Ultimate Travel Guide to Lake District National Park

This Lake District Travel Guide has everything you need to know for a first time visit to the Lake District National Park in England.

Included in this guide, you will find recommendations for the best restaurants, cafes, hiking trails, hotels, and activities in the Lake District.

As well as information on the best way to get around the Lake District, when to visit and how many days you should spend in one of England’s most beautiful destinations.

Best time to visit the Lake District?

The best months to visit the Lake District are from April to October. Spring and Autumn provide a balance of pleasant weather, beautiful scenery, and fewer crowds, making these months ideal for a visit.

If you prefer warmer weather and don’t mind the crowds, summer is perfect for enjoying outdoor activities in the Lake District.

I visited during August during school holidays, however staying in more remote hotels + Airbnbs and hiking less popular trails meant we were able to easily avoid crowds and enjoy plenty of sunny 25°C (77°F) days.

Visiting the Lake District in Winter is perfect for a spa break trip, cozying up by a fire and enjoying many a pub lunch. If you’re lucky you’ll witness the Lake District covered in a snow during January.

Spring (April to June):
10°C to 18°C (50°F to 65°F)
Summer (July & Aug):
15°C to 21°C (60°F to 70°F)
Autumn/Fall (Sept to Nov):
10°C to 15°C (50°F to 60°F)
Winter (Dec to March):
2°C to 10°C (35°F to 45°F)

How Many Days Do You Need in the Lake District?

Short Stay (3 to 5 Days):
I recommend spending at least 3 days in the Lake District to get a good taste of this scenic region. Focus on a few key places in the Lake District such as Windermere, Ambleside, and Keswick.

You’ll have time to scramble up one of the most popular hikes in the Lake District, Catbells, as well as going on a scenic boat cruise on Lake Windermere.

Extended Stay (6 Days or more):
With a few more days, you can visit more lakes, such as Ullswater and Coniston Water. As well as exploring a few more charming villages like Grasmere and Hawkshead.

The Lake District is famous for its relaxing spa hotels, so make sure to set aside a full day to relax and unwind in a hot tub or heated pool.

How to get to the Lake District?

The closest international airports to the Lake District are Manchester and Glasglow.

It’s approx a 2-2.5 hour drive from either airport or you can get a train to Penrith station for around the same journey time.

How to get to the Lake District from London?

Getting to the Lake District from London by car will take around 5.5 hours – I recommend breaking up the drive and stopping at Stratford-upon-Avon or Coventry along the way.

Alternatively, if you want to get to the Lake District from London without a car, you’ll need to catch a 3+ hour train from Euston station, either directly to Penrith station or to Windermere station with one change. 

How to get around the Lake District?

What’s the best way to get around the Lake District?

BY CAR: The best way to get around the Lake District is by car. It offers the most flexibility to visit remote areas and follow your own schedule.

If you need to hire a car in the Lake District I recommend using Discover Cars to book your rental. I always get the best deal on car rentals on their site as they compare hundreds of providers and give you the best price available.

You can pick up your rental in the Lake District at Windermere and Keswick or at international airports like London, Manchester and Glasgow. 

Can you get around the Lake District without a car?

Yes, you can get around the Lake District by bus fairly easily. The bus network in the Lake District, operated by Stagecoach, connects most towns and villages.

The main routes are:
555/556/599: Connects Lancaster, Kendal, Windermere, Ambleside, and Keswick.
77/77A/77C: A scenic circular route around Keswick, including Borrowdale and Buttermere.

Buses are a cost-effective option, but schedules may be less frequent in remote areas. A single fare costs £2 or you can get an unlimited day travel pass for £9.50. The easiest way to buy your Lake District bus tickets is on the Stagecoach App.