Things to do in the Lake District for Families
Made up of 16 lakes, the Lake District is one of the most beautiful regions in England. Offering rolling hills and quaint picturesque villages, it’s no surprise that it is so popular for visitors. With so many choices, it can be hard to choose things to do in the Lake District for families.
A popular area of the Lake District is Lake Windermere, it is the largest natural lake in England and offers many activities that are perfect for families. So here is our take on the best things to do in the Lake District, pack your walking boots and get ready to explore!
1. Brockhole on Windermere
Embrace creativity at Brockhole House and Gardens with all the family. From Workshops to Treetops, there is so much to do it really is one of the best things to do in the Lake District for families. Explore the historic gardens that were designed by renowned Arts and Crafts garden designer, Thomas Dawson - Give Archery a shot or take an amble through woodlands to find the ‘Faerie’, be sure to keep an eye out for their hidden homes and secret doors!
If you would like to get out on the lake, head down to the shore to Paddleboard or have a go at Rowing Boats and Motorboats, experience the best views of Windermere from the water. This is fun for all the family and a great opportunity to get away from technology and embrace the refreshing air of the Lake District.
Entry to Brockhole House and Gardens is free but there are admissions for some of the classes, trails and activities.
Hire costs start from £20 an hour and children under 14 must be supervised.
2. The World of Beatrix Potter
If you prefer to stay on land, then a visit to The World of Beatrix Potter is a must do when it comes to things to do in the Lake District for families! Great for all ages, you will get the opportunity to meet Peter Rabbit at one of his Tea Parties or see what Mr McGregor has been planting in the garden. You can also sit back and relax in the Café whilst your children immerse themselves in the stories of Peter Rabbit, Mrs Tiggy-Winkle and all of their friends.
Tickets £20 per child and £25 per adult.
If you’re intrigued to find out more about Beatrix Potter’s fascinating life, visit her home at Hill Top. You will get to see her beautiful paintings and her famous garden. Discover her belongings and the touches of luxury, who knows, you may leave feeling inspired to get creative!
3. Claife Viewing Station
If you want to explore some history around Windermere, the Claife Viewing Station is the perfect thing to do in the Lake District for families. Recently restored by the National Trust, the Claife viewing station was originally used as a location for wealthy visitors to host parties and dances. Now, you can see the stain glass windows that represent the seasons.
Take a ferry across to the west side of Windermere from Bowness Nab and enjoy a short walk to the Claife Viewing Station. Pack a picnic or enjoy lunch in Joey’s Café.
4. Ash Landing and Claife Heights Walk
If you are up for something a little more challenging, The Ash Landing and Claife Heights walk will certainly give you a chance blow the dust off your walking boots.
Extend your trip from the Claife Viewing Station by taking a walk on the West Coast of Windermere Lake towards Hawkshead. Along the way there are breath taking views at Low Blind How viewing point of Windermere Lake, Belle Isle and the Troutbeck Falls. If you want to experience some history, take a pit stop at Wray Castle where you can enjoy lunch in the Café.
The walk will take you approximately 4-5 hours and is 7.5 miles. Be sure to prepare by bringing some snacks, water and suitable shoes!
5. Take a Walk to Stockghyll Force
Take a walk from the centre of Ambleside and discover Stockghyll Force, a 70-foot waterfall. Stockghyll once powered watermills to produce ground corn, paper and fabrics. If you want to see the history of the industrial times, check out Bridge House in Ambleside, where Stock Ghyll, a tributary of River Rothay passes below. This short walk is perfect if you are looking for things to do in the lake district for families because of the beautiful falls and short distance of 1.3 miles circular. Be sure to pack some proper shoes as it can get quite muddy!
6. Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway
What better way to sit back and relax than on a steam train! With the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, you can board the train at Haverthwaite Station or Lakeside Station, have a bite to eat at the Haverthwaite Station Tea Room, look around the gift shop and then jump on the train and make your through the picturesque countryside of the Leven Valley. Experience the history of the Furness Railway, developed in the 1850’s, you will learn about how the railway played a crucial role in transporting freight during the industrial revolution. This really is a great thing to do in the Lake District for families, your children will have a wonderful time!
After all the exploring you’re going to be doing...
You will need somewhere to get a bite to eat and put your feet up. This is where The Ro comes in. Enjoy the beauty of Windermere from our lakeview hotel, take some time to pause and breathe in the fresh air.. Offering a laid-back lakeside experience, The Ro is the perfect place to stay in the Lake District for families. With Brockhole and Ferry Nab less that 10 minutes away, it is a perfect location for exploring the lake district. We offer breath taking views, beautiful rooms, and delicious food. What better way to start your day than waking up at The Ro.
