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England’s best-known and most popular national park is a postcard landscape of shimmering lakes, craggy hilltops and ancient forests that has enchanted poets and painters since the late 18th century, when the Romantics first had their imaginations stirred by the panoramas that have remained unchanged to this day.
And what panoramas they are. There’s the classic Lakeland setting of Windermere, England’s largest lake and the primary destination for millions of tourists since the railroad was first built in the middle of the 19th century. On it is busy Bowness and the charming villages of Grasmere and Hawkshead, surrounded on all sides by beautiful mountains.
The north lakes – Ullswater, Bassenthwaite, Derwentwater, Loweswater – are quieter and wilder, in the shadow of the rugged Skiddaw range and with handsome Keswick at the heart of it. The lush Borrowdale Valley leads to the dramatic Honister mountain pass and into the natural lakes of Buttermere & Crummock.
Adventure seekers go west, to the higher ground of Great Langdale and the region’s major summits of Bowfell, Crinkle Crags and the biggest mountain of all, Scafell Pike.
The Lake District is an outdoor activities paradise, but its literary connections draw as many visitors as its walks do. William Wordsworth lived virtually all of his life here, drawing inspiration from the surrounding countryside to write some of the English language’s most enduring poetry. The landscape also proved a creative spark for the likes of Sameul Taylor Coleridge, Arthur Ransome and Beatrix Potter – who dedicated much of her life to protecting the Lake District’s beauty and heritage.
In all its beauty and diversity the Lake District remains as it has been for millennia, which is one of the reasons why in 2017 the national park was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site – its river valleys, lakes and mountains home to an unique hill-farming culture and ancient heritage that has been carefully preserved. Here in the Lake District we know how to take good care of you; we’ve had plenty of practice.
Explore
The Swan's Santa's Grotto, a festive wonderland awaits your little ones! Every weekend from…
Local people enjoying their retirement in The Lake District can get some amazing discounts at…
Celebrate the life of bard Robbie Burns with us at the Borrowdale Hotel on Friday 17th January 2025…
Join us for a family-friendly evening learning about the universe. Explore the wonders of the…
Join lots of proud classic vehicle owners as they bring their private vehicles to display at the…
Join a jolly gathering to sing carols on Helvellyn this Christmas! Bring your instruments and…
Join Clara at a delightful Christmas Eve party that becomes a magical adventure once everyone else…
Explore the wonders of the winter night sky. Our astronomy experts will take you on a whistle stop…
26th December 12pm-2.30pm £35 for 3-courses Indulge in the ultimate post-Christmas tradition with…
The autumn 24/25 series of canicross races has now launched! Held in England's only mountain…
Packed with magic, puppetry & escapology ✨ Legendary magician the Great Baldini tells the story of…
Ever wondered how Santa navigates the skies on Christmas Eve? Join Jo from JAG Outdoors for a…
This is a practical course aimed at beginners, although more experienced students are welcome. Over…
A high-flying adventure for all the family… Raised in the Indian jungle, Mowgli the man cub spends…
Date – 12th January Time – 09.00am Duration – 6hrs Distance – 10km From the centre of Coniston…
1st January 2025 12pm-4pm £42 for 3-courses Start the new year with a sumptuous feast in the…
A very Merry Muncaster Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at Muncaster Castle this Christmas…
This show runs from Friday 20 – Tuesday 24 December. Friday 20 Dec: 1pm & 4pm | Saturday 21 Dec:…
Wander through a nature-themed lights trail around the Knoll, inspired by Sizergh's estate, and get…
Dress Code: Glamorous attire is strongly encouraged! Event Highlights: - Enjoy a sumptuous…
Experience the magic of the season with Festive Afternoon Teas at Muncaster Castle, hosted in the…
Busy Weekly Market with 80 stalls. Food, Crafts and Gifts.
Christmas Day Lunch at the Salutation Inn from 12-3pm. £60 per person for 3 courses Christmas Day…
Step into a world of festive creativity and holiday cheer this December as Blackwell hosts its…
The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
Number of results: 439
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Ambleside
Situated in peaceful seclusion in the Rydal Valley, yet only 0.5 mile from Ambleside. This lovely Victorian house is ideal for walking/touring the Lake District. Unsuitable for children under 12 years of age.
Penrith
This beautiful cottage is situated in its own secluded hidden place, in a peaceful and angelic rural setting in the village of Watermillock. It is completely surrounded by green fields, with immense views of Lake Ullswater and her spectacular array…
Eskdale
There is gorge scrambling, there is canyoning, then there is The Esk Gorge. A mega place with massive jumps into crystal clear waters. The pools are deep and big offering lots of swimming and scrambling along the rocky edges too.
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
337 reviewsDiscover the secret places of the Lake District only accessible by kayak, just waiting for you to discover. Take a sunset paddle with a picnic dinner or journey to a sheltered hidden bay for a lunch, kayaking is as relaxing or demanding as you like.…
Ullswater
Glenridding Manor House Hotel: Without doubt, the best quality non pretentious accommodation on Lake Ullswater. Perfect for walking the coast to coast, climbing Helvellyn, Sailing, canoeing or paddle boarding on Ullswater, Taking a steamer to…
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
97 reviewsMillom
The Wayside and Whisky Barn offers a peaceful escape in the Western Lake District with beautiful en-suite rooms, local homemade meals, stunning views, and a whisky bar. Ideal for relaxation and exploring the Lakes and coast.
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
347 reviewsThe English, Buttermere
A 17thC building, owned and run by family for 30 years. First licensed in 1735 as coaching inn. Apartments built in grounds 17 years ago and continually upgraded.
Ambleside
The Ambleside Inn is located in the heart of the popular Lake District town of Ambleside and offers delicious, homecooked dining all day every day. Whether fuelling up for a day’s exploring with a hearty breakfast, stopping by for a smaller plate…
Bowness-on-Windermere
The Fizzy Tarté serves a luxurious range of Champagne, Afternoon Teas & Cocktails in the Heart of Bowness on Windermere, in the Lake District.
Newby Bridge
The Swan Inn, nestled within The Swan Hotel, is a charming pub that serves as the heart of our wonderful establishment, providing a warm and inviting space for both guests and locals alike! It's the ideal cosy hub where you can unwind and reconnect…
Keswick
A luxury, family run country house hotel and restaurant near Keswick in The Lake District National Park. Lyzzick Hall is a perfect base for a walking, sight-seeing or relaxing break.
Lake Road, Windermere
In an enviable position, perched on the shores of Windermere, The Waterbird Boathouse is an impressive lakefront apartment offering a truly memorable stay.
Newby Bridge
A full day's experience learning the key skills of bushcraft and survival with our expert instructors, such as firelighting, shelter building and more.
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
57 reviewsRavenglass
Discover the captivating charm of Muncaster Castle, a historic gem nestled on the stunning Lake District coast where mountains meet the sea. With over 800 years of history, Muncaster is still cherished by the Pennington family, who warmly welcome…
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1866 reviewsHawkshead, Lake Windermere
With stunning views of Lake Windermere on the private Graythwaite Estate, our course is a real gem taking in the natural landscape with instruction delivered by our qualified team. We’re stoked to teach first time drivers and improve the skills of…
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
374 reviewsAmbleside
Sitting right on the shore of England’s most famous lake, The Wateredge Inn is the perfect location to eat, drink, sleep and explore from with unrivalled views across Windermere.
Electric Bike Hire - E-Bikes delivered directly to your accommodation in the South Lakes by E-Bike Safaris. Experience cycling through the Cumbrian countryside, visiting all the attractions and having the comfort of the electric assistance.
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
44 reviewsNewby Bridge
Newby Bridge Country Caravan Park is located near the southern tip of lake Windermere. Surrounded by woodland and wildlife, the park provides a tranquil base from which to explore the beautiful Lake District National Park.
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
154 reviewsWindermere
Set in the heart of the Lake District National Park, in mature gardens, yet only 300 metres from the promenade, steamer piers and bustling village centre of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Troutbeck, Windermere
Nestled between Windermere and Ambleside, Broadoaks Country House Hotel is a hidden gem in the heart of the Lake District National Park. Our idyllic location provides a tranquil and private retreat from the hustle and bustle of tourist-heavy spots,…
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL