The Lake District National Park is England‘s largest National Park is now a World Heritage Site, home to Scafell Pike – its highest mountain, Wastwater – its deepest lake and thriving communities like Keswick and Bowness-on-Windermere.
Official tourism website: https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk
Google map 4.9/5
Lake District National Park
#1 Lake Windermere
Lake Windermere is the largest natural lake in England, measuring approximately 10.5 miles in length and reaching depths of up to 219 feet. This glacial ribbon lake is situated in the heart of the Lake District National Park and attracts countless visitors for activities such as boating, fishing, and watersports. The surrounding towns of Bowness-on-Windermere and Ambleside provide an array of accommodations, shops, and dining options. Nearby attractions include Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top, a 17th-century farmhouse showcasing her life and works; Wray Castle, a Victorian neo-gothic building featuring family-friendly activities; and the Lakes Aquarium, offering an immersive experience with local and exotic aquatic species.
Official website: https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk
Google map 4.8/5 (Lake Windermere)
Google map (Bowness-on-Windermere town)
#2 Keswick
Keswick is a charming market town located in the northern region of the Lake District. Positioned between the Skiddaw mountain range and the serene Derwentwater lake, it offers a picturesque setting for a variety of outdoor activities. Keswick’s rich history is exemplified by the 13th-century Moot Hall, which now serves as the local Tourist Information Centre. The town is home to several attractions, such as the Pencil Museum, where visitors can learn about the history of graphite mining in the area; the Theatre by the Lake, a cultural hub presenting drama, music, and film events; and the Castlerigg Stone Circle, a prehistoric monument offering panoramic views of the surrounding fells. Keswick remains a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with ample opportunities for walking, cycling, and climbing in the stunning landscape.
Official website: https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk
#3 Buttermere
Buttermere is a serene lake nestled in the Lake District’s Western Fells, spanning 1.25 miles in length and reaching depths of 75 feet. The lake is surrounded by dramatic fells, such as High Stile, Red Pike, and Fleetwith Pike, offering a picturesque setting for leisurely walks and water-based activities. The quaint village of Buttermere provides a peaceful retreat, with nearby attractions including the historic Buttermere Church, the picturesque Scale Force waterfall, and the Honister Pass.
Official website:
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk
https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk (guide to general area around Buttermere)
https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk (circular lake walk and map)
Google map 4.9/5
#4 Grasmere
Grasmere is a charming village nestled in the heart of the Lake District, known for its connections to the Romantic poet William Wordsworth. He resided at Dove Cottage, which now operates as a museum and hosts the Wordsworth Trust. Grasmere’s idyllic landscape is complemented by the serene waters of Grasmere Lake, perfect for leisurely walks or boat trips. The village also boasts the historic St. Oswald’s Church and the famous Grasmere Gingerbread Shop, where the unique confection has been crafted since 1854.
Official website: https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk
Google map Grasmere village
Google map Grasmere Lake 4.9/5
#5 Helvellyn (mountain hike)
Helvellyn is the third highest peak in the Lake District, standing at 3,117 feet. This iconic mountain offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for walkers and climbers. The most popular ascent routes include Striding Edge and Swirral Edge, both providing exhilarating scrambles and breathtaking views. At the summit, visitors are treated to panoramic vistas of the surrounding fells, valleys, and lakes. Helvellyn is also home to the symbolic cross-shaped dry stone shelter, a testament to the mountain’s enduring appeal.
Official website:
Google map 4.9/5
#6 Cat Bells (mountain hike)
Cat Bells is a popular fell in the Lake District, located on the western shore of Derwentwater. Standing at 1,480 feet, Cat Bells offers an accessible and rewarding hike, attracting walkers of various skill levels. The summit provides panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and fells, including Skiddaw, Blencathra, and Scafell Pike. The ascent incorporates several well-maintained paths, with the added option of a scenic boat trip across Derwentwater for a unique approach to the trailhead.
Official website: https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk
Google map 4.9/5
#7 Ullswater
Ullswater is the second largest lake in the Lake District, stretching approximately 7.5 miles and boasting a depth of 205 feet. Surrounded by picturesque fells, the serpentine lake offers a variety of recreational activities such as sailing, fishing, and kayaking. The Ullswater Steamers provide a unique way to explore the lake and its surrounding attractions, including the stunning Aira Force waterfall, the historic Dalemain Mansion, and the charming village of Pooley Bridge.
Official website: https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk
Google map 4.9/5
#8 Derwentwater (Derwent Water)
Derwent Water (or Dewentwater) is a tranquil lake nestled in the heart of the Lake District, spanning approximately 3 miles in length and reaching depths of up to 72 feet. This glacial lake is surrounded by lush woodlands and striking fells, offering a picturesque backdrop for leisurely walks and water-based activities. Visitors can explore the lake via the Keswick Launch, a traditional wooden boat providing a relaxing tour with numerous stop-off points. Nearby attractions include the Derwent Pencil Museum, Friar’s Crag, and the Lodore Falls.
Official website: https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk
Google map 4.8/5
#9 Honister Pass
Honister Pass is a high mountain pass traversing the Lake District, connecting the valleys of Borrowdale and Buttermere. With an elevation of 1,167 feet, the pass offers striking views of the surrounding fells and valleys, making it a popular destination for walkers, cyclists, and motorists. At its summit, visitors will find the Honister Slate Mine, which showcases the region’s rich mining history and offers guided tours, the Via Ferrata adventure course, and a selection of slate products.
Google map 4.9/5
#10 Wast Water
Wast Water, England’s deepest lake at over 250 feet, is located in the remote Wasdale Valley in the western Lake District. Known for its dramatic scenery, the lake is surrounded by steep peaks, including Scafell Pike and Great Gable. This glacial lake offers a striking, rugged landscape with clear waters that reflect the surrounding fells. Wast Water’s remote setting attracts hikers, photographers, and wild swimmers seeking the Lake District’s raw, untamed beauty.
Official websites:
https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ (Wasdale, shows car parks)
Google map 4.9/5 (Wast Water)
#11 Ambleside
Ambleside is a bustling town situated at the head of Lake Windermere, serving as a central hub for exploring the Lake District. With a rich Roman history, Ambleside features the remains of a Roman fort, Galava, dating back to AD 79. The town offers a variety of accommodations, shops, and restaurants, catering to tourists and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Notable attractions include the Armitt Museum and Library, the Bridge House, and Stock Ghyll Force, a captivating 70-foot waterfall.
Official website: https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk
#12 Langdale
Langdale is a scenic valley situated in the central Lake District, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities. The valley encompasses two main areas: Great Langdale and Little Langdale. Both areas offer an array of walking, climbing, and cycling routes, with notable fells such as the Langdale Pikes, Bowfell, and Crinkle Crags. Langdale is also home to the Neolithic Langdale Axe Factory, the largest stone axe production site in the United Kingdom, and the 17th-century Elterwater Bridge, an iconic packhorse bridge.
Official website: https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk
Google map 4.9/5
#13 Coniston Water
Coniston Water is the fifth largest lake in the Lake District, spanning approximately 5 miles in length and reaching depths of 184 feet. This picturesque lake offers a wealth of recreational activities, including sailing, canoeing, and fishing. The lake is historically significant as the setting for several water speed records and the resting place of Donald Campbell’s Bluebird K7. Nearby attractions include the Ruskin Museum, the Victorian neo-gothic mansion Brantwood, and the Old Man of Coniston, a prominent fell offering panoramic views.
Official website: https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/
Google map 4.8/5
#14 Scafell Pike (mountain hike)
Scafell Pike is the highest peak in England, standing at 3,209 feet, and is part of the Southern Fells in the Lake District National Park. This challenging mountain attracts hikers and climbers seeking to conquer its summit and experience breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Several routes, including the popular Wasdale Head and Seathwaite, cater to varying skill levels.
Useful websites:
Wasdale Mountain Rescue – The easiest way up Scafell Pike https://www.wmrt.org.uk/
Google map 4.8/5
Google map (Wasdale Head Car Park for Scafell Pike)
#15 Wordsworth’s Lake District
Wordsworth’s Lake District refers to the picturesque landscapes and locations in the region that inspired the poetry of Romantic poet William Wordsworth. Born in Cockermouth and residing in Grasmere and Rydal, Wordsworth immortalized the area’s natural beauty in works such as “Daffodils” and “The Prelude.” Key sites associated with Wordsworth include Dove Cottage, his family home turned museum; Rydal Mount, his residence in later life; and St. Oswald’s Church, where the poet and his family are buried.
Official website: https://wordsworth.org.uk
Google map 4.5/5 (Wordsworth Grasmere Museum)
#16 Hill Top Farm – Beatrix Potter
Hill Top Farm, owned by famed children’s author Beatrix Potter, is a 17th-century farmhouse located in the Lake District village of Near Sawrey. This quaint and well-preserved home offers a glimpse into Potter’s life, inspirations, and her dedication to preserving the Lake District’s natural beauty. The house showcases her personal belongings, artwork, and original furnishings, while the surrounding gardens and countryside provide the backdrop for many of her beloved stories.
Official website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Google map 4.5/5
#17 Castlerigg Stone Circle
Castlerigg Stone Circle, a prehistoric monument located near Keswick, dates back to approximately 3000 BC. This impressive Neolithic stone circle comprises 38 stones and is one of the earliest in Britain. The monument is set within a stunning landscape, offering panoramic views of the surrounding fells such as Skiddaw, Blencathra, and Helvellyn. Castlerigg Stone Circle is easily accessible and offers visitors an opportunity to experience a piece of ancient history amid the natural beauty of the Lake District.
Official website: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk
Google map 4.6/5
#18 Aira Force Waterfall
Aira Force Waterfall is a spectacular 65-foot cascade located near Ullswater in the Lake District National Park. The waterfall is set within the picturesque Aira Force woodland, offering a network of well-maintained walking trails that pass through lush, ancient woodland and along the banks of the Aira Beck. Visitors can explore the area and enjoy the dramatic falls from various viewpoints, including a stone bridge that spans the chasm above the waterfall.
Official website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Google map 4.7/5
#19 Tarn Hows
Tarn Hows is a stunning, man-made body of water nestled within the Lake District’s high fells. Originally three separate tarns, the area was landscaped in the 19th century to create the current picturesque setting. Tarn Hows offers an accessible circular walk, providing visitors with panoramic views of the surrounding fells, such as the Langdale Pikes and the Old Man of Coniston. The area, now managed by the National Trust, is a popular destination for walking, picnicking, and wildlife watching.
Official website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Google map 4.8/5
#20 Red Pike (mountain hike)
Red Pike is a prominent fell located in the western part of the Lake District National Park, standing at 2,476 feet. The peak offers a challenging climb, with a steep ascent and rocky terrain, but rewards climbers with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Red Pike is part of the High Stile Ridge, a chain of fells known for its rugged and dramatic landscapes.
Google map 4.9/5
#21 Langstrath Country Inn, Borrowdale (favourite pub)
Langstrath Country Inn is a charming pub and inn located in Borrowdale, a picturesque valley in the Lake District National Park. The inn offers comfortable accommodations and a range of dining options, serving locally sourced ingredients and traditional pub fare. Borrowdale is renowned for its stunning landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities, with attractions such as the Bowder Stone, the Honister Slate Mine, and the Derwent Pencil Museum.
Official website: https://thelangstrath.co.uk
Google map 4.5/5
#22 Borrowdale
Borrowdale is a picturesque valley located in the Lake District National Park, stretching from the Honister Pass to Derwentwater. Renowned for its stunning landscapes, Borrowdale offers visitors an array of outdoor activities, such as hiking, rock climbing, and cycling. The valley features attractions like the Bowder Stone, a massive glacial erratic; the Seathwaite farm, known for its Herdwick sheep; and the historic Borrowdale Yew, an ancient tree steeped in folklore. The area’s rich mining history is showcased at the Honister Slate Mine.
Official website: https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk
#23 Kendal
Kendal, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Lakes,” is a historic market town situated in the southern part of the Lake District National Park. The town features a variety of attractions, such as the Kendal Castle ruins, the Abbot Hall Art Gallery, and the Kendal Museum. Kendal also offers numerous shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area. Nearby destinations include the charming village of Arnside, the dramatic scenery of Morecambe Bay, and the scenic Kentmere Valley.