Summer in the Lake District
There are lots of things to do in and around Windermere and the great outdoors are only one part of it. Cumbria with its lakes, mountains and rugged beauty inspired poets, painters, and artists for centuries. Today it’s one of the must-see places in the UK and a popular staycation destination.
It is sprinkled with small, local cafes, restaurants and farm shops that serve delicious snacks and hearty meals after a great day out. You can visit magnificent castles, discover and explore breath-taking nature trails or just relax and unwind by watching the boats pass by on one of the Lakes many shorelines.
Clear skies, a fresh breeze and beautiful views could be your summer staycation.
Read on for our top 5 tips for an unforgettable Summer holiday in the Lake District.
Explore the Lakes on two wheels
Whinlatter Forest
For the thrill-seeker in you, why not explore the Lake District on two wheels and take in the stunning beauty of its peaks and valleys?
Whinlatter Forest is home to the longest purpose-built mountain bike trail in the Lake District and an ideal spot to get excellent views over Keswick, Derwentwater and Bassenthwhaite Lake.
You can hire bikes here.
More info about the forest is here.
Explore on foot
Old Man of Coniston
One of the best walks in the Lakes is the walk to the Old Man of Coniston. Start at the small village of Coniston and make your way up to find the Old Man. You can start from Walna Scar Road, where you can park your car at pay and display. If there are no spaces left head back to Coniston. This will add about 150m climb to your route.
Your What 3 Word address for parking is: reserving.twists.brief
You will pass Brown Pike, Buck Pike, Dow Crag and The Old Man of Coniston
Distance: 5 - 6 miles (depending on starting point)
Time: about 3 hours and 25mins
Elevation: 803m
Difficulty: Moderate to hard, with some steeper parts
Type of Trail: Loop
Take the dog!
Fell Foot
The Lakes are a pawsome summer destination with your four-legged friend. Fell Foot is a pretty Lakeshore Park with some stunning mountain views. The South Meadow is a part of the park where you can let your dog off the lead, but please keep in mind not everybody likes dogs, so please be mindful when your companion is roaming freely.
What we love about Fell Park is that dogs are allowed to bathe in the water. Expect some water fun!
Discover a fairy-tale castle
Wray Castle
Catch the Green Cruise from Windermere Lake Cruises at Ambleside Pier and arrive by boat to start your day exploring the beautiful grounds of this gothic fort.
Wray Castle is a fab family day out. You can explore the turrets and towers followed by skimming some shingles in Lake Winderemere. Don’t forget to take a picnic, the beautiful grounds are an inviting place for a spot of lunch.
Get a different view
Bus tours
Hop on the Lakesider 599 and explore the Lakes natural beauty in an open-top bus just as if you’d be in London. Equipped with USB charging stations, buggy and bike spaces and audio commentary, you can relax your legs while touring the sights. Prices start from £9, just keep an eye on the rain clouds.
Top tips for a trip to the Lakes
Roads can get busy during holidays and are very narrow. Please plan and drive accordingly.
Make sure you wear the right shoes – blisters are no one’s friends!
And remember our countryside code – respect nature, and the people, and take your litter home.