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Welcome to the Lake District – where modern tourism was born.
England’s best-known and most popular national park is a postcard landscape of shimmering lakes, craggy hilltops and ancient forests that has enchanted poets and painters since the late 18th century, when the Romantics first had their imaginations stirred by the panoramas that have remained unchanged to this day.
And what panoramas they are. There’s the classic Lakeland setting of Windermere, England’s largest lake and the primary destination for millions of tourists since the railroad was first built in the middle of the 19th century. On it is busy Bowness and the charming villages of Grasmere and Hawkshead, surrounded on all sides by beautiful mountains.
The north lakes – Ullswater, Bassenthwaite, Derwentwater, Loweswater – are quieter and wilder, in the shadow of the rugged Skiddaw range and with handsome Keswick at the heart of it. The lush Borrowdale Valley leads to the dramatic Honister mountain pass and into the natural lakes of Buttermere & Crummock.
Adventure seekers go west, to the higher ground of Great Langdale and the region’s major summits of Bowfell, Crinkle Crags and the biggest mountain of all, Scafell Pike.
The Lake District is an outdoor activities paradise, but its literary connections draw as many visitors as its walks do. William Wordsworth lived virtually all of his life here, drawing inspiration from the surrounding countryside to write some of the English language’s most enduring poetry. The landscape also proved a creative spark for the likes of Sameul Taylor Coleridge, Arthur Ransome and Beatrix Potter – who dedicated much of her life to protecting the Lake District’s beauty and heritage.
In all its beauty and diversity the Lake District remains as it has been for millennia, which is one of the reasons why in 2017 the national park was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site – its river valleys, lakes and mountains home to an unique hill-farming culture and ancient heritage that has been carefully preserved. Here in the Lake District we know how to take good care of you; we’ve had plenty of practice.
Photo: Derwentwater
Explore
From well-equipped campsites to luxury spa resorts, there’s no shortage of quality accommodation in the Lake District. This is where modern tourism was born, after all.- It’s easy to eat well in the Lake District. Whether in a cosy village inn or in the elegant setting of a high-class restaurant, the quality of food is exceptional.
- Whatever time of year you want to visit the Lake District, we have something planned to keep you entertained, engaged and energised.
- Have you got a year to spare? You’ll need that amount of time and more if you want to make a real dent in the list of incredible activities available in the Lake District.
- Let us help you find inspiring places to visit with our travel itineraries. Whatever your choice of location, duration and budget, check out our recommendations.
Highlights
We're excited to welcome Rob Thompson to The Swan on 28th December for a laid-back Twixmas evening…
At one of her lavish parties, celebrated Parisan courtesan Violetta is introduced to Alfredo…
William Wordsworth wrote his radical Guide to the Lakes at Allan Bank. A new permanent exhibition…
On 17 October 2025 18:00-19:00 Over a period of ten years, Teesdale based artist, Andy Beck,…
Served Daily Between 1pm & 5pm Book now for our afternoon tea with a festive twist. Our festive…
Print, sculpture and sound-based installation exploring bird song. Artist Heather Mullender-Ross…
1st January | 11am-2pm £67 Welcome drink 90-minute all-you-can-eat slot Eastern & Western…
On 5 October 2025 18:00-19:30 We are delighted to bring this project to England this year,…
Step back in time to Regency England with this Christmas fireside talk. Immerse yourself in the…
Alan Cleaver and his wife Lesley Park conjure up the spirit of Cumbria's Christmas past with a look…
Christmas is fast approaching and Santa's Sleigh is nowhere to be found. Will Sprocket and Dibs be…
The Full Wolf Moon holds a special spiritual significance for many, symbolising strength,…
Back by popular demand, the Leeds City Stompers are returning to Zeffirellis Jazz Bar for an…
30/9/25 This talk will explore the development of children's literature and, in particular, the…
Uncover the life and work of printmaker Gwyneth Alban Davis who ran her business while living in a…
Discover life on Windermere through the lens of award-winning artist Juliet Klottrup. This…
On 28 October 2025 14:00-15:30 This presentation will provide an overview of the PhD research…
Grove Barn proudly presents "Carols by Candlelight," featuring the internationally acclaimed vocal…
Step back in time with Townend's Victorian Christmas. The fire is roaring, the house decked with…
13/9/25 Local author Deborah Lyon talks about her children's book set in second century Ambleside.…
Join us this festive season for hands-on family fun at Windermere Jetty Museum. Whether you're…
Wednesday 31st December (NYE) Millie Mac Live, DJ Robin Kershaw & Sax 7pm - 1.30am ️ Tickets -…
Wrap up warm and step aboard for a magical winter journey on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway's…
Taking inspiration from Beatrix Potter, this years Fungi walks will take place at key locations…
The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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Towns & Villages
Towns & Villages
Number of results: 446
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Address
Sizergh Castle - National Trust, Nr Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 8AETelephone
015395 60951Nr Kendal
The house boasts 800 years of family history, and is still lived in by the Strickland family today. Filled with thousands of items collected by 26 generations of the family the house certainly feels lived in, with centuries-old portraits and fine…
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Address
Ambleside Road, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 1LHTelephone
015394 46484Windermere
Merewood Country House Hotel is the quintessential, English country house hotel. Located on the side of a hill overlooking Windermere, Merewood boasts stunning views of the Lake District fells and beyond.
Merewood dates back to 1812 and with…
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Address
Ambleside Salutation Hotel & Spa, Lake Rd, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 9BXTelephone
015394 32244Ambleside
Our air-conditioned Brasserie is open to both residents and non-residents for Lunch & Dinner and our menus feature the finest fresh produce from the region.
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Address
Graythwaite Estate, Estate Office, Graythwaite, Ulverston, Cumbria, LA12 8BATelephone
01539531248Graythwaite, Ulverston
38 Self catering dog friendly properties, from Lakeside to Woodland views. A romantic break for two, an adventurous family vacation or an elaborate celebration, we have accommodation fit for all occasions.
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Address
The Brackenrigg Inn, Watermillock, Ullswater, Cumbria, CA11 0LPTelephone
01768 486442Ullswater
Local food and drink, contemporary en-suite rooms, roaring fires and lively conversation await for guests, locals and walkers in our relaxed Cumbrian pub with wide angle Ullswater views.
Grange-over-Sands
Pine Lodges (sleep 4) with Sauna & spa bath. In a beautiful setting in the heart of a 5 acre wood, Woodlands Pine Lodges are ideal for a relaxing break. On site Restaurant & Bar. Friendly staff. Great Food. Great Value. A real hidden gem.
Address
The Ambleside Inn, Market Pl, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 9BUTelephone
015394 93333Ambleside
The Ambleside Inn is located in the heart of the popular Lake District town of Ambleside and offers delicious, homecooked dining all day every day. Whether fuelling up for a day’s exploring with a hearty breakfast, stopping by for a smaller plate…
Address
Whitewater Hotel & Leisure Club, The Lakeland Village, Newby Bridge, Backbarrow, Cumbria, LA12 8PXTelephone
015395 31133Newby Bridge, Backbarrow
At the heart of our hotel, you will find the Riverside restaurant. Our restaurant team will make your dining an experience to remember. The cuisine represents the best of modern British mixed along with classic cookery offering a fresh and modern…
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Address
"The Estate" @ Patterdale Hall Estate, Patterdale Hall Estate, Glenridding, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0PJTelephone
017684 82308Glenridding, Penrith
Located on the private Patterdale Estate, Lishman House is a pet friendly, roomy residence. Equipped with 4 large bedrooms, one a King Bedroom with en-suite, Family Bathroom, Dining Room, Sitting Room and stunning views directly down to the shore of…
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Address
Rothay Garth B&B, Rothay Rd, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 0EETelephone
015394 32217Ambleside
A warm welcome awaits you at Rothay Garth B&B. Perfectly situated in the heart of Ambleside, guests can enjoy wonderful mountain views, easy access to Lake Windermere, and a variety of charming shops, bars and restaurants just a stone’s throw away.
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Address
2 Cambridge Villas, Church Street, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 9DLTelephone
07971 622616Ambleside
The perfect way to keep the kids (and adults) entertained all day whilst on a Lakeland holiday! These days aim to blend rock climbing, rock scrambling and abseiling to give a varied and always fun experience in beautiful locations.
Address
Brathay Hall, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 0HPTelephone
015394 33041Ambleside
A staycation at Brathay gives you everything you need for a well-deserved break that will get you away from it all and boost your wellbeing. Whatever the weather, or time of year, and however chilled or super-adventurous you want to be, we have…
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Address
Keswick Launch Co, Lake Road, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5DJTelephone
017687 72263Keswick
Hire a rowing or motor boat and explore Derwentwater and its islands under your own steam. No boating experience is necessary as we provide full safety instruction and life jackets for everyone on board. Keswick Launch also offers 50-minute cruises…
Address
Embleton Spa Hotel, Embleton, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9XUTelephone
017687 76606Cockermouth
Originally an 18th Century Lakeland farm house, the Embleton Spa Hotel is a relaxed, informal hotel with delightful en-suite rooms, suites and apartments. Each room and apartment is individually designed to offer unique character and charm, and…
Windermere
Our modern, fully furnished and equipped caravan holiday homes are situated in a quiet area, adjacent to the main touring park yet within easy reach of all the park amenities.
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Address
Windermere, CumbriaWindermere
Family Day Out – Walk the lakeshore, hop on a boat cruise, or enjoy a picnic by the water while the kids keep watch for the creature. It’s a magical way to make a family walk or boat trip even more exciting. A Lake District Character – Bownessie…
Address
Storrs Park, Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3LGTelephone
015394 47111Windermere
The Lake Edge Restaurant at Storrs Hall offers a seasonal fixed price menu, as a distinctly different choice to The Bistro. There is a choice of dishes for each course of this 3 course dinner menu.
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Keswick
An interactive world of optical illusions including illusion rooms, holograms and interactive exhibits to amaze the whole family, young and old! Do you believe your eyes?
Address
Tanglewood, Brown Howe, Coniston Water, Water Yeat, Cumbria, LA12 8DWTelephone
015394 41765Coniston Water, Water Yeat
An exceptional, luxurious 5 bedroom lake house with beautiful and stylish interior, private lake frontage on Coniston Water, 2 private jetties and jaw-dropping views throughout.
Address
Winston Drive, Thornbarrow Road, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 2DGTelephone
01400 281057Windermere
The house is in an elevated position with views of the Langdales in the distance. Shops are within walking distance. Bikes can be stored in the garage. Dogs are welcome.
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