Overview
The Lake District is England's largest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It includes Scafell Pike, England's highest mountain, and Windermere, its largest natural lake.
Writers including William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter lived here; their homes are open to visitors.
Best time to visit
May to September for walking; spring and autumn are quieter. Weather changes quickly.
Highlights
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1
Windermere
Lake cruises and towns such as Bowness and Ambleside.
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2
Derwentwater
A lake near Keswick ringed by fells.
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3
Scafell Pike
A demanding climb to the top of England.
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4
Grasmere
A village tied to Wordsworth, with Dove Cottage.
Getting there
Windermere station has train links via Oxenholme on the West Coast Main Line. Buses link the main towns.
Practical tips
- Opening & tickets
- Opening times, permits and any fees change, so check the official website before you go.
- Time needed
- Allow two to four days.
Official information: Lake District National Park (official website). Check opening hours, prices and entry rules there before you go.
Map
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