The Lake District is a very popular place in England for family days out. Located in Cumbria, this UNESCO World Heritage site has a range of attractions, quaint towns and exciting opportunities, so there is something for everyone in this natural paradise. With lovely rental accommodations and even family lodges for sale in the Lake District, you can make yourself at home in this vibrant National Park.
Windermere Lake Cruises
Active families who love the outdoors will be thrilled by all the options available in the Lake District. With verdant forests and charming hiking trails, it's the perfect place for families looking to connect with nature. As the name suggests, there are 16 major lakes in the Lake District, so it’s perfect for families that want to get out on the water.
The largest lake in the Lake District is Lake Windermere which attracts thousands of visitors every year with its idyllic ambience. Families can enjoy a scenic boat trip with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakeshore, even stopping at key points around the lake for a more immersive experience. There are also options for Kayaking, Canoeing, and Paddleboarding if you want to explore the lake at your own pace and get on the water.
The World of Beatrix Potter
Another fantastic family activity in the Lake District will take you into the magical World of Beatrix Potter. Located in Bowness-on-Windermere, this attraction brings the beloved characters of Beatrix Potter's stories to life with interactive exhibits and themed gardens. It’s a treat for all the family as the kids can enjoy seeing some of their favourite characters played by costumed actors and parents can enjoy a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
The World of Beatrix Potter is open year-round, making it great for any visit. In the summer, families can enjoy a delightful walk through Peter Rabbit’s Garden which features colourful patches of fruits and vegetables. Likewise, if you visit on a rainy day, there is plenty of indoor entertainment like theatre shows and regular events which will keep the little ones entertained.
Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway
If your kids are train fanatics then be sure to visit the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, one of the oldest and most scenic narrow-gauge railways in England. It was originally used to transport ore in the 1800s but now takes tourists through the picturesque landscapes of the Lake District, from the coastal village of Ravenglass to the foot of England's highest mountains in Eskdale.
The railway is a great family activity in the Lake District that will capture the imagination of both children and adults. The vintage carriages and historic locomotives add charm and historic authenticity to the trip, providing an educational experience alongside impeccable views of the rolling hills and lush woodlands. At Ravenglass Station, there is also a museum which provides more details about the railway with historical exhibits, making the train ride both insightful and exciting.
Honister Slate Mine
One of the more unusual features of the Lake District is Honister Slate Mine. Located at the head of Honister Pass in the Lake District, it is one of the last remaining working slate mines in England making it a unique attraction that is both thrilling and intriguing. It has been in operation since the 1700’s and still produces high-quality slate today but now has the added fun of tours and adventure activities.
One of the best things for families to do in the Lake District is to take a guided tour of the mine. There are shorter tours aimed at young children which take families through the mine tunnels and provide fascinating insights into the history of slate mining. Families can even participate in slate crafting workshops, where children can create their own slate souvenirs and learn about traditional methods of slate splitting through live demonstrations.
Lake District Wildlife
Aside from thrilling activities and bountiful nature, one of the best things about the Lake District is the abundant wildlife. Due to the variety of landscapes in the Lakes, there is a diverse range of native wildlife that families can attempt to spot on their visit. Grizedale Forest is one of the few places in England where you can still find red squirrels and otters are becoming more common in the lakes and rivers of the National Park.
There are even more animals to be seen at Lakes Aquarium and Lake District Wildlife Park, which are ideal places to visit as a family if you want to get up close to some fascinating creatures. Lakes Aquarium can be found on the southern side of Windemere and has exhibits that showcase local freshwater species as well as more exotic marine life. There are even touch tanks where children can enjoy a hands-on learning experience and daily feeding demonstrations which allow families to see these marvellous animals in action.
Similarly, Lake District Wildlife Park is a great place to see some local wildlife as well as some unique species. Set on 24 acres of gorgeous land, families can spot an array of animals from all over the world, making it a great day out for the whole family. The animals at the park are truly diverse, from zebras to lemurs and meerkats to reptiles, you are certain to spot your child’s favourite animal and can even partake in feeding times for a special treat.
Summary
Overall, the Lake District offers an array of activities that cater to families, ensuring memorable and enjoyable experiences for all ages. From the tranquil boat trips on Lake Windermere to the enchanting World of Beatrix Potter, and the historic Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, there really is something for everyone. With its diverse attractions, beautiful landscapes, and ample opportunities for adventure and learning, the Lake District is the perfect destination for family days out.
https://pixabay.com/users/smiling_vivian-5395805/
Ashley Pugh ;
Ashley Pugh is one of the Co-Founders of Familydaysout.com and has been committed to writing family related content since 2008. There isn't much about family attractions that Ashley doesn't know, after visiting hundreds of them worldwide over the last 20 years.
Leave a comment