A Guide to Outdoor Activities in the Lake District
The Lake District draws visitors all year round, especially the outdoorsy types who love nothing more than lacing up their walking boots and taking to the magnificent green fells for a long hike. And, with so many outdoor activities in the Lake District, it’s no wonder as to why. They say that nature is medicine and, from personal experience I can vouch for the fact that a day or a weekend spent discovering one of the UK’s most loved National Parks will leave your heart full and your zest for life firmly renewed. In this blog, I’m going to help you uncover some of the best outdoor activities in the Lake District, including a run down on what you’ll need to get started. That way, even the least outdoorsy of you can get involved in the great outdoors.
Boat Rentals on Lake Windermere
Drink in Winderemere’s infamous lake from the water. Be the captain of your own ship by renting an electric motor boat from the shores of Lake Windermere. You can book in advance online to secure your 6-person vessel and, as an extra bonus, you can even take your four legged friends on board too! With prices starting from just £34 for a 1 hour rental (or longer if you just can’t get enough), it’s one of the fun and affordable outdoor activities in the Lake District.
You can also rent a traditional rowing boat for up to four people, so that you can cruise the water at your own leisure!
What do I need to know?
- Arrive 15 minutes before your booking for a safety brief
- No boating experience is necessary as you’ll receive full safety instructions and buoyancy aids for everyone on board
- A small security deposit will be taken which will be refunded
Hiking
The Lake District is renowned for its incredible hiking trails and is definitely one of the top outdoor activities in the Lake District you have to try. Not an avid hiker? Don’t fret, there are some shorter and more manageable trails for you to discover whilst you’re in the area which will offer just as many beautiful views and give you the sense of adventure that I’m sure you’re keen to capture on your trip. We have some hiking trail recommendations in another blog which might pique your interest!
What equipment might I need?
Keep in mind, some of these items are weather dependent so when it comes to planning your outdoor activities in the Lake District, you’ll need to use your discretion.
- Walking Boots/Comfortable and Supportive Trainers
- Walking Poles
- Water
- Backpack
- Cool box for snacks/packed lunch
- Suncream.
- Waterproof clothing
- Sun hat
- Sunglasses
- Winter hat
- Map or navigation device
- Plan your route ahead - you can find most of the routes on the Lake District National Park website
- Fuel up with a big breakfast
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Stand up (or, in my case, sit down) paddle boarding is one of the great, family friendly outdoor activities in the Lake District you have to try. Maybe you already have your own board? If so, bring it along and get ready to have a whale of a time discovering one of the many lakes from your SUP. If not, there are plenty of places you can rent paddle boarding equipment from in the Lake District. Whether you’re a beginner and want to try your hand at some lessons, or if you feel ready to get stuck in - all of the guidance and equipment you need will be ready for you. This will include a wetsuit because, let’s face it, the Lake District’s waters may be incredible to look at but gosh, they’ll be cold!
What do I need to know?
- Rent from one of the vendors in Bowness to be just a stone’s throw away from us at The Ro - so you can come back and warm your shackles in the comfort of your room
- Or, book a SUP Tour where you’ll be guided to various spots on your chosen lake
- Everyone falls in from time to time! So, come prepared to get wet - it’s all part of the fun
Wild Swimming
Wild swimming is taking the nation by storm. With cold water therapy being renowned for its plethora of health benefits, many people are taking to the Lake District’s waters to uncover waterfalls, pools and lakes to plunge themselves into the icy cold depths and reap the rewards. Now, don’t worry, you don’t need to go that far - you can take necessary precautions to make the process all the more enjoyable by wearing a trusty wetsuit to keep your body temperatures lower and be able to enjoy a wildlife swim at your leisure. Open water swimming is one of the many fantastic (and free!) outdoor activities in the Lake District for you to enjoy - so come prepared to take the plunge.
What do I need to take?
- Wetsuit/Swimsuit
- Towel(s) and Warm Dry Clothes
- Goggles
- Safety Buoy (if required)
- Swim Cap
Rock Climbing and Abseiling
If you’d prefer to stick to dry land, you can discover more of the Lake District from its magnificent rock faces. Plus, this one is another of the family friendly outdoor activities in the Lake District that both kids and adults alike can get involved in. If you’re brand new to rock climbing, there are plenty of providers who will take you through a fully guided experience and provide all of the safety equipment and information. All you need to do is turn up, follow their instructions and get stuck in!
What equipment do I need?
Bear in mind, a professional company will provide the safety equipment for you. But here are some examples of the things you’ll be using.
- Rock Shoes
- Helmet
- Harness
- Chalk Bag
- Rope
- Belay Device and Karabiner
- Quickdraws
- Cams
- Nuts and Wires
- Slings
Let us help you navigate the Lake District's great outdoors
With so many outdoor activities in the Lake District to enjoy, you’re going to want to rest up and recover after an arduous day of discovery and exploration. That’s where we come in. At The Ro, we’re situated right in the heart of the Lake District in Bowness on Windermere and, with an ethos for letting your stay with us be on your terms, you can make yourself at home. We’ve got rooms for everyone - couples, families, individuals, groups and even pet friendly rooms too, so that the whole family can get together at The Ro.
Whatever outdoor activities in the Lake District take your fancy, we can help you discover a side to the Nation's favourite National Park that you’ve never seen before. So join us, as we help you navigate the great outdoors.