Explore the Majestic Beauty of Lake District National Park
Discover unparalleled natural beauty and rich literary heritage in the stunning Lake District National Park, a must-visit for every traveler.
The Lake District National Park is a breathtaking haven of natural beauty in the UK, offering stunning landscapes, charming lakes, and a plethora of outdoor activities that attract tourists from around the world.
A brief summary to Lake District National Park
Local tips
- Visit during the shoulder seasons of spring or autumn for fewer crowds and stunning scenery.
- Consider purchasing an all-day parking pass if you plan to explore multiple areas within the park.
- Dress in layers and be prepared for unpredictable weather, especially in the mountains.
- Take advantage of local guided tours to learn more about the park's history and ecology.
- Don't miss the opportunity to try local specialties like Cumberland sausage and sticky toffee pudding.
Getting There
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Car
If you're travelling by car within Westmorland, navigate to the A591 road. This is the main route leading directly into the Lake District National Park. Depending on your starting point, you might need to take local roads to reach the A591. For example, from Kendal, take the A6 northbound until you reach the junction for the A591. Follow the A591 through Ambleside to reach the central area of the park. Ensure to check for parking areas upon arrival, as some may charge fees that can vary from £2 to £10 depending on the location and duration.
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Public Transportation - Bus
For those using public transport, local buses operate frequently from various towns in Westmorland, including Kendal and Windermere. You can take the Stagecoach Bus services, specifically the 555 route, which connects Kendal to Ambleside and Windermere, both of which are gateways to the national park. The fare is approximately £5-£10 for a single journey. Once in Ambleside or Windermere, you can easily find local bus services that will take you deeper into the park or to popular attractions such as Grasmere and Keswick.
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Public Transportation - Train
If you're near a train station, take a train to Windermere station, which is the closest to Lake District National Park. From major cities like Manchester or Lancaster, direct trains are available. Prices vary, so check the National Rail website for the latest fares and times. Once at Windermere station, you can catch a local bus or taxi to reach the park. Alternatively, you can walk to nearby attractions, which are well-connected to the park's entrance.
Discover more about Lake District National Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bowder Stone
9.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Bowder Stone, a geological marvel in the Lake District, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
National Trust - Wray
10.2 km
Explore Wray Castle, a stunning Victorian Gothic landmark in the Lake District, offering breathtaking views and rich history for every tourist.
Lodore Falls
10.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lodore Falls, a stunning natural waterfall in the heart of the Lake District, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Surprise View
11.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Surprise View in Borrowdale, offering stunning vistas and hiking adventures in the heart of the Lake District.
Brockhole on Windermere
11.1 km
Explore Brockhole on Windermere: A delightful visitor center in the heart of the Lake District with outdoor adventures, art, and stunning gardens.
Latterbarrow
11.2 km
Experience the enchanting vistas of Latterbarrow in the Lake District, a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility and adventure.
Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae.
11.3 km
Explore Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae, a historical jewel offering stunning views and enriching hiking experiences in the heart of the Lake District.
National Trust - Steam Yacht Gondola
11.6 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of the Lake District aboard the historic Steam Yacht Gondola, a unique tourist attraction offering a glimpse into Victorian leisure.
Ashness Bridge
11.7 km
Explore Ashness Bridge, a picturesque stone bridge in the Lake District that offers stunning views and access to beautiful hiking trails.
National Trust - Townend
11.8 km
Explore the historic charm and breathtaking gardens of Townend, a hidden gem in the heart of the Lake District perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Holehird Gardens
13.0 km
Explore the enchanting Holehird Gardens, a stunning garden sanctuary in the heart of Windermere, offering tranquility, beauty, and inspiration for every visitor.
Windermere and Troutbeck
13.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich heritage of Windermere and Troutbeck in the heart of the Lake District, perfect for outdoor adventures and serene escapes.
Queen Adelaide's Hill
13.8 km
Experience the breathtaking views of Windermere at Queen Adelaide's Hill, a stunning viewpoint in the heart of the Lake District National Park.
Orrest Head Viewpoint
14.1 km
Discover the stunning Orrest Head Viewpoint, a scenic gem in the Lake District offering breathtaking views and a peaceful escape into nature.
Friars Crag
14.3 km
Explore Friars Crag, a scenic gem in the Lake District perfect for hiking, photography, and enjoying the tranquil beauty of Derwent Water.
Unmissable attractions to see
Dunmail Raise
2.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Dunmail Raise, a stunning mountain pass in the heart of the Lake District.
The Lancrigg
2.4 km
Discover The Lancrigg in Grasmere, a serene retreat combining natural beauty with cozy accommodations and delicious dining options, perfect for your Lake District getaway.
National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
2.8 km
Experience the serene beauty and historical allure of Allan Bank and Grasmere in the heart of the stunning Lake District.
Dungeon Ghyll
2.9 km
Explore the captivating beauty of Dungeon Ghyll with its stunning waterfalls and picturesque hiking trails in the heart of the Lake District.
Faeryland Grasmere
3.0 km
Experience the magic of Faeryland Grasmere, where enchanting scenery meets delightful tea rooms in the heart of the Lake District.
Heaton Cooper Studio Ltd
3.1 km
Explore Heaton Cooper Studio in Grasmere, an art gallery showcasing local talent amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Lake District.
Wordsworth Daffodil Garden
3.2 km
Experience the beauty and tranquility of the Wordsworth Daffodil Garden in Grasmere, a tribute to nature and poetry in the heart of the Lake District.
The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop
3.2 km
Discover the iconic Grasmere Gingerbread Shop, a bakery steeped in history and known for its delightful gingerbread, nestled in the scenic Lake District.
St Oswald’s church
3.2 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of St Oswald's Church in Grasmere, a must-visit destination in the heart of the Lake District.
Wordsworth Grasmere
3.8 km
Discover the enchanting world of William Wordsworth at Wordsworth Grasmere, a must-visit museum and poet's home in the heart of the Lake District.
Grasmere
3.8 km
Experience the tranquil charm of Grasmere Lake, a hidden gem in the Lake District, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich literary history.
Blea Tarn
4.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Blea Tarn, a picturesque water haven nestled in the Lake District, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Blea Tarn, Lake District National Park
4.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Blea Tarn, a picturesque lake surrounded by stunning fells in the heart of Lake District National Park.
Loughrigg Fell
5.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Loughrigg Fell, a majestic mountain peak offering stunning views and unforgettable hiking experiences in the Lake District.
Wythburn Church
5.3 km
Experience tranquility and history at Wythburn Church, a charming sanctuary nestled in the stunning landscapes of the Lake District.
Essential places to dine
New Dungeon Ghyll - Langdale
2.4 km
Experience exquisite dining at New Dungeon Ghyll - Langdale with locally sourced flavors and stunning Lake District views.
The Jumble Room
3.1 km
Discover The Jumble Room in Grasmere - where creative British cuisine meets the stunning beauty of the Lake District.
Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel Great Langdale
3.3 km
Experience authentic British hospitality at Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Great Langdale in the Lake District.
Stove Restaurant & Bar
4.0 km
Experience exquisite dining at Stove Restaurant & Bar in Great Langdale – where local flavors meet stunning Lake District views.
Dodds Restaurant
7.9 km
Experience exquisite Italian and modern European cuisine at Dodds Restaurant in Ambleside's stunning Lake District.
The Priest Hole Restaurant
8.1 km
Experience authentic British cuisine at The Priest Hole Restaurant in Ambleside—where tradition meets taste in a cozy setting.
Lucy's on a plate
8.1 km
Experience authentic English cuisine at Lucy's on a Plate in Ambleside—where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality.
The Old Stamp House Restaurant
8.1 km
Experience exquisite modern British cuisine at The Old Stamp House Restaurant in Ambleside, where local flavors meet culinary artistry.
Lake Road Kitchen
8.1 km
Experience exquisite British cuisine at Lake Road Kitchen in Ambleside, where local flavors meet exceptional hospitality in a cozy setting.
Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery
8.5 km
Experience rustic charm at Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery with exquisite local cuisine and craft brews amidst stunning Lake District scenery.
The Samling Hotel
9.7 km
Experience luxury at The Samling Hotel – where exquisite dining meets breathtaking views in Windermere's serene landscapes.
Blue Smoke on the Bay
10.2 km
Experience exquisite dining with breathtaking lakeside views at Blue Smoke on the Bay in Windermere.
Windermere Restaurant (The W)
10.2 km
Experience exceptional dining at Windermere Restaurant (The W) - where local flavors meet stunning lake views in the heart of England's Lake District.
The Gaddum
11.2 km
Experience exceptional English cuisine amidst breathtaking scenery at The Gaddum in Windermere.
The Inn on the Lake
11.7 km
Discover tranquility at The Inn on the Lake - where stunning landscapes meet exceptional dining in the heart of Ullswater.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
RockShop
8.0 km
Discover unique gifts and delightful toys at RockShop in Ambleside, a must-visit for family-friendly shopping and local crafts.
Booths, Windermere
14.5 km
Discover the best of local produce and culinary delights at Booths, Windermere — your one-stop shop in the heart of the Lake District.
Forget Me Not
14.6 km
Explore the charm of Windermere at Forget Me Not, your destination for unique gifts and local treasures in the heart of the Lake District.
The Original Man Shop
15.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at The Original Man Shop in Bowness-on-Windermere, a must-visit for every traveler.
Tesco Express
15.1 km
Experience the convenience of Tesco Express in Bowness-on-Windermere, your one-stop-shop for groceries and essentials during your visit.
Pretty Things
15.1 km
Explore Pretty Things, a charming ladies' clothes shop in Bowness-on-Windermere, offering a unique selection of stylish clothing and accessories.
Mountain Warehouse
15.1 km
Explore the outdoors in style with Mountain Warehouse, your ultimate destination for outdoor clothing and equipment in Bowness.
Herdy Bowness
15.1 km
Explore Herdy Bowness, the charming gift shop in Bowness-on-Windermere, offering unique local gifts that capture the essence of the Lake District.
World of Beatrix Potter Attraction Shop
15.1 km
Explore the whimsical World of Beatrix Potter Attraction Shop, where timeless tales meet delightful gifts in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
LAKELAND Leather
15.1 km
Discover the elegance of handcrafted leather goods at Lakeland Leather in Bowness-on-Windermere, where quality meets style in the heart of the Lake District.
Lonsdale Galleries
15.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Lonsdale Galleries in Bowness-on-Windermere, where every purchase tells a story.
Love the Lakes Bowness
15.1 km
Explore Love the Lakes Bowness for unique gifts and local treasures in the stunning Lake District.
CONQUER Trading Post
15.2 km
Explore Conquer Trading Post in Keswick for unique souvenirs that capture the spirit of the Lake District and make lasting memories.
Love the Lakes Keswick
15.3 km
Explore Love the Lakes Keswick for unique gifts and local crafts that celebrate the beauty of the Lake District, perfect for every traveler.
Alternative
15.3 km
Explore the Alternative Gift Shop in Keswick for unique gifts, local art, and memorable souvenirs that celebrate the beauty of the Lake District.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Wainwrights' Inn
3.7 km
Experience the charm of Wainwrights' Inn, a cozy pub in the Lake District, offering delicious food, local ales, and stunning views.
The Talbot Bar
6.3 km
Experience the charm of The Talbot Bar in the Lake District, a perfect fusion of hearty British fare and exceptional local ales.
The Vault
8.1 km
Discover Ambleside's vibrant cocktail scene at The Vault, a must-visit bar and restaurant offering innovative drinks and delicious seasonal cuisine.
The Lily Bar
8.2 km
Discover The Lily Bar in Ambleside—a perfect blend of delightful food, refreshing drinks, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of the Lake District.
Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom
11.6 km
Discover Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom, a charming lakeside pub in the Lake District, offering delicious food, stunning views, and a cozy atmosphere.
Queens Head, Troutbeck
11.7 km
Experience the charm of the Lake District at Queens Head, Troutbeck – a cozy pub offering delicious food, comfortable stays, and breathtaking views.
Ritson's Bar (Wasdale Head Inn)
12.0 km
Experience authentic English hospitality and local flavors at Ritson's Bar, nestled in the breathtaking Wasdale Valley of the Lake District.
Lake District Cocktail Co.
12.1 km
Experience the art of cocktail crafting in the stunning Lake District with Lake District Cocktail Co., a mobile catering service that brings the bar to you.
The Windermere Speakeasy
14.4 km
Experience the unique charm of The Windermere Speakeasy, where delightful brunches meet expertly crafted cocktails in a vintage-inspired setting.
The Crafty Baa Windermere
14.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delectable tapas at The Crafty Baa in Windermere, the perfect spot for relaxation and live music.
The Smallest Pub in The Lake District The Pie and Pint
14.5 km
Experience the warmth and charm of The Smallest Pub in The Lake District, where great ales and delicious homemade pies await.
Hole in t' Wall
15.0 km
Experience the charm of Hole in t' Wall, a cozy pub in Bowness-on-Windermere, offering local ales and hearty dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Boardwalk Bar and Grill
15.0 km
Experience the best of British grilling with stunning views at Boardwalk Bar and Grill on Windermere's beautiful shores.
Quayside Bowness
15.0 km
Discover Quayside Bowness: A charming gastropub on Windermere's shores, offering delicious food, fine ales, and stunning lake views.
The Easy Breeze
15.0 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of The Easy Breeze in Bowness-on-Windermere, where great food, live music, and sports come together in one vibrant bar.
