Things To Do in the Lake District
Looking for things to do in the Lake District? Look no further!
First of all, be sure to arrive hungry at the Lake District, as there are so many food specialities and delicacies to try. Cafes, such as Waterside Wholefoods in Kendall, provide delicious, quality foods sourced from local areas, offering organic wines and beers as well as tasty fresh salads. Other goodies can be found at Farmers Markets, Food Fairs and local shops.
Other things to do in the Lake District include making a visit or ten to one of the many archaeological sites and monuments, dating from prehistory to World War II. There are over 6000!
There are endless things to do in the Lake District – there are attractions and events that suit those looking for a lazy, relaxing break; things to do for the more energetic, and for the young and old. There is plenty of local culture to keep you interested - you will not be lost for things to do in the Lake District!
Top 10 Things to Do in the Lake District
Levens Hall and Gardens, Kendal
Wealthy land owners, the Bellingham family chose Levens as their main place of residence in the 1590s, employing local craftsmen and builders to create the Hall. Popular styles and details, such as stained glass and elaborate Italian plaster work, were incorporated into its construction. In 1688, Colonel James Grahme became the proprietor after a career in Court in King James II’s reign. He brought with him a young gardener who had studied under le Notre in Versailles, in order to plan and create a fashionable garden.
Water Sports
The Lake District is a great location for water sports. With beautiful scenery all around and lovely natural waters, where could be better to indulge in such exciting activities? From sailing and water skiing, to wakeboarding and canoeing, as well as a gentle leisure cruise on the larger lakes, the choices for things to do are wide.
The World of Beatrix Potter
Born in 1866, Beatrix Potter made her first visit to the Lake District in 1882 with her family. She and her brother, Bertram, explored the fields, tamed the wild animals and sketched and painted all that they saw.
Her home became Hill Top near Sawrey, which was left by her to the National Trust on the condition that her contents remain there. She was a prominent and dedicated member of the local community, breeding sheep, and immersing herself in fierce campaigning for the conservation of the area.
Theatres in the Lake District
Looking for a Theatre in the Lake District? The Lake District is a budding place for theatre and the arts. Perhaps it is something to do with the Romance of the scenic lakes and surrounding hills that create a mystical setting for magical scenes from A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Or maybe it is simply to do with popular demand! Whatever the reason, the Lake District is not short of fantastic displays of artistry.
Abbot Hall Art Gallery, Kendal
Abbot Hall Art Gallery is a thoughtfully considered selection of works displayed with care in this beautiful stately building, allowing visitors to freely absorb the art work in a leisurely, relaxed manor. The elegant Georgian rooms provide vibrant but manageable displays of a variety of genres.
Extreme Sports and Activities in the Lake District
The Lake District is unbeatable for extreme sport opportunities. It is a unique area in which to enjoy an activity or sport that is just a little off-centre, for a special occasion, or just to treat yourself on holiday.
Discover Local Food
Perhaps it is in the way crops are grown and harvested, and the high importance that locals place on conserving their beautiful land and scenery that such an array of delicious, often organic produce can be created. And what better way to celebrate the success than to hold numerous farmer’s markets, food stalls and events?
Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway
The Ravenglass & Eskdale is a spectacular steam railway in the Lake District, which runs from the coastal village of Ravendale in the west for 7 miles to Eskdale.
Four steam engines are currently in use, and there is an improved time table, running at least six trains daily between 21st March and 1st November, and also during winter weekends and February half term.
Lake District Breweries
If you have a passion for breweries and are a keen walker or cycler, what better way is there to sample the local brews than by exploring the local areas and following up your rambling with a rewarding, thirst-quenching pint of Lake District beer or cider?
There are 24 beer breweries and 2 cider makers in the Lake District.
Walking and Cycling in the Lake District
How could a trip to the Lake District be complete without at least one exploration on foot? The popularity and exposure of walking in the English countryside has increased – the week long walking feature in the Guardian newspaper recently is testament to this, and The Times has also featured numerous walks. The ‘Time Out’ guides also extended their ‘London Walks’ to ambles throughout the UK. There are many guided walks available in the Lake District, and a number of trails for those who prefer to take the lead.