Curator’s statement
In the heart of the UK lies the breathtaking Lake District, a haven of natural beauty and serenity. Just a train ride away from the bustling cities, this enchanting escape is home to mountain peaks, captivating waterfalls and cozy little villages surrounded by sparkling lakes. As England's largest National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s got all the ingredients for a romantic escape. The Lake District has a perfect mix of history and beauty. It's no surprise that some of the best poets, artists and writers have made it their muse and sanctuary.
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Where to stay in Lake District
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Things to do in Lake District
Lake activites
Lake Cruise on Lake Windermere: Take a boat ride across England's largest lake. Get off on various ports and explore the quaint towns of Windermere and Ambleside.
Explore Coinston in a Canoe or Kayak: Make stops at Wild Cat Island and Brantwood then enjoy lunch at Swallows & Amazons.
Wild swimming in cliffside pools
Buttermere Infinity Pool: One of the lake's most famous infinity pools, but if you keep exploring you’ll find hidden plunge pools to yourself!
Sour Milk Ghyll: After spending the day in Grasmere, take a hike to bathe in this fairy-like pool.
Explore the homes of lake poets
National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere: This famous villa once housed many literary figures such as William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge and Thomas De Quincey.
Rydal Mount and Gardens: The family home of William Wordsworth, where he spent most of his life.
Greta Hall: Once home to both Samuel Taylor Coleridge and Robert Southey.And you can stay there now!
Museums and shops
National Trust - Hill Top: Visit Beatrix Potter’s farmhouse and getaway.
Keswick Museum: Learn more about figures such as Robert Southey and the landscape of The Lake District.
Wordsworth Grasmere: Step into the home of William Wordsworth, Dove Cottage, and explore the garden he and Dorothy curated.
Day trips
Rydal and Grasmere
There is so much to explore in both Rydal and Grasmere that surround William Wordsworth. But one must is a stop by The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop to taste the original gingerbread invented by Sarah Neslon!
You won't want to miss stopping by Rydal Hall, and taking a stroll through the beautiful gardens.
Once you’ve had enough history lessons, take a picturesque hike to Stock Ghyll Force, Stepping Stones or Buckstones Jump.
Northern Lakes
Stop by Keswick to learn about Robert Southey and stay to be mesmerized by Castlerigg Stone Circle, thought to be thousands of years old!
Ullswater: Take a stroll to the Aira Force Waterfall and explore the beautiful Lowther Castle & Gardens.
Western lakes and peaks
Near Eskdale, visit the striking Stanley Ghyll Waterfall and visit the small Japanese garden Giggle Alley.
Hike the beautiful peaks of the Lake District National Park. This includes Hardknott Pass, Scafell Pike and take a dip in either Black Moss Pot or Lingcove Bridge and Waterfalls.
Chase the waterfalls of Buttermere, such as Scale Force Waterfall and Moss Force Waterfall, then enjoy tea at Syke Farm Tea Room.
Places to eat & drink in Lake District
Afternoon tea
The Fizzy Tarté, Bowness: A unique and modern take on tea service with various options. Serving lunch and late-night drinks!
Minstrels Gallery, Hawkshead: Traditional tea room offering a wide variety of loose-leaf tea and locally roasted coffee. Stop by for breakfast or lunch!
Baldry’s, Grasmere: Traditional tea room offering fresh bread and cakes daily with a wide variety of loose-leaf tea. Enjoy some breakfast or sandwiches in this charming cottage.
Lunch
The Albert, Bowness: A Modern pub with a beer garden. Centrally located next to The World of Beatrix Potter and other shops near England's largest lake. Enjoy the best fish and chips or Sunday Roast!
The Apple Pie Bakery, Ambleside: Family-owned and operated bakery offering freshly baked bread and pastries, as well as breakfast and lunch. Enjoy a wide variety of drinks from tea, coffee, wines, beers and more!
Dinner
Mela Spice Restaurant, Bowness: Late-night dinner located in the heart of Bowness. Enjoy classic Indian and Bangladeshi plates before going out for some late-night drinks.
The Jumble Room, Grasmere: Modern and whimsical restaurant open for dinner. Unique and ever-changing menu using locally sourced ingredients and innovation. Tip: During peak season, reservations are recommended since they are only open Thursday–Saturday!
Drinks
Bodega Bar & Tapas Bowness, Bowness: Get transported into Spain at this two-floor tapas bar! Enjoy everything from lunch, dinner and late-night drinks!
Hole in t' Wall, Bowness: Stop by the oldest put-in Bowness! Come for lunch or dinner and stay for a wide variety of drinks from ales, to gin, and rum!
Royal Oak, Ambleside: Historic pub located in the heart of Ambleside with a dog menu and all! Offering a wide selection of ales and spirits. Lunch and dinner options available.
Need to know
To truly experience the beauty of the Lake District, set aside a few days and consider renting a car to explore its hidden gems at your own pace!
Travel Advisor
Jasmine Garcia
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