8 charming places to visit in the Lake District

The Lake District National Park is a place of stunning natural beauty, and a great choice of destination for a family holiday or short break away.

Here are some of the most charming places to visit in the Lake District!

Grasmere

Right in the heart of the Lake District is the popular, pretty village of Grasmere.

There are many wonderful shops here including a quaint chocolate shop, a gingerbread shop and ‘The Herdy Shop,’ a small place selling products inspired by the sheep of the native Herdwick sheep. You won't be short of places to stop for a bite to eat either.

Visit Dove Cottage, William Wordsworth’s former home, and Faeryland, where you can stop for a lovely coffee or hire boats on the lake. There are great transport links to the other villages, such as Windermere and Keswick.

Penrith

Located just 3 miles outside the border of the Lake Distrcit, the market town of Penrith is often overlooked by holidaymakers but has some great things to see and do.

The Lakeland Bird of Prey Centre at Lowther Castle is a great family attraction. Not only can you see over 150 types of birds including eagle, falcons and owls, but there's a splendid castle to visit too!

Looking like a scene from a fairytale, the enchanting sandstone castle has 130 acres of stunning gardens where the kids can explore the woodland, follow secret trails and play in the summerhouses while adults admire the lake views and see the Japanese garden before everyone sits down to enjoy a quiet picnic.

Cartmel

Situated in a quiet valley, the medieval village of Cartmel offers incredible views of the South Lakeland District fells and countryside.

Food lovers should check out the Cartmel Food Market held every 3rd Friday of the month. Market stalls feature local produce from the cheese maker, baker, and chocolate maker to name but a few!

Other attractions here include the famous 12th century Priory Church which attracts around 66,000 visitors and worshippers each year, the annual Cartmel Agricultural Show and various horse racing and dog agility shows held throughout the year.

Don’t miss out on an outstanding meal at the 2-Michelin Starred restaurant L’Enclume or a visit to the nearby Haverthwaite Railway.

Coniston

The village of Coniston is located in the southern part of the Lake District and is known for its famous fell, the Old Man of Coniston. Near Coniston Water, the fell is 2,634 feet high and is a popular walking route for many tourists.

In neighbouring Tilberthwaite, you can explore the slate quarries where you’ll find many footpaths and bridleways to help you get around. Kids and adults alike will love visiting author Beatrix Potter’s 17th century farmhouse. The house is surrounded by beautiful countryside and wild flowers. You can easily see where she gained inspiration for her popular children’s tales!

Hawkshead

The village of Hawkshead is another charming destination in the national park. The village has lovely cobbled streets along with various village squares and courtyards. You’ll find peaceful tea rooms, art galleries and shops selling a whole range of home wares, jewellery and gifts.

Adults will love relaxing at the 5-star Sawrey House, a beautiful Victorian house home to an excellent restaurant and tearoom. Nearby in popular Grizedale Forest is outdoor tree top adventure Go Ape! Suitable for all ages, the kids will be entertained for a good few hours.

Ambleside

In Ambleside, you’ll find great attractions such as Wray Castle. Here you can explore the grounds and interior while learning about the castle’s history. There’s plenty for kids to do such as dressing up, rope swinging and den building in the family friendly gardens.

For older children, Ambleside is home to Raw War Paintball! Kids aged 12 years and over can let of some steam in the woodlands while practising their stealth and teamwork skills. Don’t miss Ambleside’s lovely shops and the unique Bridge House which sits above a stone bridge in the village.

Glennridding

Glenridding is close to Ullswater and popular with walkers who begin the route to England’s third highest mountain, Helvellyn, here. The village is also popular for water activities, including sailing and kayaking.

The whole family will enjoy a short sailing trip, guided by friendly and knowledgeable staff who show you the ropes and make the whole experience easy and hassle-free. It's lots of fun for parents with younger children in particular.

If you fancy kicking back and letting someone else do all of the work, visit the Ullswater Steamers for a relaxing and scenic boat trip.

Rydal

Located between Grasmere and Ambleside, the pretty village of Rydal is the former home of famous romantic poet William Wordsworth. Wordsworth lived at Rydal Mount and Gardens from 1813 until his death in 1850.

Visitors can see Wordsworth’s attic study and other personal possessions, including first edition books of his work and the charming gardens. Nearby you can visit Dora’s Field, a memorial to Wordsworth’s young daughter with peaceful trails to explore and see daffodils and bluebells.

The Lake District is undoubtedly a place of extraordinary beauty, and with many charming towns and villages to visit. Each of these would make the perfect base for your family holiday.