popular Theatre by the Lake, which hosts many entertaining theatrical performances. Choose from two stages displaying both modern and classic performances, as well as a café/bar for refreshments.
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Image Credit: Ben Barden and Jaygo Miller

Ullswater Steamers

The Pier House
Glenridding
Penrith
CA11 0US

01768 482229

Ullswater Steamers has been operating cruises on Ullswater lake. The heritage steamers, some dating back to the 19th century, connect to some of the most famous and iconic walking routes in the Lake District National Park, with views of Wordsworth’s daffodils on the west shore in spring.
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Wild Ennerdale

Forestry Commission
Peil Wyke
Bassenthwaite
CA13 9YG

01768 776816

Ennerdale is one of the most remote Cumbria valleys. Here there is a distinctive sense of tranquillity, ruggedness, self-will and wildness which many visitors enjoy. The wildlife inhabiting Wild Ennerdale includes red squirrels, butterflies, deer, cattle, beavers, birds, fish and pine marten. Ennerdale offers fantastic walking opportunities with over 30 miles of public rights of way, forest roads and tracks.
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Windermere Canoe and Kayak

B5285
Windermere
LA23 3JH

01539 444451

Windermere Canoe Kayak is the northwest’s biggest hire fleet and dedicated paddle sports shop. Here you can purchase your own canoe, kayak, stand-up paddleboard, clothing and accessories. You can also hire kayaks and paddleboards and book taster sessions.
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