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Although probably best known for its beautiful walks in the fells and scenic views of the Lakes, the Lake District is also home to loads of great fun activities to entertain the family when the weather takes a turn for the worst.

This week’s weather has been pretty bad and the rest of the month is set to continue in the same way, so here is a guide to the best indoor days out in the Lake District…


The Cumberland Pencil Museum, Keswick

A museum about pencils doesn’t sound like the most thrilling of days out, but since it opened in 1981, this Keswick attraction has been drawing visitors in their droves, with well over 80,000 people visiting each year. This year the Cumberland Pencil Company is celebrating its 180th birthday so there really is no better time to take a trip. There is so much to see and do – see the world’s longest colour pencil and learn about how they get lead into their pencils.

The Coast Aquarium, Maryport

Situated on the west coast of Cumbria and just a short distance from the main tourist spots of the Lake District, The Coast Aquarium at Maryport is now in its fifteenth year and going strong. Named Visitor Attraction of the Year in 2010 it’s the place to see a variety of sealife displays including a recreated harbour wall, a freshwater pool and see the impact of a wave crashing in. Recently the Wild Solway Centre has been added to give visitors an insight into sealife local to the area.

The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, Bowness-on-Windermere

Both the young and the young at heart will love this attraction! See all 23 Beatrix Potter stories captured, including Mrs Tiggy-winkle, Mr McGreggor and of course, everyone’s favourite, Peter Rabbit! It is also a great place to pick up a gift for a loved one in the Beatrix Potter Shop with its many Peter Rabbit gifts. Afterwards, treat yourself to a delicious meal or snack in the Beatrix Potter Tea Room, the perfect place to enjoy afternoon tea, served on a three tire cake stand with a pot of tea.

The Kewsick Climbing Centre, Kewsick

The Keswick Climbing Wall & Outdoor Activity Centre includes a climbing wall with over 40 rope climbs going up to a height of 8 metres. Its only five minutes drive from the centre of Keswick and from the centre you can also take in beautiful views of the Lakeland countryside.

The Honister Slate Mine, Keswick

The Honister Slate Mine is owned by a local family and is England’s last working slate mine. This award winning experience allows visitors to see the mines close up by taking a tour underground. Located at the top of the Honister Pass, this unique attraction also allows visitors to ‘Fill Ya Boot’ with as much slate as you can fit in your boot for only £20!


Discover even more things to do in the Lake District by using our handy guide. Also choose from a range of superb places to stay in the Lake District.

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