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…

Derwentwater

Derwentwater
Keswick
Lake District
Cumbria
England

Derwentwater is the feather in Keswick’s cap. Situated just 15 minutes walk from the market square in Keswick town centre, this three-mile-long lake is fed by the River Derwent catchment area in the high fells at the head of Borrowdale. In the 18th and 19th centuries, it became the inspiration for romantic poets.
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Derwentwater Marina

Derwentwater Marina
Portinscale
Keswick
Lake District
England
CA12 5RF

01768772912

If you’re visiting Derwentwater and are hoping to get out onto the lake, you’ll need to head to Derwentwater Marina. From here you can choose from a selection of crafts including paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, rowing or pedalos.
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Dodd Wood

Dodd Wood
Little Crosthwaite
Keswick
Lake District
England
CA12 4QD

Dodd Wood is situated just a few miles north of Keswick and is home to a network of waymarked trails, many of which are ideal for younger children. There is also the steeper Dodd Summit trail, for those looking for more of a challenge.
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Dove Cottage

Town End
Grasmere
LA22 9SH

015394 35544

The Lakeland cottage was once the home of well-known English poet, William Wordsworth and his sister Dorothy, and was where he wrote some of his most famous verses.
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Dow Crag

Coniston
Lake District National Park
Cumbria
England
United Kingdom
LA20 6EG

The peak of Dow Crag stands at 2,552 feet tall in the Lake District National Park. It is situated near Coniston and is perfect for a hike with the family.
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Easedale Tarn

Easedale Tarn
Red Bank Road Car Park
Grasmere
Lake District
LA22 9PU

Easedale Tarn is situated around two miles west of the village of Grasmere, in a hollow between Tarn Crag and Blea Rigg. Take this six-mile walk to the tarn over stone bridges, past plunging waterfalls and along the edges of fells.
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Eden Rock

Eden Rock
9 Brunel Way
Carlisle
Lake District
CA1 3NQ

01228522127

Eden Rock is one of the biggest and best bouldering walls in the UK. You’ll find a huge range of climbing facilities here for all ages and abilities. Eden Rock also boasts a dedicated kids’ room with courses and coaching available whatever level they’re at.
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Elterwater and Skelwith Bridge

Elterwater to Skelwith Bridge
Elterwater
Ambleside
Lake District
Cumbria
England
LA22 9HU

Take this walk along the Cumbrian Way in the Langdale Valley from Elterwater to Skelwith Bridge. The walk is 2.5 miles and takes around 2-3 hours to complete and is suitable for children.
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Ennerdale Brewery

Ennerdale Brewery
Chapel Row
Rowah
Ennerdale Bridge
Cumbria
CA26 3XS

01946862977

This family-run brewery based in Cumbria produces a range of fine cask and bottled ales, brewed using traditional methods. Ennerdale Brewery real ale is brewed with whole-leaf hops, freshly milled barley, live yeast, and spring water from Croasdale Fell, making it a true local treat.
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Ennerdale Water and Smithy Beck Falls

Ennerdale Water and Smithy Beck Falls
Bowness Knott Car Park
Cleator
Lake District
England
CA23 3AX

Take this two-mile walk from one of the Lake District’s hidden gems. Ennerdale Water is one of the least visited lakes in the Lake District and sits nestled within a remote part of West Cumbria. The walk takes around one to two hours and is ideal for little ones.
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Derwentwater

Derwentwater Marina

Dodd Wood

Dove Cottage

Dow Crag

Easedale Tarn

Eden Rock

Elterwater and Skelwith Bridge

Ennerdale Brewery

Ennerdale Water and Smithy Beck Falls