1 – A Lake Windermere Cruise

There is nothing quite like cruising along Lake Windermere on a warm summer’s day, so it’s no surprise that enjoying a Windermere lake cruise is one of the most popular attractions throughout the entirety of the Lake District.

Windermere is the largest lake in England and stretches over 10 miles between Newby Bridge and Ambleside. If you choose to hop on one of the many Lake Windermere Cruises, you’ll be treated to a spectacular voyage around the lake and even manage to catch a glimpse of all 18 islands within the lake.

2 – A Taste of Grasmere Gingerbread

Grasmere Gingerbread’s bold claim that they make the best gingerbread in the world isn’t an exaggeration, with a unique, spicy and sweet cross between a biscuit and cake, this culinary delight is not to be missed during your visit to the Lakes.

Back in 1854, Victorian cook, Sarah Nelson, invented Grasmere Gingerbread and since then, the sweet treat has gained a reputation which has spread across the world. Today, freshly baked gingerbread treats are made every day inside her former home, now The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop. A visit to Grasmere is an absolute must, even if it is to just sample the fantastic gingerbread on offer.

3 – A Stroll Around Tarn Hows

Situated around 20 minutes’ drive away from Windermere, Tarn Hows is located in the low-level hills between the villages of Coniston and Hawkshead and draws in thousands of tourists each year thanks to its stunning views.

A favourite with artists and photographers, Tarn Hows is a great place to walk or begin your Lake District adventure, boasting views of endless countryside and incredible mountain views.

As one of the most accessible walks in the Lake District and just shy of 2 miles long, this walk is suited to all members of the family, from young children right through to grandparents.

4 – Castlerigg Stone Circle

Overlooking the Thirlmere Valley and Helvellyn, Castlerigg Stone Circle boasts fantastically dramatic surroundings.

Thought to be constructed around 3000BC, Castlerigg is quite possibly one of the earliest stone circles ever created in England and is one of the few still left standing.

The original purpose of the site is still unknown as Castlerigg has not been excavated in order to maintain the historical site. It is thought that Castlerigg was a meeting place for Neolithic communities, as the stone circle comprises of 38 stones which vary in height from 1 metre to 2.3 metres tall. Each year, thousands of people visit the monument, which is located just east of Keswick

5 – Langdale Pikes & Valley

If you are looking for a more challenging walk during your stay in the Lake District, then why not try out Langdale Pikes?

The route should take between 5-6 hours to complete and depending on which route you choose to take is anywhere between 5 and 8 miles long but is well worth the effort.

On your way up the pike you can expect to see some of the best views the Lakes have to offer and when you reach the peak on a clear day, you can take in miles of the beautiful Lake District countryside. Not only are the views stunning on your way up and back down the pike, even the drive from Windermere to Langdale takes you through some truly spectacular sights.

6 – Grizedale Forest

Grizedale Forest has something for everyone in the family, with adults can enjoy a tranquil walk or bike ride through the sprawling nature trails, whilst children can get adventurous at the onsite GoApe.

Grizedale’s circular tarn walk is one of the easier walks in the Lake District, with just a 400 feet ascent throughout the 2.5 mile route. You should complete this route within 2 hours, giving you just enough time to enjoy a spot of lunch before heading onto GoApe, which is suitable for both adults and children. There are an assortment of activities, from the Treetop Challenge, Zip Trekking Adventure through to a forest Segway.

7 – Lakeland Farm Visitor Centre

Lakeland Farm Visitor Centre encapsulates the whole essence of the Lake District, with daily livestock shows available, which help to educate visitors on the vital role that each animal plays in maintaining the beautiful Lake District Surroundings.

You can also take part in a fantastic dry stone walling experience with an in house expert, in order to learn more about the dry stone walls you will see throughout the Lake District countryside.

We would definitely suggest trying your hand at wool spinning during your visit too. The Lakeland Farm Visitor Centre offers a course which will teach you how to spin on a drop-spindle, then a spinning wheel and turn the yarn into a skein, ready to take home. Once you have finished up with wool spinning and animal demonstrations, you can stop off in the farm shop and café to pick up some fantastic treats.

This bucket list is by no means comprehensive, as there is so much to see and do in the Lake District but should give you a good starting point for your visit to Cumbria.

If you are looking for luxury self-catering accommodation in the Lake District for your next stay, Windermere Marina Village are proud to offer some of the very best accommodation in for a couples break or even a group getaway in the heart of the Lake District.