Things to see and do in the Lake District
The English Lake District is a beautiful part of the country famed for its delightful rolling hills, outdoor activities and, perhaps unsurprisingly, lakes. Here are just a few of the things that you can do (especially if you're feeling adventurous!).
The following search engine provides lots of useful pointers to places to stay, eat and drink, and things to see on your visit. Or you can contact the tourist board and speak with local experts about planning your trip. If you are feeling energetic, then there is a large variety of outdoor pursuits including rock climbing, ghyll scrambling, kayaking, cycling and mountain biking.
Fell Walking
There is a huge variety of walks of various levels of difficultly, from the gentle stroll around a lake footpath, to gruelling vertical ascents affording some of the most spectacular views of the Lake District National Park. John Dawson's web site provides an excellent starting point for planning your walk.
Please remember, many of these walks may not seem particularly dangerous at first glance, but the weather can be very unpredictable and the key is to be well prepared. You should wear stout walking boots with good ankle support and carry additional layers of clothing, a map, compass and waterproofs. Take water and some basic supplies to keep yourself hydrated and give you energy. A survival bag is recommended in case of emergencies. It is unwise to hill walk on one's own and we particularly recommend walking as a group (ideally with an experienced guide).
Sight seeing
Poets, writers and artists have often drawn their inspiration from the Lake District, and something of their legacy remains. You can visit Brantwood John Ruskin's home from 1872-1900 and explore 250 acres of gardens. Visit Dove Cottage the inspirational home of poet William Wordsworth. There are fine stately homes and castles, such as Holker Hall with its famous motor museum including the Campbell Bluebird Exhibition. See the National Trust website for more information. There are also lake cruises, pony trekking and many other activities for all the family.
Eating and drinking
Last, but not least, there is a wide range of places to eat and drink. Some personal favourites include many pubs, cafés and restaurants, such as the Drunken Duck (including its own brewery), the Mason's arms at Strawberry Bank (which no longer brews, but still features a very wide range of world beers), and for that special occasion, the Miller Howe hotel and restaurant. The nearby town of Ambleside offers a wide range of convenient options including the "Garden Room Café" (which is entirely vegetarian) and "Lucy's on a Plate" which, according to one source, is "nice, relaxed but good quality restaurant and health food outlet, with good vegetarian options".