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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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  • Coniston Copper Mines, Coniston
    Image Credits: Andrew Bowden - CC BY-SA 2.0

    Coniston Copper Mines

    Coniston
    Lake District National Park
    Cumbria
    England
    LA21 8HX

    01539 724555

    Once a mining operation in Lancashire, the Copper Mines in Coniston are a fantastic place for explorers and those wishing to unleash their inner historian!

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  • country fair

    Coniston Country Fair

    Coniston Campsite
    Coniston
    Cumbria
    England
    United Kingdom

    Set on the shores of Coniston Water, Coniston Country Fair is a traditional Lakeland show offering visitors a fascinating insight into Cumbrian life. Watch traditional Cumbrian sports such as Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling and fell racing as well as dry stone walling. There are also crafts and food for sale.

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  • close up of boat on the water

    Coniston Launch

    Coniston
    Lake District National Park
    Cumbria
    LA21 8AX

    017687 75753

    Coniston Launch offers a variety of boat cruises across Coniston Water in the Lake District. Sit back and relax on one of two circular routes or combine your cruise with a walk and hop on and off at different jetties to suit your needs.

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  • Coniston Water, UK

    Coniston Water

    Monk Coniston Car Park
    Coniston
    LA21 8AH

    A beautiful lake towered over by the Old Man Mountain of Coniston and surrounded by pretty scenic views, Coniston Water is the third largest lake in the Lake District National Park and a tranquil destination for visitors.

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  • Clay Pigeon Shooting
    Image Credits: Proadventure.co.uk Activities  – CC BY 2.0

    Crabtree Clay Shoot

    Crabtree Farm
    Crabtree Lane
    Cow Brow
    Carnforth
    Lake District
    LA6 1PJ

    07818080841

    Crabtree Clay Shooting is a family run shooting ground with a 20-year history. The shooting ground has over 60 automatic traps over 18 English sporting stands, as well as undercover Compac and DTL/ABT ranges. Visiting shooters are welcome on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

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  • Steam Gathering
    Image Credits: Barry Lewis – CC BY 2.0

    Cumbria Steam Gathering

    Cark Airfield
    Flookburgh
    Grange-over-Sands
    Cumbria
    LA11 7LS

    07825 369601

    The Cumbria Steam Gathering takes place every year over the last weekend of July. Started over 40 years ago by a group of steam engine enthusiasts, the event now attracts more than 20,000 visitors over two days. At Cumbria Steam Gathering you’ll find a range of vintage and custom locomotives, cars, and agricultural machinery.

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  • two people riding horses in woodland

    Cumbrian Heavy Horses

    Baystone Bank Farm
    Whicham
    Valley
    Millom
    LA18 5LY

    07769588565

    Cumbrian Heavy Horses is the world’s only BHS approved heavy horse-riding centre. Based in the Lake District National Park, you can ride these magnificent giants through fields, fells, and beaches. Cumbrian Heavy Horses offer riding experiences for all abilities.

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  • couple cycling along trail in the sun

    Cyclewise

    Whinlatter Forest
    Whinlatter Pass
    Braithwaite
    Keswick
    CA12 5TW

    01768778711

    Cyclewise is your one-stop shop for all things cycling in the Lake District. Founded by passionate and experienced cyclists, you’ll be in great hands whether you’re hiring a bike, purchasing one, or booking some training here.

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  • Dalemain Mansion
    Image Credits: Tom Parnell – CC BY-SA 2.0

    Dalemain Mansion and Historic Garden

    Dalemain Mansion and Historic Garden
    Estate Office
    Dalemain
    Penrith
    CA11 0HB

    01768486450

    Dalemain Mansion sits on the site of a Saxon settlement and features sections dating back to the 14th century. Thoroughly modernised in the 1920s, the house is still home to the Hasell-McCosh family although it remains open to the public in peak season.

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  • Keswick Pencil Museum Art

    Derwent Pencil Museum

    Southey Works
    Keswick
    CA12 5NG

    017687 73626

    A museum commemorating the Derwent Pencil’s heritage is located near the site of the first pencil manufacturer in Keswick.

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