How to Make the Most of a Holiday in the Lakes

A trip to the Lake District appeals to many, as it is one of the UK's most popular tourist destinations - sometimes referred to as the “adventure capital”. However, it can be challenging to sift through all the information available online and decide on an ideal itinerary that covers all bases and shows you what this gorgeous location has to offer. This article should help you create the perfect Lake District breaks; just pick and choose what appeals to you and you’ll be ready to go! 

Go on walks 

In many ways, the most obvious thing to do on a holiday in the Lake District is to go on a walk. The Lake District offers so many walks, with a great range of natural features and wildlife. 

Here are some of the best walks and what they have to offer: 

• Harder walks 
  • Helvellyn via Striding Edge is arguably one of the most famous walks in the UK. On the walk, you traverse Striding Edge, which is a narrow ridge leading to the summit of England's third-highest peak. This route is not for beginners or those uncomfortable with heights.
  • Scafell Pike is England's highest mountain. The route from Wasdale Head is the most direct, but it is still a strenuous climb. However, it will give you views across the whole Lake District.
• Moderate walks 
  • Catbells is close to the beautiful communities of Keswick and Derwentwater. It's relatively short and steep, with a little scramble near the top. It offers a great panoramic view without being too difficult to hike. 
  • Loughrigg Fell is a summit hike that offers full views across the Lake District. It is not too challenging but longer than the easier ones. 
• Easier walks 
  • The Buttermere Circuit is a loop around the beautiful Buttermere Lake that is very accessible because it is predominantly flat. 
  • Aira Force Waterfall is a short circular path through ancient woodland near Ullswater. The path also leads to the incredible Aira Force waterfall.

Get traditional foods

Local or traditional foods can be found in pubs and restaurants across the Lake District. These foods include: 

• Cumberland sausage 
• Hardwick Hogget and lamb 
• Cumberland sauce 
• Kendal Mint Cake 
• Rum butter 

Stay in a nice hotel 

Hotels, especially luxury Lake District hotels, can offer so much, including beautiful views of the surrounding scenery, hotel restaurants serving local food, or hotel spas with naturally sourced spa products. 

A lovely hotel stay makes a huge difference to the quality of a trip; it is your home base and the easiest place for you to relax or get advice on what to do. Make sure to research areas that are well reviewed and located centrally to other activities you want to do. 

Go on local excursions 

What excursions appeal to you will depend on the preferences of you and your party, but because the Lake District has such a wide range, there should be something for everyone. Some suggestions are: 

• A walking tour could be a great way to show you all of the best spots across the Lakes and ensure that you are safely guided through them. 
• Boat trips across one of the many lakes give you a whole different perspective and can be a fun group activity. 
• A wildlife tour, including a mountain goat tour, is a great way to learn about local wildlife and how it coexists with Lake District residents. 
• Climbing is a great option for active people and those who aren’t afraid of heights! 
• Literary tours that let you learn more about the cultural and literary history of the Lake District. 

Book a holiday in the Lakes

With all these benefits, why not experience the Lakes for yourself! Research some activities that stood out to you and figure out where you’d most like to stay, then get booking and enjoy your holiday!