There are a wide range of activities and things to do in the Lake District, and with more than 3,100 kilometres of rights of way, you can walk and cycle around our countryside to your heart’s content. In the winter you can even learn winter skills with our very own Fell Top Assessors on Helvellyn. As well as enjoying your time on land, you can also get on the water of the lakes and coastline. Explore via the links below.
Things to know before you go, tips to plan a great trip and help us look after the landscape you love.
Visit our Walking section for information on:
How to access and explore safely, from hiring boats, kayaks, canoes and paddleboards, to renewing boat permits, lake byelaw information and fishing permits, or taking a cruise or a swim. You'll also find water safety advice and a lake activities guide with maps for larger lakes showing towns, boat hire and boat trip locations.
Boat hire and boat trips
Bike hire, mountain bike hire, family-friendly cycle routes and taking bikes on buses and boats. The Lake District National Park has set up and built partnerships to open a range of new bike hire locations. Available to hire are mountain bikes and on-and-off road electric bikes in different sizes. Hire a bike for a half, full or multiple days. With route suggestions along quieter tracks and off-road routes to enjoy spectacular views!
Cycling in the Lake District
The Lake District is one of the darkest places in the UK. So after the sun sets, head for a seculded valley or remote fell top, and take in the starry skies above you. For our best places for Lake District star gazing and top tips to enjoy dark skies visit our dark skies and star gazing page.
Dark skies and stargazing
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An opportunity to spend a day on Helvellyn with a Lake District National Park Authority Fell Top Assessor as they climb to the summit of the mountain to take snow and weather readings for Lake District Weatherline Service!
Book a winter skills course
Brockhole on Windermere, is the perfect place for all the family. On the shores of Windermere lake, you can hire a boat, brave the cave, have a go at archery and laser clay. With historical gardens, and a cafe and shop in the arts and crafts building, and events throughout the year, its a full day out.
Dicover Brockhole on Windermere
Enjoy delightful lunches, classic afternoon teas and seasonal sunset dining set in the very heart of the Lake District, at the beautiful 19th century Brockhole on Windermere!
Dine in style at The GaddumOur friendly knowledgeable Information Centre staff are happy to help you make the most of your stay and can help guide you through attractions in the Lake District. Our information Centres include Keswick, Bowness and Ullswater.
Services include:
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