Top things to do in Lake District
There are many attractions in The Lakes District and if you are a literary enthusiast there are numerous places to visit where famous authors based themselves and drew their inspiration from. One in particular was Beatrix Potter and you can visit Beatrix Potter Hill Top which is the house she bought with the royalties from her early work. Many pictures in her books were based on the house and garden. Hill Top has been left as it was when she died in 1943 and is one of the most visited literary shrines in the Lakes District. If you are a fan, immerse yourself in world of Beatrix Potter whilst visiting the area.
Carlisle Castle is a magnificent medieval fortress which keeps watch over the city of Carlisle in Cumbria. Within this fortress are the legendary “licking stones” where Jacobite prisoners found enough moisture to stay alive. The castle is over 900 years old and has a colourful history being at the centre of many wars and invasions, and has also had a number of famous inmates such as Mary Queen of Scots who was imprisoned there for a few months in 1568. The castle conducts guided tours of the grounds.
Outdoor lovers can look no further than The Lakes District for adventurous walks. There are walking trails that suit all needs; those that enjoy a long distance hike, family walks or easier day walks. Lakelands and valleys provide stunning scenery, but make sure you check the weather before you set off.
There is also a choice of water based activities in The Lakes District and they can provide an excellent way to see the scenery. There are plenty of places where you can hire an electric self-drive boat or rowing boat. If the weather suits and you are feeling brave you can hire canoes and kayaks to paddle around, or you can sail. There are learn to sail schools for those inexperienced with sailing but adventurous enough to have a go.
Where you find stunning scenery, you also find an array of natural wildlife. The Lakes District is a bird watchers paradise, including Ospreys which can be seen feeding, fishing, flying and washing. There are several species of bird that are unique to the Lakes District, and one big draw card is the golden eagle which can be seen soaring in the sky during the day. Bird watching combines the natural beauty of the local wildlife with the breathtaking scenery and is a perfect hobby for relaxing.
Laura Samuels is a travel advisor who is currently researching the best lake district holidays.