The most beautiful places in the Lake District (2022 update)
21.07.2023 - 07:52
/ roughguides.com
With romantic peaks to ramble, idyllic villages to discover, and inspirational literary locations to explore, the Lake District in Cumbria, England, is as much a dream destination for culture vultures as it is for walkers, hikers and nature-lovers. The Lake District is also a top spot for family breaks, with the region’s Beatrix Potter connections and exciting outdoor activities. If you are wondering what are the most beautiful places in the Lake District to visit read on for our top picks, with further inspiration (and practical information) available in our travel guide Rough Guide Staycations: The Lake District.
Ten and a half miles long, and a little over 200ft deep, Lake Windermere — England’s largest lake — is Cumbria’s crowning glory. With some of the best views in the Lake District (to the north, the central fells; to the south, a wooded shoreline), taking a boat trip is hands-down the best way to appreciate the lake’s beauty. And the good news is, there are several options to do just that — from cruises to cross-lake ferries.
If you’re near Windermere Jetty, be sure to explore the museum's matchless collection of Victorian and Edwardian steam launches and historic boats, among them Margaret, the world’s oldest yacht, and Arthur Ransome’s Coch-y-Bondhu, the real-life water craft behind one of his Swallows and Amazons boats.
Stunning sunset over Lake Windermere showcasing its scale and serene beauty as one of the most beautiful places in the Lake District, England © Shutterstock
As for where to stay, glamping doesn’t get better than Windermere’s Low Wray National Trust campsite, with cool accommodation options ranging from tree tents and camping pods, to spacious woodland safari tents. If camping (however glamourous) isn’t your style, you could always book a room in an elegant lake-view guesthouse, like the heavenly Angel Inn. Either way, if you choose to stay in the vicinity of Lake Windermere, you'll be blessed with some of Cumbria's most beautiful views.
Separating Coniston Water from Windermere, Grizedale Forest’s emerald expanse is a natural paradise for travellers of all ages and inclinations. Though this ancient forest was somewhat depleted by the eighteenth-century, impressive regeneration has restored oak, spruce, larch and pine woodland to its green glory. As a result, the forest offers rich habitats for badgers, squirrels, grouse, woodcock and woodpeckers, with red deer seen occasionally too.
The Lake District's forests are blessed with atmosphere and beauty all through the year © Matt Gibson/Shutterstock
Head to the Grizedale Visitor Centre to pick up a map of the ten walking trails, then watch out for forty fabulous woodland sculptures as you wander. The longest trail is the Silurian