The Lake District is one of Britain’s most beautiful National Parks. Plus, it’s also one of the country’s favourite holiday destinations!
From the second you arrive in the Lake District to the moment you leave, you’ll be amazed by the beauty that surrounds you. The glacial ribbon lakes, rugged fells and magnificent mountains are all guaranteed to take your breath away. What’s more, there are plenty of fun things to do in the Lake District.
The great news is that a break in the Lake District doesn’t have to cost you a fortune. With this in mind, here’s our guide to 30 of the best FREE things to do in the Lake District.
1. The Dock Museum
Built in a historic 19th-century dock, the Dock Museum in Barrow-on-Furness tells the story of this industrial town. The museum features everything from submarines to warships and, during your visit, you can learn more about the fascinating history of the area from its Viking past to its role in the Second World War. There’s even a playground for little ones.
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2. See Aira Force in full flow
Aira Force is one of the jewels of the Lake District. Follow any of the trails that make their way up from Ullswater and you’ll reach this beautiful waterfall. On your way, you’ll pass through ancient woodlands and encounter red squirrels. This powerful waterfall really showcases the power and beauty of nature.
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3. Rutter Force
While Aira Force is a popular tourist attraction, Rutter Force is a little bit more off the beaten track. It’s unspoilt and beautiful here and you’ll also discover a ford, a millwheel and plenty of natural wildlife nearby. You can stroll across from the nearby town of Appleby, which is full of little pubs and tea rooms where you can enjoy a cup of tea or a well-earned lunch.
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4. Old Courthouse Gallery
The Old Courthouse Gallery is a family-owned and independent art gallery that specialises in contemporary art. Although it was only founded in 1994, it’s now one of the leading independent galleries in the North of England, showcasing wall art, furniture, linocuts and sculptures. The gallery is spread across three floors and celebrates the best of local art and design.
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5. Penrith and Eden Museum
The Penrith and Eden Museum is a great place to visit if you’d like to learn more about the local history of Penrith and the Lake District. It’s housed in a 17th-century former school building and contains a great range of objects and artefacts. The museum’s permanent collection includes the Ages of Eden exhibition, which goes back 500 million years!
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6. Thuline Studio and Gallery
The Thuline Studio recently appeared on the BBC show Home is Where the Art Is. It’s a beautiful studio that specialises in animal and pet portraits. While you’re at the gallery, you may have the chance to watch Thuline paint and learn more about how she creates. If you feel like splurging, you can even book one of her workshops where she’ll show you her tricks.
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7. Cook House Gallery
If you’re passionate about art, then you’ll love the Cook House Gallery. The artists here capture all that’s great and good about the Lake District, so expect to encounter beautiful landscapes, original perspectives and intricate crafts. There are five galleries across the Lake District and each houses works by Jeff Sudders and nationally-recognised artists such as Edward Hersey and David Renshaw.
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8. Keswick Outdoor Market
In 2015, Keswick Outdoor Market was voted as the ‘Best Outdoor Market in the UK’. Open on Thursdays and Saturdays, the market attracts both locals and tourists alike. Whether you’d like to browse arts and crafts, sample some award-winning foods or find some gifts to take home, Keswick Outdoor Market is the place to be.
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9. Kendal Farmers’ Market
Held on the last Friday of every month in Market Place, Kendal Farmers’ Market showcases local produce at its finest. Not all of the producers here are farmers, but all stallholders are incredibly passionate about what they do. During your trip here, you’ll find craft gin makers, fishmongers, farmers and organic cheese makers. Make sure you get as many samples as possible.
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10. Carlisle Cathedral
When you visit Carlisle Cathedral, you’ll discover over 900 years of history and faith. Within the cathedral, there are highlights everywhere you look. The ornate choir ceiling is very Instagram-worthy, while the stained glass East Window is absolutely stunning on a sunny day. There’s even a Treasury Exhibition that tells the story of Christianity in Cumbria from the beginning to the present day.
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11. Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre
The Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre is an internationally renowned centre for meditation. If you’re new to the world of meditation, then there’s a guided meditation class held every day at 2pm inside the temple. Alternatively, you’re free to visit the Buddhist Temple, house or grounds. There’s also a café and a shop at the site.
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12. Cartmel Priory
Cartmel Priory is over 800 years old. With a fascinating heritage and stunning architecture, the priory is a beautiful and welcoming space. Some visitors spend hours gazing at the motifs and carvings that adorn the walls. The priory has stood through wars and now acts as a home to all who wish to worship in the Lake District.
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13. Climb Scafell Pike
Hiking is one of the most popular things to do in the Lake District. And did you know that Scafell Pike is the highest mountain and war memorial in England? It measures 978 meters and it’s a climb that isn’t for the faint-hearted. However, if you’re up to the challenge, some well-maintained paths will show you the way. Make it to the top and you’ll be suitably rewarded with views across the entire county.
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14. Scale Helvellyn
If climbing Scafell Pike is a bit much for you, then try scaling Helvellyn instead. Although this is the third-highest mountain in England, it’s an easier climb than Scafell; especially if you take the Thirlmere Loop. The view from the top of the mountain is simply stunning and, if you’re fit and wearing the correct equipment, you can complete the climb and descent in around 6 hours.
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15. Loghrigg Fell Walk
The walk from Ambleside to Loughrigg Fell provides you with unparalleled views over the fells. Plus, the fell is also a great walking option for children and novices, as it’s not too steep or demanding. The circular walk even drops you back off in Ambleside, which is the perfect spot for a pub lunch and a well-earned pint.
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16. Orrest Head Walk
If you’re travelling with someone who only has little legs, then take a trip to Orrest Head. Although the Lake District is known for its long trails, you don’t have to walk for hours to get amazing views. It’ll only take you about an hour to reach the top of Orrest Head and you’ll be treated to beautiful panoramas over Windermere and the surrounding lakes.
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17. Catbells Lakeland Walk
If you’d rather not do much climbing, then try the Catbells Lakeland Walk. This walk has a reputation for being great for kids and first-time walkers. Plus, you’ll still get great views of Derwentwater, Keswick and the surrounding fells. The whole walk will take you around two hours and there are some stunning spots where you can stop for a picnic.
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18. Tarn Hows Walk
If you’d prefer not to do any uphill walking at all, take a trip to Tarn Hows. It’s completely flat here and the 1.75-mile walk is very accessible. As you stroll along the path, you’ll enjoy spectacular mountain views. You’ll also see cattle and sheep grazing and you’ll have plenty of opportunity to stop at one of the picnic spots for lunch.
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19. Fell Foot Park
If the little ones want to blow off some steam, then head to Fell Foot Park. There’s an adventure playground here that the kids will love, as well as plenty of open spaces for ball games. During summer, you can also pay a few pounds and hire rowboats, kayaks and paddleboards. Alternatively, you can jump in the lake for a paddle.
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20. Hope Park
Hope Park is a favourite with families visiting the Lake District. Although you can sit here with a picnic and watch the world go by, there’s also plenty of space to play. In addition, if you’re happy to spend a couple of pounds, you can also take part in any of the park games including pitch and putt, crazy golf, boules and remote-controlled boats.
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21. Fitz Park
People of all ages can have fun at Fitz Park. The park is divided into two and the lower section includes play equipment for children of all ages. There’s a play area for little ones and a games area for older children. There’s even a BMX track where teens can perfect their tricks. In the upper park, things are more sedate. There are formal landscaped gardens and an arboretum.
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22. Visit Derwentwater
No visit to the Lake District would be complete without a trip to one of the famous lakes. If you’re visiting the Lake District as a family, then Derwentwater is a great option for kids. It’s located just outside Keswick town centre and it’s one of the most beautiful spots in the whole region. The lake contains little islands and wooden boat tours operate so you can visit them.
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23. Take a trip to Lake Windermere
Lake Windermere is the largest natural lake in the Lake District. The town of Windermere hugs the edge of the lake and it’s a great place to potter about and visit the local shops. You can walk along the perimeter of the lake and take in the stunning scenery or visit one of the many marinas or sailing centres.
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24. See Hadrian’s Wall
Hadrian’s Wall is a piece of living history. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches for over 70 miles along the northern border of the country. Although guided tours are available along the route, it’s easy to take a look for yourself. As you walk along the wall, you’ll see a great selection of forts, towers and turrets at over 20 English Heritage sites.
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25. Sir John Barrow Monument
The Sir John Barrow Monument sits on top of Hoad Hill, overlooking Ulverston. When the monument was first built in 1850, it was struck by lightning. Thankfully, it was immediately restored. It’s a great place to learn about the life of Sir John Barrow. Climb to the top of the lighthouse-style monument and you’ll receive an incredible 360-degree panoramic view. On a clear day, you can see Blackpool Tower.
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26. Hayes Garden World
Hayes Garden World is one of the Lake District’s staple attractions. After all, this family-run business has traded on the same site for over 200 years. It will take you hours to see all the plants, fish and gifting options at this award-winning garden centre. Luckily, there’s a café where you can rest your feet afterwards.
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27. Kendal Castle
Although Kendal Castle has been a ruin since Tudor times, it’s still well worth a visit. The imposing stonework sits on top of a hill outside the town and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside. The castle used to be the seat of power for the barons of Kendal and was once home to Katherine Parr, King Henry VIII’s surviving wife.
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28. Ulverston Dickensian Festival
Each year, the town of Ulverston brings Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol to life with the Dickensian Festival. The town turns back the clocks and transforms into a winter wonderland full of entertainment, street food and market stalls. It’s a great place to get into the festive spirit and buy all of your gifts. The highlight is the grand parade, so expect to see lots of stunning costumes.
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29. Carlisle Fireshow
Although it’s technically a fireworks display, the Carlisle Fireshow is so much more. The event starts at 2pm when street performers start and activities for children begin. Then, before 6pm, a fairground opens. The main show usually starts before 7 and there’s a bonfire and fireworks display straight after. It’s an impressive display that’s really not to be missed.
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30. Keswick Midsummer Festival
The Keswick Midsummer Festival showcases some of the best local bands and offers plenty of fun things to do in the Lake District. On Saturday, opera and classical music are performed in Fitz Park, and then on the Sunday, there’s a popular dog show.
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