The Lake District in northwest England is a rugged place of mountains, lakes, villages and history. From Romantic poets to travellers today, this National Park has attracted people for many years, whether they were looking for adventure, culture or tranquillity. This guide gives you all the important information, from history and local life to costs, best routes and travel advice.
Beautiful Places You Must See
The Lake District packs breathtaking scenery into 912 square miles. Top sights include:
- Windermere: England’s longest lake, great for cruises and lakeside walks.
- Wastwater: The deepest lake, set in dramatic Wasdale Valley.
- Buttermere: A peaceful, photogenic spot, loved for circular walks and its stunning setting beneath Fleetwith Pike and Great Gable.
- Crummock Water and Haystacks: Rugged fells for hiking and unforgettable views.
- Derwentwater: Picturesque wooded islands, near Keswick.
- Ullswater: The “most majestic” lake, famed for wild daffodils that inspired Wordsworth.
Other gems include Grasmere (known for its gingerbread and literary history), Ambleside (gateway to mountainous adventures), and secluded villages like Hawkshead. The region is a walker’s paradise, with 2,223km of public footpaths and 925km of bridleways.
How to Trip: Perfect Routes & Itinerary
Getting There and Around
From London:
- By train: London Euston to Oxenholme (3hr 30min), change for Windermere.
- By car: Approx. 5 hours, with parking challenges during peak summer.
- By coach: National Express runs to Keswick and Windermere.
Exploring:
- Public transport is excellent, with train lines to Penrith, Carlisle, Windermere, and the scenic Cumbria Coast.
- Central base: Windermere is best for first-timers, given strong transport links, food options, and proximity to top sights.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Windermere, walk the lake, and dinner at local restaurants.
Day 2: Explore Ambleside, hike Loughrigg Fell, or visit Rydal Mount.
Day 3: Visit Grasmere (Dove Cottage and gingerbread), then relax at Buttermere.
Day 4: Discover Keswick (Derwentwater cruise, Castlerigg Stone Circle).
Day 5: Wastwater and Wasdale Valley, finish with a scenic drive or hike.
Perfect Road Trip
A circular route linking Windermere, Ambleside, Grasmere, Keswick, Buttermere, and back covers key highlights and lets you soak up dramatic views, charming tearooms, and famous fells. Consider taking the A591, one of England’s most scenic drives.
Typical Trip Charges and Budget
Daily cost per person:
- Budget: $56 (£42)
- Mid-range: $129 (£96)
- Luxury: $246 (£183)
One-week costs (mid-range):
- $900 (approx. £670), including food, accommodation, sightseeing, and local transport.
- Tours: £8–£33 for guided walks, cruises, and activities.
Hotel prices:
- Budget: Hostels and B&Bs from £40/night.
- Mid-range: 3-star hotels from £80–£150/night.
- Luxury: £200+/night.
Book in advance during holidays and weekends, as accommodation fills up quickly.
History: Shaped by Ice, Time, and Inspiration
The Lake District is about 500 million years old, when the continents collided and the glaciers sculpted the fells and valleys. According to archaeological sites scattered throughout the region, a human settlement is recorded from 5000 years ago. After the Romans and Vikings fought over the land, it became “wildlands,” influenced by the English and Scots till the UK formed in 1707. The Industrial Revolution sped up connections by railways and canals.
However, it would be the “sublime nature” that poets such as Wordsworth wrote about, which would attract visitors. Beatrix Potter, one of the most beloved authors, conserved large areas of farmland and was instrumental in the founding of the National Trust. The Lake District was declared England’s second national park in 1951. In 2017, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, staycationers and worldwide tourists are drawn to its timeless beauty and outdoor activities.
Population and Local Economy
Lake District National Park has a resident population of 40,500 people in 80 parishes. Only 4 towns: Pembroke, Ambleside, Windermere and Bowness-on-Windermere. Windermere, the largest, has 8,400 residents. There is a holiday home, a farming community and a major market town in this region.
Owing to more than fifteen million visitors yearly, tourism is the backbone of the economy. Tourists’ expenditure on the British Museum in 2018 (10 words). Apart from hospitality and retail, cultural tourism is flourishing with theme parks, theatres, monuments and famous festivals.
Landmarks and Historic Sites
- Castlerigg Stone Circle: One of Britain’s oldest prehistoric monuments.
- Dove Cottage: The home of William Wordsworth, now a museum.
- Hardknott Roman Fort: Remnants of Roman rule on high ground.
- Muncaster Castle: Home to the Pennington family since the 13th century.
- Lowther Castle and Gardens: Stunning architecture and landscaped grounds.
- Hill Top: The home of Beatrix Potter, filled with her personal treasures.
Famous Residents
- William Wordsworth: Romantic poet, born in Cockermouth, whose verses immortalised the region.
- Beatrix Potter: Author and conservationist, whose Hill Top farm is a National Trust site.
- John Ruskin: Influential Victorian critic and artist, owned Brantwood near Coniston.
- Alfred Wainwright: Renowned for his guides to the Lakeland Fells, inspiring countless hikers.
FAQs
What is the Lake District famous for?
Stunning lakes (Windermere, Wastwater, Buttermere), dramatic fells, charming villages, and its literary legacy (Wordsworth, Potter) define the Lake District.
When is the best time to visit?
Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October) offer milder weather, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds. Summers are busiest; winter is quieter, but some amenities may be closed.
Is it expensive to visit the Lake District?
It can be managed on a budget (hostels, self-catering, free walks), but mid-range and luxury travellers will see higher costs. Typical daily budget: £42–£183.
Do I need a car?
No, public transport is reliable, but a car gives more flexibility for remote fells and hidden gems. Park and ride is recommended to avoid traffic congestion in peak months.
What are the can’t-miss places?
- Windermere (cruise & hikes)
- Grasmere (gingerbread, Dove Cottage)
- Buttermere (walks)
- Keswick (Derwentwater, Stone Circle)
- Wastwater (dramatic scenery)
- Hill Top (Beatrix Potter’s home)
What are the best walks?
- Buttermere circular walk (4.5 miles)
- Haystacks (Wainwright’s favourite fell)
- Catbells (family-friendly, amazing views)
Can I do water sports?
Yes, kayak, paddleboard, or swim in several lakes (Windermere, Derwentwater, Ullswater). Always follow local safety guidance.
Final Thoughts
From its ancient stone circles to poet-haunted villages and glacial lakes, The Lake District is a landscape shaped by nature, history, and imagination. Pack your walking boots, charge your camera, and embrace every moment, whether you seek adventure or solace. However you choose to explore, the magic of the Lakes will linger long after you leave.