Only a short drive from Hawthorns, you’ll find the incredible beauty of the Lake District National Park. From windswept lakes to stunning scenery surrounded by rolling hills, you’ll be able to explore the UK’s first national park to win world heritage status.
Other sites that hold the Unesco accolade are the Taj Mahal, Grand Canyon and Giant’s Causeway, so prepare to be faced with some truly breath-taking scenery.
The area is home to some wonderful hidden gems, as well as interesting history – here are our top 10 Lake District National Park secrets.
1. The biggest and the best.
This national park has both England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike, as well as the largest natural lake, Windemere.
2. A step back in time.
An area steeped in history, the Lake District National Park is rumoured to be the site of King Arthur’s Round Table. You can also take the time to explore a Neolithic earthwork henge that’s said to be his jousting arena – so you could find yourself walking in the footsteps of the greats!
3. “Let nature be your teacher”.
With such an abundance of picturesque landscape, it’s not hard to see why it was inspiration for great poets such as William Wordsworth, John Ruskin and Samuel Coleridge – Wordsworth even published his very own “Guide to the Lakes”!
4. Ideal for a Potter.
Nestled between the rolling fields you’ll find the carefully preserved Hill Top farmhouse, home to Beatrix Potter. What’s more, if you’re looking for a family day out, the World of Beatrix Potter in Bowness-on-Windermere boasts an exhibition, quaint garden and treats at the tea room.
5. Coastal calm.
A paradise for those that love water-based birdlife, you’ll be able to enjoy over 26 miles of coastlines and estuaries – peek into the crags and crannies to spot a myriad of wildlife.
6. Sample the local delicacies.
Visit Kendal, the home of the famous mint cake. Said to have helped Edmund Hillary to the summit of Everest, it’ll be sure to help you refuel so you can get back outside and explore the area.
7. A different view.
Operating over 150 years, the Ullswater Steamers offer eight-mile cruises through some of the area’s most impressive mountains – so you’ll get the chance to see the national park from a different point of view.
8. Monumental things to see.
With over 14560 monuments and sites of archaeological interest, there’s much to explore. Cast your imagination over times gone by as you navigate through homes from the Bronze Age, rock carvings over 6,000 years old and the ruins of an Abbey built at the start of the 13th century.
9. Do like the Romans do.
History buffs will be delighted by Hardknott Fort the best preserved Roman fort in the UK. This 3-acre site has a rich heritage and has seen years of military service as well as being used a shelter for passing travellers.
10. A visit to the falls.
Take in the natural beauty of the area with a trip to Aira Force. This beautiful waterfall is situated near a stone footbridge and sits within landscaped surroundings filled with over half a million trees including pines, firs, cedars and even a 118-foot-high Sitka Spruce.
So, next time you’re in the Lake District National Park be sure to explore as much as you can – it’s the ideal adventure for all.
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