Skip To Main Content

  • Accommodation
    • Don't Miss
      • Sustainable Stays
      • Dog Friendly Accommodation
      • Family Accommodation
      • Accommodation with a Swimming Pool
      • Accommodation with Gyms
      • Accommodation with Hot Tubs
      • Group Accommodation
      • Luxury Accommodation
      • Something a Bit Different
      • Spa Breaks
    • Accessible Accommodation
    • B&Bs & Guesthouses
    • Hotels
    • Lake District Cottages
    • Self Catering Accommodation
    • Camping, Glamping, Caravans and Lodges
    • Holiday Parks
    • Hostels
    • Pubs with Rooms
      • The Inn Collection Group in the Lake District
    • Restaurants with Rooms
    • Holiday Homes for Sale
    • Cottage Agencies
  • What's On
    • Tour de France 2027
    • Challenge Events
      • 13 Valleys
      • Great North Swim
      • Windermere Marathon
      • Cross-Bay Walks
      • Traditional Sports
      • Gurning Festival (Egremont Crab Fair)
    • Cultural Events
      • Winter Droving
    • Festivals
      • Cockermouth Live!
      • Oktoberfest Cumbria 2025
      • Cumbria Dark Skies Festival
      • Lake District Music Summer Festival
      • Marmalade Festival at Dalemain
      • Dave Day
    • Food Events
    • Galleries & Exhibitions
    • Markets
    • Add your event
  • Things to Do
    • Bookable Experiences
    • 50 Great Cumbrian Experiences
    • Lake District Attractions
    • Adventure Activities
      • Adventure on the Water
      • Adventure Training
      • Extreme & Off Road
      • Rocks & Ropes
    • Arts and Culture
      • Let's Go Culture
      • Famous Artists, Poets & Writers
      • Festivals
      • Galleries & Exhibitions
      • Independent Cinema
      • Museums
      • Theatre & Live Performance
    • Experiences
      • Aerial Experiences
      • Animal Experiences
      • Bushcraft Experiences
      • Craft Demonstrations & Workshops
      • Food & Drink Experiences
      • Gift Experiences
    • Guided Tours
      • Coach & Minibus Tours
      • Guided Cycling
      • Guided Walks
      • Nature & Wildlife Tours
    • Health & Wellbeing
      • Forest Bathing
      • Gym & Swim
      • Massage
      • Wild Swimming
      • Yoga
    • History and Heritage
      • Cumbrian Castles
      • Cumbrian Churches
      • Historic Houses, Parks & Gardens
      • King Arthur in Cumbria
    • Outdoor Activities
      • In the Air
      • On the Land
      • On the Water
      • Cycling
      • Walking
      • Golf
      • Horse Riding & Pony Trekking
      • Lake Cruises & Boat Trips
      • Sporting Activities
      • Hen & Stag Activities
      • Team Building activities
      • Free Wainwright Podcasts
    • Shopping
      • Virtual Christmas Market
      • Cumbrian High Street Shopping
      • Local Produce
      • Markets in the Lake District, Cumbria
      • Shop Online
    • Accessible Activities
    • Family Days Out
    • Wildlife & Nature
    • Safety/Adventure Smart
  • Food and Drink
    • Dog Friendly Places to Eat
    • Family-friendly places to eat
    • Afternoon Tea
    • Breweries & Distilleries
    • Cafés
    • Fine dining
    • Foraging & Bushcraft
    • Local Produce
    • Pub Food & Gastro Pubs
    • Restaurants
    • Vegetarian & Vegan
    • Food & Drink in Cumberland
  • Explore Cumbria
    • Areas of Cumbria
      • The Lake District
      • Carlisle & Hadrian’s Wall
      • Eden Valley & North Pennines
      • Morecambe Bay
      • Western Lake District & Coast
      • Where The Lakes Meets The Dales
    • Towns & Villages
    • Lakes of the Lake District
    • Cumbria Coastal Route
    • World Heritage Cumbria
    • Mountains & Fells
    • Harbours & Marinas
  • Ideas and Inspiration
    • Christmas & New Year
    • Itineraries - Great days out
    • Starring Great Britain: The Lake District, Cumbria
      • Film & TV Timeline
      • Gallery of Locations
    • Lake District, Cumbria Bucket List
    • Selfie Guide
    • Dark Skies Cumbria
    • Cumbria Tourism Awards 2025
    • The National Trust in the Lake District
    • Sunny day ideas
    • Rainy day ideas
    • Romantic Breaks
    • Family Holidays
    • Dog Friendly Holidays
    • Bespoke Holidays
    • Caring for the environment
      • Lake District Foundation
      • Safety/Adventure Smart
  • Plan Your Visit
    • Travel
      • Let's Go Car Free
      • Getting To Cumbria
      • Getting Around Cumbria
      • Car Parking and Car Charging
      • Sustainable Stays
      • Group Travel
    • Touring the Lake District, Cumbria
    • Access for all - Adventure for Everyone
      • Accessibility on film
      • Adventure for all - Ideas and Inspiration
    • Tourist Information Centres
    • Smart Travel Planner
  • Weddings
    • Wedding Venues
      • Exclusive Use Venues
      • Venues with Accommodation
    • Wedding Suppliers
    • Wedding Fairs & Events
    • Stag & Hen Parties
    • Honeymoon & Minimoon
    • Transport
    • Spa Treatments
  • Conferences & Event Spaces
    • Conference Venues with Rooms
    • Attraction Venues & Meeting Spaces
    • Functions, Banquets and Corporate Event Venues
    • Team Building
    • Event Organisers, Catering & Suppliers
  • Prizes & Guides
    • Subscribe to our Newsletter
    • Free Holiday Guide Downloads
    • Download Free Desktop Wallpaper
    • Download Free Wainwright Podcasts
    • Prize Draws
      • Win an overnight stay for 2 people
      • Win a three-night stay at The Patterdale Estate
      • Win a luxury Lake District escape with Cradel Haus
      • Win a weekend break for 2 with attraction tickets
  • Let's Go Lake District Blog
  • Special Offers

Don't Miss

  • Winter | Description

    Winter in the Lake District, Cumbria

  • Sign up to receive our newsletter containing news and special offers from the Lake District, Cumbria.

    Subscribe to our Newsletter

  • Site Logo
  • Print Logo
Site Search Icon

My Planner

To build your own Itinerary, click Add to Excursion to add an item to your Itinerary basket.

Already saved an Itinerary?

List All My Saved Itineraries

Language
  • DE
  • EN
Menu
  1. Adventure activities in the Lake District Cumbria
    Ideas & Inspiration
  2. Carlisle Cathedral
    Ideas & Inspiration
  3. Open water swimming, Derwentwater
    Ideas & Inspiration
  4. Whats On in The Lake District, Cumbria
    Ideas & Inspiration

You are here: Home > Ideas and Inspiration

Ideas and Inspiration

You probably have a good idea of the things you’d like to do and see in the Lake District, Cumbria. A cruise across one of the lakes, a walk in the fells – whether a soft stroll, marking off Wainwrights from a list, or a fully equipped 'rocks and ropes' climb.

Maybe you’re keen on exploring the county’s rich arts and culture scene and literary heritage, whether it’s walking in Wordsworth’s footsteps or visiting the house that Beatrix Potter lived in.

Those seeking adventure in the Lake District come with their own thrill checklist – perhaps soaring across the treetops on a zipwire, mountain biking their way through the countryside, sailing on the lake or testing their skills on a Grade 5 rock climb.

We’re more than happy to guide you toward the things you know you want to do, but what about those experiences you didn’t know you wanted to try? Check out our blog for the latest inspiring things to do in the area. The Lake District, Cumbria has a seemingly endless menu of attractions and activities, so why don’t you let us give you a few ideas to mull over?

Let us help you

  1. Family Activities in The Lake District, Cumbria
    Family holidays
    The Lake District Cumbria is the perfect place for a family break, with so much to see and do.
  2. Make your own Gin experience at Shed 1 Distillery
    Rainy Day Ideas
    It rains from time to time in the Lake District, but how else did you think we got our fabulous landscapes and those lakes? Still, there’s plenty to do while taking shelter.
  3. Spa breaks
    Spa breaks
    Treat your loved one to a luxury break in the Lake District, Cumbria. Let the experts in our choice of fabulous Lake District retreats work their magic on you.
  4. Romantic Breaks
    Luxury Romantic Breaks
    Take your loved one for a luxury romantic break in the Lake District, Cumbria - one of the UK's most romantic settings.
  5. Sign up to receive our newsletter containing news and special offers from the Lake District, Cumbria.
    Sign up to our newsletters
    Get all the latest news, inspiration and special offers from the Lake District, Cumbria direct to your inbox

You may leave the Lake District, but once you’ve been, it’ll never leave you.

Search
  • Accommodation
  • Things to Do
  • What's On
  • Food & Drink
Accommodation
Check Availability
Arrival Date
Add Room
Type
Area
Location
Within miles
Keyword
Refine By
Site Features
Leisure Facilities
Property Facilities
Room/Unit Facilities
Parking
Accessibility
Other
Things to Do
Type
Refine By
Beyonk Online Booking
Area
Location
Within miles
Keyword
Refine By
Accessibility
What's On
Dates
Type
Area
Location
Within miles
Keyword
Food & Drink
Type
Area
Location
Within miles
Keyword
Refine By
Accessibility
Accommodation
Check Availability
Arrival Date
Add Room
Type
Area
Location
Within miles
Keyword
Refine By
Site Features
Leisure Facilities
Property Facilities
Room/Unit Facilities
Parking
Accessibility
Other
Things to Do
Type
Refine By
Beyonk Online Booking
Area
Location
Within miles
Keyword
Refine By
Accessibility
What's On
Dates
Type
Area
Location
Within miles
Keyword
Food & Drink
Type
Area
Location
Within miles
Keyword
Refine By
Accessibility

Highlights

Bluebird at The Ruskin Museum
The Ruskin Museum

Meet Coniston's heroes, John Ruskin, artist, radical and seer and Donald Campbell, speed ace. View…

Canyoning with Mountain Journeys in the Lake District, Cumbria
Canyoning with Mountain Journeys

This is closely related to Gorge scrambling only this time we are heading downsteam. More jumping…

Characters and scenes from the Peter Rabbit exhibit at The World of Beatrix Potter in Bowness-on-Windermere, Lake District
The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction

A magical indoor attraction that brings to life all 23 Beatrix Potter's Peter Rabbit tales. Meet…

Visitors viewing Art on Display at Gallery North West in Brampton, Cumbria
Gallery North West

A contemporary art gallery 9 miles east of Carlisle. located close to Hadrian’s Wall, the Scottish…

Sunrise and Sunset Hikes with Mountain Journeys in the Lake District, Cumbria
Sunrise and Sunset Hikes with Mountain Journeys

The more popular mountains can become busy during holiday periods, so why not avoid the crowds by…

'The Lakeland Legend Challenge' by Lake District Activities with Lakeland Ascents
'The Lakeland Legend Challenge' by Lake District Activities with Lakeland Ascents

Totally unique to Lakeland Ascents and not found anywhere else in the Lakes, or the UK for that…

Land Rovers Driving Off-Road with Kankku in the Lake District, Cumbria
4x4 Off-Road Driving with Kankku

Kankku has specially prepared 4x4 vehicles that you drive on rough and rocky scenic trails through…

Hiking Adventures at Newlands Adventure Centre in Keswick, Lake District
Hiking Adventures at Newlands Adventure Centre

Let us be your guide on a hiking adventure that will take you to some of the most beautiful and…

Visitors standing on a stone bridge on a tour with Mountain Goat Tours in the Lake District, Cumbria
Six Lakes Spectacular with Mountain Goat Tours

Step into the world of James Herriot on the All Creatures Great and Small Tour, set against the…

Mountain Walking with Adventure Vertical in Cumbria
Mountain Walking with Adventure Vertical

Have you ever wanted to climb the highest mountain in the UK or maybe take on a mountain horseshoe…

Interior Exhibition at Eskdale Mill in Boot, Lake District
Eskdale Mill

Eskdale Mill is a unique experience, nestled in one of the Lake District's most beautiful locations…

The Woodland Wanderer - A Half Day Guided Walk Suitable for Families with Green Man Survival
The Woodland Wanderer - A Half Day Guided Walk Suitable for Families with Green Man Survival

Join us for a half-day guided woodland walk in the South Lakes, learning some bushcraft essentials…

Riders Enjoying E-Bike Hire and Delivery from E-Bike Safaris Ltd in the Lake District, Cumbria
E-Bike Safaris – Cycle Routes for Beginners to Hardened Road Cyclists

Our Cycling Route’s guide of the Lake District provides a broad range of cycle routes for all…

Visitors Kayaking and Paddleboarding at Windermere Canoe Kayak in the Lake District, Cumbria
Windermere Canoe Kayak

Canoe, Paddleboard, Kayaking in Windermere, Lake District. Tailored made courses from sea to surf,…

Exterior, Grounds, and Gardens at Holker Hall and Gardens near Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria
Holker Hall and Gardens

A fascinating historic house where the elegance and loveliness of the Victorian era combine with…

Exterior and grounds at Sizergh Castle, Lake District © National Trust Images
Sizergh Castle - National Trust

The house boasts 800 years of family history, and is still lived in by the Strickland family today.…

Cycling Holidays with Saddle Skedaddle in the Lake District, Cumbria
Cycling Holidays with Saddle Skedaddle

Saddle Skedaddle is the world’s leading independent cycling holiday specialist, with over 200…

Child with stand-up paddleboards from Newlands Adventure Centre in the Lake District, Cumbria
Paddleboarding at Newlands Adventure Centre

Paddleboarding is quickly gaining popularity as a new paddle sport in the UK, and there’s no better…

The Heritage Boat Osprey at the Windermere Jetty Museum in Windermere, Lake District
Windermere Jetty Museum

Windermere Jetty Museum is a vibrant, family-friendly visitor attraction dedicated to the boats,…

Exterior and Signage at The Heaton Cooper Studio in Grasmere, Lake District
The Heaton Cooper Studio

Art gallery and art shop run by the Heaton Cooper family, selling original paintings and prints…

Rock Climbing with More Than Mountains in Langdale near Ambleside, Lake District
Rock Climbing in Langdale near Ambleside with More Than Mountains

Rock climbing has increased in popularity recently, particularly since its introduction at the…

Family Practicing Shooting with Green Man Survival in Newby Bridge, Lake District
Bushcraft, Shooting and Woodland Archery Day with Green Man Survival

If you can't decide which one of our kick ass experiences to choose, don't, and just do them all!…

Exterior and Grounds of Swarthmoor Hall in Ulverston, Cumbria
Swarthmoor Hall

Swarthmoor Hall is a 17th century, Grade II* listed country house. The Hall is regarded as the…

Sail a 23 foot Jeanneau Yacht with Sailing Windermere in the Lake District, Cumbria
Sailing on Lake Windermere with Sailing Windermere

Charter a skippered yacht for a 2 hour sailing experience for up to 4 people, get involved and take…

PrevPrev
  • 1The Ruskin Museum
  • 2Canyoning with Mountain Journeys
  • 3The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
  • 4Gallery North West
  • 5Sunrise and Sunset Hikes with Mountain Journeys
  • 6'The Lakeland Legend Challenge' by Lake District Activities with Lakeland Ascents
  • 74x4 Off-Road Driving with Kankku
  • 8Hiking Adventures at Newlands Adventure Centre
  • 9Six Lakes Spectacular with Mountain Goat Tours
  • 10Mountain Walking with Adventure Vertical
  • 11Eskdale Mill
  • 12The Woodland Wanderer - A Half Day Guided Walk Suitable for Families with Green Man Survival
  • 13E-Bike Safaris – Cycle Routes for Beginners to Hardened Road Cyclists
  • 14Windermere Canoe Kayak
  • 15Holker Hall and Gardens
  • 16Sizergh Castle - National Trust
  • 17Cycling Holidays with Saddle Skedaddle
  • 18Paddleboarding at Newlands Adventure Centre
  • 19Windermere Jetty Museum
  • 20The Heaton Cooper Studio
  • 21Rock Climbing in Langdale near Ambleside with More Than Mountains
  • 22Bushcraft, Shooting and Woodland Archery Day with Green Man Survival
  • 23Swarthmoor Hall
  • 24Sailing on Lake Windermere with Sailing Windermere
NextNext

You may also like

  • Bookable Experiences

  • Download Guide

  • Gift Vouchers

  • Itineraries

  • E-newsletter Sign Up

  • Blog

Stay in Touch

Follow The Lake District, Cumbria on Social Media

Sign up for E-newsletter

Receive all the latest news, special offers and information from the Lake District, Cumbria

Sign Up
  • Let's Go Lake District Blog
  • About Visit Lake District
  • Media Enquiries
  • Travel Trade
  • Contact Us
  • Jobs in the Lake District, Cumbria
  • Site Map
  • Terms of use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Romantic Breaks
  • Selfie Guide
  • Accommodation
  • What's On
  • Things to Do
  • Food and Drink
  • Lake District Weddings
Contact Us

Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL

Made by Simpleview Logo

Ratings Powered By

tripadvisor

Cumbria Tourism

© Cumbria Tourism