With the widespread impact of coronavirus COVID-19, 2020 is set to be the year of the staycation and mini-break, here is Travel Begins at 40’s guide on how to spend a weekend in the Lake District, once it is safe once more to travel the country.
For those that have never visited the Lake District, it’s a refreshing region where you’ll find quaint cottages, stunning rural views and peaceful countryside.
Located in the North West of England in Cumbria, the region is home to famous rugged mountains, glacial lakes and historical market towns such as Ambleside and Derwentwater; a getaway weekend with your loved ones.
If you’re unsure of how to spend a weekend in the Lakes, here is an itinerary of just some of the must-see sights.
Friday check in for your weekend in the Lake District
Check into your cosy cottage for uncompromised comfort and indulgence. Choosing one of the many Lake District cottages with hot tubs is the perfect way to guarantee you have a well-rested weekend. With other luxury features such as wood-burning fires, home cinemas and incredible views, settle in for the night by the fire before a weekend of exploring.
Saturday – try the local Lake District pubs and culture
Enjoy a relaxed brunch at a local pub such as The Beer Hall in Staveley or the Hare and Hounds in Levens for some hearty dishes to fuel your morning.
After, make your way to the quaint village of Grasmere where you can pick up some famous Grasmere Gingerbread while you wonder between the cafés, craft shops and galleries. If you’re an art lover, The Heaton Cooper Studio is a must see, where guests have the opportunity to admire and purchase some local artwork.
In the afternoon make your way over to Lake Grasmere for a scenic walk, perfect for dogs and children, and even a splash in the water at the Rydal Water side of the lake.
Afterwards, pop over to Ambleside for The Apple Pie Café and bakery – a place with a sought-after reputation that’s well worth the queues for pastries and cakes.
Great spots to dine in the evening include The Jumble Room for an eccentric vibe, or the acclaimed Old Stamp House for a more Cumbria-rooted menu which consistently wows Good Food Guide visitors, before heading back to your cottage for a candle-lit bath and rest.
Sunday stroll around Lake Windermere
Wake early and refreshed for a day walking around Windermere, the Lake District’s largest lake at 10.5 miles long.
There are dozens of trails to follow around Lake Windermere for those who don’t want to complete all 10 miles of the green, scenic walk. Don’t forget to stock up on snacks and drinks, as the trails have several great pit-stops for picnics and rest breaks.
Another spot worth visiting nearby is Brockhole, on the shore on Lake Windermere. Here, you can hire canoes, kayaks and paddleboards, which are great for families to enjoy a splash around in the waters.
Brockhole is also a good option for grabbing a bite to eat at the local cafés, offering pizza to tea and cake. There’s mini golf, a pony trek and an adventure playground for little ones full of energy – it’s sure to tire them out for a restful night’s sleep.
Monday morning return home
Once you’re packed up and ready to head home, it’s important to have a well-deserved breakfast stop in the Lakes before leaving.
There are several brilliant breakfast options, such as contemporary café Graze in Bowness-on-Windermere and Homeground Coffee and Kitchen, which specialises in breakfast and brunch dishes with a modern twist.
With the Lake District being known for its stunning walking trails, other walks to note for another visit include Borger Dalr, Borrowdale and Greendale and Middle Fell and Western Fells.
Whchever walk you choose you are assured of having a great time during your weekend in the Lake District, and are sure to wish to come back soon. But please heed government advice and only take your mini-break to the Lakes once it is safe to do so.
For more Lake District inspiration, read Eileen WIse and Roger Hermiston’s A Lake District Holiday in Wordsworth Country.