Things to do in the Lake District

Discover the best of the Lakes

With 1,800 miles of footpaths, you can cycle or walk to your heart’s content. But you don’t need to stay on land. Take to the lakes on a gentle steamer cruise or try your hand at water skiing. For something completely different, spend the day in one of the Lakeland towns and discover fabulous museums and great shopping.

Ravenglass Railway

The Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway is one of the oldest and longest narrow gauge railways in England, known affectionately as La’al Ratty meaning “ little railway “ in olde Cumbrian dialect.

Castlerigg Stone Circle

Castlerigg is perhaps the most atmospheric and dramatically sited of all British stone circles, with panoramic views and the mountains of Helvellyn and High Seat as a backdrop

Derwent Pencil Museum

How did RAF pilots use pencils to guide them home? How do you get colour into a pencil? This, the history of pencils and how to use them for crafts, animation, cartoons and illustrations in this world-famous museum.

Threlkeld Quarry and Mining Museum

Discover the Lakes’ industrial heritage, explore the underground tunnels and artworks in our artificial caving system and take a trip on the narrow gauge railway, hauled by the steam-powered Sir Tom in the summer holidays and on weekends.

The World of Beatrix Potter

Beatrix Potter's world-famous tales come to life in a magical, interactive experience. Your adventure includes the story of her life, work and illustrations. New for 2017: Don’t miss the live musical theatre show ‘Where is Peter Rabbit?’

Walby Farm Park

Visit a real, award-winning working Cumbrian farm for a wide range of activities to suit all ages including: swings, trampolines, aerial slide, nature trail and animal feeding. Our favourites include the electric mini quads and the pony grooming.

Rookin House Activity Centre

Fun for all the family and the widest range of outdoor activities in the Lake District including horse riding, quad biking, fishing and clay pigeon shooting plus high-tech thrills of twin-seater power turn cars and off-roading with video navigation.

South Lakes Safari Zoo

Get close to over 1,000 rare and endangered animals in a unique, natural environment and experience the sights, sounds (and a few smells!) of the amazing creatures we share our planet with. Don’t miss feeding times and ask about personal encounters.

Rheged Centre

Inspirational, fun and educational activities including the biggest 3D cinema screen in the region, taking you on a dramatic journey through 2000 years of Cumbria’s history. Plus exhibitions and indoor & outdoor children’s play zones and pottery …

Go Ape at Whinlatter Forest

Enjoy the thrill of a three hour, tree top adventure, climbing, swinging and enjoying views all the way to Scotland! Back on the ground, take a two wheel Segway tour deep into the heart of the forest!

The Puzzling Place and World of Illusion

A real favourite with our guests of all ages, the free to enter ‘Puzzle Area’ will amuse, entertain and frustrate you with puzzles and brain teasers. Then visit ‘World of Illusion’ (entry fee): you quite literally won’t believe your eyes!

Explore more