Why the Lake District should be on your travel bucket list

Located entirely within the county of Cumbria, the Lake District has enchanted visitors for centuries. With its beautiful natural landscape and picturesque villages, there is so much to see and do. Already the most visited national park in the United Kingdom, why not join its 15.8 million annual visitors and see for yourself why it’s so special?

The Wildlife

The Lake District makes the ideal destination for animal lovers. Whinlatter Forest and Dodd Wood are two great spots for viewing ospreys, while Ennerdale is home to both red and roe deer. There are also otters, grey wagtails and buzzards and last, but not least, plenty of red squirrels. Make sure you bring a camera so you can look back on the stunning scenery as well as any critters you spot.

Literary History

Even if you’re not a huge fan of the great outdoors, the Lake District has enough to keep you entertained. This is a part of the UK that is rich with literary history, particularly the small village of Hawkshead. Beatrix Potter resided in a 17th-century cottage called Hill Top that can still be visited today, while William Wordsworth went to school here and lived just a few miles to the north in Grasmere. You can also visit his grave at St Oswald’s Churchyard.

Fantastic Walks

If you’re a hiker, there aren’t many better places in the UK, or indeed the world, than the Lake District. For those of you that like a challenge, Scafell Pike cannot be missed. It’s the highest mountain in England and can take between two and five hours depending on your ability and the route you choose. If that sounds a bit strenuous then do not worry. There are hikes for everyone here, with Grizedale Forrest providing a more leisurely route.

If you are going to exert yourself on a hike, then make sure you’ve booked somewhere nearby to rest and relax afterwards. The YHA has a number of hostels in the Lake District, which provide the perfect opportunity to meet some fellow hikers.

Cumbrian Grub

Cumbria is not only famous for its beautiful landscape, its food has also been celebrated across the land. There’s the Cumberland sausage, of course, which can be sampled at The Lake District Visitor Centre café in Brockhole, but you might not know that the sticky toffee pudding was also invented here by Francis Coulson at Sharrow Bay on Ullswater. Keswick brewery, located in the town of the same name, will help you wash it all down.

The Lakes

Although there is, technically, only one lake in the Lake District (the others are waters, meres and tarns), one thing is assured: all of the bodies of water deserve your attention. There are 16 of them in total, each with their own unique selling points. The view of Wasdale Head from Wastwater has been voted Britain’s favourite and it’s easy to see why. Ullswater, meanwhile, has its own ferry so you can enjoy the views from the comfort of your seat. Whichever lake you choose, you’ll soon understand why the Lake District continues to enchant visitors from all over the world.

The Lake District, England – Pin For Later

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