27 Best things to see & do in Lake District

The Lake District’s many hills – or ‘fells’ as they’re known in Cumbria – offer some of the best hiking in England, from short walks to full-day multi-summit treks. There’s nowhere better to appreciate the best of the British landscape.

William Wordsworth found inspiration for many of his most famous poems in the Lake District, and there are many sights associated with him.

Wooded islands, beaches, lakeside mansions, craggy fells – you’ll see them all on a Lakeland cruise. The only question is which lake to choose.

The region’s most picturesque and charming village. Grasmere is set on the shores of its eponymous lake and cradled by green fields and fells. William Wordsworth is buried in the churchyard of St Oswald’s – you can see the poet’s tombstone.

Thrilling rock climbing made more accessible – an adventure course of cables, rungs, ladders and bridges.

Venture underground into the dark mines under Honister Pass to discover the history of Lakeland slate mining – and, if you’re feeling brave, tackle an underground climbing expedition.

Sarah Nelson’s gingerbread is an institution in Grasmere: it’s been made to the same recipe since 1854. It’s wonderfully quaint – the frilly outfits worn by the shop staff are something from a bygone age.

Take a guided tour around Wordsworth’s charming cottage near Grasmere to get a fascinatingly personal insight into the poet’s life and times – and don’t miss the brilliant museum next door.

Climb up to the highest point in England for a memorable view of the Wasdale fells – and a special sense of achievement. But don’t expect to be on your own if the weather’s fine

Wordsworth’s grand family home between Ambleside and Grasmere is an essential stop: it’s full of memorabilia, and offers an intriguing glimpse of the Wordsworth family’s daily life in the Lakes.