Spending your half term in the Lake District? We have some ideas for you to keep the whole family entertained.
THE WORLD OF BEATRIX POTTER
Discover the characters created by the world-famous author, this charming attraction in Bowness is ideal for all ages. Walk through the world of Beatrix Potter and see the likes of Mrs Tiggy-Winkle and Peter Rabbit. We can guarantee adults and children will love it!
BROCKHOLE ON WINDERMERE
Brockhole offers an abundance of activities no matter what the weather is doing! There is something for all ages and is certainly worth a visit. This Half Term their Halloween experience is full of fun that will keep the kids entertained all day. From boat hire to archery there is plenty to keep the whole family entertained.
LAKELAND MOTOR MUSEUM
https://www.lakelandmotormuseum.co.uk
This incredible museum is home to 30,000 exhibits and 140 classic cars! It’s the perfect place for car lovers and history enthusiasts. With a cafe and shop as well it’s easy to spend most of the day here!
WINDERMERE LAKE CRUSIES
https://www.windermere-lakecruises.co.uk
See the beauty of the lakes by boat, sit back and relax and simply enjoy the views. There are different length cruises available. Hop on and off to explore Bowness, Lakeside, or Ambleside. A great way to see the beauty scenery that surrounds Windermere.
THE LAKESIDE AND HAVERWAITE RAILYWAY
https://www.lakesiderailway.co.uk/
Take a ride on a steam train, explore the engine shed, stop for a cuppa or even lunch at the wonderful station cafe and blow of some steam at the play park.
HONISTER
Perfect for the adventurous type! There are plenty of activities here at Honister for all ages, families, couples, or a mate’s weekend away. Have a look at the website and we recommend booking beforehand! Not just an activity centre, Honister is the country’s last working slate mine! You can see the products being made and even buy something yourself.
CLAIFE VIEWING STATION AND WRAY CASTLE
Take the dogs and go for walk up to the Claife Viewing Station, there gaze out at the dramatic views across Windermere. From here you can walk along the Lake to Wray Castle, it’s car free and perfectly safe for dogs. Once at Wray, pop into Joeys Cafe for a bite to eat or at least try the cakes! They’re too good to resist!!
GET OUT AND ABOUT
WINDERMERE
Windermere is a small Lakeland town in the heart of the Lake District, filled with plenty of food options, it’s a great location to explore a lot of the area.
If you get time, go to Windermere Library, here is a permanent exhibition Auschwitz to Ambleside, it’s free to enter and is fascinating to learn the history of the children brought to Windermere after the horrors of Auschwitz during World War Two.
Get up Orrest Head for a walk, you can look out over the town and see the beautiful Lake, it’s a great walk and accessible for those with a mobility scooter!
Plenty of places to grab food, from Breakfast to Dinner Windermere has a great mixture of restaurants, bars, tea rooms and cafes. You’ll have plenty to choose from.
The Brew Room, Homeground, The Windermere Speakeasy, The Little Chippy, Tapios, The Little Ice Cream Shop, The Crafty Baa, just to name a few!
So, if you’re staying in Windermere, don’t worry, you won’t starve!
CONISTON
Explore the village of Coniston with plenty of local shops and places to eat! You have the Bluebird Cafe right by the lake as well as pubs and cafes in the centre of the village.
Feeling like a challenge? Why not climb Old Man of Coniston!
For those who prefer to be on lower ground, head towards the Lake, have a ride of the Steam Yacht Gondola. Or even take a walk along the lake towards Torver.
The Ruskin Museum in the centre of the village is well worth a visit. Learn the history of Coniston and of course about Donald Campbell and Bluebird!
TARN HOWS
This is a perfect place for all abilities to walk! Take the dogs. It’s set in the most beautiful landscape, it’s the perfect place to stretch your legs, suitable for push chairs and mobility scooters. You can also book the use of a free Tramper which makes it that little bit more accessible.
GRASMERE
This charming Lake Land village of Grasmere which inspired William Wordsworth and is the home to the world-famous Gingerbread! The village is filled with local businesses, book shops, cafes! Theres plenty to explore. You must visit Sarah Nelson’s Grasmere Gingerbread Shop. Whilst in Grasmere, pop to Dove Cottage the quaint home of William Wordsworth, it’s like stepping back in time as you discover more on the famous poet and his love of the Lake District!
Leave the car in Ambleside and walk over to Grasmere! the walk is just under 4 miles and if you decide you’re too full of gingerbread you can always hop on the bus back to Ambleside.
KESWICK
The town of Keswick is a vibrant place to visit. Shops, pubs, restaurants, walks, and plenty of outdoor activities. Take a walk up to Castlerigg Stone Circle or a gentle stroll by Derwent Water. There is plenty to do for all ages. Also, if you have time visit the Pencil Museum, Do It!
Looking for a decent walk? Try Catbells from Keswick, with stunning views and it’s not too difficult it’ll be ideal for little legs.
