MileHacker Logo
Attractions & Sightseeing

Attractions & Sightseeing

England, UK

Iconic Landmarks & Views

Lake Windermere, England's largest lake, serves as a central point for cruises and water activities. Scafell Pike, England's highest mountain, offers panoramic vistas for experienced hikers. Helvellyn, England's third-highest mountain, draws many with its dramatic ridges.

Castlerigg Stone Circle, a Neolithic site near Keswick, presents an atmospheric setting with fells surrounding it. Grasmere Village has deep ties to William Wordsworth, whose former home, Dove Cottage, welcomes visitors. Hill Top, Beatrix Potter's farmhouse, feels as if she just left.

Visitor Information & Photography

  • National Trust properties and museums usually have entry fees and seasonal hours.
  • Pre-booking tickets online is often recommended, especially during high season.
  • Visit popular spots early morning or late afternoon for ideal light and fewer crowds.
  • Calm mornings create perfect conditions for lake reflections, offering stunning photo opportunities.

Less Crowded Exploration

Quieter Times & Locations

  • Consider visiting during the shoulder or low season for fewer people.
  • Explore the Western or Northern Lakes (e.g., Wasdale, Ennerdale, Buttermere) for tranquility.
  • Seek out less obvious viewpoints or explore side valleys for unique perspectives.
  • Shorter walks like Orrest Head (Windermere) or Catbells (Keswick) provide rewarding panoramas.
  • Consult local walking guides for less-frequented paths.
  • Early morning visits often bring clear views and peaceful surroundings.

Booking Tours & Tickets

  • For attraction tickets and tours, visit GetYourGuide.
  • They offer options for various attractions and guided experiences.
  • Pre-booking secures your spot, especially during busy periods.
  • Many sites also provide guided tours or audio guides for a richer experience.

Museums & Cultural Insights

  • Wordsworth Grasmere (Dove Cottage and Museum): Explore William Wordsworth's life and works.
  • Beatrix Potter World (Bowness-on-Windermere): Charming attraction bringing Potter's stories to life.
  • Lakeland Motor Museum (Backbarrow): Features vintage cars, motorcycles, and related memorabilia.
  • Theatre by the Lake (Keswick): Offers a varied program of plays, concerts, and events.

Historical Sites & Heritage

  • Hardknott Roman Fort (Eskdale):

    Remains of a Roman fort high on a remote pass, showing Roman occupation.

  • Kendal:

    A historic market town with a castle ruin, famous for Kendal Mint Cake.

  • Hawkshead:

    A charming, pedestrianized village with historic buildings, including Wordsworth's Old Grammar School.

  • Honister Slate Mine (Borrowdale):

    Tours into the mine demonstrate the region's slate mining heritage.

  • Ancient Churches:

    Historic churches dot the landscape, often featuring ancient graveyards.

Natural Attractions

The Lake District's main appeal lies in its magnificent natural features and diverse landscapes.

Scenic Wonders & Wildlife

  • Lake District National Park

    A UNESCO World Heritage Site encompassing all major fells and lakes.

  • Aira Force Waterfall

    A dramatic National Trust waterfall near Ullswater, surrounded by ancient woodland.

  • Wildlife Viewing Areas

    Spot red squirrels at Dodd Wood and ospreys at Bassenthwaite Lake.

  • Orrest Head (Windermere)

    A short walk from Windermere village, presenting panoramic views of the lake.

  • Surprise View (Borrowdale)

    A popular viewpoint offering a sweeping vista over Derwentwater and fells.

  • Holehird Gardens (Windermere)

    Beautiful gardens with stunning plant collections and views.

Hidden Gems

Discover less-visited but equally appealing places off the main tourist trails.

Remote Valleys

Eskdale & Wasdale Valleys offer raw, dramatic scenery and a sense of solitude, with Wastwater.

Quieter Lakes

Buttermere, Loweswater, and Crummock Water present stunning views and quieter walking routes.

Unique Perspectives

Explore less-known trails and viewpoints for unique photo opportunities and tranquil moments.

  • The "Coffin Route": A historic path from Rydal to Grasmere, bypassing the main road.
  • Loughrigg Fell: A smaller fell between Grasmere and Ambleside, with grand views.
  • Capture dawn at Blea Tarn in Great Langdale for iconic reflections.

Further Exploration & Practicalities

Always check opening times for indoor attractions, especially outside of peak summer.

For outdoor sites, weather can change quickly. Appropriate gear is advised. Websites like GetYourGuide can assist with booking tickets and tours for many attractions.

Peak vs. Off-Peak Visits

Visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring, autumn) or winter offers different experiences and fewer crowds at popular spots.

Benefits of Off-Peak

  • More tranquil surroundings at popular landmarks.
  • Accommodation and activity prices are often lower.
  • Unique photographic conditions, especially in autumn colors or winter snow.

Guided Tours & Local Experts

Many attractions and natural areas have options for guided tours, which enhance your visit with expert commentary.

Tour Advantages

  • Gain insights into history, geology, and ecology.
  • Local guides can unveil hidden paths and lesser-known facts.
  • Organized tours can simplify transport and logistics.

Architectural Highlights

Beyond natural beauty, the Lake District features charming historical architecture worth exploring.

Architectural Styles

  • Lakeland Stone Cottages: Traditional dry-stone wall construction.
  • Victorian Grandeur: Large villas and hotels in towns like Windermere.
  • Roman Remains: like Hardknott Fort, showing ancient engineering.
  • Medieval Priories: Structures like Cartmel Priory, reflecting religious history.

Family-Friendly Attractions

The Lake District offers many places that children and adults enjoy together.

Activities for All Ages

  • Lakeside steam train rides (e.g., Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway).
  • Lake cruises on Windermere or Ullswater.
  • Go Ape! Treetop adventures at Grizedale Forest.

Special Interest Tours

Literary Tours

  • Follow in the footsteps of William Wordsworth at Dove Cottage.
  • Explore Beatrix Potter's inspirations at Hill Top Farm.
  • Discover locations important to other Lakeland poets and writers.

Photography Workshops

  • Join a guided photography tour to capture the stunning landscapes.
  • Learn about composition and lighting in natural settings.
  • Access prime photo spots with local expert guidance.

Attraction Accessibility & Tips

Many attractions in the Lake District work to accommodate all visitors. Checking specific venue websites for their accessibility policies is always a good practice.

Accessibility Features

Many sites offer accessible paths, ramps, and adapted facilities for those with mobility challenges.

Pet-Friendly Places

Some attractions welcome dogs, often with specific guidelines or designated areas.

Online Ticket Purchase

Purchasing tickets online in advance often saves time and guarantees entry, especially for popular sites. GetYourGuide is one option.

Popular Attraction Overview

Windermere Lake Cruises

Enjoy boat trips across England's largest lake, with various routes and stops.

Official Website

Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway

A narrow-gauge steam railway journey through the scenic Eskdale Valley.

Official Website

Brockhole on Windermere

The Lake District National Park visitor center, with gardens and family activities.

Official Website

Wray Castle

A mock-Gothic castle on the shores of Windermere, offering family-friendly exploration.

National Trust Page

Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens

A grand country house with beautiful gardens and a famous marmalade festival.

Official Website

Museums & Galleries Focus

Dive into the region's rich artistic and industrial past at these institutions.

Highlights

  • Local art galleries in towns like Ambleside, Keswick, Grasmere.
  • Ruskin Museum in Coniston covers John Ruskin and local history.
  • Rheged Centre near Penrith: large format cinema and exhibition space.

Wildlife Hotspots

Certain areas offer excellent opportunities for spotting local wildlife.

Where to See Animals

  • Dodd Wood (near Bassenthwaite Lake) for red squirrels.
  • Bassenthwaite Lake for ospreys (seasonal reintroduction program).
  • Grizedale Forest is a good location to see red deer.
  • RSPB Haweswater for various bird species.

Important Note on Outdoor Visits

For activities in the fells and remote areas, local knowledge or a guide can be invaluable.

Always check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out for hikes or water activities.

Beyond the Mainstream

Explore lesser-known valleys and spots for a more secluded experience and unique perspectives of the Lake District's beauty.

Western Valleys Discovery

The remote Eskdale & Wasdale Valleys offer truly wild, dramatic scenery and a deep sense of solitude.

Highlights

  • Wastwater: England's deepest lake, surrounded by imposing fells.
  • Remote hiking paths and quiet trails.
  • Less tourist traffic, a tranquil atmosphere.

Northern Lakes Charm

Buttermere Valley, Loweswater, and Crummock Water, west of Keswick, feature beautiful views and quieter walks.

Highlights

  • Stunning lake reflections, especially on calm days.
  • Picturesque woodlands surrounding the lakes.
  • Loop walks around the lakes suitable for various abilities.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Walks

Seek out less-frequented paths and fells for peaceful walks and rewarding views away from the crowds.

Explore These

  • The Coffin Route (Rydal to Grasmere)
  • Loughrigg Fell for broad views
  • Various local footpaths around quieter villages

These trails offer a immersion into the natural beauty.

Emerging Destinations

Areas immediately bordering the Lake District also offer distinct landscapes and fewer visitors.

Beyond the National Park

  • North Pennines AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty)
  • This area, east of the Lake District, presents different geological features.

Great for a change of scenery and quiet exploration.

Unique Photo Opportunities

Discover ideal spots to capture the Lake District's iconic scenery.

Capture the Moment

  • Blea Tarn at dawn for stunning reflections of Langdale Pikes.
  • Mountain passes like Kirkstone Pass or Honister Pass for dramatic views.
  • Autumn or winter light often creates striking atmospheric photos.

These locations offer distinct photographic conditions.

Planning for Sightseeing

Check Local Events

Look for local listings of temporary exhibitions, workshops, or special events that coincide with your visit.

Wear Appropriate Footwear

Comfortable, sturdy shoes are essential for exploring many of the natural and historical sites, as terrain can be uneven.

Bring Layers

Weather in the Lake District changes rapidly, making layers ideal for staying comfortable throughout the day.