What To Do In The Lake District: Northern Lakes Edition

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Without a shadow of doubt, the Lake District is one of the most scenic places you can visit in England. The contrast between the high peaks, sweeping lakes and surrounding forest makes it a destination like no other on our small island.

In 2020 I spent my summer working and living in a small pub just outside of Keswick in the Lake District and got to experience all that the Lake District has to offer. Whether you are a serious hiker, watersports fantastic, birdwatcher or just in need of a relaxing break you can find your adventure in the Lake District.

You’ll find my recommendations of what to do in the Lake District in this post and helpful travel tips for visiting this popular UK vacation spot.

Crummock Water
Aria Force Waterfall
Buttermere Lake
Derwentwater
Ullswater Lake
Whinlatter Forest
Derwentwater
Ullswater Lake

Watch the Sunrise over Ullswater

Ullswater is the second-largest in the Lake District after Lake Windermere. Its sprawling size and dramatic surrounding peaks make for an incredibly magical spot to watch the sunrise. Head to the town of Glenridding from where you can take a pew along the shores of Ullswater to watch the show, which I can ensure you is worth waking up early for. For more of a birds eye view of the sunrise over Ullswater, I recommend parking up at one of the laybys on the A592 between Glenridding and Aria Force.

Float around at Crummock Water

Crummock Water was my number one lake to swim in the Lake District. Mostly because for some crazy reason it doesn’t attract as many visitors as some of the major lakes. Its neighbouring lake Buttermere seems to draw in more of the crowds.

If you don’t fancy a float in this majestic lake, which I think would be criminal to pass up especially on a blue sky summer’s day, there are a few trails to follow. You can do the classic Crummock Water circular route taking you around the whole lake, which would take 4/5 hours. Or follow some smaller trails from the shores to Scale Force Waterfall or around Lanthwaite Woods.

For all of the above I suggest parking up at Lanthwaite Wood National Trust car park and from there simply follow the path through the woods onto the shores of the Crummock Water.

Walk Around Lake Buttermere

As one of the smallest lakes, the circular loop of Lake Buttermere only takes around 1 or 2 hours. The flat terrain on this trail makes it one for every ability. Arrive in the village of Buttermere and follow the signs or crowds down to the lake shores, where you start the loop. On your way down to the lakeside you’ll pass a charming tea room called Skye Farm in the village of Buttermere, where I recommend trying the locally-produced ice cream.

Buttermere and Crummock Water are twin lakes, separated by the village of Buttermere. So for those looking for a longer hike, take on the challenge of walking around both lakes.

Watersports on Derwentwater

You’ll find the shores of Derwentwater only a short walk away from the town centre of Keswick. As Derwentwater shores can get pretty crowded, the best way to see the lake is from the water. You can hire rowing and motor boats from the Keswick boat landings and go explore the lake’s four islands. Alternatively, head to Derwentwater Marina where you can hire paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes. You’ll also find they offer lessons in windsurfing and sailing at the Marina, just be sure to book in advance.

If watersports aren’t your cup of tea, you could walk the 10-mile scenic loop around Derwentwater, just be sure to wear a comfy pair of shoes.

Hike to Bowscale Tarn

Fancy an uphill challenge with the reward of cracking views of the Caldew Valley and an isolated swimming spot at the end? Then hiking to Bowscale Tarn is for you, it’s an uphill climb and takes around 3 hours depending on your speed.

This trail begins in the village of Mosedale, a few miles off the A66. There is a small car park in the village. From the car park turn left and follow the road until you come to a right turn signposted Bowscale Tarn, from there follow the trail through the gate and up to the peaceful Bowscale Tarn. On your way back simply retrace your steps. (Grid reference is NY359316)

Whinlatter Forest

A forest in the mountains, Whinlatter has a handful of activities to do as well as extraordinary views over Bassenthwaite Lake and Derwentwater. You could hike, cycle, segway or even take a horse ride around the trails of this forest. There is also a Go-Ape adventure park inside of Whinlatter Forest for some adrenaline-inducing activities.

Visit Aira Force Waterfall

Aira Force is likely the Lake District’s most-visited waterfall and can be found not far from the shores of Ullswater. This impressive waterfall is found within ancient woodland and from the National Trust car park there is a scenic 2.1km scenic loop taking you to the falls. You can view the falls from above or below from two Victorian-era bridges, just be prepared to get a spray of water from the bridge below.

The Ullswater Steamers (scenic lake cruise) have recently created a landing point near Aira Force and run a shuttle between Glenridding Pier and Aria Force during the peak season. As the car park at Aira Force gets incredibly busy this would be a fun way to see both Ullswater and Aira Force.

Explore the Town of Keswick

Keswick is a popular town for visitors to stay in whilst exploring the Lake District, particularly the Northern Lakes. You’ll find the town centre full of shops, pubs, hotels and tearooms, if you enjoy Mexican food be sure to visit Bar eS. Hope Park Gardens can be found between the centre of Keswick and the shores of Derwentwater, with a cafe, pitch and put and a crazy golf course.

If you find yourself in need of some rainy-day activities Keswick is home to the unique attraction of the Puzzling Place, which is an optical illusion museum that can entertain all. You could also catch a show at Theatre by the Lake, check here to see what’s on.

Extra Things to Do in the Lake District

Hop on a Ullswater Steamer and cruise around Ullswater Lake
Hike to the summit of Blencathra/Scafell Pike or one of the many peaks in the Lake District
Take on the Catbells walking trail from Keswick
Relax and unwind on a spa day at Lodore Falls
Brave the scenic drive on the Honister Pass
Visit Lake Windermere and Ambleside (South Lakes)
Do a circular loop of Lake Grasmere and explore the Rydal Caves (South Lakes)

Things to Know Before Visiting the Lake District

Book ahead, especially if you are visiting in the peak summer season, which I would say is June – September. Accommodations get booked up sometimes years in advance and even restaurants or activity companies can get full, so it is always best to make reservations early.
To get the most out of your trip to the Lake District, I strongly suggest you have a car as the public transport here is very limited.
Parking can be a nightmare within the Lake District, especially in peak season. Although not the cheapest option try and stick to official car parks as roadside parking causes major issues on these already small and dangerous roads. During my time working in the Lake District, it wasn’t uncommon for emergency service vehicles to get stuck thanks to people’s irresponsible parking, so park sensibly.
You can find the elusive Red Squirrels in the Lake District, with recent dwindling numbers there are a handful of projects to protect them in the national park. So keep your eyes peeled.