15th August 2022

Summer Holidays in The Lake District

The Lake District undoubtedly offers some of the UK’s finest fell-walking. But pleasing the little ones can be a hard task, so why leave it to chance this summer?

Writers, poets and artists including William Wordsworth were drawn here, leaving fascinating homes to explore. While wealthy folk built grand houses and gardens to capitalise on the landscapes.

Quirky things to do include a exploring the magical world of Beatrix Potter and flying through the tree top canopy – but honestly, nothing beats larking about on Lake Windermere for some well-earned relaxation.

We have pulled together some of our favourite things to do when joining us for a family stay in The Lake District this summer, to make your decision making that bit easier.

Treetop Trek

The Windermere Treetop Trek will certainly keep everyone entertained with its jam-packed schedule of adventure-filled activities. There are more than 35 challenges that will have you swinging, climbing, balancing and flying through the woodland canopy. You can also race against the clock down parallel 250-metre zip wires, all while surrounded by beautiful views of the surrounding scenery.

The World of Beatrix Potter

Such a magical place is not reserved just for the kids, as adults can also enjoy the many attractions and indulge in a spot of afternoon tea. A farmhouse in Near Sawrey is where Beatrix Potter created some of her best-known stories. Buying the property in 1905 (funded largely by royalties from her first book, The Tale of Benjamin Bunny) and bequeathed to the National Trust following her death in 1943. Potter scholars will spot many features from the author’s illustrations – including Mrs Tiggywinkle’s kitchen and Mr MacGregor’s cottage garden.

Wordsworth House and Garden

Whatever the weather, there’s plenty to stay busy at Wordsworth House and Garden. Dress up, try out traditional toys and games, write with a quill and ink, follow Dorothy’s lost animals trail and get hands-on in the working kitchen. If the sun is out, head into William’s childhood garden for more fun, to meet the friendly flock of heritage chickens and let off some steam.

On weekends, think outside the Xbox and try your hand at some pastimes from the past, including indoor and outdoor games William and his sister Dorothy would have enjoyed. On Mondays’, decorate a very fancy paper hat inspired by Dorothy’s baby bonnet and on Wednesdays, become a natural artist; making wild art from found objects or compose a poem out of stones. Thursday’s are for cosying by the fire as the maids share spooky stories.

Lake Windermere

Stretching for more than 10 miles between Ambleside and Newby Bridge, Windermere is not only the largest lake in the Lake District – it’s the largest lake anywhere in England. The main focus of attention is Bowness-on-Windermere, where you can brave the quayside crowds before catching a scenic boat trip across the water and its secluded bays.

Wray Castle

Look out for easels placed around the castle grounds and find inspiration to capture England’s largest lake. If you still have some energy left after all that creativity, a walk down to the shore or exploring the woodland tree trail will stretch the legs. The outdoor play trail is also perfect for big and little ones looking for an adventure.

Allan Bank

Allan Bank is a place where many people have lived, but three of them have changed the way we see the world and our place within it; Wordsworth, Coleridge and Rawnsley.

Up the hill and away from traffic, the woodland grounds are a great place to escape. Follow the Allan Bank garden path and explore a natural play area – perfect for a bit of den building. Allan Bank is very paw friendly and dogs are welcome inside and out.

Explore our collection of holiday cottages across the Lake District, in stunning locations such as Keswick, Threlkeld and Windermere.