"England's UNESCO-designated national park showcases some of the UK's most breathtaking landscapes"
Nestled in the heart of England's picturesque Lake District, you'll find a treasure trove of natural beauty and historical charm. This guide takes you on a journey through Windermere, Grasmere, Scafell Pike, and Coniston Water, four of the most captivating destinations within the Lake District National Park.
Between Windermere and Grasmere
Your adventure begins at Windermere, England's largest lake, offering a plethora of activities for all ages. From cruises and fishing to boating and sailing, there's something for everyone. The bustling town of Bowness-on-Windermere serves as a key visitor hub, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Nearby, the Brockhole Visitor Centre offers a range of family-friendly outdoor activities, including archery, mini-golf, and boat hire. As you journey towards Grasmere, you'll pass through the charming village, known for its picturesque, hilly setting and association with poet William Wordsworth. Here, you can visit Dove Cottage, Wordsworth’s home, and his grave in St Oswald’s Churchyard.
The scenic route between these two locations is dotted with walking trails, wooded valleys, and historic villages such as Hawkshead, near Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top house.
Scafell Pike
Venture northward, and you'll find yourself at Scafell Pike, England's highest peak at 978 meters. On clear days, it offers panoramic views, including sights of Northern Ireland’s Mourne Mountains and Wales’s Snowdonia range. Popular for hiking and scrambling, it is a highlight for outdoor enthusiasts seeking dramatic fell landscapes central to the Lake District.
Coniston Water
Continuing your journey, you'll arrive at Coniston Water, a tranquil lake surrounded by wooded hills and fells. Known for its serene waters, it's a popular spot for boating and watersports. Nearby Coniston village offers cultural and historical sites, including links to author Arthur Ransome. The area is great for family-friendly walks and scenic views.
Additional Highlights
Keswick and Ambleside are key towns near these attractions, known for their welcoming atmosphere, local food, and access to lakes and mountains. The Lake District is rich in natural beauty, with varied activities like wildlife spotting, family trails, and cultural heritage tied to figures like Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter.
Visiting the Lake District National Park
To plan your visit, head to the official website of the Lake District National Park at www.lakedistrict.gov.uk. For those considering a flight, there is a possibility to book a flight to discover the United Kingdom (advertisement).
The Lake District National Park is located in Kendal, UK. Windermere, the longest lake in England, is 17 kilometers long and marks the southern end of the Lake District. Grasmere is a typical British village in the Lake District, surrounded by gentler landscapes dotted with stone farmhouses and flowered copses.
Before you leave, don't miss a visit to Brantwood House, home to poet and artist John Ruskin since 1872. Located on the eastern shore of Coniston Water, you can see Ruskin's watercolours, manuscripts, and study here. Brantwood House's address is Murley Moss, Oxenholme Road, LA9 7RL Kendal.
Lastly, don't forget to explore Coniston, a place where the peacefulness of the area blends with the stories of the past. A small museum in Coniston brings together the memories of John Ruskin and Donald Campbell, who tragically disappeared on Coniston Water during a speed record attempt in 1967.
Wast Water, located in the Lake District, is the deepest lake in England and sits between two steep slopes, resembling Scottish moorland. It's a fitting end to your journey through this enchanting region.
- As you journey through the charming village of Grasmere towards Hawkshead, you'll find a lifestyle that embodies the essence of home-and-garden, with stone farmhouses and flowered copses dotting the gentler landscapes.
- Following your exploration of Scafell Pike, consider adding a travel adventure to Wast Water, England's deepest lake, to experience its Scottish moorland-like surroundings and complete your journey through the picturesque Lake District National Park.
