Off the Beaten Track, Lake District Attractions
With over 16 million visitors per year, the Lake District is Britain’s most popular National Park. If you want to avoid the crowds, visit in spring or autumn and consider the following off the beaten track, Lake District attractions:
The Dock Museum, Barrow-in-Furness
One thing you can never guarantee in the Lake District is the weather. The Dock Museum in Barrow-in-Furness is a great place to spend a morning or afternoon if the weather takes a turn for the worse. The museum illustrates the interesting history of Barrow and its famous shipbuilding past. Stop off at the café for refreshments, snacks and meals.
Rannerdale Bluebells
If you are lucky enough to be in the Lakes during April, take a trip to the Rannerdale Knotts where the hillside is blanketed with bluebells. A stunning sight that attracts visitors from far and wide.
Morecambe Bay
Famous for its cockles, the beautiful Morecambe Bay can be explored during summer with a range of guided walks. Known for its strong tides and quick sand, visitors should never attempt to explore the Bay alone. The walk is just under 10 miles in soft sand so you need to be reasonably fit to attempt it.
High Force Waterfall, Glenridding
A lovely waterfall just a short distance uphill of Aira Force, High Force comes highly recommended. Less crowded than Aira Force, but well worth a combined visit.
Access to walks to Yew Crag for views over Ullswater.
Windermere Cloud Inversion
If you are visiting Windermere in winter you could be lucky enough to see a cloud inversion. Inversions occur when there is a boundary layer with a normal temperature profile (warm air rising into cooler air). If you’re staying near Windermere then the easiest spot to aim for is Gummer’s How – there’s a free car park and an easy (20 min) walk up to the summit.
Kentmere Reservoir
A short drive from Kendal, Kentmere Reservoir is a perfect location if you enjoy walking but want to avoid the steep fells. Enjoy a stroll around Kentmere Village before exploring the reservoir. Stunning views along the way.
Colwith Force
Just a 30 minute walk from Elterwater, Colwith Force is a waterfall in three parts. The mid-section allows you to get close enough to feel the power of the water. A gentle circular walk which starts and ends in Elterwater is not too taxing.
The Kent Estuary
The Kentmere Reservoir ends at the Kent Estuary in the northern corner of Morecambe Bay. From the hills above Silverdale you can enjoy breath-taking views. Sunset is spectacular over the estuary with the Lake District in the background.
Whatever the weather you will find a vast range of attractions in the Lake District including museums, stately homes, restaurants, country pubs and cafes. For a glimpse of the real off the beaten track, Lake District visit some of the ‘hidden gems’ which make this part of England so special.
Finally, if you’re looking for a Spa Hotel to set up a base, then Aphrodite’s Lodge in Windermere is available. In addition to a king size bed for the night, make the most of your private hot tub.