The Lake District National Park conjures images of breathtaking landscapes, shimmering lakes and quaint villages nestled amongst majestic fells. For centuries, this Cumbrian haven has captivated artists, writers and nature lovers. But with so much beauty to explore, where do you begin?
To help you plan the perfect holiday itinerary, let’s explore some of the most beautiful places in the Lake District.
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Enchanting waterfalls
The Lake District is a land of dramatic waterfalls, each with its own unique character. Aira Force, near Ullswater, is a majestic sight with water cascading down a series of rocky steps surrounded by ancient oak, ash, and hazel woodland. The walk to the falls is a delight, with opportunities to spot red squirrels and a variety of birdlife. Don’t forget your camera!
For a touch of mystery, seek out the hidden power of Sourmilk Gill. Located near Grasmere, on the way to Easedale Tarn, this waterfall plunges into a series of natural pools. Perfect for the wild swimmers amongst you! The name's origin remains a local legend, with some attributing it to the white colour of the water caused by the eroded rock, while others believe it harks back to a time when milk was transported across the fells and curdled by the cold.
Other pretty Lake District waterfalls include:
- Skelwith Force, a lovely set of waterfalls surrounded by a forest near Ambleside
- Scale Force, the highest waterfall in the Lake District with a drop of more than 50 metres
- Rydal Falls, a pretty waterfall within Rydal Mount and Gardens boasts a historic wooden viewing house called The Grot.
Tranquil lakes
The jewel in the crown of the Lake District is undoubtedly its glistening lakes. With gems like Ennerdale offering a sense of remoteness and Ullswater giving visitors the opportunity for a peaceful paddle.
Windermere
Windermere, England's largest lake, stretches for over 10 miles and offers opportunities for a variety of activities. Take a leisurely boat trip and admire the beauty of the surrounding countryside, or rent a kayak or canoe and explore the lake at your own pace. Picturesque villages like Bowness-on-Windermere and Ambleside provide excellent bases for exploring this iconic lake.
Ullswater
Ullswater, framed by rolling hills and boasting sensational views of Helvellyn, is one of the Lake District’s prettiest places and is perfect for a peaceful paddle on a SUP or in a canoe. Dotted with islands, Ullswater is a haven for wildlife with sightings of otters, red deer and a variety of birdlife a common occurrence. For a unique perspective, hop on a Ullswater Steamer and experience the lake from the water.
Venturing further will reveal gems like Buttermere, which has one of the best views in Britain. Beloved by many, Buttermere offers a sense of remoteness and is perfect for those seeking some of the prettiest landscapes in the county.
Derwentwater
Derwentwater, on the other hand, delivers a different kind of magic. Just minutes from visitor favourite, Keswick, it offers hikers a family-friendly 10-mile circular walk. The silhouette of ancient Derwent Island, once home to the Radcliffe family, adds a touch of mystery to the landscape. Boat trips to the island unveil its fascinating history and stunning house, now managed by the National Trust.
Other beautiful Lake District lakes include:
- Buttermere, a tranquil lake surrounded by dramatic fells such as Mellbreak and the Rannerdale Knotts where you can see carpets of bluebells during spring.
- Brothers Water, a small lesser-known lake with a wooded shoreline that’s nestled amongst rolling Lakeland fell.
- Rydal Water, where you’ll find Wordsworth Seat which was said to be the poet’s favourite viewpoint in the Lake District.
Awe-inspiring fells
The Lake District is a paradise for walkers and mountain enthusiasts. Scafell Pike, England's highest peak at 978 metres (3,210 feet), offers a challenging yet rewarding climb. The ascent is not for the faint-hearted, but the breathtaking views from the summit encompass not just the Lake District but also Snowdonia, the Yorkshire Dales and even the Isle of Man on a clear day.
For a more challenging climb, try scenic Helvellyn, a mountain rising over 950 metres (3,117 feet). The hike offers stunning views across the national park, taking in Ullswater, Windermere and a tapestry of rolling hills and valleys.
Catbells, one of the Lake District’s most popular peaks for its accessibility and panoramic vistas, is a great option for families or those looking for a more leisurely walk. The well-maintained path overlooks Derwentwater and the surrounding mountains, making it a perfect introduction to the beauty of the Lake District.
Other awe-inspiring fells include:
- The Langdale Pikes, which are made up of four summits in the Great Langdale Valley, are perfect for outdoor adventures such as rock climbing and ghyll scrambling.
- The Old Man of Coniston is one of the most popular fells in the Lake District with breathtaking scenery and stunning views from the top.
- Helm Crag, also known as ‘the Lion and the Lamb’ because of the shapes of the rocks on its summit, is a shorter and sweeter climb with stunning views over Grasmere.
The Lake District’s beautiful towns and villages
There are so many beautiful towns and villages in the Lake District that it’s hard to pick our favourite. Discover lakeside towns, villages that inspired William Wordsworth and some very tasty Lake District treats, in our pick of the prettiest places to visit.
Grasmere
The Lake District boasts a wealth of attractive towns and villages, each with its own unique character. Grasmere, famed for its connection to the romantic poet William Wordsworth, offers a delightful collection of shops, cafés and traditional pubs. Wordsworth's Dove Cottage, a beautifully preserved 17th-century house where he lived with his sister Dorothy and wrote some of his most famous works, is a must-see for any literature enthusiast.
Highlights
- Take a scenic, circular walk around nearby Grasmere Lake. The easy 3-mile route is suitable for little legs with plenty of places to stop for a picnic.
- Visit the Grasmere Gingerbread Shop to stock up on this classic sweet treat which is still faithfully produced to an original recipe from 1854.
- Explore Allan Bank, the former home of William Wordsworth which is perched high on a hillside above Grasmere.
Keswick
Keswick, a bustling market town perched on the shores of Derwentwater, is a great base for exploring the northern Lake District. Wander through its many independent shops and art galleries or visit the Pencil Museum and learn about Keswick's rich history of pencil making. On market days, the bustling stalls offer everything from local crafts and souvenirs to fresh produce and delicious Cumbrian treats.
Highlights
- Visit Mirehouse & Gardens, a beautiful stately home on the outskirts of Keswick.
- Take a trip across Derwentwater on the Keswick Launch to Ashness Gate and walk to Surprise View to look out over the lake.
- Enjoy a show at Theatre by the Lake which boasts a wonderful lakeside setting on the shores of Derwentwater.
Ambleside
For a taste of history head to Ambleside, a picturesque town with cobbled streets and traditional Lakeland houses. We highly recommend a quick stop at the iconic 17th-century Bridge House, a tiny two-room building standing over Stock Ghyll. It was once allegedly home to a family of eight! Stock up on picnic supplies from the local shops and enjoy a relaxing afternoon by the water.
Highlights
- Visit The Armitt Museum in Ambleside where you can learn more about the history and heritage of the area.
- Head to Borrans Park for ball games and a picnic with wonderful views across Windermere.
- Catch a traditional steamer boat for a jaunt across the water from Waterhead Pier. We recommend getting off at Wray Castle to explore this gothic estate.
Hawkshead
Hawkshead, a charming village with a rich literary heritage, is associated with the renowned children's author Beatrix Potter. Visit the Beatrix Potter Gallery at Hill Top, her former farmhouse, and delve into the world of Peter Rabbit and his friends. Take a wander around the cobbled streets of the pretty village which are completely free from cars to find hidden courtyards, whitewashed houses and lots of independent shops and eateries.
Highlights
- Visit the Hawkshead Grammar School Museum where you can learn about the history of school life from 1585 to 1909 with original classroom furniture and artefacts.
- Call in at the National Trust shop in Hawkshead and pick up the key to Hawkshead Courthouse – the only part of the medieval farm belonging to Furness Abbey that still exists today.
- Pick up some delicious jams, chutneys and sauces from the Hawkshead Relish Company, an artisan producer of Lake District preserves based in the village.
More pretty places in the Lake District
The beauty of the Lake District extends far beyond its iconic landmarks. You’ll also find fascinating stone circles that are free to visit, grand stately homes surrounded by gorgeous grounds and steam trains to whisk you through Cumbria’s most mesmerising countryside.
Stone circles
For a dose of history, explore the mystical Castlerigg Stone Circle, a prehistoric monument shrouded in mystery. Dating back to around 3,000BC, this circle of stones is one of the most impressive examples of its kind in England. It’s worth visiting the Cockpit Stone Circle, which is located high above Ullswater or Swinside Stone Circle which is a little-known hidden gem near Broughton-in-Furness.
Heritage railways and steam trains
Don't miss a ride on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, a delightful steam train journey through stunning scenery. Travel from Ravenglass on the west coast and journey deep into the heart of the Lake District, passing through valleys, forests and alongside rivers. You can also travel back in time on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway. The traditional 1950s carriages whistle through the picturesque Leven Valley located at the bottom of Lake Windermere, a lovely way to experience the beauty of the region, especially for families with young children.
Historic castles and stately homes
You’ll find beautiful stately homes and romantic ruins dotted around the Lake District from a variety of historic periods. Blackwell is a wonderful example of an Arts and Craft House located on the shores of Windermere, while Dalemain Mansion mixes Medieval and Tudor architecture surrounded by lovely gardens and sweeping parkland. It’s also well worth paying a visit to Lowther Castle, where you’ll find the sprawling ruins of a grand gothic building that once had a room for every day of the year.
Highlights
- Take in the panoramic views of Helvellyn and High Seat from the dramatic location of Castlerigg Stone Circle, located on a hill high above Keswick.
- Stop at Dalegarth Station on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway and take a scenic walk from here to Stanley Ghyll Force, just 2 miles away.
- Explore the beautifully restored formal gardens at Lowther Castle featuring a rose garden inspired by Sleeping Beauty.
Map of beautiful places in the Lake District
Find the prettiest places in the Lake District, including lakes, waterfalls and fells, with this handy map:
Plan your next Lake District getaway
The Lake District is a place to reconnect with nature, create lasting memories and discover hidden treasures. With a stay in one of Sally's Cottages' holiday rentals, you'll have the perfect base to explore the most beautiful places in the Lake District. Imagine waking up to stunning fell or lake views before setting off on invigorating hikes or exploring characterful towns then returning to your snug cottage for a relaxing evening. Absolute bliss.
Browse our selection of cottages and start planning your escape to the heart of Cumbria today. Let Sally's Cottages help you unlock the magic of the Lake District.