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Mini guide to Lake District
The lakes and hills of Cumbria, in Northwest England, arguably make up the country’s prettiest region, which is why 12 million people a year flock to the various towns dotted among the lakes. It inspired Wordsworth’s poems and the endless walking trails, views of the dales and opportunity for reflection will certainly inspire you too.
There are sixteen lakes radiating out from a central core of mountains in the heart of the Lake District. Nearby there are also many undiscovered areas, and a range of outdoor activities, including sailing, skiing, water-skiing, horseback riding, mountain biking and para gliding are also offered.
Windermere, England's longest lake, is one of the most popular destinations, there are plenty of quaint B&Bs;, pubs and shops to help make your getaway relaxing, however it is the walking that many come for, and trails along the lakes and over the rolling hills are numerous. The hike to Langdale Pikes in the awesome Langdale Valley is particularly rewarding, though a less strenuous option is to amble around the environs of the pretty village of Grasmere.
The North Lakes and Keswick region is home to the stunning Borrowdale Valley with small hamlets such as Rosthwaite dotted along its length. The lively market town of Keswick lies at the northern end of Borrowdale, with its wide range of specialist shops and parks to relax in.
Less crowded, but equally special, is the Western Lake District, which offers visitors a stunning combination of scenery, from lakes and mountains to seaside marinas and beaches. Particularly dramatic is the scenery around Wastwater. The vast, breathtaking sands of Morecambe Bay are also a good place for solitude.
Carlisle, to the north, is the area’s most historic town, and well worth a visit. Take a train ride through the hidden Eden Valley, along the Carlisle-Settle Railway for one of the most scenic trips in Europe. Another obligatory excursion is eastwards to see parts of Hadrian’s Wall, built by the Romans to keep the Picts at bay.
Hired car is the best way to truly appreciate Cumbria, as the train gives limited access. Several fast trains a day leave from London’s Paddington station up the east coast, stopping in Carlisle with a local connection to several Cumbrian towns. The nearest International airport is two hour’s drive north at Glasgow Prestwick, but long-haul arrivals are rather limited.
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