The Lake District. Hauntingly beautiful countryside that just screams ‘Classic England’. It was a destination I simply had to explore…
Located in the region of Cumbria, the breathtaking Lake District, is one of England’s oldest and largest national parks. The mountainous region boasts sweeping green fields, rolling hills and stunning views that look out onto the nation’s longest lake. It is truly a paradise for lovers of the great outdoors and no wonder at all that it served inspiration for literary greats! My visit to the Lakes centered around the quaint towns of Windermere and Bowness-on-Windermere. These are my top tips for making the most of your time in the region!
1) Lake Windermere
The Windermere Lake is the longest in England, stretching for 16.9km from Ambleside to Newby Bridge! On a warm, sunny day locals and tourists alike enjoy strolls along the lake with some incredibly captivating scenery. However, even if visiting in the cooler months as I did, you most definitely still appreciate the view! I recommend you jump aboard a steamship and cruise down the lake to really get engaged.
2) Hike up Orrest Head
There’s no place like The Lake District to embrace the great outdoors. And with the promise of beautiful views, a hike up Orrest Head isn’t a difficult price to pay! Orrest Head is considered to be the best viewpoint over Lake Windermere and after climbing up to the summit of 239 metres, I would have to agree. The sweeping panorama was truly a breathtaking sight to behold! The viewpoint was also met with a stamp of approval by the poet William Wordsworth and the author Alfred Wainwright. Wainwright fell in love, describing it as “The promised land…seen in all its glory!”
3) Explore Bowness-on-Windermere
If you’re not a huge fan of the great outdoors, don’t despair because there is much to enjoy in this town! Take the time to see St Martin’s Church with its impressive 15th century stained glass windows that hold the coat of arms of the Washington family. After, head over to the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction and relive childhood memories of Peter Rabbit and his friends. You can also discover more about the author’s life and her inspiration for writing Peter Rabbit. After relax at one of the town’s many pubs or cafes!
4) Ambleside
This village is a stone’s throw away from Windermere and worth visiting to get away from what some describe as its commercial sister towns. Use it as a launching pad for hikes where you can see waterfalls and more stunning views. Notable trails include Stock Ghyll Force, Wansfell mountain and Fairfield Horseshoe.
5) Indulge in quality ice-cream
Finally, lakeside views make ice-cream a necessity. And Windermere has plenty of specialty ice-cream stores that make it all too easy to indulge in creamy deliciousness. The difficulty will be in deciding upon your favourite gourmet flavour!
And if you find you’ve got spare time on your way to or from the Lakes, why not stop off at Low Sizergh Barn. The 17th century barn is now an award winning family-run farm shop that offers delicious baked goods, deli supplies, warm beverages, farm fresh fruit and veg and gorgeous jams and preserves. Pick up some picnic supplies or treats to take home or gift someone with! While you’re there, take in the countryside with a walk along the farm trail.
Take the plunge and get in touch with nature with a trip to the Lakes. I promise you, you won’t regret it!
http://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/
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