When it comes to natural beauty, few places in the UK can rival the Lake District. The largest national
park in England, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this part of the country is a paradise both for
those who’d like to spend time on the water, and for people who’d rather take a stroll alongside it. Getting the best from your trip means doing a little bit of planning and researching. To that end, let’s
take a look at some of the key components of the ultimate Lake District trip.

Disclaimer: This post is a collaboration

Where to stay in the Lake District

You’ll have several options when it comes to location. You’ll want to think not only about what’s
immediately around you but how easily you’ll be able to reach the locations you really want to visit.
Bear in mind that the landscape, with its valleys and hills, can often mean that road journeys take
longer than you might expect.

Keswick is a market town, to be found at the head of Derwentwater Lake. Like most major towns in
the area, it’s packed with outdoorsy shops and little souvenir vendors. Alternatively, you might
consider Bowness, which is the largest town on the shores of the famous Lake Windemere. There’s
also Hawkshead, which is a cobbled little village that sits just beside Coniston Water.

Choosing Accommodation

Your choice of accommodation will be determined largely by your budget, and by your need for
convenience. There are sprawling luxury hotels with unrivalled views of the countryside, and there are
cosy little B&Bs that cater perfectly to early risers looking to head out hiking at the crack of dawn. If
you’d like to spend your time out in the wilderness, and you’d like to limit your costs, then a
motorhome break makes a great deal of sense, here. Just make sure that you’ve invested in the right
motorhome insurance.

What to do

There are activities and attractions in the Lake District to suit just about everyone. Whether you’re
looking to take it easy, or you’re a thrill seeker in search of a high-octane experience, there’s
something here for you. You can climb the highest peak in England, Scafell Pike. You can go boating
or even wild swimming – a bracing experience, especially during winter. If you have a sweet tooth,
then you’ll want to make a stop at the Gingerbread House in Grasmere – which has been dispensing
amazing gingerbread since 1854.

Top tips

The Lake District is a big draw, especially in summer. If you can, avoid the peak season – but make
sure that you check the weather forecast, especially if you’re planning on tackling some of the less
hospitable terrain. If you’re going to be driving, then you might consider a Park and Explore ticket,
which will allow you to park at a range of car parks for a flat daily rate.