From majestic lakes to rolling hills, the Lake District has been a source of inspiration to poets, writers and artists for centuries. With a wealth of must-see beauty spots, it isn’t difficult to see why.
And whilst it is certainly not easy to single out just a few of the magical places you should visit, we have put together our list of top picks that we are absolutely certain should be on everyone’s bucket list. If you want to visit a few of them at the same time, then why not make a short break and opt for somewhere like Inn on the Square to stay for a couple of nights. That way, it will make it easier to tick a few places off your list.
Haystacks
No visit to the Lake District is complete without a good climb to a breath-taking view. Haystacks was a favourite of Alfred Wainwright; the legendary fell walker. He loved the area so much that he asked his ashes to be scattered there. The climb of 597 metres may seem a little daunting, but the breathtaking views of the stunning rock formations and hidden lakes make it well worth your time.
Grasmere Village
Grasmere is the quintessential English village. The stone and slate cottages, river, hills, and countryside, surround this quaint yet beautiful place. William Wordsworth lived here for a number of years and is buried in the churchyard. He was the inspiration for his most celebrated works, including “I wandered lonely as a cloud.”
Castlerigg Stone Circle
The Lake District is well known for its stunning Lakes, hills and inspirational scenery; however, there are also a number of man-made sights that are worth having on your must-see list.
Sitting on a plateau in the Thirlmere Valley, just outside Keswick, is the Castlerigg Stone Circle. Whilst stone circles may be nothing new in the UK; few have such an incredible view as this one. With Helvellyn in the distance, the rolling hills around the view are intoxicating.
Fairy Glan and Galleny Force Waterfall
There are waterfalls, and then there are the Galleny Force Waterfalls. Located on Stonethwaite Beck in the heart of the Lake District, Galleny Force comprises a number of small waterfalls and crystal clear, turquoise rock pools. The name Fairy Glen is a true reflection of the incredibly mystical quality that the area has. This is the perfect place for pictures, sketching, taking a gentle stroll or simply relaxing. It is also the area where several classic walking trails merge – Coast to Coast, Tour of the Lake District and Cumbria Way.
St Herbert’s Island on Derwentwater
Derwentwater in Keswick is just a few minutes’ walk from the town centre. The lake is incredibly beautiful and home to several small islands which look like small floating forests. St Herbert’s is one of the most famous. This island is the one that is most popular with photographers, and it isn’t hard to see why. It is the largest of all the islands at 5 acres and is situated in the middle of the lake. It was the inspiration for “Owl Island”, which appeared in the books by Beatrix Potter. It is possible to explore this island, and it can be reached by hire boat. For fans of walking, there is a 10-mile loop walk which goes around the lake and takes in stunning views from every angle.
Hopefully, we’ve now given you enough inspiration for your next trip to the Lake District. Which of these stunning places will you put on your must-go list?
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