The Lake District is one of the most beautiful and scenic parts of England. With an enchanting mix of tall mountains, deep valleys, shimmering lakes and olde world villages, it makes for the perfect holiday destination.
Many people come to the Lakes to witness its breath-taking landscapes or take advantage of its opportunities for adventure sports, but there are also many charming and historic towns and villages to explore. Whether they are nestled in valleys, situated on the lakeside or boast superb coastal views, each has its own amazing story to tell.
Here are 5 of the best ‘honeypot’ towns in the Lake District:
Windermere
One of the most popular towns in the Lakes is the ever popular Windermere and the linked town of Bowness. Its main feature is of course Lake Windermere, the largest natural lake in England. At ten and a half miles long and 219 feet deep, the picturesque lake attracts tourists from around the world who come to enjoy it as walkers, sailors, canoeists, swimmers, rowers and anglers. Enjoy the panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains or head away from the lake shore where there is a variety of top visitor attractions and beautiful gardens to discover.
Keswick
The pretty market town of Keswick is nestled between the North Lakeland fells and Derwentwater, England’s widest lake that is referred to as the ‘Queen of the Lakes’. The town is an excellent centre for walkers and climbers and if you want to see some spectacular panoramas this is the place to be. The North Lakes has some of the most dramatic landscapes in the country, with the mighty Skiddaw and Helvellyn and the stunning Lake Windermere within easy access.
Grasmere
Once the home of the famous poet William Wordsworth, the friendly village of Grasmere is the ideal place to explore, relax and get inspired. Situated in a valley surrounded by the lush Lakeland fells, the village take its name from its lake, which was described by Wordsworth as ‘the loveliest spot that man hath ever found’. There are plenty of walks available that offer magnificent views of the lake and it’s also the perfect base from which to take on the taking on the peaks of Scafell Pike, Skiddaw and the Langdale Pikes.
Ambleside
In the very heart of the Lake District, lies the Victorian town of Ambleside. Located north of Lake Windermere, the town is surrounded by beautiful scenery and offers the visitor plenty in the way of walking, mountaineering and mountain biking. Ambleside is one of the most visited towns in the Lake District; with a fine range of speciality shops, pubs and restaurants, a wealth of gardens and being just a short walk away from Lake Windermere, it is the ideal place to stay for a holiday.
Kendal
Situated to the south of the Lake District National Park is the ‘Auld Grey Town’ of Kendal. Known as the ‘Gateway to the Lakes’, Kendal has a rich heritage and appeals to those visitors looking for a unique blend of culture, history and shopping. In the town there are many interesting sites such as Kendal Castle and Kendal Museum and you’ll also find plenty of parks and open spaces including Abbot Hall Park, Serpentine Woods and Goose Holme. This charming little town enjoys a superb location with easy access of the Lakes and is also within close proximity of the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Author: Days Inn UK offer hotels in Kendal for that ideal holiday in the English Lake District.