Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this national park is a paradise for nature lovers. Most of its parking areas and landmarks are managed by the National Trust, with fees often applicable. However, you can enjoy discounted rates—or even free access—with the membership card.
The Lake District region in England
The Lake District is a destination that blends nature and culture. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a literature lover, or simply someone who appreciates breathtaking landscapes, this iconic region promises a memorable getaway. It is a highly popular tourist spot, especially among the English, who flock here for weekends and holidays.
And it’s easy to see why! The beauty is undeniable! The region is rich with activities, making it ideal for a week-long stay to fully enjoy all it has to offer.
But why is it called the Lake District? Well, because of the sheer number of lakes in such a compact area:
- Lake Windermere: The largest lake in England, perfect for scenic cruises and water activities. It’s also the most famous and therefore the most touristy. If you’re looking for peace and authenticity, we recommend opting for a smaller, more secluded lake like Coniston.
- Derwentwater: Located near Keswick, this lake is surrounded by majestic mountains and offers stunning hiking trails.
- Ullswater: Often regarded as the most beautiful lake in the district, it’s ideal for steam boat rides and hiking adventures.
- Coniston Water: A tranquil spot, perfect for kayaking and nature lovers.
- Buttermere: A more secluded lake, appreciated for its serenity and unspoiled scenery. However, it’s less accessible for campervans or large motorhomes.
Our tips for visiting the lakes by campervan
Some lakes are quite difficult to access. Be sure to plan your route carefully to avoid getting stuck! Indeed, some small villages are very narrow, and large vehicles are either prohibited or simply won’t fit through. You can check out our best tips for preparing your road trip 😉.
For hiking enthusiasts
Just like during our road trip in Yorkshire, the region is a gem for hiking lovers, whether you prefer short or long trails! Here are a few to consider:
Tarn Hows (easy)
Duration: 1-2 hours
Distance: 3 km
Elevation Gain: Very low
Why go there?
This easy circuit around Tarn Hows lake is perfect for families and beginners. The landscape is idyllic, with calm waters surrounded by wooded hills. A large portion of the walk can be done with a stroller if you have young children. The hike is very simple, but we loved it, and some spots really reminded us of scenes from Harry Potter, especially Dumbledore’s grave!
The road to get there by campervan is fairly narrow, but you can park at the Glen Mary Bridge Car Park.
The Old Man of Coniston (moderate to difficult)
Duration: 4-6 hours
Distance: 8 km
Elevation Gain: 800 m
Why go there?
This iconic summit offers fantastic views of Coniston Lake and the valley. The well-marked trails provide a pleasant ascent, though it requires moderate effort. This hike is considered one of the most beautiful in the region! However, be cautious, as some sections may be challenging with young children!
Rydal Cave (easy)
Duration: 1-3 hours
Distance: 4 km
Elevation Gain: Low km
Why go there?
Rydal Cave is a large, hand-dug cavern that was once a slate mine, now abandoned. It offers a stunning spectacle, with shallow pools where the water reflects the rocky walls, creating beautiful light patterns. A stone path allows safe access to the cave by hopping from stone to stone, known as stepping stones.
This is our favorite hike in the region! Definitely not to be missed! A few tips though:
- The path can get very muddy after heavy rain and may become impassable.
- The parking area is very, very small! Arrive early or you may never get in with your campervan.
- On the return, take the hiking path along Rydal Lake, and if the weather permits and you’re not too chilly, follow the British way! A quick dip! We only dipped our toes 😎.
The most beautiful villages not to be missed
If you’re not very sporty or don’t enjoy walking, which would be a shame in such a beautiful region, you’ll find plenty of joy in visiting the villages:
- Keswick: Charming and lively, this village is an ideal starting point for exploring Derwentwater. Don’t miss its local market and craft shops.
- Ambleside: Situated on the shores of Lake Windermere, this quaint town is home to cozy pubs and art galleries. It’s also the most famous village, and as a result, very touristy. If you’re coming by campervan, make sure to arrive very early in the day, or you might not be able to stop!
- Grasmere: Known for being the home of poet William Wordsworth, with a famous gingerbread shop… Once again, Grasmere attracts tourists from everywhere! We had trouble parking our campervan as there’s no designated area for it. We recommend the northern parking lot, much less crowded and larger.
- Bowness-on-Windermere: A popular seaside town with cafes, shops, and cruise boats.
Unusual places
- The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop: A true institution. Founded in 1854 by Sarah Nelson, this charming little shop is the birthplace of the famous Grasmere Gingerbread, a unique treat that’s part biscuit, part cake, attracting visitors from around the world.
You’ll queue for about half an hour (accompanied by the delicious scent of ginger and cinnamon filling the street) before you can enter this tiny shop, no bigger than a room, to buy your pack of gingerbread. A real delight! Sadly, their online shop doesn’t deliver to France! If we had known, we would have stocked up! - Wray Castle: Located on the picturesque shores of Lake Windermere, Wray Castle is a neogothic building emblematic of the Lake District. Although it looks like a medieval castle, it was actually built in 1840 by a doctor, Dr. James Dawson, as a holiday home for his wife Margaret. This romantic-style building, with its crenellated towers and imposing walls, is a fascinating place to explore, blending history, nature, and family activities. It is now owned by the National Trust.
- Castlerigg Stone Circle: Much less known than Stonehenge, yet equally stunning! The 360° view is magnificent.
This is one of the most spectacular and best-preserved prehistoric monuments in the UK. Located near the town of Keswick, this megalithic circle, perched on a hill surrounded by the majestic mountains of the Lake District, offers breathtaking views and a mysterious atmosphere. Many walkers come here to meditate. We really appreciated the mystical vibe.
- The Birthplace of Beatrix Potter: Beatrix Potter is one of the most beloved children’s authors and illustrators in the world, best known for her characters like Peter Rabbit. Although born in London, Beatrix spent many holidays in the Lake District, where she fell in love with the wild landscapes, rustic farms, and animals that would later become the heroes of her stories.
The Lake District inspired the settings of her characters’ adventures. For instance, Hill Top Farm, her residence, features in several of her stories, including The Tale of Tom Kitten and The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck.
Places to visit associated with Beatrix Potter :
- Hill Top Farm: Located in Near Sawrey, this charming farm is open to the public and houses personal items belonging to the author. The rooms in the house are decorated as they were during her lifetime, and visitors can recognize elements that appear in her books.
- The World of Beatrix Potter: This attraction dedicated to Peter Rabbit is absolutely stunning! Fully interactive, it immerses you in the books, the stories, and allows you to meet the characters imagined by Beatrix Potter. A must-see, whether you have children or not!
