10 Best Things to do in the Lake District

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…

Image credits: David Dixon - (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Sizergh Castle

Ashbank Ln
Kendal
LA8 8AE

015395 60951

Located just south of Kendal is the truly exquisite Sizergh Castle and its beautiful grounds where visitors are welcome to come and explore the historical building and enclosed woodlands.
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Stagshaw Gardens

Stagshaw Gardens
Ambleside
LA22 0HE

01539446027

National Trust-owned Stagshaw Gardens sit on the northern top of Lake Windermere in Ambleside. With fells, woodland, parks, and a Roman fort on offer, this area is great for family days out. Spring is the best time to visit Stagshaw Gardens as it is then that the gardens burst into life.
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Image Credits: Martinvl - CC BY-SA 4.0

Steam Yacht Gondola

Coniston Pier
Lake Rd
Coniston
LA21 8AN

015394 32733

The Steam Yacht Gondola is a beloved attraction in Coniston. At this National Trust gem, you can enjoy sailing on Coniston Water with all the family and canine companions.
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Surprise View

Borrowdale
Keswick
CA12 5UU

On a cliff edge high above Derwentwater, Surprise View offers a spectacular view of the reservoir just before the Ashness Bridge. When the weather is good, you can see Bassenthwaite Lake from a distance.
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Suzanna Swims – Open Water and Wild Swimming

Looking for Lake District swimming opportunities? Suzanna Swims guides swimmers of all abilities around some of the best wild swimming and open water spots in the area, providing a thrilling alternative to the usual Lakeland activities.
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Tarn Hows

Ambleside
LA22 0PU

Tarn Hows is a small mountain lake situated around two miles northeast of Coniston. The tarn has its origins in the 19th century when plans were in place for it to feed the sawmill of a local landowner. Today Tarn Hows is maintained by the National Trust.
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The Lakes Distillery

The Lakes Distillery
Setmurthy
Cockermouth
CA13 9SJ

Located near Bassenthwaite, the Lakes Distillery not only creates spirits but also offers a visitor centre, shop, bar and bistro, in which visitors can sample the spirits and other local produce. Take a tour of the distillery and see how they create the Lakes Malt, Lakes Gin and Lakes Vodka.
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Image Credits: bayphotographic - CC BY 2.0

The Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway

Haverthwaite Station
Nr Ulverston
Lake District
Cumbria
LA12 8AL

015395 31594

Hop aboard the historic Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway in the picturesque Leven Valley at the southern end of Windermere. Developed in the 19th century during the height of the Industrial Revolution, this railway once played an important part in local industry. Today, it takes passengers on a ride through the stunning local landscape.
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The Puzzling Place

Museum Square
Keswick
CA12 5DZ

017687 75102

Keswick’s optical illusion exhibition showcases antigravity, interactive optical illusion exhibits, artwork, sculptures, and a hologram gallery.
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Image Credits: Paul Hermans - CC BY-SA 3.0

The Ruskin Museum

Coniston
Lake District National Park
Cumbria
LA21 8DU

015394 41164

The Ruskin Museum has been an important part of Coniston’s community since 1901. Come here to learn about the village’s history, including its iconic inhabitants, John Ruskin and Donald Campbell CBE.
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