Our top ten Cumbria attractions

Thinking about heading to Cumbria? Let us convince you with our pick of the top ten Cumbria attractions…

1. The Lake District National Park

The stunning Lake District National Park is one of the main draws for visitors to Cumbria and as soon as you see it you will understand why. The biggest National Park in England is a nature lover’s dream, offering incredible landscapes that can be explored on foot, by bike and on horseback. If you fancy some fun on the lakes there is a variety of watersport activities on offer and a host of charming towns and villages offer plenty of cultural attractions.

2. Muncaster Castle

Muncaster Castle is over 800 years old and is guaranteed to impress and intrigue visitors of all ages. The castle is reputed to be one of the UK’s most haunted buildings, but there’s plenty to see besides a ghostly sight or two. The World Owl Centre is located in the castle gardens and visitors can see over 40 different kinds of owls within the centre. The grounds of the castle are also spectacular and discovering their beauty for yourself is not to be missed.

3. Birdoswald Roman Fort – Hadrian’s Wall

Birdoswald Roman Fort offers exceptional views, including the longest unbroken stretch of the world renowned Hadrian’s Wall. Visitors can walk amongst the remains of the fort and examine a number of artefacts and displays that are on show in the visitors’ centre.

4. Piel Island

For an island that is only 50 acres in size, Piel Island isn’t short of attractions, namely a castle, a pub and a “king” thanks to a longstanding tradition that the landlord of the island’s inn is crowned the “King of Piel”. The castle is actually a fortified warehouse that was associated with smuggling carried out by Furness Abbey. Visitors are allowed to camp within the castle walls and if you’re lucky you may spot grey seals from the top of the castle tower.

5. Furness Abbey

The ruins of Furness Abbey are an impressive sight located in a picturesque setting. The visitor centre houses a collection of stone effigies which are well worth making time to see and if you fancy a picnic the surrounding landscape is a pretty spot in which to enjoy some outdoor dining.

6. Carlisle Cathedral

Cumbria holidaymakers with an interest in architecture should head to the beautiful Carlisle Cathedral, parts of which are over 800 years old. The cathedral boasts impressive stone and wood carvings, a stunning choir ceiling, striking stained glass windows and two extremely rare Scandinavian runic inscriptions amongst its attractions. There is also a collection of intriguing archaeological discoveries on display in the Treasury Exhibition.

7. South Lakes Wild Animal Park

The South Lakes Wild Animal Park is a great place for adults and children to scamper about amongst the fantastic variety of wonderful animals that call the park home, including rhinos, lions, tigers, kangaroos and monkeys to name a few. It is possible to get up close to many of the inhabitants by walking through areas with free-roaming animals as well as by participating in feeding some of the animals by hand.

8. Hill Top

Promising an enchanting visit for everyone who is young at heart, Hill Top is a gorgeous 17th century farmhouse in which Beatrix Potter lived and drew inspiration for several of her tales. The contents of the farmhouse have been preserved exactly as she kept them and the surrounding gardens are sure to delight visitors.

9. Tullie House Museum & Art Gallery

Tullie House Museum & Art Gallery is home to intriguing art, nature and history collections as well as a number of galleries, making this an excellent attraction for history and art lovers alike. Diverse exhibitions and events are held throughout the year that will appeal to adults and younger kids too, so everyone can get involved regardless of their age.

10. Walby Farm Park

Children will never want to leave Cumbria once they experience the superb family fun available at Walby Farm Park. With equally exciting indoor and outdoor play areas, Walby Farm Park ensures a great day out no matter what the weather is like. Walby is a working farm with a variety of rare breeds on show as well as entertaining daily activities such as ferret racing, goat feeding, pony grooming and milking demonstrations that will leave youngsters and adults well entertained.

Come to Cumbria for a holiday you’ll never want to end

No matter what you enjoy doing on your holidays, from history and architecture that has stood the test of time to delightful animals, amazing art and truly breathtaking landscapes, Cumbria has it all and more. This county is nothing short of amazing and don’t be surprised if you’re very reluctant to leave!