The 50 best places to base yourself in Lake District

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

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 ..

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

We came as part of a group tour, overall enjoyed the stay. Our part of the lodge was quiet, I know some others in our group has so noisey neighbors. The staff were always nice at the restaurant, we had some great meals there. We liked their breakfast buffet. Room was comfortable, we appreciated the fan provided since it was extra warm during our stay.

Place is a rip off and I would not recommend to anyone. Lots of hidden extras and CGI photos to make everything look more luxury than what it is. Spa is £85 extra per person (no - this doesn't include any treatments) and this is on top of steep prices per night for dated rooms. If you want just a pool, please note you have free access in the leisure centre, just be prepared to share this with the local community but very crowded during the holidays so essentially not usable. We were staying in a room with poor natural light which felt like we were in a basement (it's on the ground floor and half of the view is a wall! It's also a pathway so you can't leave the blinds open much for privacy. This picture really doesn't give the poor light justice), I'd love to know who thought this was an acceptable room to offer anyone, or even someone on such a special milestone. To get something with even a view of a car park it's £10 extra (yes we ended up upgrading for better natural light at least). For even my 30th they wanted an extra £18 for chocolates - not even a small treat they'd give which is pretty standard in places charging this price per night. Worst experience I'm still having to endure and I feel horrible for my partner who drove so far thinking the experience would've been the best we've experienced in 10 years together. I won't break his heart - but instead write this review to warn others - lower your expectations and come with disposable income you can afford to lose and you'll be ok. Highlights - breakfast was nice, and dinner waiter Catyln (I believe her name resembled) also very nice.

Disappointing Experience Despite High Expectations I had dinner at The Stove Restaurant and Bar, and unfortunately, the evening fell well below expectations. The booking process started off promisingly with friendly customer service when entering the restaurant to book a table, and we managed to secure a table for 20:45, knowing the kitchen closed at 21:30. We arrived early and decided to enjoy cocktails at the bar beforehand. However, we sat for around 20 minutes without even an acknowledgment from staff before being served. When our cocktails finally arrived, we were shown to our table — but no water was offered, the menu wasn’t explained, and when we asked about specials, our waitress didn’t know. When my partner tried to order a starter, the waitress came back three separate times to inform us each dish we picked was unavailable. Once we eventually placed our order, the food arrived quickly. Unfortunately, the chicken and waffle starter was extremely greasy and lacked flavour. A new staff member — who was very polite and eager to help — did his best to assist and provided extra olive oil for our roasted pepper snack, which we appreciated. For mains, the sides were cold. At that point, I was so disappointed that I didn’t even feel it was worth raising the issue and just wanted to finish the meal and leave. I understand we had a later booking towards the end of service, but given the premium cost of the accommodation and the reputation of the resort, the service and food quality were far below what should be offered. Sadly, this experience has left me reluctant to return.

This is a review of the luxury brimstone spa. Our experience was overpriced and wholly disappointing. The staff barely spoke to us, ignored questions we asked and at no stage offered us a drink. Dirty glasses were left by the pool. The hot tub is cold and the changing rooms lack any products like body moisturiser and there is no where to dry your costume. I will not return.

We stayed in a basic room so only 3 stars but there are much nicer rooms available but of course you pay more. Breakfast was very good in a nice setting outside as was a beautiful morning. Water wheel is very impressive. I'd say it's worth a stay there. Lakes are fantastic!

Lovely hotel and fantastic Spa services. The Spa facilities included a wide range of novel experiences, such as himalayan salt steam room and herbal sauna. The massage services were professional, and the experience was overall great. Would definitely recommend!

A truly fabulous location and clean well ordered hotel with pleasant rooms. It's hard to justify the prices charged however and some may consider the value for money aspect and feel that the glorious location is not the only thing they wish to pay a premium price to enjoy?

A lovely walk up through woodland near Coniston gets you to the picturesque Tarn Hows. Allow about 40 mins to enjoy the circular walk around it. The circular walk around it. It's approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) northeast of Coniston and about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) northwest of Hawkshead.

According to the road map the site can be accessed by any number of routes which is a big plus. Research the best one given your location. It’s close to four Lake District towns, Coniston, Hawkshead, Windermere and Ambleside. Downsides. 1. Narrow country roads. The drivers side wing mirror on my dad’s new Kia Sportage was damaged in a hit with a lorry. Be on your guard for anyone approaching the other way. 2. The way in is not easy to spot. See a sign for “Summer Hill Country House” and you are there. 3. You exit the carpark turning left. It’s one way in and one way out. We reached the B5285. A sign for Coniston is right and Tarn Hows/Hawkshead is left nearby is a No Entry sign. That is how I understood it was a one way system. The SatNav told us to turn left. The junction is incredibly steep indeed. So steep one of dad’s wheels was off the ground completely. We had to get help from drivers passing by to hep us out of the situation. We were advised to turn right towards Coniston and get turned around. Upsides. This is why I give it 3 stars. The carpark is a decent size. it’s impossible to develop it so it is what it is. Not many picnic tables. But there’s a cafe. The paths are well maintained, flat, and it affords stunning scenery every few yards. Even the novice walker would find it easy. It doesn’t take long to get around the full course. Beautiful place and is a must for cameras.

Nice easy walk around the lake, puppy loved it. Beautiful views, then 10 minutes down the road is ambleside, beautiful views from the youth hostel and reasonable prices with free parking, or there’s pay parking across the road. 5 minutes away is windermere, all so close together, wonderful day out.

One of thee best NT walking places we have ever visited . It’s totally accessible to all , if you have a powered wheelchair or scooter it. Will do the lakeside route. Good carpark and toilet facilities.

Great place for a walk around the tarn.

Great National trust site. Great walk for all abilities. Good few different walks and paths. Beautiful views from all around. Parking can get busy. £5 for up to 2 hours. No card payment on machine but cab pay by card online. For ppl needing to hire a motorised scooter that's available aswell. Would recommend to anyone for some good clean fresh air.

So beautiful. Don't be put off that it's artificial... I went hunting for a few tarns and was left underwhelmed. This place is stunning. You're not allowed to swim in there, however, did find a little spot to have a quick dip in. The water is so clear. It's not a challenging walk around, great on a sunny day.

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!

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.

I love wast water (been visiting it since I was a child) because it’s generally a lot less busy than the other lakes my parents didn’t do crowds. And due to it being less flooded with tourists I think you are better able to fully embrace the unique natural serenity and beauty of Lake District. However it can seem to hang on to the clouds and gloom when the weather isn’t great and can be a touch oppressive.

Absolutely amazing views. Luckily the weather was very hot too and very clear views no matter which part of the lake we were at.

Breath taking place! Wild and beautiful! Not many travelers, just enjoy the pure nature and relaxing!

Stunning! Can get quite busy, but worth a visit for sure. Not far from walks up and near Scafell Pike, so definitely worth a stop off for a cuppa with a view. A bit further along the road is the main carpark for Scafell Pike walkers, free for National Trust members.

Amazing glacial lake, shrouded in low lying clouds on the morning we visited.ideal kayaking spot.

Around this area Wast Water roads are pretty good. A little suitable parking on the road over looking the Scree Slopes. Spoilt a little by some drivers parking length way's instead of facing the lake. Beautiful view up the lake with hills and Scarfell.

Arrive early, sunrise if possible, to see this place in all of its wild but tranquil beauty.

Stunning drive to get there. Beautiful walk with amazing views. Parking fills up quickly though.

We passed on our way back from somewhere and were drawn to park up and enjoy the stunning views. Lots of little lay-by parking areas and paths to walk to the lake side which is pebbled. Perfect place for a quick dip or some water sports such as paddleboarding or kayaking. We had a lovely swim but for comfort I'd highly recommend wearing watershoes as walking into the water on the stones isn't the most comfortable thing 😉 Seeing the sailboats from the sailing club on the lakes was amazing.

Stunning, picturesque and beautiful view! All year around amazing. Many places to stop by car and just chill and see... The A66 runs directly by the lake. Easy to ride around by bicycle too.

Off season Bassenthwaite Lake was lovely as it was a lot quieter so easier to find a place to park and a place to put you picnic blanket down if you wished. Blessed with the sun there were some nice little walks to explore away from the lake, great fun for the dogs but ultimately we went to swim and enjoy the views.

A beautiful place in all seasons. I do love a frosty clear winter morning here and could resist stopping off on my way back home after visiting family.

Spent an afternoon kayaking on the lake. Parked in designated spot. Short amble to the lake with easy access to the water. Water was quite mild. Lots of little fish darting between my legs in the crystal clear water. Much warmer than Wastwater lake. Great fun and recommended.

One of the best spot in the Lake District area. Surrounded by nature and nature only. It is great for Photo Spot with all those lush greens and a beautiful lake. On the other side of the road near the car park lies an old cottage with those wonderful lamb and sheep with an old tree it serves as a picturesque. A place must for a stop when you around Lake District.

Lovely water. We parked in a small, free carpark to walk up Rannderdale Knotts. The view from above was absolutely stunning over Crummock Water.

Absolutely stunning. A mixture of beautiful water views and fairytale forest. I leave about 4 hrs to walk around the whole lake. You can also stop in buttermere for something to eat.

Our second family walk around this beautiful lake. It really is a great day out. The National Trust car park makes a great starting point. Especially as this makes the pub the perfect halfway point! The path is easy to follow and the walk isn't too challenging.

Crummock Water is an absolutely stunning and peaceful spot in the Lake District—perfect if you're looking to escape the crowds. Surrounded by dramatic fells like Grasmoor and Mellbreak, the views are breathtaking and the atmosphere is incredibly tranquil. There are some lovely walks around the lake, and the area is ideal for wild swimming, picnics, or just soaking in the scenery. Highly recommend if you want a quiet, natural experience in one of the most beautiful parts of the Lakes.

By far one of the most beautiful lakes in the whole lake district, and its also really close to Buttermere so you can easily visit both lakes in the same day. The sun sets behind the fells and it's so beautiful. We went on a rainy day and was still such a stunning place, its one of my favourites.

Had a wonderful walk here, absolutely stunning location and very peaceful when we went. Car park is national trust so free for members. The lake is wonderful and so calm and still. Views are breathtaking

A beautiful lake, pastoral, relaxing, and romantic. There are also many easy or difficult hiking trails that are highly recommended.

The road to this viewpoint is narrow but absolutely beautiful, lined with trees and ferns, and even featuring a charming little stone bridge. The drive itself is wonderfully scenic. Parking is available at the top, making access easy. We arrived around 6 p.m., and the lighting at that hour was simply stunning. If you enjoy hiking, I highly recommend it. While the viewpoint offers a lovely perspective, hiking allows you to experience the landscape from multiple angles and fully appreciate its beauty.

Surprise View: A view that lives up to its name! From the top, you are greeted with a sweeping panoramic view over the full expanse of Derwentwater. The road is very narrow but has passing places. We were glad for the small National Trust car park right at the top, making it easy to hop out and take in the view. This is a must-do for anyone in the area, whether you're a serious hiker or just want to enjoy one of the Lake District's best viewpoints without a demanding trek. Don't miss this spot if you're in the Keswick area. The name 'Surprise View' is perfectly fitting, and it offers one of the most rewarding views for minimal effort.

No problem parking and the disabled bays were all empty. Lovely for me to be able to get up and see a view when I was poorly and not able to walk far after brain surgery. I'll be walking next time and hopefully carry on to Bouder stone and Castle cragg, I heard there was a cafe too but it might not be open now.

Great place to get a panoramic photo of the lake. There is a small parking spot opposite the edge so you can stop there. There were also some people setting up some camping bits on a little hill so I suppose you can stay there if you want. There is a tour bus that takes you around the main locations in Lake District, the tour includes this Surprise View as well.

Fantastic drive up and the view is stunning. The only downside is The national trust seem to think they own the Lake District with their £5.50 parking charges for 2 hours, more if you want to stay longer, they do this everywhere😱but hey if your a regular hiker or photographer it would be worth the annual join, for everyone else pure rip off. Just factor parking charges in to your holiday budget and you will be fine.

Superb view over Derwent Water well worth the trip. Accessible via small narrow road (with passing places) close to Ashness Bridge. Car Park opposite.

An awesome and unbelievably stunning spot to view the Derwent river & Derwentwater lake and the surrounding hills from peak top. There are quite few parking options, which you can avail by paying using credit/ debit card or pay by phone app. You can also see the Ashness Bridge. If you keep driving forward on this road for another 1 or 2 miles you can also see cow farms and pastures.

Another Place in the Lake District was honestly unreal — one of those rare spots that hits the sweet spot between cozy and breathtaking. The views of Ullswater from the hotel were absolutely stunning, especially in the mornings when the light hits the lake just right. Aayushi, served up one of the best meals we’ve had in a while — thoughtful, warm, and full of flavour. Lily, who managed our stay at the brackenrig pub made us feel instantly welcome with her easy charm and genuine care. She was amazing! And Richard, who works at the Sheep Shed (the hub for all the outdoor activities), was incredibly helpful — got us set up for kayaking, wild lake swims, and more! Between the adventure outside, the warm pub inside, some intense beer-fueled game nights, and the quiet corners of the library, it was the perfect escape for our family. Can’t recommend it enough.

Beautiful hotel set in amazing grounds on Ullswater, location is great. Modern yet tasteful decor with a nod to the building's heritage. Clean and tidy everywhere to a very high standard. Food in all restaurants (including the brackenrigg inn) was excellent. Amenities, including the pool, were great (if a tad cold). Very family friendly in set up and approach. Reasonable value for money given the quality. All in all an excellent hotel... Except, the service was very odd, at check in they gave us a key and that was that, no welcome, no explanation of when and where breakfast was, what the amenities were etc. Half the staff appeared to be new and weren't sure what to do, the other half were comedically aloof. Lots of waiting, confused orders, missed orders, mainly just slow. In the main restaurant, it seemed the chefs agreed with us as they kept shouting "service" with steadily more exasperation creeping into their voices with every echo, eventually one of a gaggle of conversing waitresses would condescend to wait. It kept us entertained at least. In all seriousness, when it comes to service, informal is good, professional is better. In short, great hotel for Instagram, not so much for real life.

We had an amazing stay at Another Place, beautiful setting, delicious food, and such a restful atmosphere. But what really stood out was the genuine care from the team. A few days after we got home, I realised I had left behind my hair straightener and a few personal items. Not only did they find them straight away, but they’ve sent everything back first class the next day. That kind of service goes beyond expectation, and I’m really grateful. Thank you so much you made a great stay even more memorable.

Staff forgot to take our order. They were not that bothered. Waited 20 minutes to order 3 drinks. Went to the reception desk and disturbed the staffs conversation. Got filthy look from the female member. this was obviously more important than the guests. Cups were chipped. We live locally and we will not be coming back.

Popped in here after using the lake side sauna - what a beautiful hotel and location. I stayed for a coffee in their bar lounge - lovely coffee and staff. Will definitely be back. So many facilities on site , fabulous family/solo/couple Lake District base

A magical place by the lake – truly exceptional stay! Staying at Another Place, The Lake was one of the most beautiful travel experiences we could have wished for. This place has something truly special – from the very first moments, you feel a sense of peace, harmony with nature, and incredible attention to detail. The location is an absolute gem – right on the shores of Ullswater, with breathtaking views. Morning walks along the lake, sunsets over the hills, and the sound of the trees create an unforgettable atmosphere. The rooms are stylishly decorated, spacious, and extremely comfortable. Large windows let you soak in the surrounding nature even while indoors, and the beds are so cozy it’s hard to get out of them! The staff were outstanding – professional, warm, and genuinely caring. It’s clear that everyone working here enjoys what they do and truly cares about the guests. A special mention must go to the food – absolutely delicious! Fresh ingredients, local products, and creative flavor combinations made every meal feel like a small feast. Breakfast with a view of the lake is something I will remember for a long time. The spa area and the pool with panoramic views – simply a dream! Relaxing in warm water while looking out over the hills and the lake is pure bliss. Everything is tastefully designed and focused on guest comfort. Until now, my favorite hotel in the world was The Upper House in Hong Kong – an outstanding place in many ways. But from now on, Another Place, The Lake takes the number one spot on my personal list. This is not just a hotel – it’s an experience that stays with you. In summary – Another Place, The Lake is a place you’ll want to return to. Perfect for a romantic escape, a family holiday, or simply a break from the noise of everyday life. Thank you for an unforgettable stay!

We stayed here for 2 nights immediately after our wedding on the head for the fells package. Lovely complex/grounds - Want to give a massive shout out to Izzy & Niall who just went absolutely above and beyond and were way more helpful than they needed to be, whatever they are paid it isn’t enough. We hope to come back one day we hope they are there if we ever do! My steak was tough on the first nights meal at the living space however staff then cooked it more for me I think it was just the cut of meat. The pub which the hotel owns was absolutely brilliant. P.S - For whatever reason this hotel seems to stock unlimited complimentary tunnocks teacakes which made us laugh! - Jacob(Jake) & Em.

Really enjoyed this experience; two experiences really because you get a different feeling at the engine back end; the chugging the working of the engine, the fire being stoked: to the prow front end where you can quietly contemplate the views gliding past. Welcoming crew and informed and interesting commentary. A really beautiful piece of restored engineering. Highly recommend. Be aware no loos on board .. for those of us "of a certain age" either reckon that into your journey length of go beforehand in the cafe at the lakeside.

What a wonderful experience aboard such a beautiful boat. The Gondola was so well kept and looked after by the crew and volunteers. A special mention to Tony on his first day back volunteering after a break, who was especially kind to me.

I would highly recommend this. The crew were all lovely and made the trip enjoyable. It was great. 10 out of 10 and I would definitely do it again

Another national trust gem. Relaxing and informative cruise on a unique steam powered boat. You can move about, look at the engine working and talk to the Captain. There is a commentary by the purser where you will learn things of local significance, more than just the Donald Campbell story. No toilet on board but they are available near the car park. Consider parking in the village and walking their dogs 15min to the dock if you can.

Stem Yaught Gondola (National Trust members get a 10% discount. Queue up on the jetty 10 minutes prior to departure. There's a café on the shoreline. Parking expensive and paid by an app. I parked at the tourist information office (£6.50 for 4 hours) then it's a 20 minute walk down Lake Road to the jetty at the boatyard. Excellent 1st class saloon (dogs allowed in the aft saloon (no carpet to get messy). Full lake tour takes 1 hour 40 minutes and takes in all the sights with occasional commentary from a crew member.

An excellent way to admire the beautiful scenery. It’s a beautiful boat, in amazing condition. It glides across the water almost silently. The commentary was entertaining and informative - I’ve been visiting the Lakes all my life and still learned a lot.

Lovely trip around Coniston with just the right amount of commentary on a lovely restored steam boat. Sits low in the water to give a great peaceful perspective.

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

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.

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.

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!

Too wet today for cruising from this lovely village of Glenridding on Ullswater. I guess we had summer for 3 weeks in May. The riverside village is picturesque with loads of amenities and the steamer pier is minutes walk away . A long way from Scotland to come back another day. Weather...😡 The curse of the British Isles.

Visited with my wife whilst on holiday. We boarded at Pooley Bridge with return tickets to Glenridding. There is no car park at the pier, but Pooley Bridge had 2 public car parks we saw whilst there. A short walk from car to pier should take no more than 5/10 minutes max. The lady who sold our tickets helpfully included a timetable and highlighted the relevant times for connections & final sailings. The water crossing itself was seamless. The view across Ullswater are stunning with great hills rising up on each side. Boarding & alighting were simple affairs. There was a decent amount of spacd on both ships we rode on and led to an enjoyable day out.

A lovely experience. We had a little mishap with the tickets and the crew was very helpful in sorting things out. The cruise itself is fabulous and the pricing was reasonable. The scenery is as great as you would expected from Ullswater. The boat was in great condition and the captain has great humour which I’ll be honest, brighten up the mood even with the slightly gloomy weather. The crews were also very friendly and helpful as well.

Simply delightful adventure on a period small ship between a number of points around the lake, picking up and dropping off passengers as you go! Friendly crew, ship in excellent condition. You can buy drinks on board and toilets are available. Excellent use of your time in the area imo.

A wonderful way to see Ullswater. We did a return from Glenridding to Pooley Bridge and got lucky with sunny weather in one direction at least. Also got to see some great low altitude fighter jet fly-bys over the lake. The boats are very pretty and well equipped, including toilets, a bar, and good amount of seating inside and outside. They have their own car park right by the boats (£6 for 3 hours) and electric car owners there are two 22kw chargers which were easy to use and reliable.

Ullswater is a fantastic lake for all kinds of water sports. Near the booking center for a ferry there are toilets and a cafe you can buy refreshments. You can park really close in case you need to access the water for your boat. The parking fee varies from 3 or 5 or 12 hours stay. I stayed 12 hours and paid £12 contactless. There is the possibility to pay with coins, or you could go into the cafe and get help with paying your ticket. The water is very clear, and it slopes downwards gradually, which is great for little children wanting to learn to swim or using their little paddle boats. Halfway to the lake, there is a place to cliff jump on your own risk, though. Lots of trees for the older generation to sit in the shade when you go as a whole family for a day out. To get the best parking spot, you need to be there as early as possible, of course.

Lovely boat trip with friendly crew on the Lake Districts most beautiful lake In my opinion). Wrap up warm in October, the best views are obviously on deck. The bar serves the basic hot and cold drinks and snacks at good value for money prices. The only small downside was it's quite expensive at £24 per adult RTN. But, it is over 2 hours on the water.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

Whinlatter is an amazing place for the whole family! The serene atmosphere is perfect for a calming and relaxing walk. There are scenic routes for all abilities, from beginner routes for children to slightly more challenging routes for the more experience hikers. Highly recommend

Great walks with amazing views. Stopped off at the lookout , had a lovely chat with a ranger there. Beautiful wildlife and managed to watch some gorgeous Red Squirrels. Made my holiday .

Rented a mountain bike at the cycle centre. Great staff set me up with a cracking bike. They recommend the south red route to start. Great trail, a mixture of tails and forest tracks. Challenging and enjoyable. Then the red route north, again great trail. A bit of a drag up to the top, the descent now than made up for it! In and out for the forest drops and flowing down the hill. The blue route, faster and not so technical. Still great fun. Defo worth a visit and a few hours on the trails.

Whinlatter Forest is an incredible destination for anyone who loves the outdoors. The mountain bike trails are some of the best in the UK, with routes to suit all levels of experience — from smooth, scenic tracks to thrilling downhill runs that test your skills. Hikers will also find plenty to enjoy, with well-marked paths weaving through lush woodland and offering stunning views across the Lake District. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. Beyond the trails, Whinlatter offers a real sense of peace and adventure. There are plenty of camping spots that make it easy to turn a day trip into a full off-grid experience, surrounded by the sights and sounds of wildlife. Deer, birds, and red squirrels are often seen in the forest, adding to the magic of being so close to nature. Whether you’re cycling, hiking, or just relaxing under the trees, Whinlatter Forest is a brilliant escape from the modern world.

Very clean and well looked after. The Gruffalo trail took around 1 hour with a toddler walking. Only feedback is to make it clearer on the map where this trail begins from the carpark and entrance. We had to ask someone who said to go through the building past the toilets and to the other side we’ll see a sign, map didn’t show this route at the main entrance. Great shop here and the cafe was nice too

Something for everyone here! Play area, go ape, segways, wildlife, bike tracks and some nice walks. Every route is well signposted. Only thing that let it down was overpriced drinks (£4.30 for a latte!) And the astronomical eye-watering car park charge was outrageous!

A wonderful Forestry England venue set in The Lake District just a few miles up mountain from Keswick. It's family-friendly and accessibility friendly. There's are paths and trails for walking, hiking, cycling, mountain biking, and horse riding. All abilities are catered for, including a children's Gruffalo Trail. You can arrange separately to walk Alpacas, hire bicycles, and visit Go Ape. There's also a Forest School onsite at the Yurt. There's ample chargeable parking, a shop, cafe, toilets including baby changing and accessible facilities. You can also hire a tramper if you require an all terrain mobility scooter. The main car park and toilets are open 8.30am to 8.30pm. Monday-Sunday onsite opening: Visitor Centre and Forest Shop 10am - 5pm Bike Hire 10am - 5pm Cafe 9.30am - 5pm They do not allow camping or overnight stays in the forest or any of the car parks in Whinlatter Forest. https://www.forestryengland.uk/whinlatter

Holker Hall is an absolute delight to visit. The house itself is stunning — full of character, history, and charm — but it never feels stuffy or overly formal. You get a real sense that it’s still lived in and loved, which makes exploring it even more special. The rooms are beautifully kept, with lovely guides who are happy to share stories and little details about the family and the estate. It’s not just about grandeur — it’s warm, welcoming, and genuinely interesting. And the gardens… they’re just gorgeous. Whether you’re into flowers, trees, or just want a peaceful walk, the grounds are beautifully designed and immaculately maintained. It’s the kind of place where you want to take your time, breathe in the fresh air, and just enjoy the surroundings. The café and shop are also great — delicious food, friendly service, and a nice place to relax after wandering the estate. All in all, Holker Hall is a gem. Whether you're into history, gardens, or just looking for a lovely spot to spend the day, it's well worth a visit. I’d go back in a heartbeat.

Such a beautiful place! My dogs and I enjoyed our walk around the stunning gardens and parkland. So many different types of plants and trees to see and a beautiful fountain too. You get a handy map on arrival so we walked around and got to see everything. The place has a lovely relaxing atmosphere. I thought it was great value for £11.50, I will visit again with my dogs on my next trip to the lake district :)

Lovely food and you can enter the restaurant for free with free parking. Well worth popping in as you pass. House is decent with some history. Gardens are lovely and well worth the money, especially on a nice day. They have plants and trees which I've never seen before.

A beautiful place to spend the day. Everything here has been done to a high standard like the lovely toilets and fab cafe. A free talk was given in the Hall then we were left to wander. The garden was beautiful too and all the staff were friendly and helpful.

Fantastic ! well kept house and beautiful gardens. Knowledgeable and friendly staff. Easy to spend a few hours exploring here. Cafe, toilets, and gift shop are accessible without having to access the gardens and house (chargeable)

Tucked away, but not far from the main road. Beautiful gardens, relaxed and quiet. Interesting house - no guide book so ask the guides for details, they are knowledgeable. Cafe/restaurant food delicious & cooked fresh so it doesn't take a little while. We will return in the autumn..

Lovely well maintained gardens and grounds with lots of flowers and ornaments to view. Pathways are wheelchair friendly with some grassy routes and other hard ground small pebbles wheelchair front castors friendly some steep slopes, so be weary. Only viewed the gardens as the Hall has steps. There is plenty of free parking and there is a gift shop and cafe.

I can't recommend this enough! Just such an amazing experience. The Range of the cruises on offer is incredible. The staff are so informative and helpful, the facilities are plentiful, every boat has a bar or coffee shop. Who wouldn't say no to a mini booze cruise? The journey on the boat is once in a lifetime experience. I would highly recommend this experience for anyone visiting the lake district.

It’s a must-do activity. It offers a very pleasant cruise through the lake with stunning views. We took the Red Route return and it was great. The boats are on time, dog friendly, and the commentary tells the history of the place, although it would have been better if we could hear more stories.

My friends & I had such a pleasant day trip to the Lakes! Ambleside pier was our last stop and it was stunning! We went on a Monday so we managed to escape from the bustling crowds, very peaceful. Bought the 1 day hop on hop off bus ticket (£10 each but £25 for a group of 4), which was definitely worth it considering we managed to cover many villages and towns all within a day.

Lovely tour around the lake on the Green Cruise. The staff gave us an introduction of the lake and the tourist attractions. It was raining heavily in the morning so we had to stay indoors of the cruise. We visited the Wray Castle but couldn't go in there asit is being refurbished. only able to walk around the grounds. It was sunny in the afternoon so we sat on the top floor of the cruise, the staff is nice enough to wipe the seats dry for us and helped us take pictures!

Even if you don't take cruises it's a lovely place to spend some time, have an ice-cream or just sit and look at the lake.

Oh my, sailing in MV Teal was such a brilliant experience. Very welcoming staff, interesting commentary along the cruise, breathtaking views and absolutely delightful to be sailing on this elegant 89 years old vessel. Highly recommend this experience.

Had the most wonderful day yesterday thank you! My dog previously refused to get on a boat (the small wooden one) so I didn't try again - until yesterday! I saw your video a few days ago re puppy guide dog training and saw the boat with the flat gang plank and we decided this looked great. I live only 40 mins away so it's been a shame not being able to travel on the boats or leave the dog home. Rebecca from the Ambleside cafe started chatting to me while I was sat outside the ticket office with an ice cream. I explained I was trying to desensitise my anxious dog to the pier area. She said I definitely need to speak to the lovely Andy in the Ticket office! I went over and asked - he chatted about the different boats and recommended The Swift to Bowness For the boat and also the park, cafes, shops, incredible views We went on the boat and what a wonderful experience, the men who let you on and off were so very kind. We had 40 mins of heaven and so relaxing. Arrived in Bowness and it was everything Andy said it would be! We had the best time and came back in the boat a few hrs later. We will be going back again next weekend! Thanks so much

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

Pretty little house over the river. Is right on the roadside so easy and free access ( & right next to the Apple Bakery if you fancy something tasty after your visit )

I fell in love with this town There are so many adventure, beautiful nature, lovely 🥰

Great place to eat under the shade - we bought a slice of pizza from the small shop nearby and sat along the bridge house. Nice place for a quick rest or stop.

Yep... it's indeed a house on a bridge. Great place to sit and eat your apple pie from the ambleside bakery.

Great opportunity for some good photos. Built across some fast flowing water and beautiful buildings surrounding it.

Cute little attraction. An easy stop for pictures as you wonder through the town.

A scenic spot in Ampleside. Only 10 mins drive from Windermere. Good to include in your itinerary if you are visiting Lake District.

Worth the travel and expense. Food was fabulous. They have an excellent alcohol free drink menu as well as an excellent wine list. Our room was lovely. It was well appointed, spacious and warm. This restaurant with rooms is a gem with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, not the 'stuffiness' we have experienced at other michelin star restaurants. There's other excellent restaurants nearby and walks from the door. Well worth a visit. The 'waldorf salad' was a superb flavour bomb.

Wow… we had the most wonderful long lunch here to celebrate a couple of family milestones… from the welcome on entrance to coffee at the end the experience was so good. We had the 4 X course menu and there was so much creativity and local inspiration in the dishes… the wait staff were so knowledgeable and passionate about what they were doing. Thank you for a great afternoon

Beautiful venue for our daughter’s wedding. Every thing was perfect. The staff were excellent, very friendly and nothing was too much trouble. The bedrooms were very spacious and clean. Special thank you to Jess, for making Tracy & Darryl’s wedding perfect, and stress free. xx

The Forest Side will always hold a very special place in our hearts — we got married here last year and it was out of this world, so returning for our anniversary felt like coming home. We stayed again in Rose (my bridal suite), which was so emotional and brought back wonderful memories. The 8-course tasting menu was absolutely incredible — every dish beautifully executed and full of flavour. Paul and the team, along with Michal, looked after us so well again, and Jess and her team made us feel completely relaxed and cared for. The level of service here is warm, genuine, and effortless — they are a true credit to this hotel. This place is now our home from home, and we can’t wait to return every year to relive the memories and create new ones.

We booked a one night stay and 8 course taster menu for my birthday. It honestly exceeded all expectations. I would highly recommend it for a perfect treat. Can't fault it.

The accompanying food descriptions by various members of staff felt insincere, aloof and often incoherent. I would much rather read a written description at my own pace. Charging for water, anywhere, is just a plain awful policy. Whether serving a cocktail or mocktail, the glass should only contain the ingredients, having been shaken with ice to chill. A serving glass filled with crushed ice dilutes the flavours and masks the colours and overall experience. As expected, the food flavours were divine but overall a disappointing lunch.

Had a beautiful lunch at Forest Side staff and service was excellent location and hotel was brilliant, each course explained and wonderfully presented would highly recommend a visit

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.

I recently stayed at The Lodore Falls Hotel and Spa and overall the experience was pleasant. The staff were friendly and helpful, and breakfast offered a wide variety of choices. Dinner was enjoyable too, with both traditional English dishes and some Asian options available. The spa facilities were relaxing and the environment was good. The treatments were fine, though I felt they could have been a bit stronger to be more effective. However, one thing that left me genuinely disappointed was that I had been told there would be a small gift on my birthday, but this was forgotten on the day. It may seem minor, but when something is promised to a guest, not following through can be more disappointing than if nothing had been mentioned at all. Overall, it was a lovely stay with many positives, but I do hope the hotel can pay more attention to keeping their promises to guests in the future.

What an amazing place this is. The location is fantastic with the falls and the stunning surrounding area. It was only a 1 night stay but everything was excellent. The room was in the annexe building and was perfect, with plenty of room and even a dining table in it. A proper walk in dressing room with gowns, slippers and a fridge with drinks. We used the spa, but didn't have the time to use all the facilities. However, early evening outside in the heated pool was a great experience. In the evening we ate in the Mizu restaurant which was very good, the staff were attentive and we had great service. All the staff we came into contact with were really good.

I’m not usually one for writing reviews, but I felt this stay deserved one. Our visit to Lodore Falls very nearly didn’t happen – when I first called to book meals and spa reservations, the staff member I spoke to came across quite abruptly, and I was honestly close to cancelling the whole trip. We all have bad days though, and thankfully I decided to try again. The second time I rang, I spoke with Jess in the spa, and she completely turned things around. From the moment she answered the phone she was warm, professional, and genuinely helpful. She not only put my mind at ease but has been brilliant in every interaction since – Jess really saved the day. On arrival, we were greeted by Jodie on reception, who was just as impressive. She was polite, engaging, and made check-in a pleasure rather than a chore. That kind of welcome makes such a difference and set the tone for the rest of our stay. The hotel itself is in a stunning setting, and once we got settled in, we were able to really relax and enjoy everything Lodore Falls has to offer. What could have been a disappointing start turned into a fantastic experience thanks to the kindness and professionalism of Jess and Jodie.

Beautiful Hotel, but Breakfast Fell Short I recently stayed at The Lodore Hotel and was very impressed with its beautiful location and high standard of accommodation. The surroundings are stunning, and the staff were consistently courteous and attentive throughout my stay. The evening meal in the Mizu restaurant was excellent — beautifully presented, full of flavour, and complemented by friendly, efficient service. It was a real highlight of our stay. I didn’t dine in the brasserie, so I can’t comment directly, but it appeared to offer a relaxed and inviting setting. However, I felt that the breakfast did not quite meet the standard expected of a hotel of this quality. The bacon and black pudding were both rather hard, the sausages lacked quality, the porridge was watery, and the avocado on toast was served as a purée in a pot beside a plain slice of toast — disappointing for such a well-regarded establishment. By contrast, we recently stayed at the Castle Green Hotel in Kendal, where breakfast was superb, with excellent bacon, black pudding from the Scottish Isles, and proper Cumberland sausages. Even Lakeland Plastics Café in Windermere offered a far superior breakfast, perfectly cooked and full of flavour. The spa facilities were lovely, though access comes at an additional cost, which feels notable given the already premium price. Also, rooms at the rear overlook buildings rather than the lake, which is worth considering when booking. Overall, The Lodore offers a relaxing stay in a beautiful setting with excellent service — but a few refinements to the breakfast offering would make it truly exceptional.

I had such a lovely time here last night! Eileen on reception was fabulous, and I really enjoyed my room and spa experience. The hotel seemed well maintained and it was immaculate throughout. I didn’t eat here but I did enjoy a few glasses of prosecco by the pool outside in the evening 👀 the girl on the bar was good fun! Would absolutely recommend ☺️

We enjoyed our stay. Everything was perfect. From the food and the hotel and the spa. At the spa the therapist holly for the facial was professional and I enjoyed it and the products they used are really good. I just wanted to say that the first room we booked was downstairs but then we paid a couple more pounds to get upgraded and it was so worth it. So if you do end up staying in a room downstairs just upgrade your room was worth i4

we booked a 3 night stay at the hotel as we were looking at choosing it for our wedding (booked for the showcase but after our stay we decided it was a no unfortunately) After getting the keys and entering our room, we found ourselves in an extremely dated room that smelt very strongly of an older lady’s perfume ( can’t be helped by the hotel I understand) so I went to reception to forward my disappointment on A the room and B the smell. We were told there was no option to upgrade which was fair enough and we were moved to the “newly renovated” standard room We couldn’t get the tv to work properly and found the bed was two single mattresses pushed together which was disappointing to say the least considering I was paying nearly £300 per night. The lift was an absolute no from me it was tiny and extremely dated, only my partner could fit with our suitcase, this was one of the big things for us to not choose it as a wedding venue as I have family members that are wheelchair users. After reading the reviews on food we decided against eating at the hotel so I couldn’t give my true opinion on this. After all of the above the highlight of the trip was definitely our twighlight spa session, couldn’t fault the experience after thinking it was going to have a snobby feel, it definitely didn’t, the guests using were lovely as were the staff, fabulous experience I’d go to the spa again but would definitely stay in a different hotel.

Hi everyone this is a nice so see the derwentwater half way up to surprise view. Has car park so great for walk starts . No toilets mind . We had picnic on the Rocks . Lovely spot

Ashness bridge is considered the most photographed most photographed bridge in the Lake District. The bridge was designed to be narrow and humped with low sides for the caravans of pack-horses that used to transport heavy loads. They carried their burdens in large packs that bulged out on both sides. The low parapets of the bridge was meant for the animals that wouldn't get stuck if their loads were Particularly wide. The area around the bridge is very scenic, worth visiting it. There is enough parking facility nearby.

Ashness Bridge is an iconic Lake District spot, and it did not disappoint. We visited on a misty October afternoon, which gave the ancient stonework a wonderfully atmospheric feel. Not too busy, easy to access. You have a car park very close.

Picturesque views around this narrow packhorse bridge, a great place to begin multiple different hikes. The river flows wildly with heavy rainfall and becomes a more peaceful and quiet stream when there's minimal rain.

Probably the most photoghraphed bridge in the lake district, can be found easily. A great walk to it from keswick up to walla crag or even a boat trip from keswick will get you there.

My first experience of this beautiful place was 51 years ago, and I have always wanted to return as an adult. Serene and calming it is my late father's most favourite place in the world. He travelled extensively throughout dozens of countries, looking for beautiful scenery, not cities, and this was the best in his opinion. Enjoy, once visited not easily forgotten.

Drove up to here along the NARROW lane with FEW PASSING PLACES…..would not advise going in busy summer season !National Trust car park (see photo for prices). There is a small Bothy nearby with an open fire where you can dry off if it is wet.

Interesting place to visit this huge glacial stone. Nice walk through the woods to the stone from the car park. Ladder to the top of the stone. Worth a look

Definitely worth going here. Short walk to the stone from the car park or can be made into a longer walk if preferred

Parked up nearby and found this place. We then filled the path a mile, cross the road and was amazed. True beauty 🤩

The Bowder Stone is such an amazing sight and well worth the short walk to see it. It’s hard to believe how huge it is when you stand beside it, and the little steps up the side make it even more fun to explore. The path is easy and surrounded by lovely woodland with views of the fells.

It's a big some in a beautiful setting. National Trust car park and a delightful walk to the stone. Watch your step though!

It ended up being a long drive today to end up at the Bowder Stone with lots of other views along the way. The walk to the Stone was only short but lovely and the rock is certainly impressive with the size and shape. I’ve never seen one like it. Was it off the cliffs or from an ice flow!? It does seem to have been gently placed where it now sits. Very interesting! A few people were bouldering, on the bolder which made for an unusual sight. The stairs to the top was an unexpected addition and you can see that thousands of people had been on top by the polished rock up there. We parked I one of the few places available by the road.

Bowser stone is worth a visit if you're in the area, we walked from rosthwaite to the stone

We took 5 Canoes out most of first timers 13 of us. Very helpful and friendly staff. Thanks will come back again

Just beautiful. Gorgeous, clean traditional sailing boat. Super helpful, friendly staff. Thanks so much

Arrived slightly late with 4 grandchildren and their parents. Staff sorted out issue with one granddaughter not wanting pictures on her life jacket. Hired a traditional gaff rigged boat which was ready with one reef but happily put in a second in (as grandson aged three). Did four 1/2 hour sails with 2 grandchildren (and assorted parents) at a time and staff on dock for each exchange. Final sail with girls (5 and 6) swapped boats and had a pirate flag as well! Recommend.

New to sailing and my first sail without an instructor was with Glenridding sailing centre. The staff were so polite and helpful, they gave good advice and they left me be but knew exactly when to give assistance which they did when the wind picked up. Brilliant centre and staff. Cannot recommend enough especially to those new to sailing.

The entire experience from start to finish was outstanding. I had a voucher for a 2 hour sailing taster session, but due to bad weather twice it had to be rebooked. Both times Linnhe did a brilliant job organising alternative dates, and it was definitely worth the wait. The welcome to the site was warm, the instruction from (and crack with) Pete was excellent which put me at ease in the boat and let me get on with sailing and enjoying the time on the water Hopefully I will be back again in future for more sailing.

We booked a week of sailing lessons for our daughter who has some disabilities with Glenridding Sailing Centre - and from our first call with Linnhe to the fantastic instructor Pete, they could not have been kinder or more accommodating. Our daughter has left with a love of sailing. Totally recommend.

Myself and a friend turned up as a last minute detour whilst in the lakes over the weekend as we wanted to do abit of sailing. From the moment we arrived at the club we were met with a smile, Pete introduced himself then got to work helping us get on the water. The sail boat was all rigged up for us and we had a great time out on the lake. I came back after a hour whilst my friend took out another boat and I was made to feel welcome sat outside the cabin and told to help my self to free tea and coffee. This place is super welcoming and friendly and because of that we will definitely be back. Thanks Pete, Norman and the young kid, you guys run a great ship.

I sent this to Askham Hall twice and never received a reply. We thoroughly enjoyed our meal last night. The service was rather slow which I guess was the result of us sitting after the large group. I thought I would feedback on our wine experience. I enjoy wine but am not particularly a wine buff and would have appreciated the option of a reasonably priced house red and white which would have suited us perfectly. I honestly didn’t particularly appreciate being handed the huge book of wines which were overwhelmingly beyond the the price I would normally pay for wine (mostly in the £100s and up to £14750) and really didn’t mean much to me. A nice bottle of house wine to accompany the excellent food would have been perfect for us. There will be those who want the whole wine story and experience and are happy to pay 100s for a bottle but we are not in that camp and actually found it quite intrusive and off putting. A few well chosen house wines would have have helped make our evening. Best. Richard extra Note: We selected a relatively hard to find lower priced £45 bottle from the wine list which we were subsequently told was not available but were presented with an alternative at the same price which was pretty mediocre at best. The wines were presented to tables around us by the sommelier at volumes which intruded on the ambience of the restaurant. In summary the food was very nice but we would not return because of the wine related experience. We also had water through our ceiling twice from the bathroom above both in the evening and the early morning however the staff handled this pretty well and we were happy to put this down to bad luck. Very disappointed not to have had a reply from the restaurant.

Had my son and our daughter in law wedding there on Thursday 14/8/25 what a day it was. Cannot thank the staff at Askham Hall enough for their attention and help for making the wedding day perfect. From arriving to leaving everyone was taken care of. BBQ the night before excellent and big day was amazing. Accommodation, breakfast both days and the wedding food all fabulous. A big thanks to all the team Askham for the perfect day!!!

Had a lovely walk around the gardens and lunch in the cafe. It was very busy, but there was lots of space for us all to spread out.

The Askham Hall experience was excellent. It's a wonderful location, with beautiful gardens that provide a large amount of the vegetables and herbs. The hall dates back several hundred years and you do feel like your stepping back in time. There's an honesty bar for pre-dinner drinks. Parts of the interior are worn out but somehow it helps create the character and charm. The rooms are spacious and comfortable. The food is exceptional. The wine list is vast. The service is very friendly and not too formal, in keeping with the relaxed atmosphere. It's not inexpensive but if you're looking for something a little bit different and special, then I'd recommend Askham Hall.

My ceilidh band, @priceofmypig played for a lovely wedding and DJ set here recently. The staff were really excellent - polite, helpful and efficient. The venue was gorgeous with good facilities.

Just back from a 2 night stay at Askam hall for my 60th birthday celebration, a magnificent building in a stunning location. The staff, without exception were professional yet friendly and so attentive. Had the taster menu in the restaurant, every dish was delicious & presented beautifully. Great walks immediately around the hotel and further afield if you want to venture out. Thank you Askam staff for a special 60th birthday 😊

It is hard to summarise such a fabulous experience staying at Askham Hall and eating in the Allium restaurant. We were given a very warm and detailed welcome by Alice who showed us around and took us up the pele tower to our room with an dramatic view over to Knipe Scar. It was great to have a wander around the well kept gardens with everything labelled (including many Alliums...) and seeing the kitchen garden too where much of what you see will shortly be on your plate. Askham Hall had so much warmth to it, with the open fire crackling away in the main hall it really did feel lived-in. The novelty if the honesty bar was great, being left to make whatever drink you felt you could concoct or a single Lakes Gin & Tonic would suffice. As we sat with our preprandial G&T, we were brought our menus for the evening that had been printed specially where ingredients had been substituted as requested. The ever so animated Sommelier/Maitre D', Nico then came to talk us though the expansive wine list (with wines for every budget) that was beautifully bound like how I imagine it might be to read the Magna Carta. I spotted a bottle of Granite Blanc by Vincent Paris that I was reassuringly informed would be a great choice with a difference and then also discussed new English reds to pair with Rough Fell Lamb from Helton. Nico recommended the Danbury Ridge Pinot Noir that he thought very highly of and was kind enough to serve it by the glass when it was not on the wine list as an option and I did not feel like splashing out on the whole bottle. I will not go into every element of the food menu as it always changing but every dish that Chef Richard Swale produced was stunning and I was sold straight from the amuse-bouche of the green Thai curry and mackerel in a squid ink cracker cup... The service was very attentive throughout the evening and although we did not sit down at our table until 20:30 and got up from the table at nearly 23:30, throughout the dinner service of six courses and an additional cheese board, at no point did it feel like we were waiting and the time flew by as we enjoyed every morsel of food and drop of wine. The bedroom was well appointed, with a huge super king bed that was very comfy and rain head shower that felt more akin to standing under a hot waterfall.A final touch for those that know, was the excitement when we found the small bar of Penrith fudge from The Toffee Shop in our room with the coffee!

Easy to walk. Lovely forest view. We followed the map we saw at the steam train station. There’s free parking closer to entrance or £6 parking for the whole day at the steam train station.

Stunning hidden gem in the Lake District! Stanley Ghyll Waterfall is an absolute delight for nature lovers. The walk to the falls is scenic and peaceful, with a magical trail through lush woodland, moss-covered rocks, and charming footbridges. The recent improvements to the viewing platforms make it easy to admire the falls safely from different angles. It feels like stepping into a fairytale forest. A perfect spot for a peaceful hike, photography, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature.

Spectacular Waterfall with an at times rough route up, especially if it has been raining. Make sure you have some rugged shoes or boots. There is a viewing platform that places you right above the chasm below. If you don't like heights, you will get dizzy! The whole walk is very pleasant and scenic and doesnt take too long. Some of the walk has a significant climb in places so be ready to be sweaty.

It was a long walk from where we parked on top of the hill. You will need boots as muddy and takes about a hour to get there and hour back. its a fantastic walk with beautiful views and the waterfall is amazing and breathtaking. It takes your breath away

Very nice place. There are several routes to this waterfall so everyone will be happy

Well worth the walk up to the viewing deck. The last stretch gets a little scary in my opinion, and the viewing deck has sections where you can see through to the bottom, but the view is beautiful! Bring your camera.

Beautiful. An amazing waterfall in an amazing place. Far prettier than the much more popular Aira Force. Although the path to the prettiest waterfall was closed, the view and the mossy cascades were enough. This is one of the prettiest in the UK, surpassed only by Loweswater’s Holme Force. The lower cascade, however, could have still swung it.

Visited for the Thermal Experience for our anniversary. By far the best spa we have been to, staff are very attentive and friendly, facilities all very clean and not too busy when we visited on a weekday afternoon. Very relaxing, beautiful location. We felt it was good value for money given all the facilities and some complimentary snacks. The afternoon tea was also very tasty and again staff very friendly.

Photographing a wedding at Low Wood Bay was definitely one of the highlights of my year. It was an Italian wedding, and the team there truly knew how to host a celebration that felt full of life and joy. The chandeliers and interior design make the venue look incredible and full of character. From the outside it may appear to be just a spa, but once inside you realise it holds so many beautiful surprises that make it truly one of a kind. The staff were fantastic, treating every supplier with the same kindness and care as their guests, which is something that really makes this venue stand out. Nestled in the heart of the Lake District, it also offers scenery that’s hard to match, giving every photograph a cinematic feel. A 10/10 venue that combines elegance, warmth, and unforgettable views.

I attended low wood bay resort & spa and from what we could see it looked lovely, we were welcomed as soon as we walked in, taken to our meeting room. The bar areas we really nice, even though it felt like a maze when you went from outside back in to find the meeting rooms. But it just added to the character of the place. There was a lovely outside court yard with heaters and blankets. I thought the hotel seemed lovely, and I am looking to book it for a little romantic break.

I visited Low Wood Bay Spa for the 3-hour thermal journey and it was an incredible experience. The amenities are top-notch, with beautiful facilities and thoughtful touches throughout. Being able to order drinks directly from the pool added a touch of luxury, and I really appreciated the free snacks and cold face towels that were brought around periodically – they made the whole experience feel very well looked after. The spa itself would easily have been a five-star experience. However, I was left disappointed with the treatment I booked. For the price (around £100 on top of the spa package), I expected a premium experience, but it fell far short. We were taken in after our scheduled time, and the treatment itself finished well before it should have – lasting only around 25–30 minutes. For that cost, it simply didn’t feel worth it and took away from what was otherwise an outstanding visit. Overall, the spa journey is absolutely worth it and I’d recommend it without hesitation, but I’d caution others about booking treatments given the poor value for money.

I have been to many spas in the US and overseas. I must say that this was the best one ever. Although I have been to spas with more pools than this one (they have quite a few) it is quality over quantity in this case. The spa is spotless. The facilities perfect with changing areas and toiletries, showers, etc. The indoor and outdoor pools have a variety of temperatures. The attendants are attentive. I have never seen a spa that has so much enticing finger food available and people coming around with the best looking cupcakes, etc. My massage was excellent. I would return in a heartbeat! I did not stay in the hotel, only went to the spa for the day.

Hands down, the best spa ever. The attention to detail in here is amazing. The amount of places and pool, and hot tubs and rooms are unreal The lil relax room you go into before a treatment is amazing, and then even better is the relaxation room after The staff coming round with frozen towels and fruit ect was an amazing touch We had the wood smoked afternoon tea. Genius idea, would love to take my husband back to try it This place is worth every penny

My partner and I recently visited Low Wood Bay for an overnight stay with spa access, and unfortunately, we left feeling quite disappointed overall. When booking, we called the hotel directly and were redirected to a third-party system to book our stay and spa access. We weren’t told that this only included the basic indoor facilities, and when we arrived, we were informed that access to the outdoor area came at an additional cost. We decided to pay the extra £25 each the next morning, but weren’t told that half the outdoor facilities didn’t open until 10am, despite being advised to go at 7:30am. Once we got in the sauna the staff working on cleaning the pool came and stood in the sauna with us trying to dry off because it was raining which seemed very unprofessional. We only managed around 30 minutes of use as most things were closed. Throughout our visit, communication from staff was poor. When my partner raised the issue afterwards, there was no apology or acknowledgment of the inconvenience. Our meal at Blue Smoke was another letdown. We ordered the Châteaubriand steak for two, which came piled onto a small sizzling plate—completely different from what’s shown online. The sauce portions were tiny (about a quarter full), and when we politely asked for more, we were charged again. For the price, we expected a much higher standard of both food and service. Breakfast the next morning wasn’t much better. We were served coffee twice after ordering tea, and overall the meal was mediocre at best. Considering the price and reputation of Low Wood Bay, our experience felt overrated and overpriced.

Great for a good nights sleep. Went with the guys for a weekend away we got a 4 berth dorm with shower and toilet. More than adequate for a nights sleep. Room and had a balcony with views over river which was a bonus.

Had a great stay at YHA Keswick. Jude, who checked us in, was incredibly helpful—he pointed us to some brilliant hiking routes and recommended great spots for food and drinks. The rooms were very clean, and the location right by the lake is stunning. Would definitely stay again!

A great place to stay. Rooms and shower / toilet facilities kept clean even in busy times. Breakfast was great value . If you are after a comfortable base to explore Keswick and the surrounding area then look no further.

Great place for a simple but tasty lunch in a pleasant riverside location and away from the throngs in the adjacent streets. Tremendously friendly staff too. A hidden gem.

We went to the cafe, tucked away by the side of the river it is in a beautiful setting. Staff were very friendly.

this was the best, the absolute best hostel i have ever stayed in during my stay in the UK. my friends and i went on a roadtrip to the lake district and got a great deal at £13 per person. we rented a private room with 6 bunkbeds and private bathroom for the 5 of us and the room was clean, modern, the staff was lovely as well he gave us the best recommendations on where to go for sunrise in keswick. the shared kitchen was clean and spacious. the view in front of the hostel was magical. would defo come back. however u have to walk quite a bit from the parking area to the hostel (not too far, around a 3 minute walk) as they didnt have a designated parking area so we had to park on the side of the road.

Really wonderful YHA, beautifully situated by a scenic river and lovely gardens just up the road from the premises. Really lovely staff, the person who checked us in was really friendly and other staff who were doing tasks around the hostel were really nice too. The shower room seemed new, was very very clean and had nice white marble walls. The bathroom was also clean and pleasant. The kitchen was well equipped and nicely decorated, with perfect view out over the river. Lots of seating areas. The dry room is highly efficient and has plenty of space for everyone's stuff. Obviously it is a youth hostel rather than a hotel, so not everything was perfect. I found the mattress wonky because of the imprint of previous people. The pillow was also uncomfortable to sleep on. The bottom sheet was too small for the mattress so would come off and was quite annoying. That being said, it was much better than other YHA I have stayed at so I would stay here again.

Beautiful prints of the Lake District, and interesting informational panels about an impressive multigenerational family of artists. There is also a gallery room with contemporary paintings for sale. The cafe has a wonderful selection of cakes and pastries.

We were made to feel most unwelcome in the cafe by a Rottweiler waitress. I took my 90 yr old friend who used to climb with Bonnington who really didn’t need bullying. We will certainly never go back. Or advise any one else.

Great little art studio with lots of lovely lake district prints from a local artist. Plenty of gifts and art supplies plus a brilliant little cafe.

Stone Arthur, amazing panoramic views over Grasmere, Coniston Water and Easdale Tarn.

Wonderful place to visit. Gallery is amazing and the added bonus of a delightful coffee and delicious cake etc.

Visited Matilda’s cafe lovely cup of tea and fruit loaf. Amazing gallery exhibition with original art work and ornaments - well worth a visit

A great art exhibition, great coffee too. Added bonus, Chris Bonnington exhibition at the moment.

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.