Things to do in the Lake District in winter
The Lake District is known for its stunning landscapes, jaw dropping scenery and fantastic water sport opportunities in the summer. But it’s just as charming a place to visit in the winter, especially if you visit when the mountain tops are layered in snow. The backdrops look like they have been lifted straight off of a winter postcard and contrast beautifully with the cute villages. You will also experience less crowds in winter.
With plenty to see and do, you won’t be short of things to do in the Lake District in winter.
Winter Weather in the Lake District
You will want to wrap up warm (think layers!) when visiting the Lake District in winter as the average temperature between November and March is 8°. January usually sees the lowest temperatures at around 2°. It’s also advisable to wear comfortable, waterproof walking boots and a decent waterproof coat as winter in the Lake District can be very wet. In fact, the Lake District can experience 4 seasons in one day, so it’s a good idea to check the weather ahead of your visit.
Things to do in the Lake District in winter
Take a Lake Cruise
Christmas Markets
Stargazing
Walk Wainwright’s First Fell
Visit Aira Force
Take a Lake Cruise
A great way to take in the beautiful landscapes of the Lake District is to go on a lake cruise. Relax as you sail around the lake on silky waters and admire the scenery surrounding you. Some sailings stop at multiple jetties so you can travel to start points for walks or to visit attractions.
There are various companies that operate at the different lakes, offering a variety of styles of boat from steamers to ferries. You can even hire a boat and explore for yourself. Depending on which area you are visiting, look at any of the following websites to find out more about timetables and tickets. Ullswater Steamers, Windermere Lake Cruises, Coniston Launch and Keswick Launch.
Christmas Markets
We can’t talk about things to do in the Lake District in winter and not mention the Christmas markets! The charming towns are the perfect setting for a Christmas Market and there are plenty to choose form all across the district during November and December.
You will of course find all the usual attractions such as mulled wines, handcrafted gifts, live entertainment and a good bratwurst! But at events such as the Ulverston Dickensian Festival, visitors will get the chance to immerse themselves in the traditional Christmas spirit with roving performers and people in victorian costume.
Here are some of the popular Christmas Markets in the Lake District:
The Lowther Christmas Fair
Hawkshead Christmas Fair
Christmas in Cartmel
Taste Cumbria Christmas festival
Kendal Christmas Festival
Windermere Christmas Celebration
Carlisle Christmas Market
Stargazing
Did you know that the Lake District has some of the darkest skies in the country? With such little pollution, it’s the perfect setting to wrap up warm, grab a blanket and a thermos of hot chocolate and stare up at the beautiful night display. Places like Castlerigg near Keswick have fantastic stargazing opportunities, Castlerigg hall purposely do not light up their grounds for this reason! Other great places to view the stars are The Langdale Valley, Wasdale head, Grizedale Forest, Derwentwater and Borrowdale Valley. Not visible to approx. 80% of the UK, you’ll likely see the Milky Way and at certain times of the year, the Aurora Borealis.
Walk to Orrest Head
The Lake District is synonymous with walking and what could be a better introduction to the breathtaking views of the Lake District than famous fell-walker A.Wainwright’s first fell. Whether you are a seasoned rambler or simply enjoy a stroll, this nice easy walk up to Orrest Head promises beautiful vistas.
The starting point is approx. 3 minutes from Windermere Station, at the entrance to the Windermere hotel. There is a large sign there to guide you. Remember to wear comfortable, waterproof walking shoes.
Visit Aira Force
This 65 foot waterfall is set amongst the grounds of an 18th Century pleasure garden and was the inspiration for William Wordsworth’s poem ‘The Somnambulist’. The landscape is breathtaking at any time of year but there is something about the moody vibe in winter that really shows off the power of nature here. There are various trails to walk the grounds, with differing lengths, depending on your preference.
The site is run by the National trust and includes a car park (charges apply), toilet and tea rooms on site, perfect to enjoy coffee and a cake after your stroll through this slice of enchanting, rugged Lake District terrain.
Conclusion
The Lake District is also not short of interesting houses and museums to visit including sites such as Author Beatrix Potter’s House near Hawkshead, Poet William Wordsworth’s Cottage in Grasmere and the Lakeland Motor Museum in Ulverston. It’s also worth noting The Lakes Distillery in Cockermouth, a tour here is a must for Whisky lovers! Do check opening times before visiting as they may differ in winter.
The Lake District is definitely not just a summer destination, England’s largest National Park is mesmerising in the winter and offers plenty of things to see and do.
If you have visited Cumbria recently, let us know what you thought of the activities and beautiful buildings in the area. If you have any suggestions let us know in the comments below.
As always, sharing is caring so make sure to share this guide with your family and friends and inspire them to head off on their own English adventure.
