Planning a last-minute holiday? See our top 3 things to do in the Lake District here
England’s largest national park is teeming with opportunities. From decadent forest trails to steep mountains on rugged valleys, nothing quite comes close to the sheer natural beauty there. And evident by its name, the Lake District National Park is also home to crystalline lakes that carve out this distinctive landscape.
Whether you’re heading to the Lakes with a young family or on a romantic retreat, you’ll find plenty to see and do. And no matter how many times you’ve been before, it’s always worth knowing some of the best spots to visit when you go. You could try a company like Campstar for your RV needs.
Things to do in the Lake District: Our top 3
- Visit Ambleside and Lake Windermere
The quaint market town of Ambleside offers an array of shopping opportunities alongside pubs, restaurants and cafés. If you lead an active lifestyle or you’re planning for your next camping trip, you’ll find plenty of quality outdoor equipment from leading brands with stores in this town.
Just a stroll or short drive from the town, you’ll reach the northerly shores of Lake Windermere. This picturesque lake offers plenty of activities for adults and children alike. To enjoy the views from the lake itself, you could take a leisurely cruise or simply hop aboard the Windermere ferry, which takes you from Nab in Bowness to the woodland village of Far Sawrey.
If you’re driving, it’s worth heading up to Chester’s by the River after taking a gander around Ambleside. This fantastic restaurant offers barista coffee and hot lunches, including homemade pizza, throughout the day. It’s also close to the charming village of Elterwater, where you can discover some of the prettiest views in Little Langdale.
- Go paddleboarding
If you’ve never heard of a stand-up paddleboard, it’s time get familiar before you head to the Lakes. Known as a SUP, these versatile boards allow you to get even closer to the water without submerging yourself – as long as you stay on!
After simply getting into your wetsuit or gear and strapping your feet onto the board, you can cruise along the shores with your paddle and let the breeze carry you along. With nothing but local birds and the occasional sailing boat to keep you company, paddleboarding is as therapeutic as it is enjoyable.
Lake Coniston and Ullswater make great choices for paddleboarding, and going with your best friends could be an entertaining way to spend the morning or afternoon.
Our top tip: if you’re staying in your van, park nearby and go at sunset or sunrise for the most incredible views. And if you’re taking your own boards with you, obtaining comprehensive motorhome insurance could help protect your kit, especially if you’re planning on keeping everything in the van.
- Walk up Blencathra and eat dinner in Keswick
Locally known as Saddleback, this is one of the northernmost hills in the Lake District. Despite being one of the most famous mountains in the region, Blencathra offers plenty of options for walking and climbing it, making it a suitable choice for visitors with varying levels of fitness and experience on rugged terrain.
If you’re looking for a challenge, you can take the rockiest route and scramble up Sharp Edge to the summit. Blencathra has six fell tops, but you don’t need to reach the highest point. You could take the gentle and winding approach instead. Or, if you need a helping hand, you could drive up to the free car park and get the first 300 metres covered.
Blencathra is just a short drive from the famous Lakeland town of Keswick, making it easy for you to get some well-deserved refreshments after your walk. From fish and chips to homemade pies, you’ll find it all after answering the call of the mountains.
We’ve listed just three of the remarkable destinations on offer in the Lake District. Once you arrive, you’ll be able to discover so many incredible new views and activities yourself.
