1 – Hayes Garden Centre – Ambleside

Whether you are a keen gardener or not, Hayes Garden Centre is a fantastic place to visit on a rainy day.

With a large outdoor space dedicated to flowers and garden furniture and extensive space indoors for home furnishings, books, Lake District gifts, food, and even products for your pets, Hayes Garden Centre really does have something for everyone.

Hayes Garden Centre is definitely worth visiting in the run-up to Christmas, as they have gained a reputation for going all out on Christmas decorations. The entire garden centre is transformed into a winter wonderland, which is perfect for children and adults alike.

When you are finished browsing the extensive range of products on offer, you can always head over to the onsite café for a bite to eat.

2 – The Lakeside Railway – Haverthwaite to Lakeside

Enjoy a steam train ride along one of the most stunning stretches of railway in the Lake District, and arguably the entire of the UK.

Perfect for the whole family, the Lakeside Railway journey between Haverthwaite and Lakeside is a fantastic option if you do happen to encounter a rainy day during your stay in the Lake District.

The journey is relatively short, but the steam train maintains a leisurely pace throughout the trip so you can take in all of the stunning scenery on a rainy day. If you are looking to extend your day, why not hop off the train at the end of the line and enjoy the Lakes Aquarium before the return journey.

3 – Enjoy A Trip to A Leisure Centre

If you wake to a rainy day on your holiday, you can be forgiven for feeling less than motivated to get out of your luxury self catering accommodation in Windermere.

That’s why Windermere Marina Village is pleased to offer complimentary access to Choices Leisure Club, which has something suitable for all members of the family. If you are looking to relax as a couple, then you can take advantage of the Jacuzzi, Sauna and Steam Room facilities; for families, the heated indoor 15m swimming pool is ideal for a fun-filled time with the kids.

The leisure facilities are even ideal for those who are looking to keep fit during their stay in the Lakes, with Choices Leisure Club boasting a large and modern gym facility and daily exercise classes.

4 – Lakeland’s Flagship Store in Windermere

If you are looking to spend a couple of hours shopping, then we would definitely suggest visiting Lakeland’s flagship store in Windermere.

Boasting a huge range of kitchenware, Lakeland have everything a keen baker, cook and general kitchen lover could ever dream of owning.

During your visit, it’s definitely worth taking advantage of the café, which is located on the first floor of the store. As you can expect, the café can get quite busy, especially on a rainy day – but Lakeland have invested in ‘buzzers’ that you can carry around the shop until a table is ready for you, so no more waiting around!

5 – The World of Beatrix Potter – Bowness

A list of things to do on a rainy day in the Lake District wouldn’t be complete without a mention of The World of Beatrix Potter in Bowness.

The author behind the tales of Peter Rabbit and co, Beatrix Potter, is famed for taking inspiration for her children’s books from the Lake District countryside which surrounded her home.

Beatrix Potter World brings Potter’s characters to life, as you take the journey through each section of the attraction, you will experience the sights, noises and smells from each scene from the books. This attraction is perfect for children and is sure to leave a lasting memory that your children will not forget in a hurry.

Following your journey around the world of Beatrix Potter, you should definitely consider having a bite to eat in the onsite tearoom and be sure to browse the gift shop for something to remember your trip to the Lake District by!

Regardless of the weather, you will be sure to find fun-filled activities and events scattered across the Lake District during your stay. If you would like any more information about places to visit during your stay in the Lakes, please feel free to get in touch with us today!