Llama trekking, anyone? Perhaps not quite the activity you might expect from the Lake District, but this area is out to surprise you. For although the traditional pursuits of hill walking, birdwatching, and sipping the froth off a pint of local ale are still as appealing and enjoyable as ever, there are many more things to do here than you would ever imagine.
Travelling with teenagers? Head for the high ropes and zipwires, send them paintballing, or encourage more traditional talents by enrolling them on a bushcraft course so that they can learn how to make you a cup of tea over an open fire. For younger children there are whoopingly exciting adventure playgrounds, a wild animal park and steamer rides across Lake Windemere.
| There are many more things to do here than you would ever imagine... |
Of course, adults without children quite like the Lake District too - and here's why. You can go reverse 4x4 driving - turn left and the car will go right - guaranteed hilarity. Or pack a map and head for those very special hills - you could very quickly find a deserted summit from which to gaze upon crinkly, colour splashed landscapes. Well stocked fishing lakes make it almost certain that you'll catch a whopper, and well stocked pubs make it almost certain that you'll enjoy winding down at the end of the day. Of course it has been known to rain in the Lake District. But a rainy day doesn't mean sitting inside feeling glum. You could find out about the underwater world at the Lakes Aquarium, see the world's longest pencil at the Cumberland pencil museum, ride a steam train or visit one of the Lake District's delightful country houses.
Whatever you choose to do on your holiday, one thing is sure. The landscape will take your breath away. Awash with damson blossom in the Spring, and punchy red, yellow and orange leaves in the Autumn, the hills roll around you bathed in sunlight one minute and purple haze the next. Who cares about the weather with scenery like this, and so many activities to pack into one holiday?
Hotels in the Lake District are situated in some of the most picturesque surroundings of the world, and offer some intriguing alternatives, from pub hotels to hotels in converted farms. The Lake District is the largest of England's National Parks, with a variety of locations within it that represent marvellous places to stay. Lake Windermere is usually the most popular, area, especially well suited to keen walkers and water sports fanatics. Other well-known locations include Lake Buttermere, which is especially accessible, and therefore family friendly, and Lake Coniston, which has three small islands within it and has a particularly wonderful setting. The main towns of the Lake District are Penrith, Kendal, Carlisle and Keswick, and hotels in these places provide easy access to markets and shops, as well as to nightlife, thus being perfect for those who wish to combine the awesome scenery of the Lakes with a hotel option that is a little more lively.
