4 Must-See Places to Visit in the Lake District

TIPS FOR THE LAKE DISTRICT

• TRAVEL STRATEGICALLY
  Driving in the Lakes during peak hours can be difficult, especially where the roads are narrow. We found that heading up in the evening meant no traffic and a much calmer experience, even during the busy months. Travel at sunrise or sunset to ensure a stress-free journey.
  
• TAKE A COLD DIP
  The water is beautiful – and nippy! If you’re planning on taking a dip, we recommend taking advantage of a wetsuit and a microfiber towel. You might wonder, “Are wetsuits really worth the price?” – and if you’re planning any water activities, the answer is absolutely yes. Wetsuits are designed for warmth (as they allow a thin layer of water to be insulated in-between the wetsuit and the body) and protection (from sharp objects, pesky ticks and the sun) which means less risk and more time spent in the water!
  
• WILD CAMP OR STAY LOCAL
  Overnight stays in a vehicle or tent are allowed in many parts of the Lake District, especially in more rural spots — just be sure to drop some change in any donation boxes to help maintain the area.
  
  There are also small stays dotted around the The Lake District. Expect cosy cottages, gorgeous views, and a restful night’s sleep.
  
• PACK A TICK REMOVER
  Ticks are common in the Lake District, especially in rural locations with tall grass. A tick remover tool helps you safely remove them to reduce the risk of Lyme disease. We wouldn’t recommend using tweezers they can increase the risk of infection if parts are left behind.
  
• SWITCH OFF, LOOK UP
  If you’re camping or staying in a campervan, get outside at night and stargaze! With minimal light-pollution and a clear night’s sky, you’ll get a beautiful view of the stars. It’s one of the most magical things to experience while travelling the UK.

#1 – BIRKS BRIDGE (BARROW-IN-FURNESS)

If you’re looking for:

Tranquility, wild swimming, off-the-beaten-path, countryside

Why Visit?

If you’re after relaxed and rural places to visit in the Lake District without the tourism, this spot is our top pick. Take a trip to Birks Bridge in Barrow-in-Furness, one of the most peaceful and well-hidden places to visit in the Lake District. Tucked away in the Duddon Valley, this 18th-century stone bridge arches over the River Duddon, with crystal clear waters and spectacular views.

It’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon by the river, a cold plunge, and beautiful to wake up to after a night in your tent or campervan. There’s a small car park right next to the river, perfect for relaxing while the water crashes through the gully. There’s also plenty of wild camping spots and quiet laybys nearby if you’re looking for rural places to stay in The Lakes.

#2 – RYDAL WATER & CAVES

If you’re looking for:

Peaceful walks, lakeside views, caves to explore, tasty bakeries, shallow water with higher temperatures

Why Visit?

Rydal is a peaceful haven just outside of Ambleside and one of the most scenic and dog-friendly places to visit in the Lake District. It’s got beautiful lakeside paths, deep caves, and water that’s ideal for a dip (without freezing your limbs off).

Start by parking at Rydal Road Car Park, which is right at the beginning of the walk to Rydal Caves. The walk itself takes you along a forested trail with brilliant views of Rydal Water, a stunning lake with that dreamy teal-blue colour that you only get in the Lakes.

There are two caves to explore here. One is easy to reach with stepping stones leading right into it, while the other involves a short climb and takes you into a deeper cave with a narrow passage, leading even further inside. Ensure you have a torch or use your phone light because it’s pitch black inside – totally worth it if you love exploration!

After the caves, you can walk down to Rydal Water, where the shallow depth and slightly warmer temperature make it great for a quick dip or paddleboarding. Feel free to take your time as the the caves and lake can be done together at a leisurely pace in around 2-3 hours.

It’s also worth heading into Ambleside Town Centre – a small village hub with many outdoor shops and tasty bakeries!

#3 – CONISTON

If you’re looking for:

Hiking, mountainous views, watersports, cosy pubs

Why Visit?

Coniston is one of those places to visit in the Lake District where you could easily spend a full weekend and not get bored! First up, the Copper Mines. These abandoned mines date back centuries and sit just above Coniston village. The views from the mine tracks are worth the walk alone.

You also cannot visit Coniston without hiking to Old Man of Coniston. It’s a stunning route with a great mix of winding trails, a bit of light scrambling, and incredible views the whole way up. While it’s officially rated as “moderate to challenging,” we’d say it’s a brilliant option for anyone who’s fairly new to hiking but up for a challenge. It’s an all-rounder that takes between 4-6 hours to complete. Park at Walna Scar Car Park to access the start of the route.

Just make sure you’re wearing the right gear and come prepared! Click here for our top hiking tips.

#4 – ULLSWATER

If you’re looking for:

Beautiful views, sailing, paddleboarding, canoeing, windsurfing

Why Visit?

If you’re into scenic lakeside escapes, Ullswater should definitely be on your shortlist of places to visit in the Lake District. It’s ideal for people who love relaxing and being on the water. Ullswater, voted the most beautiful lake in the Lake District, is vast and surrounded by mountains and rolling hills, making it perfect for water activities like sailing and paddleboarding.

We’d recommend renting a paddleboard or boat (which can be done on the day)! There are plenty of places around the lake offering rentals and lessons. Once you’re out on the water, the views are amazing!

If you want to stay in Ullswater, there’s lots of camping sites and Airbnb’s tucked away, perfect for a cosy, off-grid retreat.