The best activities to do in the Lake District attract Brits and international holidaymakers who are keen to experience the fresh air and rugged landscape of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Covering an area of over 900 square miles in northwest England, it holds a special place in the hearts of many hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. It’s home to England’s highest peak, as well as a series of lakes that are unparalleled in their beauty.

But the Lake District is more than just its natural assets. Charming lakeside towns and villages, plus a thriving food scene also score major points among travellers. As a result, it remains one of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations. Read on for our favourite spots to enjoy the great outdoors in the Lake District.

  • 1

    Lake Windermere boat cruise

    Discover the Lakes District’s best bits on a hop-on hop-off boat cruise

    Lake Windermere boat cruise
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    A must-do activity in the Lake District is a leisurely boat tour of Windermere, England’s largest lake. Sit back and relax as you meander through the water, taking in the tiny islands, lush woodlands, and towering peaks along the way.

    Take a break en route to explore some of Windermere's most popular lakefront destinations, including the quaint village of Ambleside, and the lake's premier town, Bowness-on-Windermere. Both have high-quality restaurants to enjoy, as well as plenty of opportunities for souvenir shopping. 

    Horario: Daily from 10 am to 6 pm

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  • 2

    Hill Top

    The quaint home of beloved author, Beatrix Potter

    Hill Top
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    Hill Top was once owned by the well-loved writer Beatrix Potter, who left the beautiful 17th-century farmhouse to the National Trust so the public could also enjoy her captivating home.

    Potter bought the property using proceeds from her first published book, The Tale of Peter Rabbit. It became her cosy retreat over the next 40 years, where she spent her time creating a restful home and tending the attractive cottage garden. As you explore Hill Top, try to spot parts of the house that appeared in her other famous stories. You can visit Joey's Cafe for refreshments or Lakeland Inn for hearty pub fare and real ales.

    Dirección: Near Sawrey, Ambleside LA22 0LF, UK

    Horario: Daily from 10 am to 5 pm

    Teléfono: +44 (0)1539 436269

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  • 3

    Derwentwater

    Enjoy the peaceful setting of this pretty waterside hiking spot

    Derwentwater
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    Derwentwater is a large lake south of the handsome town of Keswick. Part of the Lake District National Park, it sits between the popular fells of Cat Bells and the Borrowdale valley.

    While you can find boats offering 50-minute cruises, walking is a very appealing way to explore the 3-mile-long lake. A series of well-maintained paths lead you to an 8-mile trail through shaded woodland, across streams, and along rocky beaches. All the while, you can take in breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.

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  • 4

    Lowther Castle and Gardens

    Spectacular architecture meets expert botany

    Lowther Castle and Gardens
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    Lowther Castle was built back in the late 1800s, serving as the home to the Lowther family for at least 850 years. It originally had 365 rooms, 1 for every day of the year. But the castle’s interior was demolished in the 1950s, leaving only a shell that gradually went to ruin.

    However, with its exterior restored, and the gardens lovingly returned to their original grandeur, the Lowther Castle and Gardens now attract thousands of visitors each year. It has an onsite gallery offering a walkthrough of the site’s fascinating history. Kids can have fun in the large adventure playground, while grown-ups can explore 130 acres of formal and themed gardens.

    Dirección: Lowther, Penrith CA10 2HH, UK

    Horario: Daily from 10 am to 5 pm

    Teléfono: +44 (0)1931 712192

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  • 5

    Castlerigg Stone Circle

    Can you unravel the mystery behind the enigmatic Castlerigg Stone Circle?

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    The Castlerigg Stone Circle sits above the town of Keswick, looking down across Derwentwater and with jagged Helvellyn forming its background. Built in the Neolithic period (3,000 BC), this is one of the oldest stone circles in England.

    There have been many theories surrounding this stone circle for many years. Was it used for religious purposes or trade? As of today, there are no answers but take a look for yourself and see what you think. Castlerigg can be reached within a 30-minute walk from Keswick.

    Dirección: Castle Ln, Keswick CA12 4RN, UK

    Teléfono: +44 (0)370 333 1181

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  • 6

    Scafell Pike

    Conquer England’s mightiest peak on a challenging hike

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    Scafell Pike, at over 3,000 ft high, is known as England's tallest mountain. It also forms 1/3 of the well-known Three Peaks hiking challenge, alongside Snowdon and Ben Nevis. Scafell isn’t a walk in the park. Challenging to even the most experienced hikers, reaching the summit is best described as exhilarating, with views across all 3 British nations – England, Scotland, and Wales – as the reward.

    You should allow up to 6 hours to hike to the summit of Scafell Pike and back down again. If you want to attempt this hike, plan your route carefully and check the weather before you set off. Bring a map and compass, too. It won’t be easy, but the sense of satisfaction – and the view – will make it all worthwhile.

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  • 7

    Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway

    Old-world charm prevails in this vintage narrow-gauge railway

    Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway
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    The Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway began life back in 1873 with the construction of the narrow-gauge railway line that would connect Ravenglass (the Lake District’s only coastal village) with Dalegarth. The classic steam-and-diesel vehicles transport passengers to the famous Wainwright walks and Scafell Pike along its 7-mile route.

    But if you stay onboard for the entire journey, you can soak up the nostalgic atmosphere of this delightfully old-fashioned railway ride. Standard-class tickets get you a seat in open-sided carriages, while first-class tickets offer comfortable carriages with closed sides. Upgrade to the Pullman carriage for a larger and more luxurious space, where you can enjoy cream tea as you pass by the stunning Lake District scenery.

    Dirección: Railway Station, Ravenglass CA18 1SW, UK

    Horario: Daily from 9 am to 5 pm

    Teléfono: +44 (0)1229 717171

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  • 8

    Aira Force Waterfall

    Take time out to admire the natural power of Aira Force Waterfall

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    Aira Force is one of the most-visited waterfalls in the Lake District National Park. With its pretty setting and water cascading down its 70-ft length, it’s easy to see why. Located just outside Keswick, it stands on a site that was once owned by the wealthy Howard family.

    Over time, they landscaped the area around the waterfall, planting 500,000 thousand native trees to create a beautiful arboretum, plus a network of crisscrossing pathways. Today, you can enjoy superb natural views, listen to the sounds of the waterfall echoing through the trees, and spot rare red squirrels scurrying along the family-friendly trails.

    Dirección: Matterdale, Penrith CA11 0JY, UK

    Teléfono: +44 (0)7917 517767

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  • 9

    Lake District cycling tours

    Challenge your legs with a hilly tour

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    Joining a Lake District cycling tour will allow you to cover long distances and add a rush of adrenaline to your visit. Lake District Bikes, based a few miles south of Coniston Water, offers a range of cycling tours to suit any skill level. Cycle around Lake Coniston, twist and turn along the snaking lakeland roads, or try off-road trails through fells, farms, and forests.

    You’ll discover all kinds of charming villages and even a stately home or two along the way. Lake District cycling tours usually last up to a day. You can also opt for cycling holidays, which are bespoke multi-day trips designed to meet your needs.

    Dirección: Beck View LA12 8DX, UK

    Horario: Daily from 9 am to 5 pm

    Teléfono: +44 (0)7887 731552

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  • 10

    The Lakes Distillery

    Sample some of the finest local spirits in England

    The Lakes Distillery
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    The Lakes Distillery occupies a 160-year-old farmhouse on the banks of the river Derwent. Its onsite distillers use the natural surroundings to inspire their craft, aiming to create spirits that are unlike those found anywhere else.

    You can take a tour of the distillery and sample a few of its signature concoctions, like whiskies, vodkas, or gin. If you’re a whisky connoisseur, opt for an in-depth whisky tasting – a must-do given the distillery's accolade of producing the 'World's Best Single Malt Whisky'.

    Dirección: Cockermouth CA13 9SJ, UK

    Horario: Saturday from 10 am to 7 pm, Sunday–Friday from 10 am to 6 pm

    Teléfono: +44 (0)1768 788850

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Carly Rolfe | Viajero experto