From stunning natural lakes to sweeping hillsides, the Lake District is a top holiday spot for outdoor adventurers. Allowing you to slip on your hiking boots, pack a lunch and take to the mountains, this region offers a welcome reprieve from the busyness of daily life.
Even if you've got a more relaxing itinerary in mind, you should definitely consider the Lake District for your next staycation - largely undeveloped and sprinkled with quaint local villages, this peaceful area offers the perfect place to unwind with family. Plus, with our luxury selection of holiday homes and cottages in the Lake District, you'll have a beautiful base from which to explore it all.
Discover the Oliver’s Travels way, where style and character define every handpicked home in the Lake District. Our destination experts curate unique homes in beautiful locations that are perfect for families and guaranteed to ‘wow’.
Once you book a holiday, the service doesn't stop there. Our Concierge Service means you'll be in good hands to arrange in-house chefs, fridge stocking, housekeeping, and so much more, to make your stay truly extraordinary.
Stunning scenery, flourishing wildlife, intriguing history and a strong heritage draw millions to the Lake District year after year.
Not only does it offer a stress-free, rejuvenating break for UK residents (there'll be no worrying about border closures, entry requirements and airport security here) but all are welcome - from grandparents looking to soak up their surroundings, all the way down to four-legged friends who get to roam alongside you.
However, despite its continued popularity, the sheer size of the region means its tranquil atmosphere remains intact - steer only a little clear of the most trodden paths and you'll find a calming spot to enjoy all to yourself.
Exploring the Lake District's natural beauty will likely be the main reason for your visit. At 978m, Scafell Peak serves as England's highest peak while also being a war memorial. Even if you're not up for the challenge, ample walking routes can be found in the area that every member of the family can enjoy.
Prefer your adventures to be water-based? Take a boat cruise across Lake Windermere, or hire a canoe in Derwenwater to enjoy dramatic views from all sides. And for the cyclists, you'll also find many dedicated paths through the woods and up the mountains.
However, it's important that you also take some time to unwind while here. Whether you grew up reading her stories or enjoy sharing them with your own kids, Beatrix Potter has a firm place in the hearts of millions. The World of Beatrix Potter brings her timeless tales to life, which she wrote and set in the Lake District.
Prefer history to fiction? Head to Wray Castle and marvel at its dramatic Gothic Revival structure, exploring the turrets and towers as you go.
Check out our full list of things to do in the Lake District to get your trip planning underway.
You may be surprised to learn that the Lake District has become something of a foodie mecca. 8 Michelin-star restaurants can be found across the region, but even if you spend all your time hopping between cafes, pubs and more casual establishments, you'll still be treated to a variety of dishes made from locally sourced produce.
Meat eaters should definitely take this chance to enjoy authentic Cumberland sausages, preferably served with creamy mash for a fuss-free, comforting meal post-hike. Looking for something a little sweeter? Afternoon tea remains popular throughout the various towns and villages, while Grasmere gingerbread is perfect for enjoying straight away or taking home as a souvenir.
Great for kids: Energetic children can let off some steam as they roam around this natural playground. Then, take a trip to the Lake District Wildlife Park and make some new furry friends.
Great for teens: Up for a challenge? Head to Grizedale Forest to traverse one of nine cycling trails or off-road mountain bike trails. Along the way, discover the various art sculptures hidden throughout the forest.
The Castlerigg Stone Circle is like Stonehenge's lesser-known sibling - and that's why we think it's well worth a visit! Enjoy weaving your way around the stones with lower crowds and a stunning view of Keswick in the distance.
Nestled below the Lake District's towering hilltops and stunning mountains you'll find some of the most picturesque towns and villages in the UK. Cobbled streets, winding lanes, cosy cafes and local shops abound, offering quiet spots to unwind after a day spent hiking.
Paying respect to their lengthy history, many continue to boast bustling market squares, and some even have ties to certain famous writers. Whichever you choose to visit, you'll never be short of unsuspecting corners to explore throughout your stay.
The Quaker Tapestry Museum boasts over 350 years of history displayed across 40 embroidered panels. Not only is it all housed in a gorgeous Georgian Meeting House, but it's a perfect rainy day activity.
This car-free village is filled with historical buildings, but the most significant draw of all is its ties to Beatrix Potter. Explore her charming works at a dedicated gallery, before moving onto the equally-as-sweet Chocolate Factory.
One for the foodies, Cartmel is famous for its award-winning sticky toffee pudding. However, you'll also find a cheese delicatessen, two Michelin-star restaurants and plenty of traditional pubs to enjoy a hearty lunch in.
Once a woollen textile hotspot, Kendal today is more well known for its Mint Cakes - an excellent pocket-sized, sugar-packed hiking snack. Grab a few on your way through but be sure to check out the Kendal Castle ruins before leaving.
Grasmere's Dove Cottage was once the home of William Wordsworth, with keen readers flocking to visit the small house-turned-museum each year. Many of its surrounding buildings also date back to the 19th century, so you'll feel immersed in history just by walking around.
A popular home base from which to explore the wider Lake District, Ambleside is filled with characterful Victorian buildings that will have you feeling whisked away to simpler times. Stock Ghyll Force is well worth a visit too - the 20m waterfall is just a short walk away.
This tiny hamlet is often overlooked as merely a starting point for several key hikes, located at the foot of Honister Pass. However, underground adventures also await at the Honister Slate Mine - get ready for vertical climbs and rope-bridge crossings!
The Lake District is easily accessible from across the UK. You'll find the M6 motorway to the east of the region, so you can get there from London in around 5 hours and Manchester in 90 minutes. However, given the luscious scenery of Cumbria, getting there is truly part of the adventure!
Key railway stations such as Penrith, Carlisle and Oxenholme offer easy links with London and Glasgow via West Coast train services. Windermere, Kendal and Staveley also have stations, meaning you can get here by rail from just about anywhere in Great Britain.
Even if you arrived in the Lake District by car, you don't have to be tied to navigating the roads by yourself. Instead, you can buy a "park and explore" ticket which covers a day's parking plus bus travel around the region.
You can also grab a Lakes Dayrider ticket to enjoy unlimited Stagecoach travel for 5 people around the region.
If you're flying in from further afield, the closest airports are Manchester to the south and Glasgow to the north. Carlisle Lake District Airport also offers limited flights to and from Dublin, London, Southend and Belfast.
If you arrived by train or plane and don't want to wait around for public transport, consider renting an electric car to fully explore the region. These can be found at various Lake District train stations, with several charging points located throughout the region.
Of course, one of the main reasons many visit the Lake District is its ample walking trails. You'll find both low-level strolls and high-intensity hikes here, meaning amblers of all ages and abilities can enjoy the beautiful scenery. Just remember to bring suitable shoes, wear breathable layers, pack your suncream and consider investing in walking poles for tougher routes.
Phone service can be patchy, so invest in an old-fashioned map and compass to make sure that you're not caught out!
