Experiences
The Lake District: walks, lakes and pubs in England's most beautiful national park
Green fells, dry-stone walls, boats on Windermere and pubs with open fires. How to experience the Lake District, and where to stay by the lakes.
The path climbs a green ridge, and with every step the lake below grows bigger. At the top you see valley after valley of dry-stone walls, sheep and small farms. Down in the village a pub with an open fire and cask ale is waiting.
The Lake District in north-west England is a national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has England's largest lake and highest mountain, and its villages have inspired writers for centuries. Here is the best of it and where to stay.
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The best things to do in the Lake District
Book the experience: See tours and activities in the Lake District
Windermere
Windermere is the largest natural lake in England. Take the boat between Bowness, Ambleside and Lakeside, or hire a rowing boat.
Catbells
The short walk from Derwentwater near Keswick is one of the most popular in the area, with views over the lake and the fells. Suitable for most people.
Scafell Pike
England's highest mountain is a long and demanding day walk. Choose a clear day and start early.
Grasmere and the writers
Wordsworth lived at Dove Cottage in Grasmere, and Beatrix Potter had her farm, Hill Top, nearby. Grasmere is also famous for its gingerbread.
Ullswater
The steamers on Ullswater run between Glenridding and Pooley Bridge. Combine the boat with a walk along the shore.
Where to stay in the Lake District
Bowness and Windermere are practical and lively. Grasmere and Ambleside are good bases for fell walking.
Storrs Hall Hotel
Storrs Hall is a Georgian mansion on Windermere, with gardens running down to the water. Classic and peaceful.
Book your stay: See rooms at Storrs Hall Hotel
Linthwaite House
Views over Windermere.
Linthwaite House
Linthwaite sits on the hill above Bowness, looking over Windermere. Known for its restaurant and grounds with a small tarn.
Book your stay: See rooms at Linthwaite House
Gilpin Hotel & Lake House
Near Windermere.
Gilpin Hotel & Lake House
Gilpin is in a quiet setting near Windermere and is known for its food. A good choice for a couple of days of excellent dinners.
Book your stay: See rooms at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House
Forest Side Hotel
In Grasmere.
Forest Side Hotel
Forest Side is in Grasmere, with gardens and a restaurant cooking with local produce. The walks start close by.
Book your stay: See rooms at Forest Side Hotel
When is the best time to visit the Lake District?
May and June: green, long days and often drier weather.
July and August: the most people and traffic. Start your walks early.
Autumn: lovely colours and pubs with fires. Rain is common all year, so pack waterproofs.
Lake District FAQ
Where is the Lake District?
In Cumbria in north-west England, a couple of hours' drive from Manchester.
What is the best walk?
Catbells is popular and manageable. Scafell Pike is England's highest mountain.
Where should I stay?
Bowness and Windermere for boats and restaurants, Grasmere and Ambleside for fell walking.
Can I get there without a car?
Yes, trains run to Windermere, and buses and boats link the villages.
Does it rain a lot?
Yes, the Lake District is one of the wettest places in England. Bring waterproofs.