Why the Lake District Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List
The Lake District is known for its breathtaking landscapes, charming settlements, and exciting outdoor activities, so it's no wonder it's one of the UK's hot spots. But why is it so special?
We have 10 reasons why you should visit the Lake District and why it should be on your bucket list.
In Short…
- The Lake District offers some of the UK’s most breathtaking scenery, with dramatic mountains, peaceful lakes, and charming towns around every corner.
- It’s a haven for outdoor lovers, whether you’re into hiking, paddleboarding, cycling, or just soaking up the views..
- Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the region is rich in history, culture, and literary connections..
- From cosy pubs to local specialities like Kendal mint cake and Cumberland sausage, foodies will feel right at home..
- With something for every season – and plenty of dog-friendly spots – the Lake District is perfect for families, couples, and solo travellers alike..
In this guide, we'll take you through everything you need to know about the National Park, including best times to visit, advice on accommodation, and must-see spots for newcomers.
So, sit back, relax, and we'll tell you why the Lake District should be calling your name.
10 Reasons You Should Visit the Lake District
Thousands of people visit the Lake District each year, but what is the fuss all about?
Well, as locals to the wider area, we love the region and all it has to offer. In other words, we get what all the fuss is about.
If you're thinking about planning a trip to the famed national park, but aren't quite convinced, here's our 10 reasons why you should plan a visit.
#1 Breathtaking Landscapes & Scenery
Credit: lakedistrictjames and Lakedistricthiddengems on Instagram.com
Credit: lakedistrictjames and Lakedistricthiddengems on Instagram.com
There aren't many places in England with mountainous backdrops paired with glistening lakes, explorable woodland, and lush greenery to behold.
The Lake District is full of stunning landscapes. In fact, you can't really go anywhere in the region without taking at least 10 photos.
You'll even find the villages and towns of the district are beautifully quaint and extremely picturesque.
If you're looking to bask in the tranquillity of Cumbria while taking in the spectacular views of your natural surroundings, the Lake District has plenty to offer you.
#2 Adventurous Outdoor Activities
If you're an outdoorsy couple, family, or solo traveller who loves an activity, the Lake District will be like heaven to you.
From water sports like paddle boarding, kayaking, and windsurfing, to your average day out on hiking trails, this region has it all.
If you love adrenaline, there's abseiling, canyoning, bushcraft, Go Ape, and much more to sink your teeth into.
If you enjoy going at a slower pace, you can take on popular treks like the Tarn Hows Circular, cycle your way round the national park, or visit the numerous National Trust locations.
See Our List of the Top Walks in Cumbria!
#3 It's a World Heritage Site
In England, there are just 18 World Heritage Sites, and the Lake District is one of them.
Earning its title back in 2017, the Lake District joins the likes of Stonehenge, Petra, and the Great Barrier Reef as the first UK National Park to become a World Heritage Site.
UNESCO awarded the Lake District the status because of its unique natural landscape, which was shaped by glacial activity during the ice age.
The locals' determination to conserve its natural beauty and its influence on historically significant figures, cultural heritage, and traditional farming practices were also taken into account.
So, whether you're on a mission to complete the long list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites or just those in the UK, the Lake District should be the next one on your list.
#4 The Perfect Place for History Lovers
From ancient ruins to grand castles, famous houses of historical figures, and Roman forts, the Lake District is a history lover's dream.
Not to mention that it was formed 10,000 years ago thanks to glacial movement in the Ice Age. Now that's something even history haters find fascinating.
A few honourable mentions for writing enthusiasts—Beatrix Potter's famed farmhouse can be visited in the Lake District, as can the house of William Wordsworth, also known as Dove Cottage.
If you'd prefer to get your history fix with the promise of warmth and shelter from the Great British weather, there are also plenty of galleries and museums to explore.
#5 Traditional, Cosy Pubs Galore
Now, we all know a pub lunch or a cold pint (or both) is an absolute must after exploring a new town, taking on a hilly hike, or simply after a lazy day.
Luckily, the Lake District definitely isn't short of traditional, cosy pubs that serve up delicious grub and a selection of local tipples.
A few notable mentions include the Masons Arms and the Drunken Duck, both with their own individual charm.
Whatever you're looking for – a beer garden with gorgeous views, Cumberland bangers and mash, Windermere pale ale – rest assured, you'll find a pub that exceeds your expectations.
#6 Local Food & Drink Specialities
Delicacies like Cumberland sausages, Kendal mint cake, Grasmere ginger bread, and Morecambe shrimp are popular with the locals of the Lake District, and while not all of them originate directly from the National Park, they are certainly loved within its boundaries.
Cumbria's, and in turn, the Lake District's, food heritage is like no other in the UK. From traditional dishes to Michelin-starred dining experiences, the Lakes know no bounds when it comes to its food and drink.
You'll also find dozens of breweries and distilleries around the national park that'll serve you up something cold and delicious – perfect after a day exploring the region.
So, grab yourself some local produce from a traditional market town, stop in a cafe for some Kendal mint cake, or pop for a pint of the best local brew, and fill your senses in the Lake District.
See Our List of the 8 Must-Visit Scenic Picnic Spots!
#7 It's Extremely Pup-Friendly
Want to go on a staycation in the UK, but worried about leaving your four-legged friend at home? In the Lake District, you don't have to.
The locals love their furry pals here in the Lake District, and they're happy to welcome yours, too.
From dog-friendly pubs, restaurants, and cafes, to walking trails, activities, and boat trips, your hound will feel right at home.
Bring your dog on your next holiday to the Lake District, and make memories that last a lifetime for you and them.
Book Dog-Friendly Holidays in Cumbria Today
#8 Year-Round Destination
Whether you're looking for a cosy getaway for Christmas filled with snow, warm dinners, and crisp winter walks, or summer drinks in a pub garden, relaxing dips in the lakes, and watersports, the Lake District is a year-round destination that accommodates it all.
Visiting the lakes at any time of the year will provide an excellent retreat or active holiday for you and your fellow travellers.
Whatever kind of trip you're looking for, at whatever time of year, you should consider the Lake District.
#9 Diverse Wildlife Aplenty
The Lake District is home to lots of diverse species, making it the perfect destination for avid bird watchers, keen aquatic creature fans, and mammal lovers alike.
Think red squirrels, peregrine falcons, and Atlantic salmon. You'll even find Atlantic Char swimming the lakes – a remnant from the last Ice Age.
The valleys, meadows, and woodland are also teeming with their own species, mainly insects that work to pollinate our crops.
So, during your trip to the national park, be sure to bring your camera – you never know what you might spot!
#10 Fun for All the Family
Lastly, the Lake District, as you've now heard, is an extremely diverse destination filled with things to entertain a whole range of personalities, ages, and interests, making it the ideal place for a family getaway everyone will love!
There's history, fun activities, great food and drink, sports, animal spotting, beautiful hikes, and so, so much more.
See Our List of the Top Family Activities in the Lake District
The Lake District is the gem of the UK, and there's so much to explore. Book your trip now, and you'll fall in love with the region.
Best Places to Visit in the Lake District for First-Timers
Whether you love walking, sightseeing, or following the food, the Lake District has something for everyone. However, it's difficult to know where to go if you've never been before.
As you can imagine, the Lake District is vast, and you can't see it all in a day, perhaps even a week. That's why we, as nearby locals, have created a list of the best places to visit as first-timers.
Here's our top 3 spots for a fantastic time at the lakes:
Windermere
Credit: visitwindermere_ on Instagram.com
Windermere is one of the most popular places in the Lake District, and perhaps one of the most talked about. We absolutely love this location for many reasons.
For one, it's highly accessible from major towns and cities by train or car. It's also one of the most tourist-friendly places, so you'll feel completely safe and secure.
It's also a great place to start your trip, since you can visit other lake destinations by train, car, bus, or boat.
Windermere is home to the World of Beatrix Potter attraction, which is great for the whole family and for getting into the spirit of the Lake District!
You'll also find a selection of boat trips, including evening cruises, independent restaurants using locally sourced food, and the idyllic scenic views you expect when you visit the Lake District.
Grasmere
@amyenvoyage 5 Things to do in Grasmere, Lake District 😍 **SAVE** for a future trip to the Lake District Described by William Wordsworth as “the loveliest spot that man hath ever found,” Grasmere is one of the most popular villages in the Lake District. There are of course walks you can do in and around Grasmere but here are some other options and must-do’s if you’re planning a visit. ➡️ 1. Grasmere Gingerbread Shop - Victorian cook Sarah Nelson invented Grasmere Gingerbread® in 1854 in the English Lake District village from where it gets its name. A unique, spicy-sweet cross between a biscuit and cake, its reputation quickly spread and it is now enjoyed by food lovers all over the world. ➡️ 2. Oswalds Church - The oldest building in Grasmere is St Oswald’s Church, which is thought to date back to the 14th century. The grave of the poet Wordsworth is also in the churchyard of St Oswald’s Church. ➡️ 3. Hire a boat at Faeryland - Faeryland offers rowing boat hire in the beautiful setting of Grasmere in the Lake District. No need to book, just turn up and enjoy a leisurely boat ride around the stunning lake with magical views. You can also sit for a drink or a bite to eat and take in the view. ➡️ 4. Wordsworth Daffodil Garden - Wordsworth Daffodil Garden is a small garden just behind the famous gingerbread shop. ➡️ 5. Visit Dove Cottage and the Wordsworth Museum - Dove Cottage in Grasmere, was William Wordsworth‘s home from 1799 to 1808. Here Wordsworth produced the most famous and best-loved of his poems, and his sister Dorothy kept her famous Grasmere journals. **ADD** to your UK bucket list 😍 #ukstaycations #rydalcave #lakedistrict #lakedistrictuk #visitcumbria #beautifuldestinations #iamtb #travelpicsdaily #visitcumbria #iamatraveller #darlingescapes #ukbucketlist #visitbritain #uktravel #speechlessplaces #englandtravel #staycationuk #traveltheworld #grasmere #uktravelblogger #ukstaycation #uktravels #uktravel ♬ Porcelain - Moby
Credit: @amyenvoyage on TikTok.com
Grasmere Village and Grasmere Water are perfect for Lake District first-timers, because they offer a little bit of everything without going too deep into the district.
With the village full of pubs, shops, and cafes, ideal for a bite to eat, a cooling beverage, or some independent business retail therapy, the lake is the main attraction. It doesn’t allow motor boats, making the area extremely peaceful and ideal for a dip or two.
There are plenty of walking trails to get your steps in, too. The White Moss Common walk and Grasmere Riverside trail are two honourable mentions.
Oh, and you can’t leave without trying some of the iconic Grasmere gingerbread at the shop dedicated to the local delicacy!
Ullswater
Credit: the.geordie.hiker on Instagram.com
Last on our list is the second-largest lake in the region, Ullswater. This hidden gem is the perfect spot for newcomers to admire the beauty of the national park.
It's a little less crowded than our Windermere recommendation, so if you value quiet and minimal crowds, this might be the ideal spot for you.
If you've never been to the Lake District before, you should know that it gets quite busy, because tourists love it here (and for good reason). That's why Ullswater is a great introduction to the lakes for first-timers.
At this stunning location, activities like steamer boats and the Aira Force Waterfall walk nearby will keep you and the whole family entertained.
What Month is Best to Visit the Lake District?
Since the Lake District is a year-round destination, any month is a fantastic month to visit. It just depends on what you want to do and where you want to visit.
May is generally considered 'the best' month because it has extended daylight, it's not too hot, the cold weather has passed, and it's not yet the height of summer, so it's not at its busiest peak yet.
However, if you don't mind more crowds and slightly higher prices, the summer is an excellent time to visit, and you might even be able to have a dip or two in the famous lakes!
Autumn is another good time to visit, because there are fewer crowds, the trees' colours are beautiful, and it feels very atmospheric, especially around Halloween in the villages. But the temperatures are cooler.
Lastly, the winter months, especially around Christmas, which will provide a cosy, traditionally English feel, can be a beautifully festive time.
However, you just risk attractions being closed, wet weather, and dark days.
Our Recommended Accommodation for Your First Time in the Lake District
Accommodation in the Lake District can be tricky to decide on, especially if you've never actually been before.
Our number one recommendation is that you book in advance. Places in and around the national park will fill quickly, particularly during the peak visiting season (spring-summer).
As for your accommodation, first-time Lake District visitors need the perfect base, and we can't recommend Newlands Farm Stables enough.
Situated just outside the national park boundary in the historic market town of Kendal, is our luxury glamping site with options for families, couples, and solo travellers.
We offer our premium converted barns, which come with a private bathroom, a fully functioning kitchenette, a dining area, multiple bedrooms, and a large outdoor terrace with a BBQ overlooking the rolling fields.
Our cosy stables are slightly more basic, but still have everything you need for a relaxing stay, including a kitchenette, private bathroom, comfortable beds, and a private terrace.
Around the site, you'll find communal BBQ areas, fire pits, a pool table, and even a pizza oven for your nights in!
Newlands Farm Stables is just a stone's throw away from the National Park, making our site the ideal spot for your holiday without the packed-out hotels and high prices of the Lake District.
The Lake District: A Must-See Region for All
Are you convinced?
Of course you are!
The Lake District is a magical place where people make unforgettable memories with friends and family. Plan your trip today and find out what you're missing.
From stunning walks to impressive mountainous lakes, fun activities, fascinating history, and more, the Lake District is somewhere for everyone to enjoy.
So, book your stay with us today and prepare for the trip of a lifetime! There's much to add to the itinerary.
Book Your Stay at Newlands for Your Lake District Adventure!