Whether you’re a landscape lover, an adventure addict, or visiting for a weekend getaway, plan with our guide to the Top 5 Places to Stay in the Lake District.
Selecting where to stay in this ecstatic area of England can be overwhelming with several scenic towns and villages available.
In this guide, we walk you through the
top 5 places to stay in the Lake District area. These areas have been carefully selected to save you the stress of searching for the most beautiful and best places to stay.
Top 5 Places to Stay in The Lake District
With rugged mountains, phenomenal lakes, and appealing villages, the area boasts several activities to do. However, keep in mind that the various places have different and specific experiences.
Let’s jump right in!
#1 Lake Windermere – Ambleside (Best for first-time visitors)
On Windermere’s northern part is Ambleside – one of the most famous resort towns in the Lake District. It boasts several ancient monuments, shops, pubs, and scenic spots available for you to explore.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor to the Lake District or a regular guest, Ambleside is ideal if you are a fun lover. Hike through the wood, go for a casual walk beside the lake, and plan some outdoor activities on the mountain.
Don’t forget to explore Armitt Library and Museum, which displays the area’s history and cultural heritage.
# 2 Windermere & Bowness – best places for lakeside strolls, boat rides, and tea shops
As England’s largest natural lake, the Windermere & Bowness boasts of a calm landscape among others. The area is great for lakeside strolls with amazing views, boat rides with Beatrix Potter’s cottage a few distances away. Plus, the town has lots of tea shops almost at every corner.
Several serviced homes in this area are perched along the lake banks, providing lots of luxury. However, put in mind that during the summer, Windermere & Bowness can be so crowded and nearly inaccessible.
#3 Coniston – Best for walking and climbing, watersports
Located in the southern area of the Lake District, Coniston is known for exploring the great outdoors, water sports, and hiking.
The major activity to do in the quaint village is going for boat tours and cruising on Coniston Water. Enjoy a guided boat hire from Coniston Boating Centre in a motorboat or take a gentle steam-powered cruise on Steam Yacht Gondola. If you want something a bit energetic, go climbing the Old Man of Coniston, which is about 2,600 feet.
Other places to visit around Coniston include Brantwood House, Ruskin Museum in Coniston Village, and Coniston Copper Mines.
#4 Kendal – Best for shopping & sightseeing
Known as the southern getaway to the Lake District, Kendal is a fast-thriving market town that offers more than expected. Its population is around 28,000. From an array of shops to restaurants and many historical sites to explore, there’s something for everyone to do.
Its proximity to Windermere (8 miles) makes it an ideal holiday destination for those who want to explore the Lake District with extra convenience & luxury.
Attractions in Kendal include museums, the world-famous Mint Cake, and a large Kendal Parish Church. If you fancy arts, spend some time at the Abbot Hall Art Gallery. You could also spend the day exploring the Museum of Natural History & Archeology.
