The Lake District is an incredibly popular tourist destination, attracting almost 16 million visitors every year. There is something for everyone in the Lakes. Whether you’re a nature lover looking for a hiking trail up a mountain or you just want a quaint café to enjoy your surroundings, or you’d rather take a look around a building of historical interest, there is a town or village in the Lake District that has everything you’re looking for.
Last year visiting the Lakes was not possible for many of us. Hopefully in 2021 we will see more travel restrictions lifted, and the Lakes is likely to be more popular than ever as more people become accustomed to the joys of holidaying in the UK. If you’re planning a trip to the Lakes this year, here’s a look at our 2021 bucket list for activities and experiences you should do on your next visit.
Lake Windermere is the largest lake in England, stretching ten miles between Ambleside and Lakeside. One of the most popular Lake District activities is taking a Lake Windermere Cruise on a traditional steamer around the lake.
Whether you start your journey in Bowness, Ambleside or Lakeside, this spectacular voyage will give you magnificent views of the surrounding mountains, secluded bays and the stunning wooded islands dotted in the water.
For hikers and walking enthusiasts, you cannot go to the Lake District without tackling England’s highest mountain. At 978 metres, this mountain and war memorial is in Cumbria and makes up part of the Southern Fells.
As the biggest mountain, it is a must climb for anyone who enjoys hiking and getting outdoors. It is a complex mountain with rocky summits and towering crags, extending out to Langdale, Borrowdale, Wasdale and Eskdale. At the top, you will be treated to spectacular views, and on a clear day you can see all the way to Wales, Ireland, Scotland and the Isle of Man.
Wastwater, the deepest lake in England, lies at the mountain's foot and is an incredible 258 feet deep. The quickest route up Scafell Pike is in the Wasdale Head route, taking around two to three hours.
Beatrix Potter was famously inspired by the beauty of the Lake District and wrote her stories here. You can visit the 17th-century farmhouse, Hill Top, that now serves as a time-capsule of her life.
Hill Top is in Ambleside and is full of Potter’s favourite things, looking as if you’re stepping straight into her home while she has popped out for a walk. Every room contains a reference to one of her tales. You’ll recognise the rhubarb patch where Jemima Puddle-Duck laid her eggs and the garden where Tom Kitten played.
For literary lovers or lovers of history, Beatrix Potter’s House is well worth a visit.
The historic market town of Kendal is right on the fringes of the Lake District and is well worth a stopover if you love quaint little towns with castle ruins. The area is full of history, but one of the most delightful sights to see and visit is the famous 1657 Chocolate House.
Built in the 1630s, this shop is a haven for chocoholics everywhere. Here you can indulge in one of the many different exquisite flavours of hot chocolate in the café, or you can venture to the shop downstairs to buy chocolates, choosing from 125 different kinds. For those with a sweet tooth, 1657 cannot be missed.
Aira Force is the most famous Lake District waterfall. Set in a landscaped Victorian park, the waterfall falls 70 feet below the stone footbridge and can be found in Cumbria.
The waterfall itself is just a short walk from the carpark, but there are also plenty of gentle walking paths that loop around the waterfall’s base. It’s a great day out for nature lovers who want a non-strenuous walk.
The Lake District is full of castles, including Muncaster Castle, the UK’s most haunted castle. Paranormal researchers visit to seek out explanations of the strange happenings. Many tales revolve around this castle, such as visitors complaining of restless nights, hearing footsteps outside in the corridor and the doors opening but nobody being there.
You can explore the 70-acre woodland gardens, which date back to the 18th century, and enjoy the burst of colour in the flora every spring and autumn. Or you can take part in overnight ghost sits if you’re brave enough.
There are four railway attractions in the Lake District, where you can ride on a steam train. One of the most popular is the Ravenglass and Eskdale railway, which runs from Ravenglass across the estuary and through the hills to Eskdale Valley. There are seven stops along the way where you can go walking or have a picnic in these beautiful Lake District spots.
Wherever you go in the Lakes this year, you are sure to find a vast range of activities suitable for the whole family. If you’re looking for luxury holiday cottages in the Lake District or a dog friendly cottages in the lake district, contact Mill House Cottage today, or feel free to browse what we have available on our website.
