There is always loads to do in the Lake District, Cumbria whatever the weather. Here are some all-weather attractions to keep the whole family entertained.
WORLD OF BEATRIX POTTER, BOWNESS-ON-WINDERMERE
The author Beatrix Potter™ is synonymous with the English Lake District. She made the area her home and was a lover of the natural landscape. She embraced farming and became an expert in Herdwick sheep, the Lakeland breed.
The stunning scenery inspired her delightful tales, still popular with children all around the world. At the World of Beatrix Potter™ Attraction you can explore an enchanting world where the author’s magical stories are brought to life in 3D. Meet Peter Rabbit and step into Mr McGregor’s garden.
With a free activity book for kids, a family friendly café and gift shop, everyone can enjoy a bit of Beatrix Potter magic, whatever the weather!
LAKELAND MOTOR MUSEUM
If you are a petrol-head this is the perfect attraction for you and all the family. This brilliant museum houses over 30,000 exhibits tracing more than 100 years of road transport heritage. Recently a new exhibition has been launched which details the history of the Isle of Man TT Races, one of the most famous motorbike events.
You’ll discover numerous fascinating stories rooted in the local area: a typical 1930’s Westmorland garage re-creation, the Campbell Bluebird Exhibition and the Leven Valley Heritage Centre which depicts how life used to be in the Backbarrow Blue Mill, the iron works, gunpowder factories and woodland industries.
A thought provoking and thoroughly enjoyable visitor experience which entertains all ages, whatever the weather.
Dalemain is a fine mixture of medieval, Tudor and early Georgian architecture. The imposing Georgian façade strikes the visitor immediately but in the cobbled courtyard the atmosphere of the north country Tudor manor is secure.
The present owner’s family have lived at Dalemain since 1679 and have collected china, furniture and family portraits. Visitors can see the grand Drawing Rooms with 18thC panelling, also the Nursery and Housekeeper’s Room.
The Norman pele tower contains the regimental collection of the Westmorland and Cumberland Yeomanry. The house is full of the paraphernalia of a well-established family house which is still very much lived in by the family.
CARLISLE CASTLE, CARLISLE
Impressive and formidable, Carlisle Castle amply repays exploration of its absorbing 900-year history. Carlisle Castle remained a working fortress until well within living memory. It has withstood many sieges, held captive a royal prisoner, and been home to the King’s Own Royal Border Regiment.
Explore the medieval castle rooms, discover a turbulent history with the exhibition, and walk some of the castle walls.
WINDERMERE JETTY, MUSEUM OF BOATS, STEAM AND STORIES
The Museum brings to life the stories of steam launches, sailing yachts, motor boats, record-breaking speed boats as well as the people who built and sailed in them.
Visitors can sail on Osprey, a fully-restored Edwardian steam launch.
There is a Boathouse, large exhibition space, workshops with viewing windows, a learning centre and lakeshore café has stunning views across the lake and fells beyond.
WORDSWORTH HOUSE, MAIN STREET, COCKERMOUTH
Meet some of the Wordsworth household and find out what life was like for the maid, the man servant and the clerk. Enjoy the signs and sounds of a working 18th century kitchen and learn about the historical town on Cockermouth in the 1770s.
BRANTWOOD, EAST OF LAKE CONISTON
The famous Coniston Steam Yacht gondola sails directly to this historic home of famous British social thinker John Ruskin. Ruskin bought the home in 1871 and quickly set to work on imposing his concept of ‘organic architecture’ on the building.
The original seven rooms used by Ruskin are open to the public and filled with original furniture, art and artefacts gathered and created by him. The house also has immaculately kept gardens, which enjoy expansive views across Lake Coniston.
HILLTOP, HAWKSHEAD
In 1905, Beatrix Potter bought Hill Top and took a very active part in the running of it. She said she was at her happiest when she was with her farm animals. Today the house is in the care of the National Trust and open to the public. The furnishings, library and pretty garden are as she left them – it was a condition of her will.
THE DERWENT PENCIL MUSEUM, KESWICK
See the world’s longest coloured pencil. Fascinating exhibits and film reveal 170 years of pencil heritage and how pencils are made today. Learn artist’s techniques, and browse world famous products in the gift shop.
LAKES AQUARIUM, NEWBY BRIDGE
Aquarium with features allowing you to visit the lakes of the world along with those a little closer to home, making it a captivating centrepiece to the Lake District.
Set off from a Lake District Mountain Top and follow the water flow to find jumping trout and river bank creatures. Leap over the paddy fields to Asia- homeland of mischievous otters. Forage your way through the themed areas of Africa, the Americas and the amazing tropical jungle.
MUNCASTER CASTLE, RAVENGLASS
An award-winning attraction which has something for all ages and plenty more. For the kids there is The World Owl Centre, interactive displays, a maze and regular performances by the castle’s very own jester.
For adults there is the chance to learn more about the historic home of the Pennington family, its magnificent gardens, and the ghostly goings on which lead some to claim the castle is one of the most haunted in the land. You can also stock up on Cumbrian food and products in the shop and plant centre and relax and refresh yourself in the café.
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