Cumbria is perhaps the most beautiful part of the United Kingdom, thanks in large part to the Lake District National Park. It has been the inspiration for artists from around the world, writers, and musicians for hundreds of years. Wast Water, the deepest lake in England, is located here in the Wasdale Valley. Windermere is England’s longest lake. There are a total of fourteen scenic bodies of water in this park. England’s five tallest mountains are located here, the highest point being Scafell Pike.

This beautiful area is not only home to mountains and lakes but green rolling hills, typical English moorland and peat bogs, rivers, waterfalls, and lush forests. The coastline of this multi-faceted area is lined with sandstone cliffs and large sand dunes. The five peaks provide wonderful views of the district but breathtaking views can be found all across the national park area including Surprise View that overlooks Derwentwater and Orrest Head above Winderemere.

Towns and Attractions
The towns are full of character, history, and charm. They offer a multitude of sights and attractions from ancient ruins to unusual museums.

Carlisle in the north is the capital of this region. It is a bustling modern city in some respects but also has many historic sights that shouldn’t be missed. Carlisle Castle was built 900 years ago and was used to protect the Anglo-Scottish border. Carlisle Cathedral was started in 1122 by King Henry I as a priory and ten years later with the founding of the diocese of Carlisle became a cathedral.

Not far from Carlisle lies part of Hadrian’s Wall, considered to be the most important Roman built monument in Britain. It runs from near Newcastle to Bowness-on-Solway in the northwest. People have been visiting Windermere for 150 years. Here can be found a number of heritage sites, historic houses, and beautifully landscaped gardens.

In the heart of the northern lakes is Keswick surrounded by mountains and lakes. It is home to a “Cars of the Stars Museum” where each vehicle is displayed in a replica set from the film in which it was used.

Kendal, on the River Kent has a history dating back to a time before the Romans. At one time it was the center of the wool industry. The Holy Trinity Parish Church is one of larger churches England with an 80-foot tower. It was built in 13th century.

Penrith is a popular destination for people on holiday because of its relaxed atmosphere and charm. A pub or inn can be found on just about every corner. It is an old English market town and was once the capital of the Kingdom of Cumbria.

Perhaps one of the most well-known attractions in the area are Dove Cottage, the home William Wordsworth, and the Wordsworth Museum in Grasmere.


Outdoor Activities
The greatest asset of the 885 square miles that make up the Lake District is the natural beauty of England’s largest National Park. This entire area is England’s most popular playground for adventure. Thousands of people come here to explore and tackle the wonders of the great outdoors.

The lakes provide a venue for just about every water sport imaginable from rowing, windsurfing, swimming, and fishing to white water paddling on the rivers.

There are walking trails suited for people of all abilities throughout the area. A coast-to-coast walk is available along with plenty of short walking routes. Established trails follow the lakes, valleys, and ridges throughout the region. The hills and peaks provide plenty of opportunities for hillwalking or rock climbing.

The mountains in the district are riddled with mountain bike routes that present plenty of challenge for avid bikers. But there are also plenty of easy country lanes to pedal along and enjoy the outdoors and scenery with the entire family.

Lake District Accommodation
Finding just the right accommodation for your holiday here can be a challenge because there are so many from which to choose. First you must decide which of the many quaint towns or villages you wish to stay near and then what kind of an accommodation you want. You can kind find everything from the luxury of upscale hotels, cozy self-catering cottages, homey bed and breakfasts, and even plenty of caravan and camping parks.

Lake District Cottages
The privacy of a cottage in the Lake District is perfect for either a romantic weekend getaway or for a fun-filled family holiday. Choose between top-of-the line luxury cottages or smaller more budget-conscious cabins that often include a private outdoor area, a hot tub, wood-burning fireplaces, and rustic high-beamed ceiling.

Cottages are also ideal for those visitors who are planning to take in some of the outdoor adventures that the area has to offer, providing storage spaces for bicycles and other gear. Prepare your picnic lunches for your day’s outing in your own fully-equipped kitchen and warm up to the fire after a day of hillwalking, climbing, or paddling the lakes.

Lake District bed and breakfast
Many people enjoy the experience of staying in a bed and breakfast. Just about every town can offer some beautiful homes that have been redone into cozy and traditional B&B accommodations, complete with a home cooked hearty breakfast to start you on your day of exploration.

You can stay on an old-fashioned farm in the middle of a lush green valley or in a quaint old home sitting on the shores of one of the many lakes. Unwind at the end of the day on the peaceful grounds of a well-kept bed and breakfast. There are even some guesthouses in the area that use locally produced goods and food whenever they can to give the complete district experience.

Lake District Hotels
If you are looking for a more pampered accommodation that a hotel can provide, there are several to choose from that are located on lakefront property with views of Lake Windermere, Ullswater, or other lakes in the area. You can even book a hotel with spa facilities to make your Cumbria getaway even more relaxing. There are so many choices when it comes to hotels from the many towns in the area