Things to do in Lake District
Discover the best attractions and experiences Lake District has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore ancient stones and storied landmarks that dot the Lakeland landscape.
Castlerigg Stone Circle
A prehistoric stone circle with dramatic views over the Lakeland fells, dating back to the late Neolithic.
Hill Top (Beatrix Potter's Hill Top)
Beatrix Potter's 17th-century farmhouse preserved as a time capsule of her life and stories.
Keswick Moot Hall
Historic town hall dating from the 16th century, a symbol of Keswick's market town heritage.
Museums
Delve into Lakeland history, literature, and maritime heritage.
The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
Immersive gallery celebrating Beatrix Potter’s life and beloved characters.
Windermere Jetty Museum of Boats
Expansive collection of historic Lakeland boats displayed beside the lake.
Keswick Museum & Art Gallery
Local history and art showcases reflecting the Lake District’s culture.
Religious Monuments
Sacred sites set among lakes and mountains with tranquil atmospheres.
St Oswald's Church, Grasmere
Historic church with Wordsworth associations and a peaceful graveyard.
Hawkshead Parish Church (St Michael's)
Ancient parish church connected to writers and rural Lakeland life.
St Mary's Church, Ambleside
Atmospheric 19th-century church perched above the village streets.
National & Theme Parks
Natural landscapes and protected areas perfect for outdoor adventures.
Lake District National Park
Britain's largest national park, famed for lakes, fells and scenic routes.
Whinlatter Forest Park
Forest valley with trails, wildlife viewing, and mountain views.
Grizedale Forest
Forested trails and sculpture installations set around tranquil lakes.
Neighborhoods
Quaint towns and villages each with their own character and views.
Windermere
Lakeside town with a bustling promenade and waterfront charm.
Keswick
Historic market town famous for outdoor gear shops and the Derwentwater setting.
Ambleside
Gateway village with historic bridges and lake views.
Grasmere
Quaint village famed for poets, cafés and the Wordsworthian landscape.
Free Things to Do
Towns and trails that won't cost a penny but offer unforgettable scenery.
Derwentwater shoreline walk
A scenic stroll along Derwentwater’s edge with views of the fells.
Tarn Hows circular walk
Easy loop around a postcard-perfect reservoir and forests.
Stock Ghyll Force waterfall path
A woodland trail leading to a picturesque waterfall near Ambleside.
Grasmere village stroll
A relaxed wander through one of the Lake District’s most charming villages.
Gastronomy
Taste Lakeland flavors from ancient sweets to rustic dishes.
Kendal Mint Cake
A famous sweet originally crafted in Kendal, perfect for a lake-side snack.
Cumberland Sausage
Classic Cumberland sausage served in traditional Lakeland dishes.
Grasmere Gingerbread
Sticky, spiced gingerbread a local specialty to try in Grasmere.
Nightlife
Evening venues and events to light up your Lake District nights.
Theatre by the Lake
Keswick’s riverside venue offering plays, live music and performances.
Kendal Mountain Festival
Annual event in Kendal featuring films, talks and outdoor-themed entertainment.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and Beatrix Potter connections bring stories to life.
Theatre by the Lake
Keswick’s riverside venue offering plays, live music and performances.
World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
Interactive experience celebrating Beatrix Potter’s beloved tales.
Beatrix Potter Gallery
National Trust gallery in Hawkshead displaying Potter’s original watercolors.
Sports
Active adventures including peak ascents, water sports, and hikes.
Helvellyn via Striding Edge
Iconic ridge walk to the summit of Helvellyn, offering thrilling exposure.
Scafell Pike ascent
Climb Britain’s highest peak for sweeping mountain views.
Kayaking on Derwentwater
Paddle along Derwentwater’s calm waters with fells as backdrops.
Off the Track
Hidden corners and lesser-known paths for a different slice of the Lake District.
Aira Force Waterfall
A gorge and waterfall set along a woodland footpath.
Ullswater Steamer cruises
Enjoy a boat cruise on Ullswater for tranquil lake scenery.