Things to do in the Lake District views

10 Best Things to do in the Lake District

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Use our guide to discover the best things to do in the Lake District

From picturesque Lakeland adventures to high peaks in the countryside, find an abundance of Lake District things to do here. Choose to walk or cycle around the incredible landscapes and National Trust properties in the Lake District.

Lake District hikes

You can’t visit the Lake District without embarking on one of the many scenic walking trails which follow picturesque routes. Choose from moderate challenges for prominent walkers including the Borger Dalr Trail and the impressive Catbells. Those looking for easier routes can stroll around Buttermere, whilst more difficult trails await at Scafell Pike and the Cumbria Coastal Way. These are just a few free things to do in the Lake District that you can enjoy for a dog-friendly day out.

Things to do in the Lake District for families

If you’re looking for classic things to do in the Lake District, visit these staple attractions. Start by visiting the historic Lowther Castle, The World of Beatrix Potter or the Coast Aquarium in Maryport. Alternatively, explore the iconic lakes of Windermere, Derwentwater and Ullswater on your Cumbrian adventure. There’s even the intriguing Grizedale Forest, historic Kendal Castle, and beautiful Loughrigg Fell to discover.

You don’t need to worry about the unpredictable English weather, as there’s a whole host of indoor activities in the Lake District to enjoy. And, during winter time, there are so many things to do in the Lake District in winter.

Things to do in the Lake District for Couples

From canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding on Coniston Water, to boat trips around Windemere, there are plenty of Lake District things to do for couples. Watch a show at the Theatre by the Lake or enjoy rock climbing at Kendal’s Lakeland Climbing Centre before returning to your Lake District accommodation.

Explore the rest of our guide and find even more things to do in the Lake District…

  • Grizedale Forest

    Go Ape Grizedale

    Go Ape Grizedale
    Grizedale
    Ambleside
    Lake District
    England
    LA22 0QJ

    01603895500

    Calling all adrenaline junkies! Head to Go Ape Grizedale for treetop adventures and white-knuckle zip-wire rides. Nestled between Coniston Water and Windermere, there are a few more impressive places to go on a thrilling adventure.

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  • forest sunlight uk

    Go Ape Whinlatter

    Go Ape Whinlatter
    Whinlatter Forest
    Whinlatter Pass
    Braithwaite
    Keswick
    CA12 5TW

    01603895500

    Whinlatter Forest is England’s only true mountain forest and boasts dramatic views and unique landscapes, all of which are best seen from the treetops. Go Ape Whinlatter offers visitors the chance to go on an all-terrain forest segway adventure or take on the high ropes treetop challenge.

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  • Lake District Hikes

    Grasmere to Alcock Tarn

    Grasmere to Alcock Tarn
    Town End
    Grasmere
    Ambleside
    Lake District
    LA22 9SH

    Walk this four-mile circular route that will take you past William Wordsworth’s old home and the fells beyond. Alcock Tarn itself makes for a wonderful picnic spot and there are plenty of cafés awaiting you on your return to Grasmere – the perfect reward for your efforts!

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  • Grasmoor
    Image Credits: Morebyless – CC BY 2.0

    Grasmoor

    Grasmoor
    Crummock Water
    Cockermouth
    Lake District
    Cumbria
    England
    CA13 9UY

    Grasmoor is a mountain in the northwestern part of the Lake District and is the highest peak among the hills in the area. Grassmoor overlooks Crummock Water and is home to the most extensive scree slopes in the northwestern fells. Linked to other fells on the east side, there are plenty of walking options leading to Grasmoor.

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  • CBA Events

    Graythwaite Adventure

    Graythwaite
    LA12 8BA

    0333 241 2890

    Graythwaite Adventure is an activity provider on the beautiful Graythwaite Estate on the shore of Windermere. On-site activities include 4×4 off-road driving in Land Rover Defenders, clay pigeon shooting, archery, stand up paddleboarding, canoeing, RIB rides, wakeboarding, bushcraft and more.

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  • Great End, Lake District
    Image Credits: sagesolar - CC BY 2.0

    Great End

    Seathwaite
    Seascale
    Lake District National Park
    Cumbria
    England
    United Kingdom
    CA12 5XJ

    Great End is a 2,990-foot peak settled on the northern end of the Scafell chain. It’s hailed as being amidst the most beautiful places in the country and is a hiking must!

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  • Great Gable, Lake District

    Great Gable

    Seathwaite
    Seascale
    Lake District National Park
    Cumbria
    England
    CA20 1EX

    Great Gable rests within the Western Fells of the Lake District National Park. This 899-metre wonder is the perfect place for an energising hike with breath-taking views.

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  • woman walking into a forest

    Great Wood, Walla Crag Via Cat Gill & Falcon Crag

    Keswick
    Lake District National Park
    Cumbria
    England
    United Kingdom

    Take this fairly low level, four-mile walk for excellent views of Derwentwater and Bassenthwaite Lake. With a small amount of scrambling to begin with, this walk is not recommended for very small children.

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  • man and son lighting a fire

    Green Man Survival

    Green Man Survival
    Dog Kennel Wood
    Newby Bridge
    LA12 8NP

    07946841772

    Ever wondered what it would be like to survive outside using bushcraft skills? At Green Man Survival, you can take a bushcraft or survival skills course in the heart of the Lake District. Lead instructor and founder, James, provides courses for all ages and abilities.

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  • public gardens

    Gresgarth Hall Gardens

    Gresgarth Hall
    Caton
    Lancaster
    LA2 9NB

    01524771838

    Home to renowned landscape and architectural designer, Arabella Lennox-Boyd, Gresgarth Hall Gardens marry Italian style with British plantmanship to create the spectacular vision you see today. The extensive gardens feature terraces, borders, a vegetable garden and an incredible collection of trees and shrubs.

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