Ah, the Lakes. Offering beautiful views and many great things to do, the Lake District National Park is an iconic base for the thousands of visitors each year. A mini-break in the Lakes can be a great destination for your stay-cation whether you’re adventuring or relaxing. Below we have created a ‘three days in the Lake District’ itinerary so you can jam-pack your days full of fun.
Day one
Morning:
Wet weather option:The Quaker Tapestry is a collection of detailed embroidered panels which reveal the history of Quakerism and its impact on the modern world. The panels are on show at the Georgian Meeting House in Kendal. The exhibition is a great indoor activity when the weather is miserable, and there’s a café where you can enjoy a nice cup of tea and piece of cake.
Sunny weather option:The Lake District offers beautiful landscape views, which can be appreciated even more when it’s sunny. Exploring your surroundings doesn’t have to be climbing a mountain, there are many easy and accessible walks for everyone. If you’re staying at YHA Keswick, you can hop on board the Keswick Launch boat which calls at the jetty eight times a day. The boat takes you to the peaceful shores of Derwentwater where you can enjoy a woodland walk or walk along the shore. Both routes are wheelchair friendly!
Afternoon:
Wet weather option:Afternoon: After finishing at the Georgian Meeting House, just a short distance away is Sizergh Castle. There is much more than beautiful architecture to the castle, it has a very interesting history which you can learn all about. A visit here is great, rain or shine.
Sunny weather option: Liven things up a bit at Go Ape in Grizedale! This is perfect for thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies who want a busy afternoon. The course is suitable for all ages and there are various challenges to take part in. Re-fuel your energy at the café on site afterwards. If you’re staying in any of our camping or cabin facilities and have brought your furry friend along, then Go Ape is great as it is dog-friendly.
Day two
Morning:
Wet weather option: A popular reason people visit the Lake District is to go rock-climbing, Ambleside Climbing Wall allows you to do just that if the weather means you can’t do it outside. This is just a 3 minute drive from YHA Ambleside and is suitable for ages 4 and above.
Sunny weather option: If the weather is good, then why not try climbing outdoors. The Lake District is a haven for climbers and there are various routes for beginners or those more advanced. A popular climbing site is Lakeland rock – offering exquisite views. Remember to always have the correct kit and to climb with an experienced instructor.
Afternoon:
Wet weather option: Meet Peter Rabbit and Mrs Tiggy-Winkle at The World of Beatrix Potter. The family attraction is a great day out and offers magical interactive and virtual recreations of all 23 Beatrix Potter stories. A great option for all weather conditions.
Sunny weather option: If the weather’s good, why not continue the adventure by canyoning or caving around the Windemere mountains?
Day three
Some activities just can’t be done in half a day, so here are a couple options to pass your three days in the Lake District.
Wet weather option: The Lake District can be a busy place – lots of walking, travelling and sight seeing. It’s important to reflect and relax, and what better place to do that than at a spa? Low Wood Bay resort and spa offers various treatments for a day of luxurious pampering. Finish your day off by overlooking Lake windemere enjoying afternoon tea. Bliss.
Sunny weather option: Scafell Pike is the highest mountain in England and whilst a tough walk up, the views from the top definitely make it worth while. Make sure you hike up Scafell Pike when it’s a clear day though, so you can take in the breathtaking views from the top of the mountain. And, remember – if you’re doing the treck in the colder months, wear your hat and gloves as you’ll probably find yourself in snow at the top!
Where to stay: YHA Skiddaw Bunkhouse, YHA Buttermere, YHA Ennerdale, YHA Black Sail, YHA Honister Hause, YHA Wasdale Hall, YHA Eskdale, YHA Coniston Coppermines, YHA Coniston Holly How, YHA Hawkshead, YHA Windermere, YHA Ambleside, YHA Langdale, YHA Grasmere Butharlyp Howe, YHA Patterdale, YHA Helvellyn, YHA Borrowdale, YHA Keswick
I hope you enjoyed reading our ‘three days in the Lake District’ guide. Are you planning on visiting any other national parks? If so, check out our 3 days in the Peak District guide.
