Escape the January Blues – Visit the Lake District

Now the festive period is over and we enter a new year, you might be ready to escape to the Lake District for a much needed break. After all, we all need something to look forward to in January. 

We’ve compiled a list of things to do to help you plan your perfect winter getaway. 

Activities 

There’s just so much to do in the Lake District! Plenty of activities to choose from, we thought we’d offer a range, depending on what you want to see. 

  • Windermere Lake Cruises 
  • Dove Cottage (Grasmere) 
  • Sizergh Castle (Kendal)
  • Mountain Goat Tour (Explore the best of the Lake District) 
  • Brockhole (Windermere) 

Winter Walks    

So many walks to choose from in the Lake District, but these are a few of our favourites. Great for couples, families, or just on your own. A great way to get some fresh air and see some incredible views! (Always dress appropriate and check the weather before you go on walks in the Lake District)      

  • Orrest Head 
  • Cat Bells 
  • Buttermere Circular Walk 
  • Coniston Old Man 

Cosy Pubs 

We love a good pub at the end of any walk or even just to hide in when the weather turns. These pubs offer either a roaring fire, great local ales and a suburb atmosphere that you can while away the afternoon. 

  • The Tower Bank Arms (Near Sawrey) 
  • The Flying Pig (Bowness-on Windermere)
  • The Queens Head (Hawkshead) 
  • The Crafty Baa (Windermere) 

Spa Days

The perfect way to unwind and relax after a busy festive period, what a great way to spend the day than relaxing in a hot tub enjoying incredible views with a glass of bubbly! 

  • Low wood Bay (Windermere) 
  • The Swan (Newby Bridge)
  • The Lakes Hotel (Bowness)
  • The Lodore Falls Hotel and Spa (Keswick) 

Afternoon Tea 

Such a treat, when the weather is bad outside it only makes sense to indulge indoors on cakes and scones! Have a look at the selection below, something for every budget and each unique. 

  • The Wild Boar (Crook, Kendal) 
  • Langdale Chase (Ambleside) 
  • The Belsfield (Windermere) 
  • The Fizzy Tart (Windermere) 

Escape the crowds 

The Lake District can be very popular and no matter the season it attracts plenty of visitors. These are some ideal places where you can go off and wonder that are perhaps slightly quieter than the likes of Bowness and Ambleside. Plus the views are sensational. 

  • Wastwater 
  • Ennerdale 
  • Buttermere 
  • Ullswater 

Cosy Cafes

Perfect for a catch up with friends or some quality alone time with a book and a good coffee, these cosy local cafes come highly recommended! 

  • Bakehouse Born and Bread (Greenodd, Ulverston) 
  • Homeground (Windermere) 
  • Esthwaite Fishery (Hawkshead) 
  • Toast (Windermere) 
  • BlueBird Cafe (Coniston) 

Lake District Specialities 

The Lakes aren’t just known for the landscapes but also the scrumptious local food and drink! There are plenty of places that sell them but these are some of our favourite local treats. 

  • Grasmere Gingerbread (Grasmere & Hawkshead) 
  • Sticky Toffee Pudding (Cartmel) 
  • Hawkshead Relish 
  • The local ales including Loweswater Gold and Swan Blonde 
  • Lakes Gin (especially the Elderflower or the Rhubarb and Rosehip)