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…

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  • Family walking through a park

    Keswick Lakeside Round

    Keswick Lakeside Round
    30A Lake Road
    Keswick
    Lake District
    Cumbria
    CA12 5DG

    This short walk starting in Keswick is ideal for families with younger children. Along the way, little ones can spot geese, ducks and swans and even stop by a woodland play area. The route is around one and a half miles and will take one hour to complete.

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  • derwentwater lakeside

    Keswick Launch Co.

    Keswick Launch Co.
    Derwentwater Foreshore
    Keswick
    Cumbria
    CA12 5DJ

    Experience the splendour of Derwentwater with stunning views of the surrounding fells on a lake trip aboard one of the Keswick Launches. Views of Skiddaw, Catbells, and the ‘Jaws of Borrowdale’ are particularly impressive.

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  • Keswick Museum

    Station Road
    Keswick
    CA12 4NF

    017687 73263

    A charming museum that focuses on the history of Keswick and features interactive exhibits such as “The Musical Stones of Skiddaw” and displays of ornate metalwork created by students at the Keswick School of Industrial Arts.

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  • Kong Adventure

    Kong Adventure

    Kong Adventure
    Heads Road
    Keswick
    CA12 5EZ

    01768775907

    Kong Adventure is a Lake District recreational centre located in Keswick. Climbing walls, a café, outdoor equipment shops, escape rooms, and many more indoor and outdoor activities are available.

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  • Stanley Ghyll

    La’al Ratty and Stanley Force, Eskdale

    La'al Ratty and Stanley Force, Eskdale
    Boot
    Holmrook
    Eskdale
    CA19 1TG

    Discover this incredible 60ft high waterfall deep in the Eskdale Valley as you wind through ancient woodland and across footbridges. Suitable for dogs and children over four, this walk takes around one to two hours depending on your pace.

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  • Lake District Coast Aquarium

    Lake District Coast Aquarium
    S Quay
    Maryport
    Lake District
    Cumbira
    CA15 8AB

    01900814774

    Discover over 75 display tanks teeming with hundreds of amazing freshwater and sea species at Lake District Aquarium, Maryport. From the waterfall cascade with local sea life to the vivid colours of the tropical marine reef display, you’ll find fascinating creatures at every turn.

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  • Image Credits: G-BWCK - CC BY-SA 2.0

    Lake District Gyroplanes

    Berrier Airfield
    Near Ullswater
    Penrith
    Lake District
    CA11 0XD

    07771608767

    Check out the views of the stunning Lake District countryside from above in a gyroplane ride. Cumbria Gyroplanes offer you the chance to experience a gyroplane flight and even take the controls! Under the instruction of an experienced pilot, you can relax and enjoy the views knowing you’re in great hands.

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  • Lake District Ski Club Feature

    Lake District Ski Club

    Greenside
    Cumbria
    CA11 0QR

    015395 35456

    Ready to hit the slopes? Come to the Lake District Ski Club! The volunteer-run club rests on the edge of Helvellyn and is open during the winter period.

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  • lakeland motor museum in Backbarrow

    Lakeland Motor Museum

    Lakeland Motor Museum
    Old Blue Mill
    Backbarrow
    LA12 8TA

    015395 30400

    A one-of-a-kind museum with a collection of more than 30,000 artefacts, including over 140 historic automobiles, a variety of tractors, cycles, motors, and other vehicles of the past.

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  • Lakes Aquarium

    Lakes Aquarium

    Lakes Aquarium
    Lakeside
    Newby Bridge
    Ulverston
    Cumbria
    LA12 8AS

    015395 30153

    Nestled on the southern end of Lake Windermere is Lakes Aquarium where visitors can discover over 30 displays of wildlife and freshwater creatures. From the seashore with its seahorses and rays to the journey below Windermere showcasing local wildlife, you’ll find a fascinating variety here.

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