Now is the best time to make the most of UK breaks. I am not keen on the uncertainty of braving a trip abroad just right now. Most countries seem to change coloured lists all the time and the last thing we wanted was an expensive quarantine on our return. For that reason, we headed to Scotland over half term. As wonderful as that was, I still need to start planning our next holiday. This time I am thinking the Lake District.

I had considered ticking off the Lake District on the way to Scotland. But we had so much planned it really wasn’t possible. So, I think I will have to make a special trip instead. It’s probably wiser that way as the Lake District has so much to offer. To really do it justice I think you should plan on booking four or five days. Windermere hotels make a great base to explore the Lake District. Especially with Windermere lake on your doorstep.

I have included below some of the attractions I think are worthwhile including in your itinerary. Hopefully, you will find something to appeal to everyone in the family.

DAY ONE

Windermere Lake

This lake is more than 10.5 miles in length and a popular tourist attraction. The historic style steamers are a great way to take in the views of the lake.

The World of Beatrix Potter

The World of Beatrix Potter brings the much loved stories to life. A family ticket for two adults and two children costs £23 and you should expect to spend about an hour at the attraction. If you have fond memories of the books, you cannot visit the Lake District without popping in.

Holehird Gardens

These beautiful gardens are full of colourful plants and shrubs and a wonderful way to pass a few hours peacefully appreciating the views. Entrance is by donation; they recommend £5 per adult with children being free.

DAY TWO

Keswick

The market town of Keswick has a lot to offer. Visit on a Saturday and see 60 different traders.

The Puzzling Place

If your children like optical illusions, then definitely make time to visit The Puzzling Place. This museum costs £15 for a family ticket (two adults and two children). It is jam packed with interesting exhibits that make fun family photos, check out the Sideways Room! You won’t believe your eyes.

The Lakes Distillery

Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this working distillery. The Lake Whisky Tour costs £30 per adult and lasts two hours. During the tour you have the opportunity to taste five different whiskies. During the weekends you can also meet the Alpacaly Ever After alpacas.

DAY THREE

Kendal

Sizergh Castle

This attraction has a lot to offer with a 1600 acre parkland, medieval house and gardens. It costs £20 for a family to visit to the gardens, then an additional £4 each for entrance to the house.

Lakeland Maze Farm Park

Depending on when you plan to visit the Lake District the maize mazes are quite impressive to see. They are open July through to September and cost £34 for a family ticket. The maze can take 90 minutes to complete. But after you finish that you can make the most of the farm park.

Kendal Mint Cake

A trip to Kendal wouldn’t be complete without sampling the famous Kendal mint cake. The high energy treat much loved by hikers and bikers!

DAY FOUR

Grasmere

Wordsworth Grasmere

William Wordsworth wrote many of his most famous poems in Dove Cottage where he lived between 1799 and 1808. Considerable investment has been put into this attraction to recreate the sights, sounds and smells from over 200 years ago.

Easedale Tarn

A visit to the Lake District wouldn’t complete without a proper walk. Easedale Tarn promises breath-taking views and some waterfalls. Expect it to take about 3 hours.

Hopefully, these suggestions will inspire you when planning your Lake District holiday.

In collaboration with Hotels.com, but all views are my own