Best Lake District villages to visit this Summer
As the summer sun appears on the horizon to bathe the tapestry of Lake District villages, hills and fields in a golden glow, it’s time to plan your escape to Cumbria. The popular National Park is a walkers paradise, famous for its stunning vistas, dramatic mountains and quintessentially English villages.
Although renowned for winding trails and scenic splendour, there is more to be found in this idyllic corner of England. Industrial history, railways, castles and literary icons can be found among the rambling countryside. The villages dotted around the 16 lakes each have their own history and story to tell. Here are six of our favourite Lake District villages…
Bowness-on-Windermere
We couldn't help but start with our hometown of Bowness-on-Windermere. Situated on the edge of England’s largest natural lake, Windermere is an unmissable scenic wonder. Marvel from the shores or take the ferry across to Hawkshead to see picturesque Bowness from a distance.
A former Lake District fishing village, Bowness was transformed and expanded with the arrival of the railways and the subsequent rush of Victorian tourists. That Victorian influence remains visible throughout the village, especially in the large residences overlooking the lake, built by wealthy businessmen of the day.
Today, you’ll also find a medley of boutique stores, antique shops, art galleries and coffee shops with idyllic lake views.
Kendal
Famous for a certain mint cake, Kendal has a lot more to offer than a simple sugar hit. The thriving town is the southern gateway to the Lake District, located just eight miles from Windermere. While scenic in itself with grey stone buildings lining up along the River Kent, Kendal retains all the expected modern conveniences.
Aside from the scenic surroundings, Kendal is home to one of the oldest museums in the UK, an intriguing castle waiting to be explored and Sizergh, an impressive medieval house complete with gardens. There are also a number of festivals to join throughout the year.
A music festival, Kendal Calling, Kendal Food Festival and Kendal Mountain Festival are all popular events and highlights in the local annual calendar.
Ambleside
If you’re looking for lake cruises and scenic wanders, head for the aptly named Ambleside. A historic market town with a labyrinth of picturesque cottages and winding roads to get lost in. Meander through the satisfyingly independent shops, traditional pubs and afternoon tea spots. All surrounded by rugged landscapes and wild fells.
Head for the local ferry port to catch a lake cruise. Waterhead Pier and the ferry terminal have been here since the mid-1800s to take passengers to Bowness, Wray Castle and Brockhole Visitors Centre.
If you’d prefer a walk, head for Stock Ghyll Force, an impressive 70ft waterfall, or Stagshaw Gardens to wander through a colourful collection of rhododendrons and azaleas.
Keswick
On the shores of the serene Derwentwater Lake, with one of England’s highest mountains towering above, Keswick boasts a uniquely beautiful location. Hire a rowboat or book a steamer cruise to explore this scenic lake. In the town itself, there is a longstanding literary and arts scene to immerse yourself in, discover local art, pottery and craft in a motley mix of independent shops.
A Lake District village known for its proximity to the fells, Keswick has several popular fell walks on the doorstep. From the beginners route, Latrigg, to conquering the heights of Skiddaw, there’s something for everyone.
On the other hand, if the rain is pouring, hunt down the Pencil Museum to find the world’s largest colouring pencil, Puzzling Place for mind-blowing optical illusions or the 19th century St John’s church.
Grasmere
English Romantic poet William Wordsworth once described Grasmere as “the loveliest spot that man hath ever found.” He loved the area so much that he lived in four different houses in the village and the surrounding area.
One of these, Dove Cottage, has been beautifully preserved and is now part of the Wordsworth Museum - a must-do for poetry fans.
This lovely Lake District village is a patchwork of quintessentially English cottages with stunning walking trails all around. Stroll along the shores of Grasmere Lake, explore Rydal Caves and Helm Crag or take a longer route over to Elterwater. Oh, and don’t forget to try the legendary Grasmere Gingerbread before you go.
Hawkshead
From one literary giant to another, beloved children’s author Beatrix Potter once lived in this beautiful Lake District village. Her 17th century farmhouse is beautifully preserved and there is an exhibition of original artwork in the Beatrix Potter Gallery. Just one of the delights to be discovered in Hawkshead among the winding cobbled streets.
Many people head to Hawkshead for the car-free town centre that gives you a sense of Lake District villages of times gone by. The jumble of houses, historic squares and courtyards holds plenty to explore, including some exceptional pubs and cafes to enjoy. And just outside the village, there is an abundance of walking and adventure trails to explore including the family-friendly Grizedale Forest Park.
Relax at The Ro
The perfect location to explore the best Lake District villages, guests at The Ro Hotel can make the most of their summer getaway. It’s the perfect place to press pause and breathe in the fresh air. Immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of the sublime English countryside.
A luxury hotel that is open to all. Here, you’ll find a laid-back lakeside experience full of lazy mornings and jam-packed days. Enjoy the best of the Lake District from the comfort of The Ro Hotel.