Winter in the Lake District brings Christmas markets, snow-topped peaks, frost-kissed lakes and good, old-fashioned Cumbrian cheer, all decorated in twinkly lights.
As the landscape transforms into a snowy haven, the region becomes a winter wonderland, with activities and experiences in every corner. From charming villages to adrenaline-fulled outdoor pursuits, there are lots of chances to eat, drink and be merry.
We’ve compiled a handy list of some of our favourite things to do in the Lake District in Winter. Continue reading to find out more…
Head out on a Lake Cruise
The Lake District in Winter takes on a magical, ethereal feel. You’ll experience crisp, cold, blue skies, or perhaps temperature-inversions – where a low mist sits across the water.
Choose from cruises on Windermere, Ullswater, Coniston or Derwentwater, where you can experience the serene tranquility of the Lake District from a different perspective.
Be sure to wrap up warm, sit back and enjoy a sightseeing tour on the water. Don’t worry, there’s plenty of indoor seating and hot drinks available! If you time it right, there might even be festive-themed excursions.
All operators run a winter service however please keep in mind this may be slightly reduced. Check their websites directly for more information.
A frosty Windermere Lake Cruise
Come January and a quieter time of year it’s the perfect opportunity to get out and about exploring the winter scenery and soak up the atmosphere in country pubs. Definitely the chance to warm your toes by the fire, after an action-packed day out getting the colour in your cheeks!
February or course brings the perfect romantic getaway for a special valentine’s weekend. A leisurely fell walk, perhaps with lake cruise and a romantic meal – special times.
And don’t forget you can use the Lake District Pound at many independent shops and support the area.
Great Pubs and eateries:
After you’ve been out exploring the beautiful scenery , rest your weary legs in one of our cosy, traditional pubs, many serving locally brewed beers.
A couple of favourites locally are the Mortal Man, high above Troutbeck Bridge with panoramic views; or the Queens Head at Troutbeckfor 17th century coaching inn, with a lovely rustic feel. Head up the Kirkstone Pass to the Kirkstone Inn- great views all round from there.
Windermere, Ambleside and Bowness have scores of pubs and eateries – too many to mention here but feel free to post up your favourite on our social media and share with the world! Have a look at this article for lots more ideas, with ‘Best Places to Eat in Cumbria’ on the BBC Website
Low Sizergh Barn, our friends near Kendal who make up our welcome hampers have a warm and cosy tea-room and lots of home made winter warmers for you to try.
National Trust Winter & Christmas Offerings:
The National Trust places in the Lakes have lots of different things going on:
Get a traditional Christmas fix at Sizergh Castle. Twinkling lights, the smell of pine needles and mulled wine, and Christmas food and pudding and the chance to meet Father Christmas!
Allan Bank in Grasmere promises to envelope you in ‘pure uninterrupted Christmas spirit’. There’ll be live Christmas classics, plus a wreath workshop, or go and cosy up by the fire with a hot punch.
Whatever you choose, you’ll have a winter experience to remember, and the added glow that your entry or membership, or spending in the shop or tearoom goes straight back into conserving this very special place.
Get out for a walk
If you love walking there’s lots of places that are lovely in the winter – a still quietness, and hopefully the crunch of snow underfoot. Just dress for the weather, take a map and of course indulge in a warming hot chocolate after you’re finished! Some National Trust walks here.
And here’s some advice on keeping safe whilst walking in the Lakes in Winter.
Picnic stop at Elterwater with Langdale Pikes in the distance
Electric Bike Hire – don’t forget our friends at Electreks, based at High Borrans are offering e-bike hire all year round and they deliver to your lodge!.
A great way to get out and about and make molehills out of mountains. From £45 a day.
Whatever you get up to on your Winter Break, you’re guaranteed a warm welcome.
Why not visit in winter and create lots of magical memories. Check out ouravailability here.
