Lake District with Kids
Looking for exciting adventures with the kids near Lake Bassenthwaite? The Lake District is jam-packed with amazing adventures for tots to teenagers. Fuel up with a delicious breakfast at the 4 star Lake District Castle Inn Hotel before your day out. Have a fantastic time exploring the Lake District with your family!
There’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained during your stay at Lake District Castle Inn Hotel. Our spacious family rooms are designed with comfort in mind, offering plenty of space to unwind, Smart TVs so little ones can log into their favourite streaming accounts and a thoughtful welcome with hot chocolate and cookies just for the kids.
When it’s time to burn off some energy, head to our indoor heated swimming pool, perfect for splashing around no matter the weather. Outside, children can enjoy a round of friendly competition on the putting green or practice their skills on the tennis court. The hotel’s expansive gardens offer a safe, open space where imaginations can run free and families can stroll, play and relax together.
Whether you’re spending quality time by the pool, exploring the grounds, or enjoying cosy evenings with a family movie, every moment at Lake District Castle Inn Hotel is made for creating lasting family memories.
Here are some fantastic adventures to keep everyone entertained:
Animal Encounters
The Lake District Wildlife Park
3 Minute Drive
Over 100 species of exotic animals live at this 25-acre park, which participates in six endangered species programmes. There are park keeper talks throughout the day, and an on-site cafe and an indoor soft-play and outdoor adventure playground.
Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4RD
Alpacaly Ever After
4 Minute Drive
Meet alpacas, walk with alpacas or go llama trekking. Award winning social enterprise offering unique experiences at four locations on and around the shore of Derwentwater and Bassenthwaithe Lake, with alpaca and llamas which have been rehomed from all over the country.
Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5TZ
Bird Watching – Ospreys in Dood Wood
6 Minute Drive
Osprey watching at Dodd Wood in the Lake District offers a unique opportunity to observe these majestic fish eating birds of prey in their natural habitat. From March to September, the Bassenthwaite Ospreys can be seen fishing and nesting. Bring binoculars for the best viewing experience and enjoy the stunning scenery while you watch these incredible birds.
Keswick, CA12 4QE
Lakes Aquarium
1 Hour Drive
While not directly next to Bassenthwaite, this award-winning aquarium is a great option for a rainy day or a side trip. Explore the wonders of the underwater world with their vast collection of freshwater fish. There is a café and shop on site and entry for children under three is free.
Lakeside, Cumbria, LA12 8AS
Outdoor Adventures
Playground at Mirehouse & Gardens
7 Minute Drive
Keep it simple with a trip to the playground that you know your kids will love. Head to Mirehouse & Gardens, a beautiful manor house with a fantastic adventure playground on its grounds. It's a short drive from Bassenthwaite. Explore the grounds and let your teenagers (aged 12 -16) tackled Forest Hazard Course which is a mini assault course. Open April to October.
Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4QE
Keswick Climbing Wall
18 Minute Drive
Keswick Climbing Wall and Outdoor Activity Centre is located in one of the most scenic spots of the Lake District National Park. A mere 5-minute drive from the centre of Keswick, this climbing wall is situated near the historic Castlerigg Stone Circle, offering unmatched views of the Helvellyn Range.
Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4RN
Cyclewise Whinlatter
17 Minute Drive
Unleash your inner adventurer at Whinlatter Forest, Keswick. Cyclewise Whinlatter offers a thrilling range of unforgettable mountain bike experiences. Hit the trails on top-quality mountain bikes and e-bikes. Take advance of their family-friendly skills training, guided rides, mountain bike coaching sessions, bike maintenance courses and lots more.
Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4RD
Go Ape Whinlatter Forest
17 Minute Drive
Welcome to England's only true mountain forest. Whinlatter Forest boasts dramatic views and unique landscapes, both of which can be soaked up on all-terrain Forest Segways. For high rope activities, there is the classic Treetop Adventure, designed for kids. Or for the intrepid explorer, Treetop Adventure Plus, for those who are after something a little trickier.
Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5TW
Go Ape Grizedale
1 Hour Drive
Grizedale Forest cranks up the excitement with five heart-pounding adventures! Thrill-seekers will love the Treetop Challenge and Zip Trekking Adventure, while families with older kids can enjoy the Treetop Adventure Plus. Young adventurers will have a blast on the Treetop Adventure. You'll bond and create lasting memories together.
Hawkshead, Cumbria, LA22 0QJ
Mobile Adventure
10 Minute Drive
Mobile Adventure, a small, friendly company based in Keswick, offers outdoor activities on a budget for all ages and abilities. From scaling cliffs to paddling on tranquil lakes, they have something for everyone. Explore hidden waterfalls with Ghyll Scrambling, conquer the UK's original Via Ferrata or simply enjoy a scenic canoe trip. Experienced guides will ensure everyone has a safe experience in the heart of the Lake District.
Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 0QE
Rainy Days Out
Derwent Pencil Museum
14 Minute Drive
Located in Keswick, the home of the first pencil, visitors enter this museum through a replica graphite mine which would have served as the source of the pencil industry over three centuries ago. A journey of graphite and pencil discovery from its humble beginnings as a cottage industry to modern day production.
Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5NG
The Puzzling Place
14 Minute Drive
Challenge your mind and have a laugh at this mind-bending illusion exhibit. The Puzzling Place World of Illusion is home to an Anti-gravity Room, Ames Room, Hologram Gallery and Eyelusions Exhibition. It’s a fascinating, fun and social excursion that will leave you quite literally, not believing your eyes! This family activity appeals to all ages.
Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5DZ
*Copyright – Images used with permission from Cumbria Tourism*