The 50 best things to do in Lake District

Quicker walk through than expected and didn't seem to give a possibility to walk through again. Lovely little shop at the end. It would have been nicer to have more interactive sessions like with the starfish area could involve a hands on session throughout the day or a feeding view in the big fish area

We weren’t sure what to expect from Lakes Aquarium, but it turned out to be a really enjoyable visit. It’s not huge, but there’s loads packed into the space — otters, rays, frogs, fish from around the world, and a cool underwater tunnel with local species like pike and perch. The otters were a highlight, especially at feeding time. The tanks are well kept, and everything feels clean and well looked after. There’s a nice flow to the place and plenty of signs with interesting facts. It’s perfect for families — kids loved it, but we found ourselves enjoying it just as much. Good value for money, and you can pair it with the steam train or a boat ride nearby to make a full day of it. Staff were friendly, the gift shop had some fun stuff (not too overpriced), and overall it made for a really lovely stop. Would definitely recommend if you're in the area and looking for something fun and educational that doesn’t take up the whole day.

Was pleasantly surprised when visiting, it was a bit bigger than I expected given the reasonable price! Lots to see, the whole family really enjoyed it. Took just under an hour from start to finish. The location is beautiful right on the lake. Small car park at the front and a larger one to the back so parking was fine. Would recommend if your visiting the area with children. We bought tickets in advance.

We had a fantastic time at the aquarium! The exhibits were beautifully designed and full of fascinating marine life, from colorful tropical fish to majestic sharks and graceful stingrays. The staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and happy to answer questions, making it both fun and educational. Highlights included the interactive touch pools and the underwater tunnel — a truly immersive experience. A great day out for all ages — highly recommended!

Surprisingly good. It is larger than I expected making use of multiple floors inside the building. The Otters, for me, are the stars! They are great to see. My youngest son was entertained looking at all the fish and animals, and my eldest also liked the fish but was kept entertained by trying to answer the quiz sheet handed to him. Great value for money.

Went the aquarium last weekend and it was better than expected. Plenty to see and do. No queue. Many more animals than a standard aquarium and the bridge over the water as well as the tunnel under it were my favourite part. Very reasonably priced too.

Decent to visit but a bit small. The underwater tunnel is interesting. The surrounding area is nice. This will be a quick visit if you go.

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

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.)

I am totally in love with this place. Its one of my fav cities amongst all the cities I have been in the entire world. Quite and beautiful, a place where I would love to settle down after I retire.

A beautiful place, taking you back to childhood days, when you first heard the story of Peter Rabbit. The life size characters and decorations are breathtaking, making you feel like you're stepping right into one of the stories itself. The garden is stunning, looks just like in Beatrix's illustrations. Plenty of easter eggs to find there for those who look in the right places. The cafe was great as well, we stopped for a gluten free and vegan beetroot brownie and it was delicious. The only downside was, that I expected to see more original illustrations but I understand that the place is more for children rather than adults.

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’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!

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.

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

This 4,500 year old World Heritage Site is a really atmospheric and intriguing site to experience ... it may be small in scale but its landscape setting is just so beautiful... even in a damp June visit it was so good! Its poorly signposted btw and we used Google maps to get there.

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

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.

Relaxing and beautiful location. The entry driveway is tricky to find from the road. Surrounding mountains and valleys with roaming sheep are added bonus to visit.

A challenging 6 hour hike from Seathwaite which is very rocky, can be very windy and cold, but overall great hike still. The views are amazing and will definitely be doing this one again next year hoping for a clearer sky at the summit. Weather changes fast and rocks can become dangerously slippy, some areas you have to climb over boulders and rocks where 1 slip could be ankle breaking or even deadly.

Took on the Scafell Pike via the Wasdale Head, Great Gable, corridor circular route, 12km, 5h 25m total time. This began with the long steep ascent up the rocky paths along the side of Great Gable where you are immediately surrounded by incredible views. The first path has some steep drop off edges and a little scramble. Once up the initial steep incline, it's a gradual incline around for a while with multiple up and down scrambling sections. Right before the peak there is a huge, very steep, scree scramble, approximately 75m to 100m long. Certainly not for those who don't like heights as you don't get many reliable hand grips or footings so you'll possibly feel unstable. These scrambles will be very tough if it has been or is currently raining. The way down on this route was via the long steep steps, bit of a knee killer, and a wide water crossing via some stepping stones. We took our dog who coped well with this entire hike however she is experienced, this won't be for first timer dogs unless you have complete control. Overall this was a fantastic, scenic and enjoyable hike.

We walked the wasdale route. It may be the shortest, but its not the easiest! Great walk, but it is very direct and steep in lots of places. All worth it when you reach the summit!

Scafell Pike is the highest peak in England, offering breathtaking views over the Lake District. The trail is rocky and challenging at times, but the panorama from the summit is well worth the effort. Good footwear and preparation are recommended, especially with the often-changing weather. An unforgettable experience for hiking and nature lovers! 🏔️

A relatively short (4h round trip) but challenging hike from Wasdale head. Steep and rocky in parts. The view at the top is rewarding, but marred by the queue of tourists all the way along the path (We visited in late October)

Didn't get views but absolutely unbelievable place. Stick to the main path if you're not experienced but many different options if you are. Corridor route is my personal favourite

A great hike surrounded by beautiful lakes (as the name of the district might give away) and some amazing waterfalls. I went with a large group on a particularly warm and drizzly day, and we all had a great time. Highly recommend it!

This is the View from the Field above the Lake. Next Door to the People's Theatre : An Entertaining Visit To Make! The Lake is full of Activity : Viewed from the Grassy Take Mound. Take Your OWN Chair though : AsThere's NO Seating Found.

Saw Di and Viv and Rose. Fantastic piece of theatre in a brilliant setting. Love this theatre. I have been several times when visiting Keswick and it never disappoints.

My husband, toddler and I spontaneously stopped by while on a trip to the lake. Although 2 hours and 30 mins of Pride and Prejudice (and so brilliantly performed) isn’t an ideal activity for a toddler to sit through, the staff were incredibly accommodating and inviting. An anxiety inducing turned into a memorable experience.

Fabby-tantasssstic. As a star war fan, who can take,or leave Pride&Prejudice. Wife bought a family of 4 to watch the show.. I can honestly say it was AAAAMAZING. As well as i surrounded theatre which have never experienced, all the actors and show was 1st class , would def go watch again.

We went to see Pride & Prejudice last night - two adults and two kids (10 and 13). A really tremendous, cosy and intimate theatre and setup. We all really enjoyed it. Great performances, innovative production. A real gem of a venue in an incredible location. Do go if you can.

Brilliant little theatre where we watched a play in the round. Theatre can be reconfigured to accommodate regular tiered seating. 'Relaxed screenings' take place occasionally to accomodate people with special requirements e.g. BSL, and for those with ADHD, autism, visual impairment etc. Great to walk straight out of the place and stroll on Derwentwater. Cafe and refreshments also available.

We stopped in for lunch as a mixed party, 2 adults, 2 children and an elderly disabled member. Set up was fine to allow us to easily get a table that was suitable. We had to clear and clean the table and seats ourselves. Seats and table were acceptable, but did feel a bit "school cafeteria style". Food was decent, although not good at the prices. They were having a number of technical issues which meant a fair old wait to be served at the tills.

Amazing place, visually stunning and really makes you rethink your position in life as well as the Uk as a whole. Tour guide was absolutely fantastic and can be forgiven for his football alliances. Well worth a visit, booking is a must!!

3 of us visited yesterday for the adrenaline pass activities. We were not disappointed! We were scared, excited, nervous, surprised, exhilarated, terrified etc!!!!🤣 Our guide Heather was amazing….. just the perfect combination of encouragement and support along with no nonsense attitude! Climb the mine was great, hard going at times! The infinity bridge in the rain and wind, well I’m sure you can imagine what that was like! The drop….. amazing! Terrifying but amazing! The adrenaline buzz is awesome, as was the feeling of satisfaction when we’d done, we couldn’t stop smiling! 😊 I’d recommend it to anyone but be prepared for your body to feel like it’s had the mother of all workouts the following day! Thank you for a wonderful experience! X

I did the Adrenaline Pass, which included the Infinity Bridge, Climb the Mine, and The Jump—a 30m freefall experience (the only one of its kind in the UK!). It was brilliant fun and well worth the money. The staff were lovely, the weather was great, and the views were absolutely stunning. Didn’t see any low-flying aircraft this time, but it was still such an amazing few hours. A fantastic experience all round—highly recommend!

This was such a fun and exhilarating thing to do! We did the Via Ferrata Extreme. Zara our guide was friendly and professional and put our mind at ease. At least give it a go, once in your lifetime. Climbing the outside of a mountain, mega fun 😊

We've just had the best afternoon here!!! We done the Mine Tour first and then The Infinity Bridge....which was absolutely brilliant! We were so lucky (not with the weather.....it rained but that's the Lake District for you) as no one but us had booked the 3pm slot. We had Heather (who was really fun....plus an EXCELLENT photographer) as our guide and we just had the best, most fun, experience and got some great photos to remember it by.

A brilliant day out. We did the Full Adventure which included a morning canyoning down a river, jumping, swimming, and abseiling our way down. After lunch we had a "walk" across the longest infinity bridge and then had a climb around the cliff face on the via ferrata experience. Even the drizzle in the afternoon didn't prevent this activity, and we were so engrossed we hardly noticed how wet we were! Our guide was Hannah, who was amazing at keeping the fun and excitement going all day and taking lots of superb action photos, which were sent to us for free at the end of the day. Probably one of the best days I have had. Yes, it is a lot of money, but considering all the equipment that was provided to take part in the activities, and put the activities together, it was tremendous value. Worth every penny. Highly recommended fun.

Great experience in the slate mine. Took my 85 year old mum and she loved it. We took our time getting around and didn't feel under pressure at all. Great tour guide with a fantastic sense of humour!

Arguably the most beautiful of the lakes in the Lake District. It was a bit foggy when we visited this afternoon but still looked lovely.

Such a beautiful lake and area the best in the lake district in my view, we were lucky and had the most beautiful weather we took the steamer to aria water falls just lovely

Scenic Drives In The Lake District 🏞️🚙 We drove from Ambleside, climbing the steep, winding road of Kirkstone Pass, the highest motorable pass in the Lake District. Rugged fells and dramatic scenery on either side, and the descent toward Patterdale and onto a scenic route to the edge of Watermillock, Ullswater before heading to Keswick. A stunning , scenic route. Every turn felt like stepping into a postcard!.

Ullswater is nature at the best — a mirror of silver and sapphire cradled between rolling green fells and rugged mountain slopes. The water shimmers differently with every shift of the sky, sometimes glassy and still, sometimes dancing with ripples that catch the sun like scattered jewels. kayaks and paddleboards are easy to rent, letting you drift across the lake’s calm expanse with the peaks standing sentinel all around you. Camping nearby is also possible. Ullswater isn’t just scenic — it’s a living postcard of the Lake District, where land, water, and sky weave together into something unforgettable.

What a truly wonderful day spent together at Ullswater, where generations met in perfect harmony amid the breathtaking Lake District scenery. Cruising gently on the Ullswater Steamers, surrounded by shimmering waters and the majestic fells, we savoured every moment of laughter and shared delight. It was a joy to see my sons and grandmas captivated by the panoramic views and the calming rhythm of the lake—a reminder that nature is a perfect backdrop for family bonding and making cherished memories. After our tranquil journey on the steamer, we explored the charming lakeside villages, enjoying leisurely walks and quiet moments by the water’s edge, where the fun and chatter of our little ones filled the air. Ullswater is a splendid escape that offers something for everyone; whether you’re young or young at heart, it’s a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and connect with loved ones amidst nature’s grandeur. If you haven’t yet experienced Ullswater with your family, do ensure it’s on your list—such perfect days together are the true treasures of life.

The most beautiful lake. Spent hours here paddle boarding. Shallow parts perfect for children. I will return here time and time again. This place has my heart ❤️

The water level was so low you could see where the village used to be, we walked on one of the old roads and could see a wall rising out of the water. Amazing

Me and my family had a lovely day at Wray Castle and the lakeside walks around it, it’s a beautiful area of unspoilt beauty, great for picnics, walking or just laying around in the sun. It’s just a short hop on the Green Cruise that goes from Brockhole, to Ambleside and then Wray

Beautiful looking castle from outside but it's closed for refurbishment ! When you look on Google maps it says it's open but only the cafe and grounds are open. Why they don't advertise this or put signs up in the village either side to save you dicing with death driving for miles down pokey little single track roads !

Beautiful castle. Really enjoyed this location, castle is closed but still an awesome place to visit.

FREE ENTRY WHILE THEY ARE RENOVATING UPSTAIRS

Nice little castle but the scenery is what you’re here for. Beautiful walks along the lake and grounds. Nice cafe on site with amazing bean ‘sausage’ rolls.

Joined NT, so I thought we'd visit Wray Castle. But it's closed for the next year or so, for refurbishment. Cafe n grounds still open.

Rubbish

First time visit, beautiful gardens, bit past their best due to the time of year but will definitely return spring/summer next year. Cafe was a very nice and good was good. £15 per adult but we got in free with Historic Houses membership. They are currently doing some restoration work on the ruined castle but there is a demo on the history of it.

Wow what a spectacular place to visit! The castle itself is so impressive. Not far from the M6 too so we stopped on route from Scotland to the Midlands. The cafe was pleasant, lots of choice to eat. We had burger and chips which was tasty. High chairs available. Toilets near to the cafe. And at the back of the grounds is the best outdoor playarea I've ever seen suitable for all ages. It's huge, has zip wires for older kids and toddlers, sand pits, slides, swings. It's a great day out if not a better stop than the services!

What a beautiful castle and grounds. Plenty of open space to wander and have a picnic. Great grounds with a lovely cafe indoors, with plenty of outdoor seating inside the square of the castle grounds. The cafe had a super selection of fresh meals and great bakery products as well. Ice cream parlour was delicious. Parking very reasonable at £2, can be paid at the restaurant.

An interesting former stately home, with extensive gardens. A tale of what happens when these spend thrift lords throw it all away. They are still working on parts of the estate and gardens, but is well worth a visit. The cafe is decent and is a popular spot for families.

A fantastic day out for adults, children & dogs. Extensive gardens & woodlands to explore, a large adventure playground with separate areas for older children and toddlers- with the only toddler seat zip slide I've ever seen!- cafes and of course what is left of the castle. The gardens are so loved and well maintained, there were absolutely loads of mushroom varieties if that floats your boat! A small museum section which tells you the story of the house and how it came to what it is today, as well as plenty of information boards everywhere you go. Dogs are allowed every where except inside the play areas, but there are plenty of benches/seats looking over the play area for someone to sit and wait with the dog. The café next to the play areas are only open weekends and school holidays- which we didn't realise until after we got there so please bare that in mind!

Fabulous place to visit. Romantic, but very impressive ruins. Food in the cafe was lovely. We opted for a light pizza each and my whipped feta, pear and walnut was divine! Lovely to see the gardens being brought back to life. The newly planted Rock, Japanese and sweet scented gardens will be wonderful once established. We didn't have our granddaughter with us, but the children's play area is amazing, and we will definitely return with her in the future. Well worth a visit.

Magical place, viewpoints are stunning, lovely coffee shop in the woods, huge open gardens. The regenerated gardens are in their infancy in parts, definitely on the revisit list for a few years time to see how they have developed! Rose garden smells unreal!

Visited Brockhole on Windermere and had the best time ever! 😍✨ The kayaking experience was amazing — there’s a real sense of freedom as you paddle across the lake surrounded by stunning scenery 🌅⛰️. The water is so peaceful, and you can go at your own pace, which made it really relaxing 🧘‍♂️🚣‍♀️. We also went on a boat ride and the views were just breathtaking — perfect for photos and enjoying nature 🌳📸. After kayaking, we jumped into the lake for a swim 🏊‍♂️💦 — super refreshing on a sunny day! Facilities available: toilets, showers, and lockers made everything convenient 🚿🚻🔒. And a big shoutout to the staff, who were all so friendly and helpful — they made the whole experience even better! 🙌😊 Would 100% recommend for a fun and active day out with family or friends ☀️.

Brockhole on Windermere is a great day out for everyone. There is a large car park with fair prices and the grounds are beautiful to wander around. The play park is brilliant and completely free to use, and there are also extra activities you can pay for such as the tree top adventures or the tree top nets which are great fun for both children and adults. The café is lovely with plenty of seating and friendly staff, perfect for a drink or something to eat while taking in the views across the lake. You can easily spend a full day here as there is so much to do, from relaxing by the water to hopping on a boat or exploring the trails through the gardens. We would definitely recommend a visit here, it has something for everyone and always feels full of life and fresh air.

I hope the new operator is able to make a success of this site with something of value to a range of Lake District visitors. It’s a bit sad to see the state that Brockhole finds itself in now, given its potential. There’s a beautiful art deco mansion, extensive gardens and woodland trails, and the ferry service. Let’s hope arts and exhibitions return as part of the future mix.

Great place to take the kids, massive park and other activities to do there, nice little hidden coves if you just want to get away from everyone and chill by the lake 👌

A bit pricey but really nice staff and a nice place to take children. Children can tree top jumping, tree trekking and zip lining. They also have a nice park with a cafe

Our family had a lovely time over August bank holiday. Recommend booking in advance. We did Treetop adventure and the Kayak tour. Husband and kids really the enjoyed kayak tour and their instructor was brilliant.

My family and I visited with another family. There were 5 children ranging from age 3 to 11. We all had an amazing day. It's free to get in, then you pay for the activities you want to do. The activities aren't cheap, but they're worth it. Our children chose to go up in the nets (not suitable for the youngest), and they were up there for hours. Food is on the pricey side, but it's really good. You can take a picnic. It would be lovely to sit down by the lake with. We can't wait to go back.

The In Bud & Bloom exhibition is stunning and beautifully curated. Definitely worth seeing. Very child friendly centre. With a lovely play area.

Fabulous place to stop instead of motorway services. Great food. Lots of space, wonderful series of shops.

I've been using Rheged a lot recently as a workspace, as I'm between houses, and this place has been an absolute godsend. I've been a number of times before, and used the majority of the facilities, which are all very good. The shops are nice - some a little expensive, but they are all great quality. The food is always good, and locally sourced. They have a nice picnic area inside, as well as children's play centre and a great cinema. But the the workspace is fabulous. It's a mix of high and low tables (note: there is only one low table with a plug, but all of the high tables have one). The WiFi is great, and there is a self serve coffee and water station. It's amazing that they allow dogs, and it's always a nice atmosphere in there. Shout out to Gemma in the deli, who is always friendly, welcoming (especially to the dogs) and funny! Additional note: they have a pop up shop by the front doors which showcases local makers and artists, which is always worth checking out!

We had a lovely afternoon at the art exhibition here. Very beautiful paintings, prints, sculptures and more. It was relaxing and therapeutic.

Great place to stop off on our journey home from the lakes. Very dog friendly and the food is amazing. Steak sandwich was delicious and far better than any usual junk you get from service stations. I wish there were more of these types of stop offs available

An unusual building in what was a quarry. From the outside it has a grass roof so blends into the landscape. Some lovely shops inside and several cafes severing drinks and nice food. The 2 screen cinema, one of which is an Imax is great. Plenty of free parking. If staying over 5 hours just register the car at the info desk.

Really good food, good parking. The cinema is great. I love the free gallery and especially love the 2 shops selling local artist work. Plus the petrol here seams cheaper than anywhere else locally.

A challenging but satisfying climb to the summit. A beautiful day, and some of the most amazing views. The only real battle was the wind as we got closer to the summit, it was harsh at times.

Great hike up one on the tallest peaks with fantastic views all the way. Windy at the top but well worth the effort. Car park with toilets at the bottom or free parking in layby 1/4 mile up the road.

An absolute incredible hike for me and my friend. We loved every part of this and we would definitely recommend it. If you love amazing views and the fresh air, then this is the place to come to! It did rain ever so slightly halfway up the trail, but it was lovey and sunny the way back down Nd we had amazing views of the lake.

One of the best spot for hiking in UK with epic scenes! Kids also can handle it well!

Absolutely breathtaking. Helvellyn is hands down one of the most beautiful hikes in the Lake District. The views from the top are unreal – especially along Striding Edge, which feels like something straight out of a movie. The trail is challenging but incredibly rewarding, and every step is worth it for the panoramic views of the lakes, valleys, and rolling hills. We were lucky with the weather, and the landscape was vibrant and peaceful. Definitely recommend starting early to beat the crowds and get those peaceful summit moments. If you’re into hiking, this is a must-do. 10/10 experience – I’ll be back.

When people say mountain, you'd expect to be confronted with a large awkward hill with a bit of a climb to the top. This is no exception. It's a mountain, you get great views of the surrounding area and the colours in the autumn were a kaleidoscope of delight. On our descent, we met the brilliant Fix The Fells volunteer group who expertly maintain the pathways on Hellvelyn so that it is accessible and safe to a novice hiker.

Hiked up here from Swirls car park. Majority of it is quite steep but once you're past the steep bit there's a much flatter section to the summit. Took us about 2hrs30 on the way up and 1hr15 on the way down. Excellent views all the way up and especially from the peak

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 ..

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.

I recently had the wonderful opportunity to experience my very first steam train ride during our visit to The Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway on 21st August 2025, and it was truly worth every moment. From the moment we stepped onto the platform, I felt a sense of excitement and nostalgia in the air. Having never been on a steam train before, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but the charm of the locomotive — with its billowing steam and rhythmic chugging — immediately set the tone for a unique journey. What made the experience even more special was sharing it with my 4-year-old son. For him, it felt like stepping into the world of Thomas the Tank Engine come to life. His eyes lit up as he saw the engine up close, and throughout the journey, he could hardly contain his excitement at being inside a “real Thomas train.” Watching his joy made the experience unforgettable for me as a parent. The ride itself was serene and picturesque, winding through beautiful countryside landscapes. The views of rolling green hills, woodland, and open fields were simply stunning, even more so in the crisp winter air. Although it was a chilly day for August, the cold only added to the charm — the steam rising from the train mingled with the mist in the air, making the whole experience feel timeless and magical. Overall, our visit to The Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway was an absolute highlight of our trip. It was more than just a train ride; it was a step back into history, a scenic journey through breathtaking landscapes, and a joyful family memory I know we’ll cherish. For anyone who hasn’t experienced a steam train ride before, I can wholeheartedly recommend it — it’s an adventure worth taking.

Visited with my wife & dogs whilst on holiday. We arrived a short time before departure but found ticket purchasing & car park validation simple. The car park machine was out of order but were able to purchase a conventional paper ticket as part of our excursion. The train was busy with a couple coach loads of tourists & privately booked carriages but we found no issues taking a seat. The ride itself to the Lakeland terminus is relatively short but enjoyable all the same. We had a complimentary sailing voucher from our hotel so boarding "Teal" from the train station was a breeze.

Haverthwaite Station & Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway – A Delightful Journey Back in Time! Haverthwaite Station and the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway offer an unforgettable nostalgic experience that takes you straight back to the golden age of steam travel. Nestled in the scenic beauty of the Lake District, this charming heritage railway is beautifully preserved and perfect for families, couples, and anyone who appreciates history, nature, or the magic of old-fashioned trains. The station itself is like stepping into a storybook — with its vintage décor, friendly staff in period uniforms, and the gentle chuffing sound of the steam engines filling the air. The short train ride from Haverthwaite to Lakeside is absolutely scenic, passing through lush green valleys, woodlands, and picturesque countryside. The rhythmic motion of the steam train and the whistle echoing through the hills make the journey feel timeless and peaceful. At Haverthwaite Station, there’s a lovely café serving fresh snacks, local food, and traditional cream teas — perfect for relaxing before or after your trip. The small museum and gift shop are also worth visiting, with fascinating displays about railway history and some wonderful souvenirs. The connection at Lakeside to the Windermere Lake Cruises makes it even more special — you can seamlessly continue your journey by boat and explore the stunning Lake District waters. Overall, the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway is more than just a train ride — it’s an experience filled with charm, nostalgia, and natural beauty. A must-do attraction for anyone visiting the Lake District, especially if you love steam engines and classic countryside adventures! 🚂🌿✨

This is a charming little station that’s perfect for a quick and scenic trip to the lakeside. The surroundings are peaceful and well-kept, making it a pleasant place to begin or end your journey. Though the station itself is quite small, it has everything you need for a short stop — clear signage, easy access, and a relaxed atmosphere. Parking is available and reasonably priced at just £3 for the whole day, which is great value. However, it's important to note that the parking gate closes after the last train of the day — so be sure to check the timetable and plan accordingly to avoid getting locked in.

Went on a grey day, around the time of a storm. Last service was cancelled as were the ferry rides... so that was disappointing but understandable. The train is nice and the trip on it was relaxing... try to sit on the right hand side when facing the direction of travel out as that provides the best views. Car park with ample parking.. card payments aren't avaliable on the machine but you can get parking permits from the shop or ticket office. Toilets and cafe on site. Car park closes promptly after the last train returns so be mindful of that if you're planning to take a walk or leave the car there for any reason. Worth a trip in my opinion, especially if you have family who are into steam trains.

Haverthwaite Railway Station is such a lovely place to visit. There is a large car park which makes it really easy to stop off, and the staff are super friendly and always happy to chat. It feels like stepping back in time as soon as you arrive, with the old engines, carriages and the sound of the steam trains adding to the atmosphere. There is a great café serving drinks, cakes and snacks, and a small play park that keeps the children happy while you sit and take in the surroundings. The engine shed is free to explore and well worth a look if you enjoy seeing the trains up close. It is a brilliant day out for families and train enthusiasts, and we would definitely recommend a visit here if you are exploring the Lake District.

Very friendly staff Cafe is full of home baking . My wife said the broth is the best she has tasted. The ginger and coconut cake was brilliant as was the latte. The trains and carriages were nice and clean. The train staff were full of local knowledge information and also helpful. Hope to be back next year

I recently visited the Lake District Wildlife Park and really enjoyed the day. The park is set in beautiful countryside with lovely views of the fells, which made the visit feel very relaxing. There is a good variety of animals, from zebras and meerkats to birds of prey, and the enclosures are spacious and well looked after. The staff were friendly and happy to share information, which made it more interesting. It felt calm and family-friendly, not overcrowded, so we could take our time. It’s a great place for children and adults, and I would happily recommend it for a day out.

We booked online for a family of 4. Wonderful day out at wildlife park. Plenty to see, plenty to do. Various animals, birds and playground for children. There is a picnic area outside, dine inside, gift shop, toilets. You can feed some animals with special food from the shop. Generous parking. Overall it was a pleasant experience!

We went in November because we were trying to find something to do because the weather was too bad for our hiking plans, and I am so so glad we found this little gem of a place. The value for money is amazing for all the animals you see. We thought we'd found somewhere to kill a couple of hours but ended up spending 5 hours there and it was easily the best day of our holiday. The staff are so friendly and informative; being able to see the lynx, red panda and gibbon feeds was amazing and the owl display/ talk was really special. Firmly recommend (it is still outdoors so dress accordingly)

Lovely place to spend a few hours surrounded by nature and animals. The park isn’t very big but it’s well laid out and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable. Great variety of animals and nice talks throughout the day. Some areas could use a little refresh and the café is a bit pricey, but overall a very enjoyable visit. Perfect for families and animal lovers.

Great wildlife park, the birds of prey event is brilliant, with very passionate and informative staff, I would really recommend this if you go... Lots of improvement works going on, (we look forward to seeing new animal pens etc next time we come) however this didn't spoil our second trip to the park. My family and I really like this site, it's not too big, so your not walking miles and it's much nicer than the typical main steam zoos. There are facilities on site: restaurant, shop, toilets, hand washing stations, children's adventure play and you are able to buy feed, to feed certain animals. So a great site and were looking forward to the current improvement works being completed.

Great place to visit, not like a regular zoo. There are conservation projects they are aligned with such as the one for vultures. Micheala does an amazing bird of prey talk, she's very knowledgeable and her interaction with the birds she uses in her display is lovely to watch. She is very passionate, especially about vultures. The park has lots of animals, birds and reptiles and there are plenty of opportunities to hand feed which we all loved. Free parking, accessible, not too big that you feel the need to rush to see everything. There's a cafe and play park on site too. It's a great place for a day out.

We had a great afternoon at this wildlife park while visiting the Lake District, plenty to see. I thoroughly enjoyed the falconry display and seeing the birds of prey close up. Very educational. The lady falconer presented it wonderfully

We visited Fell Foot last weekend with the kids and had a lovely time. The park is beautifully maintained with stunning views of Lake Windermere, perfect for a relaxing family day out. The kids enjoyed running around and we had a small picnic by the water, which made for a peaceful afternoon. There are good facilities, and it’s a great spot for both play and relaxation. The only downside was the parking — quite expensive for just a few hours, which was a bit of a letdown. Still, overall a great place to spend time with family and enjoy nature.

Arrived late afternoon, in early October & the Saturday crowds had gone home. No issues finding a spot in the car park at all. The machines use the Just Park app so paying for parking was easy @ £6 for 2 hours a little on the expensive side but worth it. Walked down to the lake edge & it was just perfect. Found a bench by one of the slip ways & changed for my swim. Water was 14°C, clear as a bell & there was hardly anyone around, other than another swimmer & a couple of SUP users. Stayed in for about 25 mins & changed on the side. Although it was quite late once I had got changed the loo’s by the cafe were still open which was handy. Beautiful autumnal colours & an amazing golden hour.

Fell Foot is a fantastic spot on Windermere, especially for National Trust members (free parking!). Beautiful setting with loads of green space to set up for the day. You can launch your paddleboard for free, and if you pay for the activity hub, you get access to changing rooms and showers — really handy after being on the water. There are free toilets on-site and plenty of space, though it can get very busy, especially on sunny days. Also worth noting there’s a friendly Parkrun every Saturday at 9:00am. Great place for a full day out with family or friends!

Nice walk, wasn’t much there - entry cost was parking only the parking fee unless a national trust member. Parking was tight but they have 2 parking areas. Views across the water were stunning.

A lovely park beside the lake 🌊—a perfect spot for a day out! Plenty of options for water sports and fun-filled activities for children. Paid parking is available, and there are cafes on-site to grab a bite.

Beautiful National Trust park with lovely views across the lake. Recommend coming here on Saturday morning for the parkrun and then going for brunch in the café afterwards. This venue also has a stamp for any National Trust passport holders

Highly recommend this very beautiful amazing stop and park. We loved this park we visited a number of times. Really highly recommend such a beautiful place. It was very busy everyday though

Beautiful location, the house and gardens are gorgeous and worth a visit if you're a national trust member. We were not so £17 per person was quite expensive for such a small property and parking was really difficult, despite having booked parking we did have to wait some time to get a space. The house was lovely but being a period property it's small and it was cosy with so many people! The ticket timing system wasn't really adhered to so it was quite full and it was hard to take your time to look at the different rooms and read all the information when it's busy.

Beatrix Potter’s charming home in the Lake District, and it’s an amazing experience for fans of her work. The house itself is fascinating, feels like going back to time. filled with intricate details that bring her stories to life. Every room feels like stepping into a page of Peter Rabbit, with well-preserved furniture and personal touches that reflect her creativity. The staff are knowledgeable, offering great insights into her life and writing process. The vegetable garden is a highlight—beautifully maintained and true to the era, it’s easy to see how it inspired her tales. My only gripe is the parking, which is quite cramped and can be a hassle, especially on busy days. Still, the experience inside makes it well worth the visit. Highly recommend for a literary trip back in time!

Parking is free if you prefer book your tour ticket only. Otherwise you have to find your own parking. One place nearby was pricing parking at £10. The place is a great place to learn more about Beatrix Potters life and books. Recommended.

A lovely little visit here, making the most of our National Trust membership. Nice see learn more about B Potters life. Very quaint. Staff lovely and knew their stuff.

Another national trust treasure. A simple garden and a house with many of the contents in original condition. A glimpse into the life that was Beatrix Potter. The reserve parking is a very small for busy times so you might have to wait a few minutes until someone leaves. B road access was easy.

We had a great time exploring the house and gardens! Was very well kept with a nostalgic feel. We also picked up some lovely things from the gift shop. Would recommend booking in advance to secure parking

Great day after we got some disappointing news earlier. Jane? Hoping I have the name correct, working around 15:30 at house entrance, she made our whole trip after travelling 5 hours up, kind, attentive, aware, welcoming and knowledgeable. She really is a credit to the national trust. Working 15 years to still have that enthusiasm. Thank you and thank you to every staff member from reception to, shop, to the house. That's the best we have been treated out of every National Trust we've visited, and that's a lot! Thanks very much again, Kia Ora says thank you too :)

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.

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

Definitely worth the visit. 2 sets of falls about 15 mins walk apart. Make sure to visit the 1st bridge for fantastic long drop view. The road into the waterfalls from Windermere is also spectacular. Entry in Oct 2025 is £6 for 2 hours which is plenty of time for most people. Free for NT 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.

Aira force waterfall is a lovely place for people of all ages great views and great wildlife to be seen. If your in the area there are many more places nearby to visit but this was one off the bucket list. Make sure to bring a camera and take some beautiful photos of the waterfall below and above where the bridge is. Its a easy walk and toilets are only a few minutes walk away.

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.

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

Would recommend for all ages. Our car and bike mad toddler loved it. So many to look at and some great nostalgia aswell with the toy cars from childhood. Would definitely recommend a visit. Great bluebird exhibit aswell.

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.

Visited a few times before but this time was on my motorcycle tour and thought it was definitely worth a revisit. If you like cars and motorcycles and their history or the history of the Campbell’s journeys to world speed records then this is a must. I think good value for money too. Cafe serves food and nice coffee too. Having laugh with their price of small bottled water though!!!!

To pay less than 14.00 for a Nana and three kids is amazing value! Staff are really friendly and helpful, and the inevitable “exit through the shop” is very parent friendly. The exhibits are brilliant, we had lots of fun, laughs and education! Thank you!

It was a very wet day in Keswick so we decided to visit the Puzzling Place. Such fun and a great learning experience as well, a fabulous, fun way to spend an hour.

Went here today and it was absolutely incredible. So many puzzling and intriguing exhibits to look at and well worth the price! The slanted room messed with our heads well after we left! Highly recommend!

Brilliant place to visit great value for money we all loved it

Great fun and dog friendly. Very good value, especially for the Lakes. Would definitely book tickets beforehand as it seems a very popular place and was not accepting walk-ins when we arrived.

The Puzzling Place is a brilliant, mind-bending attraction that’s full of fun and surprises. Every room is packed with clever illusions and exhibits designed to trick your eyes and challenge your perception. It’s one of those places where you can’t help but laugh and marvel at how easily your senses are fooled. Great fun for both kids and adults alike — a perfect mix of education and entertainment that leaves you seeing the world a little differently when you walk out!

Thought provoking, interesting and fun. Tickets were £4.95 per adult. Definitely good value for the money

Heard about this from a friend and originally thought I was having my leg pulled. Surely there couldn't be an entire museum dedicated solely to the humble pencil? How wrong was I! This is the real deal and a seriously good trip out for children and adults alike. Takes you on a journey through the history of pencils, from beginning as a lump of graphite wrapped in leather used by shepherds to mark their sheep (see I really was paying attention), right up to the present day and the seemingly endless range of artists pencils now available. The addition of a quiz sheet for everyone even the adults seemed a bit odd at first. But it was an absolute genius move that compelled everyone to engage with the exhibits in search of answers. I don't think I saw anybody not frantically scribbling down answers with the pencil that doubled as their entry ticket. No spoilers but the last question will properly test your pencil skills. World longest (and I would guess largest) pencil, and a collection of micro pencil sculptures are other highlights. My only disappointment here was that they had sold out of the replica wartime map and compass pencil. A fascinating item that made a genuine and important contribution to our own history. If you are visiting Keswick purely for the museum then use the on site parking. It is slightly cheaper than the in town option. The museum does get busy and there was barely any elbow room as people gathered around some of the exhibits, so you need to be prepared to share a bit of personal space. But if you are okay with that then there really is every reason to recommend a visit.

The Pencil Museum in Keswick is small but full of charm. It takes you through the history of the pencil, from the discovery of graphite in the Lake District to how pencils are made today. There are interesting displays, including one of the world’s largest pencils, and stories about pencils used in wartime. It’s not a huge place, but it’s fun and a bit quirky, especially if you like local history. There’s also a nice café and a shop with quality pencils and art supplies. A pleasant visit, especially on a rainy day in the Lakes.

I'd bookmarked this as a place to go on our holiday in The Lakes, and I am glad I did. It is a small museum, but worth a visit. I really liked how at the beginning they give you a quiz to take round with you to win a prize at the end - it's a great way to get everyone engaged in the visit and really making the best of all the information and history that is there. Your entry ticket is also in the form of a pencil, which is a fabulous idea. Really friendly staff and a great place. Perfect stop for a rainy day, or if you have an hour spare.

A small but interesting museum exploring the history of pencil manufacturing in the local area. The factory making pencils is behind the museum and still manufactures them today. The museum staff were very friendly and gave us pencils as an entry ticket together with a quiz to complete as we went around the museum. Well worth a visit but doesn't take long to look around. There is also a small cafe and toilets at the museum.

A small, themed museum in the traditional museum style of exhibits and information panels. There was not a lot of interactivity for children. However there was an excellent quiz, and some area for colouring sheets and using pencil and drawing skills. The museum plots the history of pencil making from the 16th century, originally in this Lakeland area. It’s informative and interesting, with some quirky exhibits like a secret agent’s pencil with hidden map and compass. The staff are very welcoming and friendly. There’s a small cafe (although it was understaffed to the point of having reduced menu - no food only cakes, when we were there. ♿️The museum is all on one level and easily accessible throughout. Very reasonably priced, with a free pencil and quiz sheet (with a prize) on admission.

Sweet museum telling the story of Derwent Pencils. Aimed squarely at families, as a solo visitor it didn’t hold a lot of appeal to me. I entered for free with a Museums Association membership, so nothing lost, but I probably wouldn’t pay for entry. Very nice staff though! Would love to see a tour or access made available for the stunning modernist building next door, although looks like it might not have much link to the company anymore.

A little museum more interesting than it seems. Dedicated paid disabled bays. Automatically doors. Wheelchair access inside the museum was OK but busy with people doing the quizzes. You get a free pencil which was a nice surprise. The history of the WWII secret pencil was fascinating. There is the Guinness book of records for the longest pencil. Gift shop and cafe located inside. Disabled loo was outside.

What an incredible day! Our party of 10 visited Go Ape on Sunday, a mix of seasoned zip-liners and nervous first-time fliers, and Vic and Ronan made it an experience we’ll never forget. Their perfect balance of fun banter and rock-solid professionalism put everyone at ease, from the teenagers to the almost-pensioners! They were brilliant at encouraging the nervous ones while keeping the thrill alive for the confident climbers. Safety was always front and centre, but never in a way that killed the fun. We left with huge smiles, plenty of laughs, and memories that will last a lifetime. If you’re thinking about Go Ape—ask for Vic and Ronan. They’re absolute legends! 🌳💚💪

Lorn & Ronan were very supportive & excellent instructors. They were lively, fun & very safety conscious. Thank you both very much for a great experience.

I did not participate in the go-ape activities. However I could see lots of people having fun high up in the trees.

From the outset the staff here set you at ease as they give the safety brief. No easy feat for someone like myself who is not great with heights. Came here to challenge myself and achieved that in the best possible way. Safety is always first, but the course is just high enough, far enough and tricky enough to keep that edge of excitement. Looking down on the site four zip wire is not an experience I will forget in a hurry. Was I really that high up? Refreshment and toilet facilities are available before or after your adventure. If you want to scare yourself but from a point of safety then give this one a go.

Zip trek was a mind blowing experience!! Good variety in the speed/views/length of the zip lines. You get to do 8 long zips in a really untouched area accompanied by fun and reassuring instructors. Every zip is tandem so you can watch each other as you go!! Our instructors Emily and Louis were fab. It's not too scary as the starting platforms are close to the ground but you get a thrill zooming over the valleys! Totally recommend, well worth the price we paid.

We did the zip wire experience and it was amazing. We had a group of 6 people and 2 instructors. Took about 2 hours to get through there were 3 zip wires down due to trees but didn't affect out experience still got to do 5 massive zip wires was great experience in the foggy spooky trees. Purchased gloves there which were glad we had. Parking on departure cost £5.90

A fantastic experience at Grizedale Ziptrek. There’s a short ride up to the top in a minibus but it’s worth it for the great views and high speed zip through the trees. The 2instructors Emily and Lewis were outstanding and ensured that they made the whole experience fun and exhilarating. I’d certainly go again and recommend it to anyone wondering whether to give it a go

Wonderful place in a beautiful setting. You can almost sense Wordsworth's presence. It is a calm space and it is easy to see how the great man drew his inspiration. Walking where he walked is most humbling.

One of a number of Wordsworth sites to visit. Well worth taking the time to wander through the house and then go and relax in the garden s. It's full of interest and considering the other Wordsworth sites nearby it helps build a picture of the life they had in the area. Well worth a visit. Gift shop has a range of quality items and the reception was great, really helpful.

Beautiful spot to see Wordsworths home. It's wonderful to walk in his footsteps and the gardens are a delight. Well worth a visit. There are toilets here but no cafe at the moment

Really worth a visit, especially because of the interesting young lady in the ticket office/gift shop who educated us on the family history. Lots of inspiring things to learn about the Wordsworths. Parking is a little tight but I believe there is a nearby car park if needed.

Well kept beautiful gardens to walk through befote walking down to the Falls and its little viewing hut.

Beautiful and historic place to visit, 3 hours from glasgow, scenic drive.

Visited Rydal Mount on a lovely Sunny Day. So nice to see that this still belongs to Wordsworth descendants. Very quaint house with just enough information for you to get the feel of the place. The gardens were quintessentially British with lovely views. The Tea Room was quaint and all the staff were lovely. Enough to keep you occupied for a couple of hours.

Great for older kids, but my 4 year old had fun, too. Good place to learn about the nature for adults as well.

Very informative (both the displays and the friendly staff.) It's not often you get to play a STONE "Piano that was played for Queen Victoria! Lovely cafe on site with DELICIOUS Bacon Rolls Definatly worth a visit rain or shine.

Nice exhibits but it’s a pretty limited space. Only two galleries means the history of Keswick and the region is condensed massively. Free entry with my Museums Association card, so no harm done. But I probably wouldn’t pay for entry. Nice staff though!

A brilliant little museum packed with character and surprises! Keswick Museum offers a fascinating look into local history, with everything from Victorian curiosities to hands-on exhibits. The musical stones were a real highlight – who knew rocks could make music? 🎶🪨 The whole place is thoughtfully curated, with a friendly atmosphere and plenty to explore despite its modest size. Definitely worth a visit if you're in the area and love places that are a bit quirky, educational, and full of charm. #LocalHistory #KeswickMuseum #LakeDistrict #QuirkyMuseums #MustVisit

Nice little gem, went in because we just finished the junior park run. Deffo worth doing, tickets valid for 12 months

Perfect for kids and adults. Brilliant insight into local history. There’s a lot of love evident in this community museum. I was surprised at how entertaining it turned out to be. The blurbs don’t do it justice. A child is free with a paying adult. They get a pocket history about local geology and fondle a selection of rocks before having a 3D visual of the surrounding area. The rock xylophone must be experienced in person. Kudos if you can belt out a tune. Plus there are type writers, ink and feather quills, 3 bears story telling, arts and crafts, etc. Don’t wait for a rainy day to experience it.

Nice lady at the front desk, but cost of entry is £7.50 which is way too much for what is there. Very tiny museum, but I didn't stay more than 20 minutes.

The Lake District is one of the most beautiful places in the UK. The scenery is breathtaking, with rolling hills, peaceful lakes, and charming villages. It feels calm and refreshing, a perfect escape from busy life. Walking around the lakes or hiking up the fells gives you stunning views at every turn. The small towns, like Keswick and Windermere, are welcoming and full of character, with cosy cafés and local shops. Whether you enjoy nature, photography, or just relaxing by the water, the Lake District has something for everyone. It’s a place that stays with you long after you leave.

The boathouse on the lake was outstanding, surrounded by beautiful scenery, it was so relaxing just to sit on the balcony and watch the world go by. There is a little shop in the park providing essentials, however, its only a short drive into Windermere village. We would highly recommend staying here.

Beautiful place to see, about an hour and half drive from Manchester. The lake is beautiful and you can do a lot of water activities, hire a boat, or book a cruise. There are shops and restaurants but if looking for lunch I’d suggest before 3 as many close their kitchens at 3 to prep for dinner. I would advise water, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat on a hot day. Lots to see and moments to capture, so charge those phones.

This has got to be my favourite place. Spectacular views. Beautiful lakes. Delightful villages and towns. Always somewhere lovely to walk. Great bus service.

Scenic drive through the autumnal cumbrian countryside to a place steeped in history. A true testament to preservation orchestrated by every day people. Not stonehenge but a mysterious must see. Also 200m down the lane is the Hungry Heffer cafe and climbing wall. Just remember to close the gate!

A perfect place to relax and unwind. Breathe in the fresh air, enjoy the peace and quiet, and let nature soothe your soul. With stunning landscapes, serene lakes, and scenic roads, it’s a paradise for nature lovers and explorers. Whether you’re walking along the water’s edge or discovering hidden trails, the Lake District offers a truly tranquil escape.

An impressive breathtaking scenery with clear air and beautiful landscapes at every corner. Managed to find even mushrooms. Really recommend.

The smell of the Gingerbread cookies tingles your senses even before you enter the shop. Easy to find, parking just a 2 min walk away. Gets busy very quickly and always a que. Loved the traditional Sarah Nelson's gingerbread. Bought some rum butter, ginger caramel and ginger lemon curd, must say it was tasty.

This place can get very busy, as it seems to be on most visitors lake district to do list (myself included) Got here early though and was able to walk straight in with no wait. Arrive pre 10am to give yourself best chance of avoiding the crowds. The interior of the shop is a feast for the senses. Exuding Olde worlde charm from every corner, and the air is thick with the smell of the gingerbread. To taste it has very little in common with the gingerbread we are all used to, and is so much the better for it. A very dense and chewy texture that almost borders on crunchy. Warm flavor that lingers nicely after the initial mouthful. Does not keep well, but for me that didn't matter as I would have eaten it all long before thinking of keeping any. Definitely try to tick this box on your list, you'll be glad you did.

A lovely callback to the classic, one assumes! The shop was fantastic fun on a pouring rainy day. The staff were very friendly and helpful, and quick. The queue does not reflect their speed, as the doors are just a bit narrow as it’s a very old building.

Tasty, needed to go back for some more after trying it. Long queue but move fast. Daffodil garden and Wordworth family graves are nearby. Recommend to sit down and enjoy the gingerbread with the coffee at Grasmere Tea Garden, nice view and flat white!

This is such a quaint, iconic place and must see in Gracemere. The gingerbread is delicious as well as the dairy milk chocolate with ginger bits and affordable price too. The chocolate with pumpkin spice was my least favourite and for acquired taste. The queue is long and no shleter when it's raining. There is no seating area, which would've enhanced the positive experience. Nonetheless, I would visit again.

Smells incredible as you walk up to it. Cute little shop, nice to know the history behind it. However, very small inside, barely enough room for more than one couple at a time. Doesn't give much opportunity to browse products when there's a queue of people waiting to come in. Glad I saw this but wouldn't hurry back. Gingerbread taste delicious though.

We’re not huge fans of gingerbread in general, but having heard so much about this famous one, we had to try it. And it didn’t disappoint! It was very decadent, soft, not too overpowering ginger flavour, a mix between biscuit and cake. A must try if you’re in the area.

Great service and pleasant staff

Lovely experience and soothing to the eyes I am impressed with the seating arrangements and neatness of cruise

Great way to spend an afternoon.

Nice new, clean vessels, very helpful staff.

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.

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.

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.

For someone who hasn't done many hikes in their life, Cat bells was perfect for me. We parked in the car park up north, then went up. Views were beautiful, although we went up on an extremely windy day. Some sections we also had to use our hands to help with the climb.

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

Food, wine pairing, staff friendliness and ambiance of the venue is first class. The chef bringing out the main dish and having a chat with every guest was a nice touch. The restaurant is decorated in dark colours and striking art work. Every single dish was an explosion of flavours that worked perfectly. The only disappointment was my boyfriend made a note on our reservation that it was my 40th birthday (actually the day itself) and offered to pay more money to do some sort of treat over dinner to acknowledge this and nothing was done. And the table next to us got a “happy birthday” from their waitress with a dessert that said “happy birthday” and from a sounds of it another complimentary dessert dish so that was sad for us both to witness when he hoped for something similar especially being such a milestone birthday.

Without doubt the best meal I have ever had! I could not fault a single thing. Each course was delicious. The staff were great. Terrific wine list. Wonderful atmosphere. Yes- this is a rave review!

This was our favourite meal during our stay in Ambleside. Everything was so well done here from start to finish. The explanation, the appearance, presentation, and taste were exemplary. We loved it all and will definitely be recommending to our friends. Well done to all the chefs and staff here who obviously work so hard to produce such a wonderful experience for their customers.

Had zero expectations when booking the Old Stamp House for dinner. To say I was pleasently surprised would be an understatement. A truly special experience start to finish. Impeccable service from when you walk in the door, the level of attention to detail and presentation with each dish is impressive. 11 courses on the atumn menu which are all timed well, use the best of the best produce and every element is carefully thought out and elevated. The best meal I've ever had by far. A must visit for a stay in the Lake District.

An amazing restaurant. Well worth booking ahead of time. Staff were friendly, and professional. Ambience was very comfortable. We went for lunch. All the courses were excellent. The chef served eveyone and had a pleasant conversation with all the clientele. There was even a letter written by Ryan to the guest, set on each table. A unique experience and would highly recommend.

From start to finish excellent! Thank you team The Old Stamp House for a wonderful evening. We much appreciated the unique and personal touch on behalf of the owner Ryan that has added so much value to the dinner. What is this? Well, visit and see!

Great service and excellent value. We loved the opening dishes but felt the latter part of the menu was very heavy and a bit overwhelming in terms of the flavours and depths of the dishes which drops it from being a five star for us. Still, an obviously deserved award winning restaurant with plenty of character, honesty, flair and talent leading the kitchen delivering a down to earth experience. We thoroughly appreciated the accompanying notes for each dish. We would return and try again.

Really nice for a long hike, lots of quiet, scenic forest trails that were well maintained and sign posted, linked up between short patches of gravel roads for forestry access and bikes. It's not the sort of place you go to the lake district for, but I'm glad I gave it a chance between the big lakes and popular fells, because it was nice to go somewhere I could feel like I'm not surrounded on all sides. There was plenty of parking, there's the main car park which is pay and display, and smaller ones around which are free but a long walk to the visitors center if that's what you're there for. The visitors center is more like a visitors complex, I didn't spend much time there as I passed through, but there was almost everything you need including shops, bike hire, a cafe, information center and go ape. It was great for dogs off lead almost all the way around the 10 mile trail. Some of the trails were not accessible to mobility scooters, but there were accessible trails as well which were well maintained.

A lot of trees down around Breasty Haw bridleway after Storm Arwen, but otherwise not too bad. Parkamoor descent access is clear now if a bit rutted and boggy from the big forestry machinery that's been clearing over the last few days. The views across Coniston to the old Man and Dow Crags are amazing.

If you are after a family bike ride there are much better places in the Lakes than the endless slog up boring forest roads you will find here (and a very very pricy car park to boot). A missed opportunity when compared to the trails in many other Forestry England operations. A lot of the tech trails are still closed nearly a year after storm Arwen and most are just too hard for a family. My recomendation - start at Hawkshead (bike rental avail) and go via Route 6 to Wray Castle and optionally down Windermere to Claife viewpoint. 98% offroad. Track meanders through a beautiful landscape of fields, tarns, woods and lakes.

Took the grandchildren aged nearly 3 on the Stickman walking route and then on the park. We all loved it.

We went to Grizedale for some mountain biking (with our own bikes). Grizedale is undoubtedly great for gravel riding, but for decent single-track mountain biking there is really only one option, which is the red North Face Trail. Sadly, big chunks of the route are still closed after last winter's storms. It's a bit disappointing that so much of this route is still awaiting repair, given that there's only one trail to maintain. We still had fun, and the trail is enjoyably techy and interesting (good if you like natural riding, not so good if you're into smooth berms and jumps!). Luckily we're based quite locally and knew there was storm damage, but I would have been hugely disappointed if I'd made a big trip for it. Whinlatter is a much better mtb trail centre if you're here for your holidays, as it has fully-maintained blue and red routes as well as gravel tracks.

Beautiful place for dog walks and to see birds in the trees

There are some lovely walks here, and a good playground, but the car parking seems to be relatively expensive, a covered picnic area we used had filthy tables and litter at 11 in the morning and, without any prior indication, the waymarked trail (blue) that we took with our children (5 and 7) necessitated a precipitous and unmarked diversion because the trail was taped off at a bridge. Feels as though the place needs a little more love and attention.

Fascinating arts and crafts house built as a holiday home for a Manchester brewing family. So many wonderful details with the addition of lots of Arts and crafts furniture..Nice cafe. Parking.

As a damp day on our first day in The Lakes we visited here as wasn't disappointed. A lovely interesting house which is well presented and organised. Great to sample life as it was when the wealthy family had it designed and built as a holiday home. Lovely views over the lake and a nice cafe.

What a place! It was only when looking for info about the Windermere Jetty Museum that we came across Blackwell on the Lakeland Arts website - not sure how we hadn't been before. An absolute gem, a real showcase for what the Arts & Crafts movement was about. We luckily arrived just at the start of a guided tour to introduce the house and its contents. And very nice cafe as well. This is a fantastic place and definitely not to be missed if you're in the area - and if you're not, it's worth travelling quite a way to get to it!

An amazing art and crafts building. Very well maintained and managed. There is lots to see, we had a very nice afternoon. Also had lunch which was lovely!

It is worth the £12pp for adults. The arts are very good and the building with its wood paneling very interesting. The house has outstanding views over the lake and at the hills. Parking is free.

Fantastic arts and crafts house. Well worth seeing. Book a ticket in advance and make sure you get a tour. The guides are excellent.

Fantastic visit to Blackwell House last week. What a gem of a property this is with so much character and charm. The Arts & Crafts architecture was fabulous - awe inspiring! We also had lunch in the cafe which was very good. The staff on entering were super friendly and helpful too. Fab afternoon out would strongly recommend a visit.

Great place for Kayaking. Parking at Monk Coniston carpark you are very close to the water with plenty of launching spots and very little boat traffic

It's a lovely place. We had booked on the steam gondola, but parked in the new pay & display carpark next to the museum, and walked down to the pier. Afterwards, we walked from the car up to the old copper mine, which was amazing, but be prepared for a steep walk!

What a beautiful body of water Coniston Water is! We hiked around part of it after heavy rain and its levels were rising but that didn’t stop us. This place has incredible views of neighbouring hills. Watching the boats motoring up and down is so relaxing! The history of what happened here is incredible! Can’t recommend visiting highly enough!!!

One of the Lake Districts more popular lakes especially in the summer. At the time of writing this one of the footpaths has had a landslide by Torver so quite a difficult walk in inclement weather. The lake is beautiful in all weathers perfect for walkers and families.

Lovely place. Managed to camp right next to the lake.

One of The Lake District's real gems, and such a beautiful, peaceful place with the world famous Coniston Water lake history of Donald Campbell and Bluebird. I arrived quite early on in the morning for a quiet / reflective visit and enjoyed the calming effect of Coniston Water and the surrounding scenery. A really great place! :)

Beautiful Coniston Lake, with it's beautiful clear, cool water. Lots of history to this lake and we'll worth visiting. Parking can be a bit of a nightmare and if you park where you shouldn't you will get a ticket, so be warned. Best getting there early for a good spec and spending a summers day there.

Very pretty little viewing platform, with information boards depicting history on how the Georgians started to travel to the lake District to appreciate it's beauty and the structures they built. Nowadays the structure has deteriorated but the National Trust have allowed access with walkways so you can enjoy the same views. The stained glass windows are very pretty touch and the old window ledges downstairs provide some very scenic seating. The cafe makes very nice smoothies, with a selection of cakes and ice creams I believe with seating outside. The walk up is relatively short, a bit uneven (tree roots and rocks) and not very wheelchair accessible.

Little effort for massive reward! This is a beautiful spot with insane views! The walk is relatively easy - one option to come up a set of stairs, the other up via in incline through the courtyard. We were lucky enough to visit on a sunny, clear day so really did get the best of it! To get up to the actual viewing point you do have to climb up the stairs, however there are still excellent views without going up. Highly recommend a visit!

Great place to get some awesome pictures of lake windermere. Sadly we went when it was pouring rain, although it was still lovely and atmospheric, the views weren't as good as the could have been. Worth a visit even in the rain though. It's a very short walk from the national trust car park (and you don't have to walk along the narrow road) you take a forest road. Go up the steps to the viewing station or carry on the path to the cafe for some coffee and cake.

A jaw dropping view from this Windermere Claife. Very peaceful and calm. One of the best location to take photos from here. A hidden gem on the shores of Lake Windermere. The viewing station offers stunning panoramic views across the lake, especially through the coloured glass panels which make it a unique experience. It’s free to visit, with clear paths and plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the scenery. The short walk up is easy and very rewarding, and there’s a lovely café nearby for a break afterwards. Peaceful, scenic, and a perfect stop if you’re exploring the western side of Windermere.

Highly recommend visiting if you are coming to the Lake District. You can take the car ferry from the Bowness side, then it’s roughly a 10 minute walk from where this drops you off. It’s a short walk up to the top, and the view from the viewpoint is incredible for all 3 angles. Lovely cafe at the bottom too.

Great little walk from the car park to the viewing platform. If yku approach from the other side there's a wonderful little coffee shop with hot snacks and cakes .

A beautiful spot to stop and have a walk around. It is an open site so free to visit. The car park can get very busy though

Highly recommend! We hired an electric boat for an hour and it was such a lovely experience. The views were stunning, the water was clean, and the staff were really friendly. Before setting off, they gave us a quick guide on how to control the boat, and then we were free to explore on our own. The boat speed was average, but honestly, I didn’t mind — it was my first time and the scenery made it unforgettable. A really great experience overall!

We hired a little boat for an hour and we had an amazing time. We just took a steady ride up the lake. The views and scenery are just breathtaking. The weather was a little cloudy but was still well worth the trip. Would highly recommend it. A truly stunning location. You can just enjoy the view, walk around the lake or hire a boat,.like we did, and venture out on the water. There's a nice cafe there too, there's a lot on offer here,.and the ice cream was lovely too 😋

Beautiful location right on the shores of Coniston. Perfect for catching a boat trip or hiring a private boat/kayak. Carpark with large spaces. Free to use toilets.

Great place with lots of options for renting rowing boats, electric boats, canoes, kayaks, paddle boards etc, providing you are not on a pension and can afford it

Superb! We wanted to have a little trip around Coniston water so decided to hire a boat for an hour, loved that we could take the dogs on with us too. Staff were all very attentive and helpful, boat was in decent condition and very easy to use. Reasonably priced considering it was high season. Car park closest to the water is very expensive and gets full extremely quickly so plan ahead. Only slight downside was our boat seemed to be quite slow compared to others and when we got back to the jetty and told the staff they implied it may not have been fully charged. This was a little disappointing as we couldn’t get as far around the lake as we should have been able to. This is the only reason I can’t give 5*

Such beautiful views of the lake and hills. With a range of things to do. Will definitely be coming back.

Amazing day out !!!! Take your own paddleboard, kayak and away you go

Amazing experience! Our wonderful guide Ruth was so knowledgeable and passionate about all things Alpaca. Such lovely animals, would highly recommend this to anyone visiting the area.

Had an amazing time today with the alpacas. The trip was a Christmas present. We should have been in a mixed group but due to the horrible weather there was just us. Terry was such a great guide really friendly & so knowledgeable about the alpacas we learnt lots of new facts about them. He clearly throroughly enjoys what he does. Wellies were definitely needed today. Thanks so much for a great time we will definitely be back.

The Meet and Greet experience at Base Camp North Lakes was fantastic. We got to spend plenty of time feeding the alpacas, whom are very well looked after. Parking is free at this location and there are toilet facilities available.

Friendly staff, and friendly alpacas and llamas! We turned up and they were able to accommodate us for feeding experience. However, recommend to book ahead.

Excellent experience, booked on a group walk but as the only 2 who booked, we got a private walk with our alpacas. Meant we could take our time and enjoy the scenery. Our guide was very helpful and made our time a good one. Has been on the list for a while, and what a great experience to be able to do it. Brilliant! Prior booking only, free parking and a fun time

Great experience , all totally enjoyed ourselves. 100% recommend ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The meet and greet with Alpacas was memorable. The weather was chilly so we were brought to their barn where we fed them and snapped a few photos with them while the guide was sharing knowledge about alpacas and how they take care of them. Free parking too at the place along with a breakfast cafe.

Beautiful place had a walk in the hillside the views from any of the surrounding Fell are absolutely breathtaking. I would definitely recommend Buttermere for Fell walkers and anybody else for that matter just a very beautiful place.

Buttermere was our first stop on a trip to the Lakes, and it certainly set our expectations high for the trip. We did the 2hr circular walk around the lake, and I think it might be one of the best walks and locations we have ever done. It's a perfect mix of mountain views, forest covered areas and the beauty of the lake itself. It's easy to follow the route round, and accessible for a variety of walkers as it is a mostly flat walk (no major hill climbs) . Would reccomend stopping here wether it be for a walk or even just to appreciate the scenic views.

Hidden gem 💎 My favourite place in Lake District. You have to drive through some tight roads ut it's worth. If you have a choice then take small car. It will be easier to drive during traffic. Perfect place for family fun. Pack your lunch, dinner, games, kayak, etc and have lot of fun. Try and maintain the peace. It's amazingly quiet here. Parking is free just in front of entrance but you have to park on a roadside and it's very limited.

This has to be one of the most scenic circular walks in the Lake District! Access for us was via Keswick and the Honister Pass which is single track with passing places, and not particularly for the faint hearted. We parked at the farm just prior to Buttermere itself, where day parking is £4.00. From here there is easy access down to the walk which is well signposted. The walk can be done either way around, but we did it so the first part was on the opposite shore to the road that runs parallel with the lake. For the most part the walk is flat on well trodden and well maintained paths. Given the rain in previous weeks, whilst it was a little muddy in places, nowhere was it really bad. The views around the valley are amazing in clear skies and we had fantastic weather so no complaints. The route to the village centre at Buttermere is around 3 miles, with a good cafe in the centre with a decent menu and service at reasonable prices. There is a pub (or two I think) but I can't speak on these. Rejoining the circular path the route runs very close to the lake, although on this side the path is a bit more up and down, and slightly more strenuous with many tree roots and rocks on the path, so good footwear is advisable. We found that the walk was closed around three quarters of the way round due to a rockfall, but no-one seemed to be taking any notice of the signage and warning tape, so the risk is on you as to whether you keep going (as we did) or turn back!! Eventually the path rejoins the road around 500mtr from the farm car park (where during the summer there is an ice cream van stationed (at weekends at least). Care is required on the road as there is practically no verge to walk on. In all the walk is around 5 miles (it does say it is 4.5m in most of the guides, but I think this is a slight underestimate given my step count!! Anyway, it is well worth doing this walk, and if you don't fancy the return back through the Honister Pass, there is an option to drive past Buttermere and Crummock Water, and take the Whinlatter Pass back to Keswick and tne A66.

Absolutely stunning to walk around this beautiful lake. Incredibly still water, many different species of trees and lots of wildlife. Plenty of places to park nearby. Would definitely recommend a visit.

Beautiful hiking place. However, it is not for beginners. You can enjoy hiking until Bleaberry Tarn, but above that, all the best. It is very steep climbing towards Red Pike and getting down from High Stile as it is not an easy route. Due to safety reasons, we didn't take a photo as we were climbing up and down right on the edge of the hill, and it was windy. We only took photos when we felt safe.

Absolutely gorgeous hike, super easy trail to follow to get up to the peaks and I had so much fun, so many sheep to look at on the way up and some gorgeous views the entire time no matter how high you were. Definitely a good workout, will be going back again