The Lake District offers visitors a wealth of things to see and do. Attractions in Cumbria centre around some of the most beautiful landscapes in the UK. Whether you want a romantic weekend away to celebrate a special occasion or a midweek break in a spa hotel, you will be well catered for in the Lake District.
The top lakes to visit and attractions in Cumbria include:
Windermere
Windermere is undoubtedly the pearl of the Lake District, and is the longest lake in England at 10.5 miles. You are spoilt for choice with the vast amount of accommodation available in Windermere, and you can choose from spa hotels and romantic hotels in Windermere.
Windermere is a magnet for tourists and the surrounding area offers visitors a wide range of attractions and great things to do for the family. You can also find the perfect hotels in Windermere for romantic breaks, and late deals.
Take a cruise down Windermere, or visit the house of Beatrix Potter. Brockholes Visitor centre is also worth a visit, along with Bowness, Newby Bridge, Scafell, Ambleside, Grasmere and Forest Park. The Blackwell Arts and Crafts Centre is also within easy reach. Visit the Old Man of Windermere at Dow Crag if you enjoy walking and hiking.
Bassenthwaite
Bassenthwaite is close to Keswick and is home to a fantastic nature reserve, which provides educational tours for all the family. Other attractions in Bassenthwaite include: Trotters World of Animals, the historic house and gardens at Mirehouse, the Whinlatter Forest Park with its adventure playgrounds and forest trails, plus the nearby towns of Keswick and Cockermouth.
If you want to explore the great outdoors, take a trip to Skiddaw, which is the main fell in the area, and either enjoy a gentle walk around the area or climb to the top and you can enjoy incredible views of the surrounding countryside. Bassenthwaite is also a popular spot for sailing enthusiasts, and whether you are a beginner or a seasoned professional, you can enjoy the local lakes to the full.
Buttermere
Often understated, Buttermere is a beautiful lake in the north-west of the Lake District. Now owned by the National Trust, Buttermere is situated among green pastures and hillsides which lead down to the lake, and provide the perfect family day out. With several farms, a church and a youth hostel, Buttermere also provides a wide range of accommodation including romantic hotels and themed hotels nearby. Attractions around Buttemere include walks and hikes around Pillar, High Stile and Red Pike, plus Grasmoor and Honister Slate Mine are close by. Enjoy a tranquil stay at Buttermere and take your time to look around the picturesque villages, fens, lakes and landscapes that make up the Lake District.
Coniston Water
Coniston Water enjoys a tranquil and peaceful setting, and attracts visitors from all over England. Although the lake was made famous by Donald Campbell after he tried, and failed to break the world speed record in 1967, there is much more to Coniston Water than meets the eye. Nearby Brantwood House is well worth a visit, and several boat trips on the water are available including Coniston Launch and the Steam Yacht Gondola. Take a trip to the Ruskin Museum and the Grizedale Forest Park just to the east of Coniston.
Romantic spa hotels in Windermere are popular all year round and offer a wide choice of facilities, including hot tub rooms. Stay in the heart of the Lake District, ready to explore the many attractions in Cumbria.