Places to Stay in the Lake District
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Information about the Lake District
The Lake District is England’s largest national park and one of the most breathtaking landscapes in Britain, a place of shimmering lakes, rugged fells and charming stone villages that has inspired poets, artists and walkers for centuries. In 2017 it was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The park is home to Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England, as well as Windermere, the largest natural lake in the country. Wastwater, the deepest lake in England, sits beneath some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the park, while Ullswater, with its traditional lake steamers and the nearby waterfall of Aira Force, is often described as the most beautiful of all the lakes.
The towns and villages each have their own appeal. Bowness-on-Windermere and Ambleside are lively bases with lake cruises, shops and cafés, while Keswick, on the shores of Derwentwater, is surrounded by superb walking country and close to the ancient Castlerigg Stone Circle. Coniston, overlooked by the Old Man of Coniston, is home to Brantwood, the former home of John Ruskin.
The Lake District has strong literary connections. William Wordsworth lived at Dove Cottage in Grasmere and later at Rydal Mount, and Beatrix Potter’s farmhouse, Hill Top at Near Sawrey, remains much as she left it. Herdwick sheep, which Beatrix Potter did so much to protect, still graze the fells today.
For the adventurous, there are high mountain passes such as Hardknott and Honister, and the miniature steam trains of the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway make a fun day out for families. Whether you are looking for a challenging fell walk, a lakeside retreat or a peaceful break in beautiful scenery, the Lake District offers a superb choice of places to stay.