Top 10 Things to Do in Lake District
The Lake District is renowned for its stunning landscapes, tranquil lakes and charming towns. Whether you’re into watersports, hiking and walking, or attending local events and festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Here is our list for top 10 things to do in the Lake District near Bassenthwaite and Keswick.
Top 10 Things to Do in Lake District
1. Lakes Distillery
Situated close to Bassenthwaite Lake, the Lakes Distillery produces a range of spirits including whisky, gin, and vodka. A tour of the distillery offers insights into the production process and a chance to sample their products. Highlights include Distillery tours, tastings, the Bistro at the Distillery and alpaca walks.
4 Minutes from Hotel
2. Orient Express Afternoon Tea
The Orient Express Afternoon Tea at Bassenthwaite Lake Station and Carriage Café offers a unique opportunity to enjoy a selection of delicious food in the most elegant of surroundings. Situated on what was once the Cockermouth, Keswick and Penrith railway line, Bassenthwaite Lake Station offers a unique place to soak up the atmosphere of 1930s elegance.
6 Minutes from Hotel
3. Osprey Watching at Dodd Wood
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. Park at the Mirehouse/Dodd Wood carpark and from there it is a short walk (up a fairly steep climb) to the viewing position, which is open at all times. Between 10am and 5pm project staff will be present with telescopes available for public use.
6 Minutes from Hotel
4. Forest Bathing
Forest bathing, or "Shinrin-yoku," is a therapeutic practice that originated in Japan, involving immersing oneself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest. The Lake District, with its ancient woodlands and tranquil natural settings, provides the perfect backdrop for this rejuvenating activity.
Dodd Wood 7 Minutes from Hotel
Whinlatter Forest 18 Minutes from Hotel
5. Lake District Wildlife Park
Located near Bassenthwaite, this wildlife park is home to a variety of animals from around the world. A wide open parkland with stunning views and chance to meet over 100 species from Anaconda to Zebra, Mandrills and Meerkats to endangered species like Gibbons and Asian Fishing Cats. There are fantastic Bird of Prey Flying displays, excellent Keeper Talks and Reptile Encounters plus play areas.
3 Minutes from Hotel
6. Threlkeld Quarry and Mining Museum
Threlkeld Quarry and Mining Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the Lake District’s rich industrial heritage. This unique attraction is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, families or anyone interested in the mining and quarrying history of the region. Take a ride on the museum’s narrow gauge railway, which runs through the quarry site. The steam train journey offers a unique perspective of the quarry and its operations.
20 Minutes from Hotel
7. Lakeland Motor Museum
Explore a fascinating collection of classic cars, motorcycles, bicycles and automobilia and learn more about the history of road transport throughout the 20th century. This award-winning museum is set within a stunning riverside location and houses unique displays that will appeal to the whole family. Refresh your memory of iconic, unique or unusual vehicles from your childhood and get up close to some rare examples from yesteryear.
1 Hour & 13 Minutes from Hotel
8. Explore Cockermouth
Cockermouth, located on the edge of the Lake District, is a picturesque Georgian town rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're enjoying a peaceful river walk, shopping in the town center, exploring Georgian architecture, visiting Wordsworth House, or experiencing the vibrant arts scene at Kirkgate, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this charming Lake District town.
15 Minutes from Hotel
9. Honister Slate Mine
The slate mine tours at Honister Slate Mine offer an exciting experience suitable for all ages come rain or shine. Set in a picturesque part of the Lake District at the top of Honister Pass, visitors can adventure deep into the belly of Fleetwith Pike and explore the mine with a guided tour through underground tunnels and caverns. After the tour, visitors can visit the slate gift shop, which is filled with beautiful and unique items made from the slate that was mined there.
37 Minutes from Hotel
10. Castlerigg Stone Circle
Castlerigg is perhaps the most atmospheric and dramatically sited of all British stone circles, with panoramic views and the mountains of Helvellyn and High Seat as a backdrop. It is among the earliest British circles, raised in about 3000BC during the Neolithic period. On select dates during the summer, weather dependant, volunteers will be on site to give short talks to visitors and answer questions visitors may have about the site.
18 Minutes from Hotel
*Copyright – Images used with permission from Cumbria Tourism*