Ten Ways to Use Your Extra Hour

As the clocks fall back for autumn the onset of colder weather and longer dark nights can seem a gloomy prospect, but it’s not all bad! When the clocks change in October, we gain one full extra hour – so why not put it to good use? Learn something, help someone, do something enjoyable…here are our suggestions for getting the most out of your extra hour.
 

1. Escape the elements

The harsher weather can be pretty cruel on your skin and your spirits so use your extra hour to take some much deserved time out. Indulge in a spa treatment at one of the many fabulous spa hotels in the Lake District, Cumbria. From hour long massages to facials and beauty treatments, we’ve got you covered for some autumn R&R.

2. Take that full lunch hour

Use your extra time to enjoy a leisurely lunch in a cosy country pub. Enjoy roaring fires, real ales and delicious Cumbrian comfort food at one of the fantastic eateries across the region. Whether you’re looking for hearty home cooked food to warm your soul, or a refined gastro-pub experience, there’s something for foodies of all tastes to enjoy.

3. Enjoy an autumn walk

Why not spend your extra hour admiring the autumn colours on a walk in the Lake District, Cumbria? There are plenty of routes which can be done in less than an hour (although if you want to take a little longer, we wouldn’t blame you!).From Orrest Head in Windermere, to a stroll along the Cumbrian coast, there’s lots of choice when it comes to picking an autumn walk.

4. Learn something new

Invest your extra hour in learning a new skill. Head to Greystoke Craft Garden to enjoy Quirky Workshops’ programme of craft masterclasses; try a private horse riding lesson with Murthwaite Green Trekking Centre; or give climbing a go with a lesson on Kendal’s climbing wall. 

5. Divide and conker

Want to use your extra hour to get out and enjoy the gorgeous autumn colours? Why not go conkering!  These shiny gems will now be ripe and splitting out of their prickly cases, so head to pretty Whinlatter Forest Park in England’s only true mountain forest to indulge in the nostalgic pastime. While you’re up there you could also go mountain biking or have a go on the GoApe high wire course.

6. Have an early night

Make your extra hour restful and enjoy an early night somewhere lovely.  At this time of year you want to be cosy, warm and full of good food – and the Lake District, Cumbria is sure to have just the place. From countryside inns with chic rooms, to relaxing spa hotels, we’ve got you covered. Check availability and book your stay here.

7. Do something worthwhile

Give your extra hour to someone else by volunteering for a good cause. Fix the Fells and the National Trust are always looking for people to help them keep Cumbria beautiful. You’ll get out in the fresh air, meet different people and can sleep sound in your bed that night, tired and happy that you contributed something good to the spectacular Lake District landscape.

8. Get in touch with your poetic side

Use your extra hour to familiarise yourself with one of William Wordsworth’s renowned romantic poems. The Cumbrian poet wrote far more than just the ‘Daffodils’ poem he is most famous for and actually led a rather colourful life. His work is hugely influenced by the Cumbrian landscape in which he lived and you can find out more about this and about his personal life by visiting his former homes Dove Cottage and Rydal Mount.  Both places will provide an interesting background to the poem you choose to learn and will really bring the words to life.

9. Enjoy some retail therapy

From well known high street names to independent local shops, if you’re looking to shop ‘til you drop, there’s plenty to satisfy you in the Lake District’s pretty towns and villages. The city of Carlisle is brilliant for its plethora of choice, while towns like Kendal, Penrith, Whitehaven and Ulverston all boast.

10. Look up at the stars

Cumbria has some of the darkest skies in England, and autumn is the perfect time to experience all their magical wonder. Why not use your extra hour to enjoy a little star gazing in the Lake District? Stay up late and as the clocks change make the most of your extra hour to enjoy a little star gazing in the Lake District.

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