The Lake District is one of my favorite places in the world. My most recent trip last month was my ninth time visiting this spectacular national park, which to me is simply heaven on earth. As the UK gradually eases restrictions and domestic tourism opens, the Lake District (also known as ‘the Lakes’) is undoubtedly going to be a popular destination for a staycation this year. I’m always shocked at how many people in the UK still haven’t made a trip here—so it’s time to put it on your list!
It’s possible to experience a lot of the Lake District in just a weekend, but you could easily spend weeks here without getting bored. There are plenty of hotels in the Lake District, but if you want to get out in nature there are lots of campsites too. I’ve also wild camped several times in the Lakes, as always leaving no trace. There are lots of choices for accommodation, and as more people are visiting this beautiful area I’d recommend booking as far in advance as you can.
As with all trips since the pandemic, it’s important to take precautions and follow government guidelines as tourism starts up again. I recommend bringing your own mask and hand sanitizer with you, and of course adhering to whatever restrictions or social distancing measures are in place. As businesses open their doors again after multiple lockdowns, check if you need to book attractions or book a table in advance.
So why should you visit the Lake District this year? Here are my top reasons to convince you to go!
Scenery: The Great Outdoors
The landscapes in the Lake District are simply spectacular. Many people don’t think of mountains and high fells when they think of England—but the Lake District is all that and more. There is just one official lake in the Lake District, Bassenthwaite Lake, as the rest are waters, meres, or tarns. But regardless of what they’re called, there’s plenty to explore and the scenery will make your jaw drop. I think photos of the Lakes speak for themselves. I honestly think it’s one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Hiking
I go to the Lake District to be outside, and I have done a lot of walks here over the years. This is one of the best places for hikes in England and in the UK, with plenty of relatively accessible fells offering amazing views. I don’t think anyone should go to the Lake District without going on at least one walk! If you’re up for a lengthy challenge, try to bag all 214 Wainwrights, which are notable fells named by Alfred Wainwright in his books on the Lake District. Below are a few of my favorite hikes in the Lake District.
Easy: Buttermere loop, Tarn Hows (with a possible extension to Black Crag), Latrigg Fell, Hallin Fell
Moderate: Catbells, Helm Crag, Loughrigg Fell, Rannerdale Knotts, Raven Crag, Orrest Head, Wansfell Pike
Difficult: Old Man of Coniston, Helvellyn, Crinkle Crags, and the half-horseshoe around Buttermere (consisting of Red Pike, High Stile, High Crag, Haystacks, and Fleetwith Pike)
Literary Culture
You don’t have to spend all of your time in the Lake District outside. The national park has inspired numerous writers, so literature fans will find plenty to do here. Start with Dove Cottage and the Wordsworth Museum in Grasmere, before heading to Beatrix Potter’s former home at Hill Top (near Hawkshead) and the World of Beatrix Potter (in Bowness-on-Windermere). You can also visit the Ruskin Museum in Coniston to learn more about John Ruskin among other important locals.
Historic Attractions
Interested in history? You’ll have plenty to keep you busy in the Lakes. My favorite place is Castlerigg Stone Circle, a Neolithic stone circle that’s older than Stonehenge with phenomenal views across the area. I visit every time I’m in the Lake District, without fail. If you can brave the nerve-wracking drive, Hardknott Roman Fort in Hardknott Pass is one of the most remote Roman forts in the country, and also boasts spectacular views. Muncaster Castle, Lowther Castle, Sizergh Castle, and Wray Castle are other popular historic attractions. You can also visit Honister Slate Mine, which is the last working slate mine in England. They’ve got a load of adventures on offer, like mine tours, a via ferrata, or canyoning you can book onto.
Pubs
One of the best things about my trips to the Lake District is settling in for a pint and decent pub grub after a hike. The Lake District is home to some of my favorite pubs in the country, with beautiful (and sometimes dramatic) locations. The Kirkstone Pass Inn is the third-highest pub in the country—I actually stayed here a few years ago. I also love the Kirkstile Inn in Loweswater, the Wookpack Inn in Boot in Eskdale, and the Old Dungeon Ghyll is a classic if you’re in Langdale. There are high-end restaurants and hotels offering fine dining or exquisite afternoon teas, too.
If you haven’t been to the Lake District yet, now is the time to go. As international travel still comes with restrictions, there’s never been a better time to explore our own backyard here in the UK. I hope this post helps inspire a trip to the Lakes this year!
This post is in collaboration with Hotels.com, but all views are of course my own.
Have you visited the Lake District yet? Is it on your list for this year?!
You might also like my posts:
The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide To England’s Lake District
Crinkle Crags In Langdale: A Beautiful Hike In The Lake District
Staying At The Kirkstone Pass Inn In The Lake District
Hiking Catbells In The Lake District
Hiking Up Helvellyn In The Lake District
The Lake District: Keswick And Beyond
Hiking The Old Man Of Coniston In The Lake District
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