The Lake District National Park is a landscape defined by its dramatic fells, mirror-like waters, and a sense of timeless adventure. From the vibrant energy of the towns in the Lake District to the quiet serenity of a morning paddle or the adrenaline-fuelled challenge of a crag ascent, the region offers a diverse playground for every type of explorer. This guide explores the best things to do in the Lake District, providing practical insights to help families, couples, and groups plan an unforgettable escape into nature.
Table of Contents
- Top Activities in the Lake District: A Brief Overview
- Top Water Activities in the Lake District
- Top Adventure Activities in the Lake District
- Top Outdoor Activities in the Lake District
- Top Indoor Activities in the Lake District
- Ready to Write Your Own Lake District Story?
- FAQs
Top Activities in the Lake District: A Brief Overview
When deciding what activities to do in the Lake District, it is useful to group your options by how much energy you want to expend and where you’d like to be. To help you plan your trip, we have put together a quick-reference guide below.
| Activity Type | Best For | Activities to Try | Typical Duration |
| Water activities | Families & Couples | Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Ghyll Scrambling | 2–3 Hours |
| Adventure activities | Thrill Seekers | Rock Climbing, Via Ferrata, Scrambling | Half Day |
| Group activities | Friends & Families | Raft Building, Guided Hikes, 4×4 Off-Roading | 3 Hours |
| Outdoor activities | Nature Lovers | Forest Walking, Bird Watching, Fell Running | 2–4 Hours |
| Kids activities | the whole family | Adventure Playgrounds, Fairy Trails, Steam Trains | 2–5 Hours |
Top Water Activities in the Lake District
Water activities in the Lake District are the perfect way to embrace the landscape, offering everything from quiet afternoon paddles to heart-racing adventures in mountain streams. The Lake District National Park is home to 16 major lakes, providing a vast expanse for everything from tranquil rowing to high-energy ghyll scrambling.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding on Ullswater
Ullswater is often cited as the most beautiful lake in England, and experiencing it from the water level offers a unique perspective of the surrounding Helvellyn range. The lake’s “no-wake” zones make it a serene escape for beginners and experienced paddlers alike, and it remains one of the most fun things to do in the Lake District.
If you are planning a visit, here is what you need to know:
- Where to go: Most hire centres are located along the western shore, particularly near Glenridding.
- Cost: Hourly rates for a double kayak typically start around £25.
- The Highlight: It is a fantastic way to reach hidden pebble beaches and small islands that are inaccessible by foot.
Ghyll Scrambling in Church Beck
For those looking for more unusual things to do in the Lake District, ghyll scrambling (also known as canyoning) is a must. This involves ascending or descending mountain streams, involving jumps into deep pools, sliding down natural rock chutes, and scrambling up waterfalls. Church Beck, near Coniston, is a premier location for this and ranks among the most exciting water activities in the Lake District.
If you are planning a visit, here is what you need to know:
- Where to go: Church Beck, Coniston, is the most popular spot for guided trips.
- Cost: Expect to pay around £45–£60 per person for a fully guided 3-hour session including all gear.
- The Highlight: Jumping into “The Big One”, a deep mountain pool, is an unforgettable adrenaline rush.
Sailing on Windermere
Windermere offers the most extensive range of activities in the Lake District for those who love the water. While it is the busiest lake, its size allows for dedicated areas for sailing and motorboating. Renting a traditional wooden rowing boat provides a tranquil, unhurried escape, while larger electric motorboats are available for families who wish to explore the many bays without the physical exertion.
If you are planning a visit, here is what you need to know:
- Where to go: Most boat hires operate from Bowness-on-Windermere or Ambleside.
- Cost: Electric motorboat hire starts from approximately £40 per hour for a small family boat.
- The Highlight: Navigating between the 18 islands scattered across the lake is a delight; look out for Belle Isle, the largest, or stop by the smaller islands like Thompson’s Holme for a unique picnic spot accessible only by boat.
Top Adventure Activities in the Lake District
If you are looking for adventure activities in the Lake District that push your boundaries and get your heart racing, the rugged fells and hidden gorges provide the ultimate backdrop. These activities often require a bit more preparation and specialised equipment, but the rewards are truly unforgettable.
Rock Climbing in the Langdale Valley
If you are wondering what activities to do in the Lake District to reach new heights, rock climbing on the rugged fells offers a truly intimate way to connect with the landscape’s vertical heritage. The Langdale Valley is a particularly welcoming spot, boasting a variety of crags that cater to all abilities. There is something deeply grounding about the feel of the ancient volcanic rock; it provides a reliable grip that has made this a firm favourite for anyone seeking authentic outdoor activities in the Lake District.
If you are planning a visit, here is what you need to know:
- Where to go: Raven Crag and Gimmer Crag in Langdale are iconic locations.
- Cost: Half-day guided introductory sessions for couples or families usually start around £150 for a private instructor.
- The Highlight: Reaching the summit of a pitch provides an unparalleled view across the Great Langdale valley towards the Langdale Pikes; it is a perfect moment to pause and take in the panoramic view.
Via Ferrata at Honister Slate Mine
For a truly unusual thing to do in the Lake District, the Via Ferrata (Italian for ‘Iron Way’) at Honister allows you to scale the side of Fleetwith Pike using a system of iron cables, rungs, and ladders. It is a fantastic bridge between hiking and full-scale rock climbing, making it one of the most popular adventure activities in the Lake District.
If you are planning a visit, here is what you need to know:
- Where to go: Honister Slate Mine, situated at the top of the Honister Pass.
- Cost: Ticket prices vary depending on whether you choose the Classic or Xtreme route; we recommend checking their website for the most up-to-date seasonal rates.
- The Highlight: Crossing the Infinity Bridge, which is suspended 2,000 feet above the valley floor, is the ultimate test of nerves.
Top Outdoor Activities in the Lake District
Outdoor activities in the Lake District aren’t just about adrenaline; they are about connecting with the serene beauty of the fells. Whether you are searching for the best dog-friendly walks in the Lake District, a gentle woodland stroll, or a challenging peak ascent, the landscape is designed for exploration.
Hiking to the Summit of Catbells
If you are searching for the best things to do in the Lake District that offer maximum reward for moderate effort, Catbells is the answer. This short but steep family fell provides panoramic views of Derwentwater and the town of Keswick without requiring the technical gear needed for higher peaks.
If you are planning a visit, here is what you know:
- Where to go: Start from the Hawse End jetty (accessible by the Keswick Launch).
- Cost: Entirely free, though we suggest checking the latest seasonal fares for the ferry across the lake if you plan to arrive by water.
- The Highlight: The “scrambly” section near the peak is a delight for children, sparking their sense of discovery as they reach a summit with views so vast and breathtaking they feel like they’ve climbed the highest peaks in England.
Mountain Biking in Grizedale Forest
Grizedale Forest offers some of the most diverse fun activities in the Lake District for those on two wheels. While exploring the trails, you may even spot some of the unique wildlife in the Lake District, as the forest is home to the only remaining indigenous red deer herd in England. Whether you seek unhurried forest tracks or the technical challenge of the North Face singletrack, it serves as an exceptional setting for group activities in the Lake District.
If you are planning a visit, here is what you need to know:
- Where to go: The Grizedale Visitor Centre near Hawkshead.
- Cost: Bike hire starts at around £35 for 3 hours, with e-bikes also available for those wanting a little extra help on the hills.
- The Highlight: The forest is scattered with unique sculptures, so keep an eye out for art installations hidden amongst the trees as you ride.
Top Indoor Activities in the Lake District
Let’s be honest, the weather can be unpredictable. Fortunately, there are plenty of rainy day activities in the Lake District that ensure your trip remains memorable even when the clouds roll in. Indoor activities in the Lake District range from cultural gems to high-energy climbing centres.
The Rheged Centre near Penrith
Looking for what activities to do in the Lake District to keep the adventure going when the rain starts to fall? The Rheged Centre near Penrith is an award-winning discovery centre housed under a massive grass roof. It is a hub for kids activities in the Lake District, featuring a giant cinema screen, indoor play areas, and pottery workshops.
If you are planning a visit, here is what you need to know:
- Where to go: Redhills, Penrith (just off the A66).
- Cost: Entry to the centre is free; cinema and play areas have individual pricing.
- The Highlight: The 3D cinema experiences often showcase the wildlife and history of the fells, offering a poetic look at the landscape from the comfort of your seat.
Kong Adventure Centre in Keswick
For those who want to keep the energy levels high indoors, Kong Adventure in Keswick offers a fantastic range of indoor activities in the Lake District. From climbing walls to an indoor caving system, it’s perfect for burning off energy on a damp afternoon.
If you are planning a visit, here is what you know:
- Where to go: Heads Road, Keswick.
- Cost: Taster sessions for climbing or caving usually start from around £15–£20.
- The Highlight: The onsite cafe offers a front-row seat to the action, where you can recharge with a coffee while watching climbers scale the indoor walls.
Ready to Write Your Own Lake District Story?
The Lake District doesn’t just offer sights; it offers soul-stirring experiences that challenge your limits and settle your spirit. From the rhythmic splash of a paddle on Windermere to the grit of volcanic rock under your fingertips in Langdale, the best things to do in the Lake District create memories that linger long after you’ve headed home.
Start your journey toward a lifelong connection with the fells by exploring lodges for sale in the North Lakes with Leisure Resorts today. However you choose to explore, matching the adventure to your group’s energy ensures every moment is as transformative as it is unforgettable.
FAQs
When is the best time of year for outdoor activities in the Lake District?
Determining the best time to visit the Lake District for outdoor activities depends on your preferences; while summer offers the warmest weather, spring and autumn provide stunning scenery and quieter trails. Winter visits are magical but often require specialised equipment and experience for high-level fell walking and climbing.
What should I pack for a day of adventure in the Lake District fells?
Weather in the Lake District is famously unpredictable and changes rapidly. Always carry waterproof layers, sturdy hiking boots, a map, plenty of water, and high-energy snacks. Even on a sunny day, the temperature at the summit can be significantly lower than in the valley, making preparation essential for any climb.
What is the best way to get around the Lake District?
The Lake District is well-connected by an extensive network of open-top buses and lake steamers. The Mountain Goat tours provide access to more remote areas, while the Windermere and Ullswater steamers offer a scenic way to travel between key hubs without needing a vehicle.
How far in advance should I book activities in the Lake District?
We strongly recommend booking guided adventures like rock climbing or ghyll scrambling at least 2–4 weeks in advance, particularly during the summer and half-term holidays, as the best instructors and taster sessions often have limited availability.