Summer in The Lake District
Things to do in the Lake District for families
Summer sees the Lake District at its busiest and its buzziest with lots to do and see, perfect for all the family.
Come and visit, see for yourself!
5 family friendly Lake District attractions to visit this Summer
Summer is the peak tourist season in the Lake District. The weather is usually at its warmest and driest with longer days and warmer evenings, making it ideal for outdoor activities like swimming in the lake, playing in the park, and picnicking.
Visit Brockhole
What can you do at Brockhole, the Lake District Visitor Centre near Windermere? Take a deep breath… archery, karting, paddle boarding, kayaking, laser clay shooting, a woodland faerie trail, an adventure playground, treetop nets, boat hire, indoor caving tunnels, mini golf, mini tractors, and much more.
Decisions, decisions. And after all that, you’re going to need a rest and something to eat and drink. Happily, there’s plenty of choice there too, with several eateries in the house and grounds.
Of course, you can just go and do nothing except take a picnic, relax on the lake shore, and take it all in.
Kick back at Fell Foot
Gently lapping waves to dip your toes in, gorgeous mountain views and lakeside strolls to feast your eyes on, rowing boats, kayaks and paddle boards for hire to get out on the water, acres of park and meadows to meander through, a café in a restored Victorian boathouse to refuel in – or just bring a picnic, stretch out and relax on the grass and watch the world go by – that sounds like the place to be, doesn’t it?
Located at the southern end of Windermere, Fell Foot is owned and looked after by the National Trust and makes for a perfect family-friendly day out in the sunshine.
Full steam ahead at the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway
Known to locals as La’al Ratty, the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway is one of the oldest and longest narrow-gauge railways in England.
From its beginnings in 1757 transporting ore, to now ferrying passengers and inspiring awe, a ride on one of the lovingly restored steam and diesel engines in the fleet is not to be missed.
Running for seven miles through jaw-dropping scenery, with seven request stops on the way, the circular route will take you across the estuary and through the hills to the final destination at Dalegarth for Boot station. All aboard.
Go wild at the Lake District Wildlife Park
Spread over 24 acres of beautiful parkland, more than100 species of wild and domestic animals and birds are waiting to meet you at the Lake District Wildlife Park. Lemurs, gibbons, meerkats, zebras, tapirs, capuchin monkeys, wildebeest, yaks, and red pandas, to name but a few.
Conservation and education are close to the hearts of the dedicated staff, and there are keeper talks most days, telling you about the animals in their care.
There’s also a fab café serving tasty grub and sweet treats, indoor and outdoor play areas, and a gift shop.
There’s also a fab café serving tasty grub and sweet treats, indoor and outdoor play areas, and a gift shop.
Frolic in the forest at Grizedale
There’s all sorts going on deep in the forest at Grizedale. Miles of walking and cycling (you can hire bikes on site) trails to tackle, over 50 intriguing sculptures by leading artists to admire, stunning views to point your peepers at, wildlife to spot, including red deer, buzzards, barn owls, foxes and badgers, trees to swing through if you want to Go Ape, and regular events in the exhibition space if you want to take a break from all the exertion.
There’s a delicious café too (Cafe Ambio), if you haven’t brought your own picnic.
Discover more of the Lake District
With weekly articles highlighting the very best of the Lake District, there’s always something to get you inspired for your next trip!
If you’d like to be the first to hear of our guides, all our new property listings, events around the lakes, and our last-minute deals…
More things to do in the Lake District
Film and TV locations in the Lake District
Film and TV locations in the Lake District. Explore the beauty of the Lake District through its iconic film and TV locations.
Visiting the Lake District in May
Look forward to warmer weather, longer days, fewer (hopefully) rain showers than April, and it’s the start of festival season.
Explore the shops of Coniston
Coniston can hardly be described as a major shopping destination, but you can find everything you need in this little Lake District village!
Museums in the Lake District
You may head to the Lakes for the fresh air and scenery, but, for those wet days how about a trip to one of the many museums?
Coniston Boat Trips
Discover the gems of Coniston Water on a tranquil boat trip. Glide across the shimmering waters, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery!
Wildlife in the Lake District
Come and see The Lake Districts whole menagerie of local creatures! From alpacas to otters, red deer to seals, and lots more.
