Things to do in the Lake District

When planning things to do in the Lake District, a spa package break in Windermere will soon become your ideal holiday destination.

After all, the Lake District National Park in Cumbria has a vast array of popular attractions, as well as major festivals, along with those lesser-known places of interest.

With annual figures indicating over 15 million people visit the Lake District each year, it’s important to plan your holiday wisely. That’s why here at the Aphrodite’s Lodge Spa Hotel in Windermere, we try and cover every eventuality.

Below you will find a comprehensive guide to things to do in the Lake District.

Things to do in Windermere

We begin our look at places to visit right here in Windermere. After all, it’s home to some of the Lake Districts major attractions. There’s Windermere Lake Cruises, the Lakes Aquarium, Brockhole and Blackwell House, not forgetting the World of Beatrix Potter.

Lake Windermere itself also offers a variety of activities, from kayaking and canoeing to romantic picnics by the water’s edge. That’s without even mentioning the wide choice of bars and restaurants available for a night out. If you are after inspiration on things to do in Windermere, please follow our blog for further updates.

Things to do in Ambleside

One of the main attractions in Ambleside is the impressive Wray Castle, a Victorian/gothic inspired castle open to the public.

Then there’s Rydal Mount and Gardens, in the small village of Rydal, just outside Ambleside. Once home to one of the Lake Districts most famous residents, Poet Laureate William Wordsworth.

Things to do in Cockermouth

Just on the outskirts of the Lake District National Park, is the market town of Cockermouth. It’s less of a tourist destination than staying in Windermere, but certainly has some attractions in the Lake District worth visiting.

In particular, Wordsworth House, the birthplace of the aforementioned William Wordsworth. The townhouse dates back to the mid-18^th century and under the ownership of the National Trust has since become a listed building. Open to the public to celebrate the life and times of the great poet.

Things to do in Coniston

Walking and hiking holidays are among the most popular things to do in the Lake District. After all, they certainly provide the best way to see all the National Park has to offer. In particular, by following the Old Man of Coniston route, walkers are rewarded with incredible views across the Cumbrian countryside.

As well as those long walks, tourists are invited to relax onboard the Coniston Launch. Whereby the boat takes passengers for a wonderful cruise along Coniston Water. Back on dry land, the local Ruskin museum is dedicated to the works of the art critic, social thinker and philanthropist John Ruskin.

Things to do in Grasmere

The famous poet William Wordsworth spent almost 15 years living in Grasmere, having penned the village as ”the loveliest spot that man hath ever found”. Having passed away in 1850, his home of Dove Cottage has long since become one of the major attractions within Grasmere.

Grasmere Lake also provides a lovely circular walk, popular among locals and visitors alike. Along the way, be sure to stop off at the famous Grasmere Ginger Bread Shop, which follows an ancient Victorian recipe to this day.

Things to do in Hawkshead

Sampling local ales in Cumbria is a must for any beer lover, none more so than at the Hawkshead Brewery. After all, even while on a spa break in the Lake District you deserve to let your hair down during your holiday.

Just south of Hawkshead is the stunning woodland of Grizedale Forest, perfect for those outdoor activities away from the Lakes. Whether it be biking or hiking, you can even a series of rope courses and zip wires hidden among the trees.

Things to do in Kendal

Famous for its sugary mint cake, Kendal is a market town just 15 minutes’ drive from our Windermere Spa Hotel. As such, ideal for a day out before returning to your private spa suite and hot tub.

Both Kendal Castle and Kendal Museum are among the popular attraction, while just South of Kendal are Sizergh Castle and Levens Hall. The latter featuring the worlds oldest topiary gardens at the centre of a 9.5k acres estate.

Things to do in Keswick

One of the more unusual attractions in Keswick is the Derwent Pencil Museum, which includes a replica graphite mine. There’s also one of the world’s largest oversized colouring pencils, an 8-metre long centrepiece of the museum.

Keswick is on the banks of Derwentwater, which is just a 10-minute walk from the city centre. One of the popular things to do is to take a cruise on the Keswick Launch. Which truly is a perfect way to explore the beautiful lake.

Things to do in Honister Pass

Places such as Staveley and Honister Pass are in fact mountain passes, rather villages or towns. However, they are worthy of a mention when it comes to activities in the Lake District. Honister Pass in particular due to the popular attraction in the Lake District of Honister Slate Mine.

Things to do in Staveley

Windermere may well be the place to visit in the south Lakes, however, the quaint village of Staveley is literally just down the road.

Traffic permitting less than a 10-minute drive away from staying in Windermere. As such, just head along the A591 and you can find things to do in Staveley. Once officially part of Westmorland, the South of the Lake District proves there’s more to staying local than just relaxing in your spa suite!

Book a Package Break in the Lake District

Enjoy a taste of luxury at the Aphrodite’s Lodge Spa Hotel and book a spa suite in Windermere, complete with private hot tubs.

Things to do in Spring in the Lake District

When it comes things to do in Spring in the Lake District, a Spring break in Windermere will see a change in the seasons. Daffodils and bluebells start to blossom, as baby lambs run through the fields of local farms.

Here we take a look at activities and things to do in Spring, during the following months:

March in the Lake District
April in the Lake District
May in the Lake District

While the weather in Spring can remain traditionally unpredictable, in theory, it can also be ideal walking conditions. Without being too wet, but before the heat of summer, you can both embrace the outdoors as well as making the most of your hot tub.

Things to do in March

One of the major events the Lake District in the Spring is the Cumbria Life Home and Garden Show in Penrith. Less than an hours drive from our spa hotel in Windermere, the popular event takes place at the Rheged Centre.

Meanwhile, the Spring Beer Fest is set to make its return in March 2020 at the Hawkshead Brewery. Giving you the opportunity to sample local ales, with over 60 keg beers to choose from!

Also, don’t forget Mother’s Day on 22^nd March 2020. If you fancy booking her the pampering she deserves, then how about a spa package break in the Lake District.

Things do to in April

Easter Bank Holiday package breaks in Windermere give you the chance to see all the Lake District has to offer over a 4 day weekend. With a whole host of Easter events to look forward too, suitable for both young and old.

Alternatively, the Bowness Bay Blues Weekend is back on the first weekend of April 2020. With the line-up already announced, the Bowness on Windermere festival is set to continue its fantastic live entertainment.

Things to do in May

Another chance to take advantage of our spa deals and bank holiday package breaks in Windermere during May Day. With two bank holiday weekends, there’s no surprise there are lots of things to do in May in the Lake District.

The annual Food and Drink Festival at Muncaster Castle, the Keswick Mountain Festival and the Lakeland Festival of Light to name a few. Not only that, but Spring in the Lake District is also great timing to see the various parks and gardens start to take shape.

Book a Spring Break in the Lake District

Stay at the Aphrodite’s Lodge Spa Hotel in Windermere and enjoy a spring break in the Lake District, in easy reach of Lake Windermere. Where you can relax in style within your own spa suite with private hot tub.

Things to do in Summer in the Lake District

It will soon be time to start planning things to do in Summer in the Lake District, so why not start with a spa suite and hot tub? Here at the Aphrodite’s Lodge Spa Hotel, we have a spa suite available for every occasion during the summer months:

June in the Lake District
July in the Lake District
August in the Lake District

Whether you’re booking a romantic spa break in the Lake District or looking for special deals and packages in Windermere, there’s room for everyone. Here we take a quick look at things to do in Summer in the Lake District.

Things to do in June in the Lake District

If you have a competitive edge this summer, then there are a couple of annual sporting events during June in the Lake District.

The Coniston Marathon and Half Marathon are on Sunday 7^th June 2020, the Great North Swim takes place 5^th to 7^th June 2020 in Windermere. After you’ve signed up online, book a spa hotel in Windermere as you’ll benefit from a massage and a hot tub afterwards!

The start of summer in the Lake District also sees one of Cumbria’s biggest agricultural events. With the Cumberland Show on 13^th June 2020 celebrating its 182^nd year.

Things to do in July in the Lake District

With the summer holidays in full swing, July in the Lake District is the ideal time to make the most of the outdoors. Walking, hiking and taking a gentle cruise on Lake Windermere. As well as visiting a host of popular attractions!

There are several major events too, with agricultural shows taking place in both Penrith (18^th July) and nearby Coniston (date TBC). July 30^th is then time for Ambleside Sports, with a whole host of traditional fun and games.

Gates open for the huge Kendal Calling music festival on 30^th July 2020. While this year’s line-up is yet to be announced, 2019 headliners featured Manic Street Preachers, Doves and Tom Jones.

Things to do in August in the Lake District

August Bank holiday is one of the busiest times of the year, so make sure you book your spa hotel in Windermere early to avoid disappointment. After all, there’s so much to see and do in August, from visiting local attractions to embracing Cumbrian life.

The Cartmel Cup is a great way to spend a day at the races on the 29^th August 2020. While the Keswick Show is a popular country fair during the August Bank Holiday Weekend.

August Bank Holiday weekend in the Lake District is a perfect time to book your package break in Windermere. Putting you in a central location to discover all the Lakes have to offer.

Summer Spa Breaks in the Lake District

Book a spa suite with a hot tub this summer, taking advantage of our special deals and packages. In order to provide you with a romantic spa break in the Lake District at our Windermere Spa Hotel.

Things to do in Autumn in the Lake District

One of the first things you’ll notice about Autumn in the Lake District are the wonderful array of colours. With the Autumn leaves falling at the change of the season, views across the Lake District are as incredible as ever.

As such, Autumn in the Lake District is an ideal to book a package break. Where you can embrace crisp morning walks or take in the scenery while out on a bike around the Lakes. Alternatively, there are a variety of things to do in Autumn in the Lake District.

Here we take a look at things to do in Autumn during the following months:

September in the Lake District
October in the Lake District
November in the Lake District

Things to do in September

During September one of the biggest food festivals takes place near Windermere, a Taste Cumbria event in Cockermouth. It’s the chance to enjoy local cuisine, as well as gain a number of your own ideas.

Another traditional event is the Westmorland County Show, scheduled to take place on Thursday 10^th September 2020. Expect trade stands and marquees, as well as displays within the main arena, including “the best in show” from local farms.

One of the popular outdoor activities in Windermere in September is the Windermere Epic Lakes Swim. Now open for entries, best you book your spa hotel and hot tub at the same time!

Things to do in October

Autumn in the Lake District is a great time to book a package break in Windermere outside the main holiday season. However, the October Half Term can still be a busy time of year.

Regular events include the Lakes International Comic Book Arts Festival. Which attracts comic and graphic novel artist from around the world. October in the Lake District is also time for another country fair and the Wasdale Head Show and Shepherds Meet.

What’s more, October is a time for Halloween in the Lake District. With activities across Cumbria, such as the Halloween Ghost Train onboard the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway. Then there’s the ever-popular Halloween week at Muncaster Castle.

Things to do in November

As we start to think about booking a winter break in the Lake District, catch the tail end of Autumn and things to do in November. Likewise, with Christmas just around the corner, winter markets and Christmas Fairs start to take shape.

Then there’s the Kendal Mountain Festival, or Stargazing at Grizedale Forest if you’re looking for other outdoor activities. Alternatively, consider things to do on a rainy day just in case!

Book a Spa Hotel in the Lake District

Take advantage of our packages and deals at Aphrodite’s Lodge Spa Hotel in Windermere. Where you enjoy a relaxing Autumn spa break with your own private hot tub.

Things to do in Winter in the Lake District

With the weather certainly getting colder, it’s time to think about things to do in Winter in the Lake District. That’s why we always have a host of ideas of things to do in Winter in the Lake District:

December in the Lake District
January in the Lake District
February in the Lake District

Things to do in Winter in the Lake District

Winter walks and bike rides, hiking through the mountains or simply relaxing in your spa suite and hot tub. There are certainly plenty of things to do in Winter in the Lake District, from cosy nights into extravagant celebrations.

Things to do in December in the Lake District

As this blog goes to print, December is coming to an end, although that gives you a whole year to plan things for Christmas 2020!

While there is more to Winter in the Lake District than just Christmas, it is of course high on everyone’s agenda. As well as the ever-popular Windermere Christmas Celebrations being well underway, Festive Markets in the Lake District take place all over Cumbria.

There’s even a chance to see Father Christmas on not one, but two of Cumbria’s most popular attractions. The Santa Express runs on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway throughout December in the Lake District. While the Windermere Lake Cruises also have special services available on selected dates.

Things to do in January in the Lake District

With a New Year package break in the Lake District, you may wish to treat yourself to a private spa suite and hot tub in order to avoid the celebrations. Giving you the chance to see in the New Year in a more relaxing fashion.

As for things to do in January in the Lake District, how about a New Years’ Day dip? Joining 100’s of other eager swimmers as they dive into Lake Windermere from Newby Bridge. Meanwhile, Sunday 5^th January is time for the annual North Lakes New Year Half Marathon 2020, taking place in Cockermouth.

Things to do in February in the Lake District

February in the Lake District is a time for romance, especially with Valentine’s Day and romantic spa breaks in Windermere. Not only that, but should there be a marriage proposal, the Lake District Wedding Fair takes place the following weekend.

Just outside the Lake District in nearby Carlisle, the season gets started at Carlisle Racecourse mid-month.

Towards the end of the month, running from 27^th February 2020 to 1^st March is the Keswick Film Festival.

Book a Package Break in the Lake District

As well as a package break in the Lake District at our Spa Hotel in Windermere, we also have a selection of other spa suites available. Along with Aphrodite’s Lodge, our group of spa hotels includes the Windermere Tranquil Retreat and the Windermere Boutique Spa Suites.

If you prefer even more privacy then we also have a spa cottage to hire, perfect for those romantic winter package breaks in the Lake District.

Activities in the Lake District

Whether its activities in the Lake District as part of a romantic spa package break, last-minute weekend break in Windermere or during your summer holidays. There’s always plenty to see and do in the Lake District, with activities for all occasions:

Activities for couples
Outdoor activities
Indoor activities
Unusual activities

Lake District Activities for Couples

What better way to spend a weekend in the Lake District with the one you love, than by booking a romantic spa break in Windermere.

Here at Aphrodite’s Lodge Spa Hotel, we have spa suites and hot tubs available for all occasions. It could be a honeymoon suite with hot tub, spa retreat for a special occasion or just because you’re a couple that deserves to be pampered.

Treat your loved one this February with a valentines spa break in Windermere and enjoy spa treatments for couples at our very own spa beauty treatments.

The Lake District also has a number of activities for couples, from romantic picnic spots to wedding fairs and fine dining restaurants.

Outdoor Activities in the Lake District

Whether it be a romantic walk along the banks of Lake Windermere or a hike across the fells, walking in the Lake District is always a popular outdoor activity. So much so, in fact, that esteemed fell-walker Arthur Wainwright published a whole series of books on the subject.

Then there’s a choice of the Lakes themselves, all of which provide a fantastic setting amongst the Cumbrian countryside. Whereby the Windermere Lake Cruises, Steam Yacht Gondola and Coniston Launch offer a sailing experience like no other, as well as combination tickets for local attractions.

For the adventurous of you, other outdoor activities on the water include paddle boarding, kayaking and canoeing or even your own private sailing experience. Then there are annual events such as the Windermere Wild Swim or a variety of Lake District marathons back on dry land.

Alternatively, outdoor activities and events in the Lake District include everything from the traditional Cumberland Show or the modern Kendal Calling music festival.

Indoor Activities in the Lake District

Meanwhile, the unpredictable British weather can affect which activities in the Lake District you decide to take part in. After all, when it comes to things to do on a rainy day, a backup plan for your outdoor activities is surely needed.

As such, there are plenty of indoor activities in the Lake District too. Including popular attractions the World of Beatrix Potter, the Lakes Aquarium and Lakeland Motor Museum. All of which are a short drive from your spa suite and hot tub at Aphrodite’s Lodge Spa Hotel in Windermere.

If you’re thinking of further afield, then there are the hidden depths of Honister Slate Mine or the entertainment complex at Zeffirellis Cinema and Jazz Cafe Bar. As is the diversity of indoor activities available within the Lake District.

Unusual Activities to do in the Lake District

Then, if you think you’ve seen it all, however about some more unusual activities in the Lake District.

It could be uncovering the ancient secrets of the Castlerigg Stone Circle, or visiting possibly the worlds only pencil museum in Keswick. Maybe you like the adventure of rock climbing in the mountains, or ziplines and swinging from tree to tree at Go Ape or Brockhole on Windermere.

Some of the more unusual activities in the Lake District often take place during Halloween. Whereby the myths and legends of Cumbria can come alive. So how about a visiting the haunted Muncaster Castle or joining a ghost walk in Keswick?

Whatever activities in the Lake District are right for you, one thing is for certain, you won’t leave disappointed. By booking a spa package break in the Lake District, you can embrace the outdoors, or simply relax in your spa suite and hot tub.

Aphrodite’s Lodge Spa Hotel in Windermere

Book a package break in the Lake District at the Aphrodite’s Lodge Spa Hotel in Windermere. The perfect location to stay in the heart of the Lake District.

Alongside our main spa hotel, we also have spa suites available at the Windermere Tranquil Retreat, Boutique Spa Suites and our very own spa cottage.

Things to do on Holiday in the Lake District

Here we take a look at things to do on holiday in the Lake District, during certain times of the year. In particular:

Easter in the Lake District
May Bank Holidays 2020
August Bank Holiday Weekend
Christmas in the Lake District
New Year in the Lake District

Things to do at Easter in the Lake District

If you are booking a holiday in the Lake District this Easter, the bank holiday weekend is perfect for a spa package break or last-minute deal. It’s the chance for a weekend away in Windermere without having to take extra time off work.

There are, of course, plenty of activities in the Lake District at Easter for the children. Such as the Cadbury’s Easter Egg Hunt or Easter stories at the World of Beatrix Potter. Meanwhile, popular attractions such as Brockhole on Windermere and Muncaster Castle often have Easter activities too.

Things to do on May Bank Holidays in the Lake District

With 2 separate bank holiday weekends to choose from, it’s no wonder a spa package break in Windermere is popular during May. Especially given it’s a chance to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or a cruise on Lake Windermere outside the tourist season.

Then there’s the Spring Bank Holiday at the end of May. During which, with the start of the season you can expect to find newborn lambs and an array of flowers coming into blossom. An ideal time to book into a spa hotel in the Lake District and visit the numerous stately homes and gardens.

Several annual events fall on the May Bank Holidays too. Taste Cumbria in Ulverston and the Cumberland Sausage Festival in Muncaster Castle, as well as the ever-growing Keswick Jazz and Blues Festival.

By following the Aphrodite’s Lodge blog you can find plenty of things to on May Bank Holiday weekends in the Lake District.

Things to do for August Bank Holiday in the Lake District

If you are planning a visit to Windermere or elsewhere in Cumbria across the August Bank Holiday weekend, remember the Lake District in Summer is a popular choice. As such, book a hotel in the Lake District in advance to avoid disappointment.

As for things to do for the August Bank Holiday, in particular, there will be a host of events and activities to choose from. Events such as the Keswick Show are just down the road from our spa hotel in Windermere. Alternatively, it’s often a time for Grasmere Sports and the Windermere Wild Swim. If you fancy an outdoor activity with a touch of glamour, how about cup day at the Cartmel racecourse?

Things to do at Christmas in the Lake District

Christmas in the Lake District is a truly special time of year, where a winter spa break could be just what you need. So why not relax and book into a spa suite in Windermere, with your private hot tub and a glass of mulled wine.

As for getting out and about this Christmas in the Lake District, you’ll no doubt bump into Santa Claus upon your travels. With special services available upon the Windermere Lake Cruises and the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway.

There are several Christmas markets in the Lake District. With a wide selection of crafts, traditional German food stalls alongside local produce. Meanwhile, the Windermere Christmas Celebrations are one of the biggest events of the year, complete with an outdoor ice rink and magical light display.

Things to do for New Year in the Lake District

We wouldn’t be able to discuss things to do on holiday in the Lake District without mentioning the biggest celebration of them all. Book your spa suite in Windermere and get ready to see in the New Year in the Lake District.

There’s really something for everyone, from dinner and dances at other nearby hotels to romantic nights in at your spa suite with hot tub. Take a walk down to the jetty at Bowness-on-Windermere with a midnight picnic ready to watch the fireworks, or pop into one of the many bars and restaurants.

Either way, with a spa package break in Windermere, you will be seeing in the New Year in style. Whether that be an overnight stay, romantic weekend break or a winter holiday in the Lake District taking you right through to January 2021.

Spa Packages and Deals in the Lake District

Book a spa break in the Lake District at Aphrodite’s Lodge Spa Hotel in Windermere. Where you can take advantage of our spa packages and deals in the Lake District at a spa suite with private hot tub.

Spa Package Breaks in the Lake District

Now you’ve considered all the different things to do in the Lake District, it’s time to start planning your spa package break. At the Aphrodite’s Lodge Spa Hotel, we have a wide variety of spa suites available. Many of which come with luxurious facilities including Swedish Barrel Saunas, outdoor hot tubs and private landscaped gardens.

In fact, as part of our group of spa hotels in Windermere we have spa suites available at the following locations:

Aphrodite’s Lodge Spa Hotel

The flagship of our spa hotels in Windermere, is right here at Aphrodite’s Lodge. We offer the luxury choice of spa suites with private gardens, Penthouse suites, log cabins with hot tubs and much more besides.

There are modern facilities throughout the hotel and plenty of things to do during your stay. With each room having its own characteristics, our guests are spoiled for choice. If you’re undecided which spa suite is right for you, then we have packages and deals available for every occasion.

Whether that be a romantic weekend away, a pamper session with a loved one, or just some alone time with a package break in the Lake District. What’s more, all of our spa hotels in Windermere and spa package breaks come with full use of the onsite Windermere Beauty treatments and hotel pool.

Windermere Boutique Spa Suites

Our boutique spa hotel in Windermere features just 3 rooms, ideal for those quiet package breaks in the Lake District. They come with all the same high quality features, including cinema rooms and hot tub.

Rooms start from just £220 per night for a mid-week getaway or £250 for a spa weekend.

Windermere Tranquil Retreat

During 2019 we are proud to have announced the expansion of our Windermere Tranquil Retreat. Introducing 3 new spa suites into the Aphrodite’s family, ready to provide a New Year Break as we head into 2020.

If you’re on the lookout for things to do in the Lake District, then our Windermere Beauty Treatments are a good start. By staying at the Windermere Tranquil Retreat, special offers throughout the year provide a chance to get a last minute deal on spa treatments.

Rose Cottage, Bowness-on-Windermere

Our spa cottage in Windermere provides a base for your activities in the Lake District. Where you can escape the comings and goings of the main spa hotel, but still embrace all it has to offer. The facilities are still available to use at Aphrodite’s Lodge, however the spa cottage comes with an array of its own home comforts.

Book a Spa Package Break in the Lake District

With plenty of activities and things to do in the Lake District, book your spa package break in the Lake District today. Where you can enjoy a private spa suite in Windermere, just a short walk away from Lake Windermere.