Huge lake and you'd love the cruise here as there are very differing sights to see and click. The commentary on the cruise boat is also very informative. We took a sunset cruise and it was just gorgeous! Also, being summer time the weather was very pleasant.

Stunning lake area, first time ive been for 30 years. Very commercial these days, so expect it to be busy and of course pricey. Ariel views from my drone.

Don't miss this place, if you visit or live in the UK! An amazing spot in the North of England! Acceible with train and bus, and appropriate for family and kids.

Amazing views, defo recommend for sightseeing and you can book (both online and in-person) boat trips for you and your family which was so fun and cheap as well!

Had a great day at windermere. If you are ever in the area nearby definitely make the drive to windermere its so beautiful and there is so many shops

Beautiful view. Definitely try boat ride for seenic pics. Great nature feeling. Few different Boat ride depend on distance, we opted for longest one , so it took almost 90 min to complete. Few was amazing but felt little bit bored due to duration. Boat ride was amazing. Literally felt like lost in green nature. Parking options were many.

A must-see area of the Lake District. (The ferry crossing is convenient and would save drivers nearly 45 minutes of traversing to get across the lake.)

It was very good considering it was a cold, snowy day, but we had booked to partake in a snow leopard experience for a special birthday treat so didn’t let the weather put us off. We’ve been here before numerous times and do enjoy our visits, it has a very unique offering of a walk through aviary and a all through animal section (which was sadly closed this time around) but honestly it is starting to look a little tired. The couple of staff we crossed paths with were friendly and knowledgeable, the animals we saw appeared happy and not fussed by the weather, the snow leopard experience was outstanding! I can’t help feel like the place gets a bad rep from a previous owner and bad management, we saw no issues when we were there other than it was very quiet, the place could do with a general tidy up and maybe offer more seasonal things like a Christmas themed scavenger hunt or something like that. We’ll be back for sure.

A day out at South Lakes Zoo. There was a bit of a queue to get in which is not great when the weather is bad. Entrance is a long pathway which is a bit muddy so obviously suitable footwear is a must. The Zoo is quite big so lots of walking around. There was a super long queue to feed the giraffes which you pay for in advance. The food available is terrible so taking your own food is advisable. There is also limited seating inside in bad weather and very basic seats nothing fancy at all. As expected there is a shop which is quite pricey. When we went it was very wet and there were huge puddles everywhere. It would be a different experience ( better) in summer months but I can’t imagine the queues to get in or for any food then. I wouldn’t return if I’m honest. We traveled from Newcastle and I couldn’t wait to leave but my Grandson loved it. The children’s play area was swamped and he fell in a huge muddy puddle. The animals seemed well cared for but I do think the whole place could do with an overhaul.

We had a fabulous day at South Lakes. We were gifted a giraffe experience by our Sons as I have an obsession with giraffes! Alex was our zoo keeper and she was so friendly snd knowledgeable about the animals in her care. She really went above & beyond to make sure we had a great time. We had a lovely time walking round the zoo seeing all the other animals who looked well cared for. Some areas of the zoo look a little run down & in need of some TLC, but on the whole it’s a lovely place

Have to say after reading all the reviews I was very concerned about going here. We turned up to an empty car park and had no queue to get in. The zoo itself was a little run down I will agree with others about this it's definitely not what it used to be. But we got to see nearly every animal in the zoo and they all seemed as happy as any animal you see in a zoo. Yes there could be more enrichment available for the animals but none looked sad and depressed. It seems like the zoo is trying to improve things slowly. Overall a really nice day. We did 2 feeding experiences. One with the red panda which was amazing. Great keeper that was friendly and knowledgeable. The giraffe feeding was also good. We feed them their Normal diet of leaves with no carrots in sight.

We brought tickets in advance as they were on a deal. It was a very nice little zoo, I would say 2-3 hours is enough, the exhibits were nice and the animals looked healthy and happy. The map was a little difficult to read but it was ok and we got around.

After seeing the recent reviews we was a little anxious about visiting the zoo. But I can safely say we had a brilliant day out. It's a fantastic place to visit. The smaller animals are free to roam which creates some unforgettable experiences, feeding the Lemurs being top of the bunch. It was a hot day so some of the big cats stayed in the shade, but we still managed to see them and all the other animals on display. All of the toilets and facilities seemed clean and maintained. The shop was a little pricey but they all are at the zoos. The only downside was the play area looks like it's being renovated so most of the equipment was off limits. But that didn't spoil a great day out. Would definitely visit again.

The zoo is okay. It's feeling very run down now though. Staff weren't really present, other than at the entrance. Advertised feeding times were either late or didn't happen at all. Signs around the zoo were worn out and completely ineligible. The zoo doesn't allow picnics or food at all. They say it's because of the free roaming animals, which there aren't many except a few peacocks. But they have a restaurant of their own. So, it felt more like they want visitors to buy their food. Could be better, but needs some refurbishment and just some overall care. I managed to get £6 tickets as part of the summer special, but wouldn't recommend at full price.

Beautiful place is derwent water i came here for a wild camp with my dog and had a great time. I did repair a couple of firepits someone had left. Have some respect for our beautiful outdoor space.

Beautiful place this with lots to do and enjoy clean fresh air. We walked around the Lake and it is a splendid area to stroll around.

We walked around the lake and it took roughly 7 hours. To be able to take your time and really enjoy the scenic points, I'd recommend 9 hours. You could get a boat across if you have people with you who aren't able to do the whole walk. The views around the lake are incredibly beautiful and worth taking some time to explore or relax.

Derwent Water : A Lakeside Escape from Keswick. 📍Lake District 🌊 Just outside the town of Keswick, Derwent water offers a scenic lakeside trail along the waymarked Derwent water Walk, this trail is surrounded by parks, mountains and breathtaking scenery. Families love gathering by the shore to feed the ducks, feed available for just 50p. Book a scenic boat trip (boat hire) at the Keswick Launch ticket office. 🍦 Treat yourself at nearby ice cream parlours and restaurants dotted along the route. Start your walk through Crow Park and Hope Park, then follow the trail to Friars Crag, one of the Lake District’s most breathtaking viewpoints. Don’t miss the bench overlooking the lake, a perfect photo spot with panoramic views. 🚙paid parking available nearby

Would have loved to be in a canoe today, water was so still and peaceful... lots of wildlife to see also .Wow !

Stunning!! Absolutely stunning! Visited late November. The leaves were off the trees so the views were spectacular! It's an easy 9.5 mile walk round. Clear paths. Very little climb and no styles. Short walks on roads. We went on a Wednesday, the weather was bright but cold. Lovely and quiet although I can imagine it gets very busy on weekends and holidays . Kettle well car park is National Trust so it is free to park for members. Lovely coffee van about a mile from St Mary's hotel.

Went a walk around derwentwater at the weekend.. It says 10 miles ,but my watch said nearer 14 miles .. Great views of the water and mountains.. It's all on the flat, so an easy walk ,.. There are plenty of places to grab a cuppa and cake on route ..

Such a beautifully curated attraction. We all loved it (adults) so beautifully done. It must have been such a joy to put to together, the modelling and art work was so clever. I loved going into the garden it looked just like the real garden at Hill Top (though smaller). The little boxes with Beatrix Potter figures in a mini tableau were exquisite. A must for all ages.

I first visited this place three years ago, and I found that this place was quite small. I cannot believe how much bigger it has become this year. They have not only added more visual aids of scenes in mainly Peter Rabbit’s stories, but also added a brand new gallery showing the background of Beatrix Potter, involved with the Lake District history. It’s quite fun to take photos here and observe cute little animal figures in the barrows closely. The gift shop has not changed much, and the products there remain the same. Overall, it is an interesting place to visit, especially when you come with families and friends.

I’m in love! Totally worth a visit if you are a fan or in town with the kids. Lovely exhibition and enough activities to keep the kids entertained. Even if you’re not a fan it is worth a visit for their display! From an artistic perspective they did a marvelous job. Unfortunately for we visited quite late in the day so we only got to spend so much time inside. Would recommended the latest admission at 15:00 if you truly want to enjoy the full experience and get lost in the world of Beatrix Potter!

Such a nostalgic place to visit as an adult (with no kids) who thoroughly enjoyed reading the books as a child. The exhibition is in great condition and it was lovely to have all the memories brought back. We thoroughly enjoyed stopping at the Peter Rabbit Café afterwards too!

This was one if the loveliest, cutest museums we have been too. The animations and displays were beautifully done, and took straight back to your childhood days. It was so informative and interactive for kids. Highly recommend a visit

Superb!! The highlight of our holiday. We started at the cafe across the road (well worth a visit) and then came here. It starts with a short film which my 2 year old enjoyed, and then the free-pace walk around was outstanding. Low stimulation great for toddlers, beautiful displays and garden really brings the books to life. We’ve told everyone about it as we enjoyed it so much. I hope this stays with my daughter as a childhood memory and hope we can come again in the future

This was so much more than we ever expected! We thought it would just be a quick one-hour visit since it’s quite a small area. But guess what — my girl spent almost three fun hours inside! There was so much to learn and explore, and she was determined to answer every question and not miss a single hidden gem. What a world of imagination and creativity!

You can imagine Beatrice in all the rooms and outside sitting in her garden. Full of things she loved and the stories she wrote, the house is big (lowish ceilings) and interesting but lots of visitors make the rooms seem small. Dog friendly, a few benches in her garden to enjoy a picnic or a drink\bite from the mobile cafe, toilets down a step. 2hrs parking is ample for looking round, so arrive a few minutes before your booked time, check in and collect your token for the house. Book and gift shop plus a house had cake for £2 and another a few plants for sale.

Beatrix Potters beloved farmhouse. You need to book car working if visiting here via the National Trust website. It’s a nice way to spend and hour reminiscing on the books you had in childhood. Beatrix used the farmhouse and local area as inspiration for her famous children’s story books. You see story boards around the side demonstrating this. The house is interesting with lots of the original contents on display. These are refreshments, toilets and a shop on the site.

My visit to Hill Top was a cherished return after 25 years, and it was just as magical as I remembered. It was a joy to walk through Beatrix Potter's gardens and home, which truly sparked my imagination. I was especially excited to find a Peter Rabbit book for my grandson, a perfect memento of the visit. ​The grounds are pet-friendly, which was great for our group. However, dogs are not allowed inside the house itself, so we took turns visiting to make sure everyone got a chance to see it. ​The views and the small village are incredibly quaint and charming. I highly recommend stopping at the pub located between the car park and the property entrance—it’s a great spot. ​A major tip for visitors is to book your tickets online in advance. We purchased our tickets the day before and got the last two available spots for the entire day. I would have been so disappointed to have traveled all the way to the Lake District and not gotten in! We booked the last time slot at 2:30 PM, and it seemed to have the fewest crowds, which made the experience even more enjoyable.

The main attraction here is to be in the same spaces that Beatrix Potter occupied and see how those spaces inspired the writing of some of her books. Having copies of those books open and available at points through the house was a nice touch which added an extra level of understanding to the place. The mice hidden throughout the house to find also added to the visitor engagement in a way that seemed to fit well with the general feel of the place. If you are not a Beatrix Potter fan (but you're other half is perhaps?) then do not fear. There is plenty of interest here for the tag along visitor too. The house holds its own as a purely historical attraction, and the garden areas surrounding the house are also noteworthy. The gift shop just before the exit is well stocked and the staff were welcoming and helpful. Some exclusive items here that can only be bought at the shop itself. They are not cheap but I would imagine a dedicated fan will not be deterred by the larger numbers involved.

Lovely place, well looked after by the national trust with almost all the original furnishings. So interesting to see more about Beatrix's life. Got the ferry across from Bowness and walked up, a bit of road walking at times but a beautiful walk.

The house is beautifully set for visitors to see how Beatrix Potter lived and worked. The garden is just as I imagined. Beatrix Potter did so many good things for children with her books and pictures. Her work with people in the Lake District helped to keep it looking wonderful for generations to enjoy. I am so glad the NT takes so much care of Hill Top. Thanks to Joey’s for the yummy coffee.

We precooked tickets as NT members but still had to queue in the hot sun for 20 minutes to go in so I'm not sure why you need to book! The house is small but definitely worth a visit. The garden is very pretty with a small coffee bar. It is a very steep walk from the Lakeside ferry but there are beautiful views to take your mind off of the climb!

Visited with my wife whilst on holiday with our dogs. We did not use the main carpark but found one right at the peak on the hill. A beautiful forest walk with rushing water streams and the main centrepiece waterfall. Beautiful lakeland vistas on the edge of the woods also. A very worthwhile visit.

Interesting waterfall with a fairly long walk up to the cascades at the top. Not a difficult walk but paths are uneven in places. Visited a couple of times now. Car park and visitor centre is there at the bottom of the trail. Friendly staff, and free for National Trust members.

Such a breathtaking place. The scale and size of the waterfall is just a great experience to witness. The surrounding forest and parkland is lovely to walk through. The viewing platform at the bottom of the waterfall gives a unique and stunning view.

Get ready for steep descend and climb up for the waterfall. If you do not want to get down, you can visit the waterfall far from the place. Car park is smaller, and will easily be full during peak period.

Excellent scenic place to visit (even in the rain). We parked in the car park just off the A5091, there is a smaller car park further up the road nearer to the top of the falls. Parking (if not a National Trust member) was six pounds for two hours, which should be adequate to walk up to and back down from the falls, although you may want longer if visiting the tea rooms adjacent to the site. The walk, whilst up hill is not too strenuous, but care is needed in places due to tree roots and a bit of mud when wet. It is worth walking up past the staircase down to the upper stone bridge, as there are some lovely smaller falls and scenery up past the main falls. The walk is circular and only about a mile or so round, the views are spectacular, especially with the waterfall in full flow, which it was for our visit. It was very rainy when we went, but it did nothing to dampen our spirits, and was a great spot to visit. We did look in at the tea rooms, but it was quite busy so I can't comment on these. When it's busy there may be a bit of a queue for the car park, but be patient, it is worth the wait.

Big car park but often full so be patient. It is around £8 for 4 hours with a coffee shop, picnic area and little gift shop abalone before you do the walk. The walk is enjoyable scenic and not too stressful. Your able to walk your dog to but it must be on a lead. The views are stunning with multiple routes on offer. If you walk to the top of the water fall and back it's maybe 45 minuets. If you walk to the top other hill and do the whole waterfall it is 3 his if down very leisurely. Don't worry about the weather it don't stop you doing any of this

Aira Force was a great place to see a waterfall close up. Plenty of path and steps for different abilities with viewing platforms and bridges as you headed uphill. A few seats along the way if you need to rest. Some of paths were quite rocky and uneven though. Parking was busy but you didn’t need to book. Look out for the Red Squirrels!

Beautiful setting and dramatic building. The castle was closed today for renovation but still nice grounds to walk through and activities for the kids to do. Had food and drinks in Joeys cafe. Good food with a nice indoor seating area. The outdoor seating area feels a little like a corridor and a bit squashed. Good sand friendly service in the cafe.

Absolutely stunning castle and location at Ambleside on the shores of Lake Windermere. I dropped by for Heritage Open Day in September initially to see the church, and decided to explore some of the grounds and exterior of the castle whilst there. The last section of the approach road is narrow and windy, as you would expect in the Lake District. There is a car park, but it does have limited capacity. You'll most likely need cash for the parking machine, free for National Trust members. I struck lucky with the information kiosk at the car park being open where the staff accepted card payments. You can get a ferry across from Bowness-on-Windermere to the Boat House at Wray Castle. There's a café and toilets up at the castle that are accessible. Make sure you check out accessibility for the route you choose. It was such a beautiful day the skies really showed off the stunning architecture of Wray. The grounds are vast and absolutely worth having a good look around. There are plenty of signposted walks, including along the lakeside. Plenty of wildlife, too. I must go back when the castle's renovations are complete to look around inside.

A stunning castle in a breathtaking lakeside setting. The grounds are beautiful for walking, with lovely views over Lake Windermere and plenty of space to explore. The castle itself is very impressive from the outside, and the interior has an interesting history connected to the National Trust and Beatrix Potter. Great spot for families, picnics, and photos. The café is a nice bonus, and the staff are always welcoming. A wonderful place to visit for both history lovers and those who simply want a scenic day out.

The castle was under renovation so we couldn’t go but there is a nice lake side sitting area at a short walk. There are walking trails as well. There is a cafe and toilet facilities. There is parking which is free if you’re a National trust member. Nice views from the castle entry area.

Great view over Windermere- easy navigation around the paths. With a nice spot for a cuppa……! Just a shame it’s Closed so couldn’t see inside!

Great place to visit with walks around the castle. Some parking. Cafe and toilets. You can get there by ferry from Ambleside. It doesn't cost anything to visit. There is a charge for car parking. Nice place for walks .

Off to Wray Castle from Ambleside on the launch amazing views as you cross Windermere. Wray Castle grounds are an absolute delight with so many walks along the lakeside, with some amazing views over to The Langdale Pikes, if you are ever in the Lake District it is a must to visit. April 2025

Really great place to stay for anyone, fun for all the family. Plenty of activities, the pool is excellent and the on site shop has pretty much anything you need, albeit rather expensive. Only thing to be mindful of is where your lodge is as we ended up being right at the bottom of a huge hill and it was a bit of a trek every time we went anywhere.

I must admit, I had no idea what to expect. We arrived in the dark, and had no idea of the layout, not much helped by being partially sighted, and the lighting of the roads and paths being somewhat dark. Luckily, we were rescued by friends who were more familiar with the place. We had a lakeside studio apartment, actually pretty comfortable for the two of us, with a bathroom, kitchen, king sized bed, and a sheltered outside area. Our friends had a cottage, with sauna, en suites, a decent kitchen, and sitting area. Spotlessly clean, and well maintained. Our group were 50s-70s, and found the activities that we tried very enjoyable. We booked ahead for bowling, spa, Bollywood dancing, and the catamaran. The pool area, with the various rides was excellent. Staff were universally friendly and helpful, and any repairs needed (tv stick in the bigger house) carried out within hours. We were here in early November, weektime, so lots of families had younger children/babies. The weather was mild. Some rain at times, but I reckon it would be possible to enjoy even in bad weather. All in all, a great experience, and our group is likely to book again at a similar time.

It was good but you have to like one way systems and walking because everything is far away from the lodges. A lot of it is uphill so even if you hire a bike, which costs a lot, you will still struggle to get around. The lodge we had was like a house in size and had a pool table.

We absolutely loved our holiday at Center Parcs, almost everything was perfect. Firstly, as you would expect the location is amazing. The kids loved the wildlife which was everywhere you looked. There are so many activities and things to do that you are never bored, however some of the activities are over priced. Every single member of staff we interacted with was so friendly, they were great with the kids and made you feel welcome. The swimming pool area is brilliant, so much to do and you can spend hours there. Check in and check out is easy too! The only very minor issue we had was in relation to the lodge upon arrival. The beds were not made…. Clean bedding was left but not put on so we had to make our own beds. For what is the equivalent of £350 a night I expect the beds to be made (they would in any hotel for that price). The bedding isnt particularly comfortable or ‘homely’ but we could get over that. Also, the bins weren’t emptied upon arrival which I firmly believe they should be. All in all, a really good holiday and we will almost certainly go again!

Fantastic holiday here again with my sister and our kids. Great pool facilities. Just wish we'd booked the acrobranch activity earlier as we missed out. Bike hire could be cheaper...

Loved the site, 4th CP I've been too, took dogs and villa was roomy and well set out, could of done with some screening out the back as dogs kept getting alerted as could see people moving passed, but can see they are upgrading at moment. Loved the segways, great way to get a review of the site, was well placed for both village centre and sports plaza, easy to walk between, found loads to do, will definitely go back to this one again

The whole place is amazing. We have stayed about 6 times now in a variety of lodges and have enjoyed them all. The vibe is lovely, nice and peaceful and scenic, close to nature, car free site so safe for the kids, just so much to like. But the pricing for the activities is extortionate. Also the food pricing is silly. You need to take as much of your own food as possible to negate this. A meal in the nice restaurant, you are looking at £17 for an OK pie and mash (the kids meals are reasonable in here though). You have to pay for everything apart from the swimming (which is great). £35 for high wire activity (regardless of age), there was something else we looked at that was £85 per person too. Just really expensive if you want anything at all.

A really lovely way to spend hours just admiring the views, re living the child hood memories of steam engines, waving to other passengers and enjoying a ride on these great locomotives. Note there is a car park which currently charges £4 for two hours. The price of the tickets 🎟 is, or can be expensive however, if you are an enthusiast and recognise the good work by the paid staff and volunteers, it is a worthy cause to keep this going for generations to come.

Lovely little railway and staff are so helpful and welcoming. Set in a beautiful area of the Lake Dstrict with plenty of walking. A bonus for those of us that are disabled a tramper can be hired from Ravenglass

Lovely ride on the mini steam train followed by afternoon tea at the Dalegarth station cafe. Our hostess Louise was an absolute delight. So friendly and we chatted for ages! Her son Dylan was also super polite & friendly. The roped off afternoon tea section is gorgeous and you feel a little special sitting in there The afternoon tea itself was lovely, so generous we had to doggy bag some cakes! Highly recommended.

Only did the single fare as we decided to walk back from Ravenglass over the hills back to our accommodation. 2025 prices are £16 single and £25 return .. on the basic open top carriages, and if you park in the car park its £8 all day. A coffee will cost you just under £4. The train takes 40 minutes from Dalegarth to Ravenglass, and travels very sedately. So sit back and enjoy the views.

We received a tapas picnic experience from our son and wife, daughter and partner for our Golden wedding anniversary. The whole experience was an absolute delight. We rode in the very exclusive Ruth carriage which is a gem. The quality of the inside of the carriage is stunning. Michele was our personal attendant and was very attentive and helpful.

We had a fantastic time – it was a real highlight of our trip! The journey itself was absolutely beautiful, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Rolling through the scenic landscape on the heritage railway felt like stepping back in time, and every turn offered something new. A special mention goes to two of the staff members who made our visit even more memorable. Debbie, who works in the café, was incredibly kind and attentive. She not only welcomed us with a smile but also took the time to show us how to get to the nearby waterfall – a lovely local spot we might have missed otherwise. Her friendly nature really added a personal touch to our visit. We also met Tim on the platform, who kept us entertained with his great sense of humour. He had us laughing as we waited for the train, and his cheerful attitude created such a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere.

My husband and I took our elderly friend on The Ratty yesterday and what a joy it was! The sun was shining which made the experience even more special. We arrived and had no problem parking with her blue badge and were met by a friendly guard called Tim, who explained where we were going. I must say that the toilets were the cleanest I’ve ever been in. A small but important aspect of a trip…. I did compliment the team on the cleanliness because they really were sparkling. I bought 2 hot chocolates and a bag of haribo which I was surprised to pay £10.10 for but fortunately the lady didn’t want my £10 notes and let me off 10p. Thank you. We did a return trip and Mark (a friendly Australian guard) was able to get us on an earlier return train. Everyone was very professional. I did see quite long queues in the cafe and the gift shop but there were alot of customers. It was all in a days joyful trip. Thank you for a new memory.

A brilliant hike within walking distance from Keswick. As a ‘larger’ man, hill walking and hiking are not my speciality but Catbells provided a good mix of inclines which allow for plenty of rests if needed. The views of Derwentwater are great and the different routes to the summit provide choices for hikers.

Very recommend this hike if in Keswick. At one point seemed a but steep climb , but keep going , the views will not disappoint. Took me 1.5 hours to complete

A must-do, and perfect for families! The views are absolutely stunning — and the promise of ice cream at the end kept my kids motivated all the way. It can get busy, but everyone we met was friendly and respectful. The loop is about 3.5–3.7 miles with around 1,200 feet of elevation gain. It’s demanding but absolutely doable with a steady pace. Just be sure to bring plenty of water!

Elite, tier 1, lingering loveliness. Catbells is a stunning wee hike. Don’t front on it. Mix it up with a lakeside amble followed by a pint or three at the Swinside Inn makes for one almighty afternoon

Great views. Walked and returned from Keswick with Sid the Border Terrier. Little bit of easy scrambling. Descended via old quarry and along Newlands Valley.

If you're not very fit it's hard work but worth it for the breathtaking views. You need to take water and wear proper footwear. It's not as long a walk as it seems but it is a steep incline. I went on a Sunday when it was 20°c and it was very busy. Parking was very easy and £5 for the day, but it was on a field (bear this in mind if you're in a 2 wheel drive car in bad weather!). Easy walk down to Derwent water for a picnic, walk, or a swim if you're brave enough.

It was our first family hike. You need to be at certain level of fitness to do it. It is family friendly but at times it can be dangerous. I would highly recommend to have hiking sticks. It helps massively. Especially towards the end. At slow pace you can make to the top and go down in 3 hours

A great place to walk. There's a fantastic view at the top. There's Gruffalo/ Stickman sculptures halfway up the hill. There's also a sculpture trail that wasn't there last time I headed up Orrest Head. We parked in a free layby. The closest ones to Orrest Head have a time limit, but the one a bit further back hasn't a time limit. Great place to visit for families.

This is a hidden gem where you must go if you want to enjoy abundance of natural beauty. After you reach here you get a full 360 degree view of Windermere and the surrounding areas. Very serene and peaceful place. It is around 2 km climb from Windermere, not too steep but not very easy either. Actually there's an accessible road though I won't recommend people on wheel chairs to get here, strollers are ok. We went in the morning before breakfast so there wasn't any crowd. Just one note, the views show up only after you reach the spot, not much to admire on the way. Sharing a few pictures that I clicked here.

This is a really lovely spot. It has spectacular views over Windermere and the hill and mountains. There's a great information board showing what you can see. It's the first hill that Wainwright climbed when he came to the Lake District. There are 2 routes to get to the top, one is steeper and shorter and the other easier and suitable for push chairs.

Orrest Head is such a lovely walk and perfect for families. It’s an easy path from Windermere up through woodland that opens out to a beautiful viewpoint over the lake and surrounding fells. The climb is gentle but the view from the top is amazing, especially on a clear day. We’ve done it a few times now and it’s one of those walks you never get tired of.

Beautiful scenic view of Windermere and the mountains in the distance. Well worth a walk up. Easily accessible. Parking on street at bottle. 30 mins to summit.

Easy to get to from the station, cross the road the sign for the start is there. There are two ways to get up. The red route, which includes steps and the blue route, is an accessible route that allows wheelchairs and buggies. Great view from the top. If you have hay-fever, bring the tissues lol

Fabulous walk. Miles without styles. Great for individuals or families

Castlerigg Stone Circle – A Mystical Gem of the Lake District! Castlerigg Stone Circle is one of the most atmospheric and awe-inspiring places in the Lake District — a site that beautifully blends ancient history, mystery, and natural beauty. Perched on a hilltop surrounded by breathtaking views of the mountains, this prehistoric stone circle is believed to date back more than 4,000 years, making it one of the oldest in Britain. Standing among the stones, you can truly feel the sense of timelessness and connection to the past that makes this place so special. The panoramic views from Castlerigg are absolutely stunning — the circle is set against a backdrop of Helvellyn, Blencathra, and other Lakeland fells, creating a magical atmosphere, especially during sunrise or sunset. It’s a peaceful, open site with no entry fee, easy to reach by car, and only a short walk from the parking area, making it accessible for visitors of all ages. What makes Castlerigg so memorable is its simplicity — just nature, history, and pure serenity. The site isn’t commercialized, allowing visitors to experience the raw beauty and mystery of the stones without distractions. It’s an excellent spot for photography, quiet reflection, or just taking in the stunning 360° landscape. Whether you’re interested in archaeology, spirituality, or simply want to enjoy one of the most scenic viewpoints in the Lake District, Castlerigg Stone Circle is an absolute must-visit. A place that stays with you long after you leave — calm, mysterious, and endlessly beautiful. 🌄🪨✨

Castlerigg Stone Circle in Lake District is a significant monument in Lake District which is approximately from 3000 BC. It consists of 38 stones, probably kept for religious ceremonies, astronomical observations, or a social gathering place. Its situated on a hill near Keswick that was formally preserved as an ancient monuments in 1883. It's surrounded by mountains on three sides that offers breathtaking view. Visited it as part of day trip. Highly recommend a visit to this monument

Magical place with 360° views of the surrounding beauty...the stones standing proud and unfathomable....but the guide from English Heritage gave us some idea of the current theories!! Older than Stonehenge so more stories to tell but accessible and free plus lovely sheep share the field with you and the stones. There is free parking on the access road and a cafe just down the road with all the facilities you could need😋☕!! Truly a detour well worth making and really a shame to miss it if in the area🐑✨☺️xx

Visited Castlerigg Stone Circle for the 2nd time - it is absolutely stunning. The views are breathtaking in every direction — wide open landscapes, and a sense of history that adds to the atmosphere. It’s a peaceful, memorable place to visit and well worth the stop.

An interesting place to visit. Even on a weekday it was quite well visited. We caught the bus and walked up. Patience required to get a photo with no people. Some information boards at the field margin. Careful where you put your feet, sheep keep the grass under control! Commanding views all around no doubt a reason for it to be situated here.

It's free which is always a plus and it was lovely to visit. The view is lovely but we went on a day where the weather turned so it was largely grey and rainy, but still very atmospheric. It's not far at all to the local town as well as the nearby lake. There were quote a few people visiting at the same time but just waiting about 10 minutes and they dispersed so we got some pictures without groups of people in them.

Interesting place, older than Stonehenge. No charges and free parking on the road(if you can find a space). Worth the visit if for no other reason but to admire the fantastic views of the mountains all around.

Came here for the distillery tour! We had a fantastic time. It was great to learn new stuff and the drink tasting was amazing. Stopped at the cafe for lunch. Some amazing choices for gluten free food as well as the regular food. Reasonably priced too!

10/10 experience! The location, the tour, the spirits, the atmosphere, the staff and premises! Everything was 100% spot on! Would recommend to anyone who is a fan of gin, vodka, whiskey or just the alchemy behind it all! Our tour host Janice was outstanding. Wish I wasn't so far away, it would be a regular go to! A very well received distillery, set in the stunning Lake District 🫶

Loved this tour today, this is a fairly young distillery, they started producing gin and vodka so they had an income stream until after their first run of whisky, the tasting was great and the guide was very knowledgeable. Bought a few bottles.

Took the tour which was well worth it. Our guide (didn't get their name) was very knowledgeable and at the same time kept it 'real'. It was good to see the transformation from a disused dairy farm to the wonderful distillery today. The tasting was good and enabled sampling of whisky, gin and vodka. Highly recommended.

I had the most fantastic tour of the Kakes Distillery. Janice took me round and she was brilliant! I can highly recommend the tour and their products. The Equinox whisky is superb. Thank you for such a brilliant tour and time.

Fantastic place. The staff were all friendly, professional and knowledgeable. The tour is great and you get a whisky, vodka and gin taster at the end. The shop is very nice and has a great selection of whisky, gin and vodka. It's all immaculate. The bistro is also on site although I found it expensive, for what I got. A beef sandwich at £13.50 which was one slice of sourdough with a bit of beef. Nice but not value for money. Anyway the whisky tour was my thing and it was great. Plenty of on site parking and in a beautiful setting. Credit to the staff and owners who set this up, well done.

Wonderful experience from start to finish. A really informative and interesting tour of the distillery followed by a tasting session. The staff are friendly and made the tour fun. Good to see the process and taste the end results. Shop was good, bought a few bottles to take home. Recommend this to anyone.

Lakeland Motor Museum – A Timeless Journey Through Motoring History! The Lakeland Motor Museum is an absolute delight for anyone with even the slightest interest in cars, bikes, or the history of transportation. Nestled in a picturesque riverside setting in the Lake District, this museum offers far more than just a collection of old vehicles — it tells the story of human creativity, engineering progress, and the evolution of travel. From elegant vintage cars to quirky micro vehicles and shining motorcycles, every exhibit is thoughtfully displayed with detailed information and a touch of nostalgia. One of the museum’s biggest highlights is the Bluebird Exhibition, which celebrates the legendary speed record attempts by Sir Malcolm Campbell and his son Donald Campbell. Seeing the replicas and learning about their daring journeys adds an inspiring historical dimension that leaves you in awe. There’s also an interesting display of bicycles, pedal cars, and transport memorabilia that bring back the charm of a bygone era. The staff are incredibly welcoming, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what they do, making the visit even more engaging. The on-site café by the river offers great food and a relaxing spot to unwind, and the gift shop has lovely souvenirs for all ages. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, a history lover, or simply someone who enjoys exploring unique places, the Lakeland Motor Museum is a must-visit destination. It’s educational, nostalgic, and full of charm — a perfect mix of mechanical beauty and storytelling that captures the true spirit of motoring through time. 🚗🏍️🏁

Wonderful exhibition, so many cars and memorabilia. The museum is situated in an old warehouse that made Blue powder for the washing of whites. The Campbell exhibition was very well set up too. A great place to visit for car enthusiasts and non car enthusiasts. There is a Cafe on site that is reasonably priced with nice food, freshly cooked on site.

Visited with my wife following a day of trains & boats on Lake Windermere. I didn't plan far enough ahead but was happy to pay full admission for this. A fantastic exhibition of vehicles, parts, tools & automobilia. The vehicles are in stunning period condition and are a credit to their former owners. Motor cars having their own A4 crib sheet on model history and quirks of the vehicle stood in front of you. Cars, bicycles & motorcycles get a fair shake at their own space including an upstairs bike exhibition. Archival Pathé News reels, advertisements, metal garage signs & packaging from the ages really flesh out the history of the museum. A short walk away on the same site is a tribute to The Campbells & their recording breaking Bluebird Machines. Although full size replicas it goes a long way to help you imagine the grit & determination of those visionary men. Certainly the museum is a worthwhile visit if you have a few days up in the Lake District.

Great little museum, with something different. Welcoming and a nice cafe and gifts. Personally I found ypu where alot closer to the exhibits than other museums, and it was nice to be able to lean into the cars etc. Not to busy so good for photos. Bonus find as it has the Campbell land speed exhibit. Would recommend. Price was fine good parking, nice way to spend an afternoon

Very good exhibit of cars and motorbikes from all ers of motoring. The TT part was fantastic and then seperate blue bird exhibition was very informative. Nice cafe on site also. A good excursion especially on a day when the weather isn't so nice.

A Brilliant Family Day Out at Lakeland Motor Museum (Visited Early 2025) We visited Lakeland Motor Museum earlier this year as a family — and this review’s long overdue. We’ve eaten nearby and driven past the signs plenty of times, but only recently stopped in properly. Until now we hadn’t really used reviews, so we’re catching up where it counts. A Nostalgic Treasure Trove Housed in the old Reckitt’s Blue Dye Works in Backbarrow, the museum is packed with an incredible mix of vehicles, memorabilia, signs, tools, and themed scenes. There are beautifully restored classic cars, motorbikes, bicycles, mopeds, and displays recreating old workshops and garages with period mannequins and signage. Everything’s laid out with care and clear passion. It isn’t just a hall of cars — it’s a full immersion into the culture of motoring, engineering, and British road history. Donald Campbell & the Spirit of Speed One of the most powerful parts of the visit was the Campbell Bluebird exhibition in the separate riverside building. It showcases the incredible history of Sir Malcolm and Donald Campbell, their record-breaking achievements, and Donald’s final attempt at Coniston. There’s a full-size replica of the Bluebird CN7 and an in-depth look at the K7 hydroplane — along with an original AC Aceca that Donald owned. It’s respectfully done, atmospheric, and hard not to be moved by. Even without prior knowledge, you come away feeling the weight and ambition of what they tried to do. Smooth, Well-Paced Experience Entry price: Reasonable for what’s on offer — especially when you take your time with it. Parking: Easy, right outside. Café: Café Ambio next door is a handy extra, especially if the weather holds and you can sit outside by the river. Accessibility: Well thought out throughout the site, with clear access and lifts where needed. Why It Works So Well Not overwhelming, but thorough. Great layout — the flow works and keeps you engaged. Clearly maintained with pride and enthusiasm by people who know their subject. Plenty to see without feeling cluttered or repetitive. Final Thoughts For us, this was one of the most rewarding museum visits in recent memory. It strikes the right tone — detailed and knowledgeable without being dry. Whether you’re into cars or not, it’s hard not to be drawn in by the sheer scope and atmosphere of the place. We’ll be back again without hesitation — and we’re happy to finally be adding our voice to its growing list of well-earned 5-star reviews.

Wonderful place to take motor enthusiasts and children with similar passion. Reasonably priced and not overwhelming. Take your time and enjoy the motoring history. The ticket also gets you to the additional exhibition which is well worth the 30sec walk.

A spectacular old cathedral in the northeast corner of England. It is a personal favorite and I would recommend a visit. Begin in 1123 in the Norman style, it was built with local red sandstone. Much of the church was rebuilt in the 13th century in the Gothic style. The ceiling is spectacular. Owen Jones designed and specified the painted star ceiling in Carlisle Cathedral’s choir during its 1856 restoration under architect Ewan Christian. The wooden barrel vault dates to the 14th century, but the medieval scheme was lost, and Jones—a prominent Victorian decorative artist known for his work on the Crystal Palace interiors—created the blue background with gold stars and angels, drawing from historical styles. It was later repainted in 1970 for preservation, maintaining Jones’s original vision. The east window is impressive. It is the largest and most complex such window in England at 51’ by 26’. It depicts events from the life of Christ; some of the panes in the upper portion are original, dating back to 1350. Parking in the area is good. There are several car parks within half a mile.

So nice to be able to wander around with the dog. It’s a beautiful cathedral with some unique points of interest, including the ceiling. Perhaps not the most impressive in the country but it holds its own. The grounds are also very pleasant.

Fabulous. A warm welcome on arrival, no pressure to pay or make a donation (which is high on our reviews of somewhere - happy to make a donation, but to be charged to enter a church !! Totally unacceptable in my view ...). Plenty of volunteers to offer historical information, really friendly. This cathedral 'feels' comfortable, warm and open. Really enjoyed the stories ... well worth a visit (& the donation !).

I visited the cathedral on June 2nd and was warmly welcomed by the kindest staff. Two gentlemen offered me a map, pointed out the must-see spots, and shared a timetable. They also noticed that my friend had stayed outside with his dog and proactively let me know that dogs are allowed inside. That thoughtful gesture really stood out. It was heartwarming to see how genuinely kind and attentive they were. And the cathedral itself? Absolutely stunning. Truly worth a visit!

Very old and interesting. The stain glass windows are in very good shape considering the age. The organ pipes along with the organ itself are really worth the visit. There are lots of buildings on the site which you can look around the library is interesting the entrance to which is through the cafe, the cafe has a large area outside and quite a large area inside the food is good. Would recommend trip here.

Today, accompanied by both my sons and grandmas, we spent a truly memorable two hours at Carlisle Cathedral—an experience that was both calming and profoundly awe-inspiring. The cathedral’s serene atmosphere speaks volumes beyond words, inviting quiet reflection within its historic, hallowed walls. We were fortunate to be greeted by a highly knowledgeable guide who kindly provided us with a detailed map and patiently answered all our questions, enriching our visit immeasurably. Although the organ wasn’t playing this week due to half-term, which was a slight disappointment, it gave us an opportunity to treasure the visual and spiritual grandeur of the space even more deeply. We took the chance to purchase a CD of the cathedral’s magnificent organ music, promising to carry a piece of the experience home with us. Carlisle Cathedral, with its timeless beauty and thoughtful stewardship, is a gem that left us inspired and grateful—a place to revisit time and again with loved ones.

Magnificent, pocket sized, deep-red sandstone cathedral, with a magical painted ceiling that will give you neckache for the time you will want to keep marvelling at it. It’s a small building with a pretty cloister, not really something you’d spend more than half an hour poking around, but if you’re in Carlisle, it’s definitely worth going out of your way to go and see this. Check opening times though, it isn’t always open. And maybe help support the cathedral by having a bite to eat at the cathedral cafe, as in the UK, this really is one of a kind - painted ceilings like this are what you see occasionally in France, but very rare in the UK. I remember being blown away the first time I saw it, I’d never seen anything of the kind before. Quiet, rarely many people, you’ll generally have the place to yourself.