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An Insider’s Guide to the Lake District

In England’s north-west corner lies the untouched county of Cumbria and the Lake District National Park, arguably one of the most popular leisure destination in England. Home to 16 lakes and many smaller tarns as well as the picturesque towns of Ambleside, Windermere and Keswick. For the rambler, hiker or more serious mountaineer there are over 150 high peaks, four of which tower more than 3,000 feet and are officially England’s only mountains. This includes England’s highest, Scafell Pike at 3,206 feet. Check out our exclusive insider’s guide for everything you need to know about traveling to Cumbria and the Lake District the perfect leisure destination for outdoor adventures and a luxury lifestyle.

 

Each year, approx. 15 million tourists arrive to explore the fells and countryside. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2017, and ever since the poets arrived in the 19th century, the shimmering lakes and hushed mountains have offered tourists and locals a picturesque postcard panorama.

With an abundance of adventure on hand to challenge the imagination, from exhilarating mountain summits to open water swimming and ample paths on which to ramble. The region has a deep culture and heritage expressed in traditional games and a rich calendar of performance arts. Cuisine plays a large role too, with gastro pubs and fine dining eateries offering up some of the best of British produce created by talented chefs from around the country and the world.

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When to Travel

Considered the wettest region of England, when visiting the Lake District its best to pack for every eventuality no matter what time of year you visit. May, considered to be the driest month of the year can see daytime showers and fogs envelop the mountain views at any given time, making it essential to properly prepare when walking. It is hard to complain given the high rainfall is the cause of the lakes and landscapes which poets and tourists alike have written about for eons now.

A visit in spring brings with it fluffy lambs and hints of yellow fields and footpaths and Wordsworth’s daffodils flower in all their glory. If you prefer a visit later in the year , then autumn with its longer days offers the chance to admire the magnificent changing foliage. A personal preference is the winter months where you can discover snow-covered fells, fewer tourists and sense of complete stillness and calm. Summer brings the families in droves as they seek out activities both on the lakes and in the fields. It also offers the the cream of Lakeland festivals.

Our advice would be no matter what time of year check in advance and avoid what are considered to be the most popular locations in peak summer season, that and always bring and umbrella and your raincoat.

Where to Stay

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The Gilpin, offers the ultimate boutique hotel experience with 25 bedrooms that all enjoy lovely Lakeland views. If a hot tub holiday is a must have for your next sojourn then look no further. Alternatively, if a spa retreat is in order then the detached Spa Lodges, each with their own ensuite spa (rainmaker showers and steam rooms inside, hydrotherapy hot tubs and saunas outside) provide for a very special, private spa experience. At the heart of Gilpin is an exceptionally passionate family and team, dedicated to creating lasting memories for their guests.

 

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Applegarth Villa – Offering perhaps the perfect location, Applegarth Villa is a rare find and the ideal place from which to spend the day exploring and then end the evening after enjoying all the Lake District has to offer. Enjoy beautiful Lakeland views mere moments away from the hustle and bustle of Windermere’s shops, lively bars and restaurants. Applegarth Villa is a five-star, adult only, small luxury hotel with serious style.
The Daffodil Hotel & Spa, found by the shores of Grasmere at the heart of the Lake District is rich in history and offers guests and visitors the opportunity to create their own memories. By combining modern architecture, stylish design and facilities with the peace and tranquilly of its surrounds The Daffodil Hotel & Spa offers exceptional service and the ability to truly relax and unwind.

 

 

Where to Dine & Drink

Over the last two decades dining out in the Lake District has changed dramatically. Options rival those of London and New York or any major international gourmet destination for that matter. Pubs range from gastro to traditional and four restaurants now boast Michelin stars. Couple these with all the exciting bistros, selection of tapas bars, vegetarian cafés and you are guaranteed to eat a different meal and cuisine for the duration of your stay.

L’Enclume – Holding two Michelin stars and providing rich ever changing seasonal menus created by Chef and owner Simon Rogan L’Enclume is at the forefront of showcasing foraging and local sourcing. L’Enclume also holds five AA Rosettes and was named the number one restaurant in the UK by The Good Food Guide 2020.
The Masons Arms – Perfectly at ease both in winter or at the peak of summer, cosy up on mis-matched chairs in one of the fire-warmed snugs beneath low beams and picture-crammed walls. Hale and hearty fare that is packed with flavour, The Masons Arms offers a rich English pub experience.
Drunken Duck Inn – Quite possibly the Lake District’s first gastropub, this is where you’ll find food that is thoughtful and complex but never pretentious. With its contemporary style, relaxed ambience the Drunken Duck Inn is the perfect place to while away an afternoon eating scrumptious food.
Punch Bowl Inn With the entire ground floor a series of little dining areas it is clear to see that the Punch Bowl has built its reputation on good quality food, making this a foodie rather than a drinkers’ pub. Serving fresh, locally sourced classic British and French flaours  presented in a traditional yet exciting way, the Punch Bowl Inn is a must visit.

 

 

What Not to Miss

The largest of England’s National Parks, The Lake District, offers a broad range of activities such as boating, rambling, hikes and more from Windermere and Ambleside to ways to explore the wider countryside.

We’ve listed a few of the most popular attractions available in the Lake District, from climbing the Via Ferrata at Honister Slate Mine  to sailing the lakes, (check out the boat hire options at Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa)  we can help plan your own perfect adventure and find something that suits you.

 

Boasting England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike and England’s deepest lake, Wastwater –  ‘The Lakes’ enjoy what could easily be some of the United Kingdom’s most beautiful countryside. It has inspired artists from Turner to Ruskin as well as literary greats and beloved authors, from Wordsworth to Beatrix Potter. Taking full advantage of the many lakes is one of the best ways to pass the time. Sail with one of the Windermere Lake Cruises, or for a more adventurous experience go kayaking or canoeing on Windermere.
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For a tailored experience that showcases the best Cumbria and the Lake District has to offer, plan your upcoming trip with @luxurylondonguy today. With over 20 years of experience in the luxury hospitality industry, we offer insights and itineraries that take the stress out of travel, allowing you more time to decompress and discover new sites while you’re on the road.