Words by Jasreen Heer
Lockdown measures have eased, travel restrictions lifted, we’re all yearning for that change of scenery, but not quite ready to whisk off abroad. Why not reconcile your summer travel cravings by exploring the true beauty of England’s very finest National Park, the Lake District? Recently affiliated as a World Heritage Site, Lakeland is known for its picture-perfect views, glacial landscapes, rugged mountains, and ribbon lakes: an ideal setting to embrace nature, explore the outdoors, and unwind from the chaos of everyday life.
Located in rural Cumbria, the northwest of England, the Lake District offers everything for a fun-filled adventure with a generous dose of characterful luxury; from hiking and cycling to water-sports and stargazing, it really has it all. For those that are opting for more privacy whilst we ride out the wave of Covid-19, you can hire your own exclusive cottage and it’s easily accessible from London in just a four and a half hour’s drive.
Stay
Cottages
Whether you lust for the experience of a more authentic home from home feeling or you’re cautious of a hotel-stay this summer, then you’ve got plenty of choice when it comes to choosing where to stay in the Lake District. From rustic chic to modern decor, smaller romantic cottages to larger family homes, the list is endless to suit all your travel needs.
For a glamourous-chic, yet rugged and cosy atmosphere, then you’ll want to check out this enchanted 12-guest, pet friendly home located in the prime spot of the Lake District, Windermere. Described as “Narnia meets The Secret Garden”, Winterfell is a beautiful country home sat on six-acre grounds with panoramic views of the fells, private meadows lined with fruit trees, an outdoor fire-pit and French-inspired interiors to ooze the romance of country living. Windermere sits in the heart and soul of the Lake District, with a bustling atmosphere, it is a prime spot filled with eateries and activities attracting millions of tourists every year.
For a more modern, yet opulent, country experience, take a look at Cleabarrow Cottage located in neighbouring town and capital of the Lake District, Bowness on Windermere. The six-bed property is well designed with a spacious open plan kitchen, living and dining area, leading out to a heated veranda with further outdoor seating and views of the fells. If that doesn’t entice you enough, then relaxing from the hustle and bustle of the day with a glass of bubbly in the hot tub at night sure will! Whether you’re chucking off those walking boots or relishing the evening sunset, the hot tub and balcony views will serve as a warming return from an adventure packed day.
If you’re seeking a romantic getaway then check out this 17th century coach house which boasts a cosy layout fit for two. Well-equipped with a gym and outdoor patio, this homely setting is perfect for those cosy nights in and candle-lit dinners. Located in Coniston, another prime spot in the Lake District, it is home to a quaint village full of delightful shops and eateries where you’ll be bound to stumble across some good finds and food.
Hotel
For you hotel aficionados out there, the Gilpin Hotel and Lake House is the answer. Re-opened on 4th July, Gilpin, a Relais and Châtaeu residence, is known as one of the finest luxury hotels in the Lake District. Gilpin Hotel sits on 21 acres with 25-bedrooms and two restaurants on offer including Michelin star dining. The lodges sit spaciously with garden views and the choice of a private hot tub. The Lake House sits on a separate estate, replicating the feel of a luxury country home, only catering for 12 guests who can exclusively experience the 100-acre grounds.
To Do
Honister Slate Mine and Via Ferrata
Discover the last working slate mine in England by either an underground guided tour or through their adrenaline fuelled adventures. From walking the 2000 ft high infinity bridge across the valley floor, to climbing the mine deep underground, you’ll be enriched with the deep history of slate mining whilst soaking in the spectacular industrial landscape views.
Lake Windermere
Explore the water sports centre at Low Wood Bay on Lake Windermere, offering a range of activities: water skiing, wakeboarding, flyboarding, kayaking, canoeing, sailing and paddle boarding. There is an endless list of options to challenge your water sports skills, with the choice to even hire your own boat to explore England’s largest lake at your own leisure.
Climb Scafell Pike
The Lake District is home to England’s tallest mountain, Scafell Pike. At 3,209 feet high, this is not for the faint-hearted! With rough terrain and steep gradients, it’s truly a challenge for the adrenaline junkies. You’ll need to do lots of preparation before you embark on your adventure. It might not be one to be underestimated, but the result is definitely highly rewarding (excuse the pun!).
Lake Buttermere
Arguably one of the most beautiful landscapes in the Lake District, you can take a four-mile family stroll around the periphery in around two to three hours. Accompany your walk with a picnic on the lake or finish with cake and tea at Syke Farm Tea Room or, if you’re feeling extra peckish, head to The River Inn for some classic pie and chips.
Whinlatter Forest Park
Whinlatter is full of activities and scenic routes: from beautiful walking and cycling trails, forest segwaying, Go Ape high ropes and even horse riding through the forest, it’s the perfect outdoorsy environment for the whole family.
World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
Re-opening Saturday, 1st August 2020, Peter Rabbit and his friends will be ready for a warm welcome back; a perfect family outing, where you can relive the magic of Beatrix Potter’s stories.
Stargaze at Low Gillerthwaite
An accredited Dark Sky Discovery site, emerge yourself in amateur astronomy in an evening of night sky discovery and the magical experience of stargazing.
