Every year, more than 15 million people visit the Lake District in Cumbria. This beautifully scenic region is perfect for a UK staycation, with so much to offer. The landscape has been forged by glaciers, leaving rugged fell mountains, glacial ribbon rivers, and of course the beautiful lakes and tarns that dominate the landscape. If you want an active staycation that involves lots of hill walking, cycling and water sports, then the Lake District is perfect.
On the water
If you love boating and sailing, then visits to Bassenthwaite, Windermere, Ullswater and Derwent Water will be worth your while. There is a 10 mph speed limit though – the pace of life is sedate in the Lake District. Canoeing is also very popular, and the waters are generally calm. If you love open water swimming, there are plenty of places that you can take a quick dip. Buttermere, Derwent Water, Burnmoor Tarn, Crummock Water and Rydal Water are all suitable. These are only for experienced swimmers though – the water is deep, and there are underwater obstacles, including waterweed. There is always some risk of drowning when swimming outdoors, so make sure that you assess the water carefully before you dive in, as there are no lifeguards. Only take a dip if you are confident in your swimming ability.
A long walk
If you love hiking and walking, then there are some wonderful places in the Lake District where you can walk for miles and barely see a soul. For more of a challenge, you can try Scafell Pike, which stands at 978m tall, or Helvellyn, which is 950m. Skiddaw and The Old Man of Coniston are also popular mountains that you can go up and down in a day. If you want to walk a less rugged terrain, then a stroll along the banks of Windermere is perfect. There are also 48 easy access routes across the national park, which are suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Tourist attractions
The Lake District is steeped in history, and there are plenty of places that you can visit to learn more about the area. You can head to the Laurel and Hardy Museum to learn about the film stars – Stan Laurel was actually born in Ulverston. At Windermere Jetty, you can learn all about the work and adventures of the local boat builders in the Lake District. You can learn about the industrial history of the area at Coniston Copper Mines – they were some of the most profitable in the North during the 1600s.
The Lake District is the perfect place for an active staycation. You can walk, swim, go boating, and enjoy an adventure in the most beautiful countryside, and make wonderful memories to last a lifetime.
