Journey through England’s stunning Lakes District
Located on the northwest coast of England, the Lake District is a UNESCO World Heritage Site made up of incredible landscapes. If you’re looking for an off the grid adventure, incredible scenery and outdoor activities then book yourself a motorhome rental and make your way to the famous Lakes District.
Mountains, Forests and Lakes
The Lakes District is a National Park located within Cumbria and you’ll instantly realise why so many famous poets and writers were inspired by its rolling green hills. You’ll see Scafell Pike rising in the distance, the highest mountain in England. The deepest freshwater lakes in England are also within the district. As you can imagine, nature walks here are not to be missed.
You’ll see and hear a few different words while exploring the Lakes District. These names, which come from 10th century Norse settlers, are still used today in the area. Keep an eye out for beck (stream), dale (valley), gill (gorge), tarn (lake) and thwaite (clearing).
How about a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Windermere? When the weather is warm this lake is the place to be for water activities. Kids will love paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, water skiing or wakeboarding. Book a trip with Windermere Lake Cruises and you won’t have to move a muscle as you cruise past picturesque villages and lush forest.
If you’re really wanting to get off the beaten track, we recommend visiting Ennerdale, the most remote of all the lakes. The forest walks around the area are jaw-dropping and the lake water is pristine. Just note: this is the only lake that doesn’t have a road running alongside it so you will need to park and walk to the lake.
Arts and Culture
Fans of Peter Rabbit will be delighted to know that you can visit Beatrix Potter’s home - Hill Top - and see the stunning surroundings which inspired the characters and settings in her books. Lakes District is heavily associated with creatives and there are a number of theatres and annual festivals including Keswick Mountain Festival and Words By the Water, the area’s annual literary festival.
Kendal is a fun market town to explore before venturing out further on your motorhome road trip. It’s packed full of castles, art galleries and museums and you can stock up on food and treats for your trip ahead. Head out of the town and stay a night or two in a lakeside caravan park like Hill of Oaks Caravan & Lodge Park. There’s nothing quite like waking up in your own comfortable motorhome to stunning lake views.
Did we mention there is an entire museum dedicated to the pencil? That’s right! Head along to the Derwent Pencil Museum and learn about the first pencil ever made (right there in Keswick) as well some history of this common tool. If you’ve got kids, a visit to the Lakeland Maze Farm Park is in order with plenty of family-fun activities for everyone to take part in.
Gastronomical Delights
You may be surprised to learn that Lakes District is home to four Michelin starred restaurants and it’s widely known that this region is one of the best places to indulge in the UK. Visit the ancient Cumbrian village of Cartmel which is the original home of sticky toffee pudding. There is plenty to see and do in this vibrant little town, so definitely add it your list. Don’t leave without finding yourself one of the area's famous delicacies, the Cumbrian Sausage.
Beer lovers can refresh their senses at the famous Hawkshead Brewery in Stavely. You can sample a range of delicious beer straight from the tap. Ask the staff about the CAMRA trail which weaves between all the local breweries.
A trip to England simply isn’t complete without a visit to the Lakes District. If you’re truly wanting an off the grid experience then a motorhome tour around this stunning National Park is exactly what you need.
Book a campervan rental and experience the beauty for yourself.
Written By: Charlotte Lightbody
Exploring by motorhome is my favourite way to immerse myself in a different place/culture. My favourite so far? The Southern States of the USA - epic food, amazing people and the most beautiful scenery. I could go on about that trip forever!
Exploring by motorhome is my favourite way to immerse myself in a different place/culture. My favourite so far? The Southern States of the USA - epic food, amazing people and the most beautiful scenery. I could go on about that trip forever!