With the Lake District just a couple of hours away by train or car, you don’t have to go far for a refreshing short break amongst beautiful scenery! The national park and World Heritage Site is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the UK and local, family-run holiday cottage letting agency, Sally’s Cottages, shares its top 5 places to visit in the region.
1. Keswick
Happily nestled on the edge of Derwentwater, Keswick is a bustling market town that is quintessentially Cumbrian. It’s perfect for a short break thanks to its shops, bi-weekly market, attractions, access to hundreds of walks, and beautiful scenery. The town is also known as the adventure capital of the Lake District and offers lots of outdoor activities – both guided and self-led – on and off the water.
2. Lake Windermere
Windermere is the longest lake in the Lake District and around its shores you will find bustling towns and villages, isolated spots of tranquillity, and excellent attractions. From The World of Beatrix Potter and Wray Castle to an aquarium and motor museum, there are plenty of options to keep you busy. Don’t forget to relax, too: a cruise around the lake is an absolute must during your visit.
3. Buttermere and Crummock Water
Hidden away on the lesser-known western edge of the Lake District are the twin lakes of Buttermere and Crummock. There are lots of opportunities here for exploring the fells (Alfred Wainwright’s favourite, Haystacks, towers over Buttermere) or, if you prefer something gentler, the lakeshores make for a gentle stroll. If you visit in spring, don’t miss a walk in the ‘secret’ valley of Rannerdale, which is ablaze with bluebells in the season. Whatever you prefer to do, you can treat yourself to a hearty pub meal or homemade cakes and ice creams in Buttermere village afterwards.
4. The Eden Valley
Skirting the edges of the Lake District and the North Pennines is the relatively unknown Eden Valley. This is an absolute find for those of you who like some tranquillity during your holidays thanks to its rolling hills and distance from busy towns and cities. History-lovers will enjoy the wealth of castles and stone circles in the area, while walkers and cyclists will be spoiled for choice with its selection of routes ranging from the gentle to the extreme. If you want to step back into active life for a while, head to the market town of Penrith where you will find cobbled streets, a lovely market, and lots of independent shops.
5. Eskdale and Wasdale
The valleys of Eskdale and Wasdale boast some of the best walking opportunities in the Lake District. Atmospheric woodland, rippling streams, gushing waterfalls and towering peaks – including England’s highest, Scafell Pike – open up opportunities for all tastes and abilities. Whilst in the area, you must take a trip on the Eskdale & Ravenglass Railway: the miniature steam trains toot 7 miles along the valley until they reach the sea at Ravenglass. Why not enjoy a linear walk and then hop on one of the locomotives back to your start point where you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious meal at one of the local pubs.
Wherever you choose to go in the Lake District, Sally’s Cottages can help you find your perfect self-catering holiday cottage. As an award-winning, family run company, we have local knowledge and a passion for the region. Our office is open from 8.30am to 9.00pm, 7 days a week and you can get in touch on enquiries@sallyscottages.co.uk or 017687 80571.
