LAKE DISTRICT - WESTERN & SOUTHERN LAKES
The Lake District’s Western and Southern Lakes offer a blend of rugged peaks, deep glacial valleys, and the reflective serenity of England’s largest bodies of water. This region is a sanctuary for those seeking dramatic landscapes and literary inspiration.
This area encapsulates the wilder, more remote heart of the national park, from the craggy, unspoiled fells of Wasdale to the peaceful shores and forests around Coniston Water. It truly is a haven for adventure and quiet contemplation.
Most Popular Attractions
Fells & Valleys (The Wild Heart)
Scafell Pike: The highest mountain in England, a challenging and rewarding climb offering unparalleled views of the Lake District.
Wasdale Head: A tiny hamlet in the deepest, most secluded valley, famous for its dramatic view of the ‘Wastwater Screes’ and as a starting point for serious hikes.
Great Gable: A distinctive, shapely mountain and a popular climbing peak, offering commanding views over the surrounding fells.
Hardknott Pass: One of England’s steepest and most spectacular roads, notorious for its hairpin bends and breathtaking mountain scenery.
Wrynose Pass: The western side of the high mountain pass, connecting to Hardknott Pass and forming a dramatic route between the valleys.
Langdale Valley: Known for its dramatic “Pikes” (Langdale Pikes) and the classic hiking and climbing opportunities it provides.
Borrowdale: A beautiful, wooded valley leading into the high fells, famed for its ancient woodlands and stunning landscapes.
Honister Pass: A steep and scenic pass where the famous Honister Slate Mine is located, offering mine tours and a Via Ferrata.
Eskdale: A peaceful valley known for its wild, untouched beauty and the charming Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway.
Wastwater: England’s deepest lake, surrounded by steep-sided screes, offering one of the most iconic and dramatic views in the National Park.
Lakes & Waterways (On and By the Water)
Coniston Water: The third-largest lake, famously associated with Arthur Ransome’s Swallows and Amazons and the speed record attempts of Donald Campbell.
Coniston Launch: A popular boat service offering circular cruises, including a special route focusing on the lake’s history and literary connections.
Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway (“La’al Ratty”): A historic narrow-gauge railway running for seven miles from the coast at Ravenglass into the heart of Eskdale.
Tarn Hows: A picturesque and easily accessible beauty spot with a beautiful circular walk, originally shaped by the famous children’s author Beatrix Potter.
Duddon Valley: A less-visited, tranquil valley and river system, praised by William Wordsworth for its remote and unspoiled nature.
Towns & Historic Sites (Culture and Heritage)
Hawkshead: A beautifully preserved medieval village with cobbled streets, known for its connections to Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth.
Hill Top (Beatrix Potter’s Farm): The preserved 17th-century farmhouse where Beatrix Potter lived and wrote many of her famous tales.
Brantwood (John Ruskin’s Home): The former home of the Victorian art critic, writer, and social reformer John Ruskin, set on the eastern shore of Coniston Water.
Muncaster Castle: A historic haunted castle with spectacular gardens and a Hawk & Owl Centre, located near Ravenglass.
Furness Abbey: The impressive, well-preserved ruins of a massive former Cistercian monastery near Barrow-in-Furness.
Wordsworth’s Schoolhouse (Hawkshead): The building where the young William Wordsworth was educated, now a museum dedicated to his early life.
Grasmere Village: Although often considered Central Lakes, its proximity to the Southern section makes it a key stop, famous for Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage and Grasmere Gingerbread.
St. Oswald’s Church (Grasmere): The burial place of William Wordsworth and his family.
Activities & Experiences
Take a Scenic Drive over Hardknott Pass & Wrynose Pass: Tackle the steepest road in England, a challenging single-track route with incredible views of the high fells and valleys, and the ruins of the Roman Hardknott Fort.
Hike to the Summit of Scafell Pike: Conquer England’s highest mountain, with the most popular routes starting from Wasdale Head (the shortest but steepest) or Eskdale.
Go Wild Swimming in a Mountain Tarn: Take a refreshing dip in one of the iconic cold-water spots like Blea Tarn or the lesser-known Sprinkling Tarn, surrounded by dramatic scenery.
Take a Gondola Cruise on Coniston Water: Sail on the National Trust’s beautifully restored Victorian steam-powered yacht, enjoying the stunning scenery of the lake once favoured by Arthur Ransome.
Explore the La’al Ratty Railway in Eskdale: Ride the historic Ravenglass and Eskdale Steam Railway, a narrow-gauge line that runs for seven miles from the coast into the heart of the mountains.
Hike a Wainwright Peak in the Western Fells: Choose a classic circular route up Great Gable or Pillar from Wasdale for spectacular, remote views away from the main crowds.
Visit the Home of Beatrix Potter at Hill Top: Explore the farmhouse where the beloved author lived and wrote many of her famous tales, providing a personal window into the landscapes that inspired her.
Try Ghyll Scrambling or Canyoning: Experience the thrill of climbing up or jumping down natural mountain streams and waterfalls with a guided adventure in the Langdales or near Coniston.
Walk the Shoreline of Wastwater: Stroll along the shores of England’s deepest lake, surrounded by the towering Wasdale Screes, a rugged landscape voted ‘Britain’s Favourite View.’
Take a Traditional Lakeland Craft Workshop: Learn to make local items like coppiced wood furniture, try dry stone walling, or attend a craft workshop in a village like Hawkshead.
Explore Muncaster Castle: Tour this historic haunted castle near Ravenglass, featuring beautiful gardens, an extensive owl and bird of prey centre, and views over the Esk River.
Rent a Canoe or Kayak on Windermere: Get out on England’s largest lake, renting a boat from locations like Fell Foot or Coniston and exploring the smaller islands and quiet bays.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Essential for the West: While the main villages on Windermere/Coniston are well-connected by bus/boat, a car is highly recommended—almost essential—to explore the remote Western Lakes (Wasdale, Eskdale) and the high passes like Hardknott.
Check the Passes: Roads like Hardknott Pass, Wrynose Pass, and Honister Pass are incredibly steep, narrow, and often closed in winter due to snow or ice. Even in summer, they are challenging, and unsuitable for large vehicles or nervous drivers. Always check local conditions first.
Lake Cruisers and Ferries: The Windermere Ferry is a handy vehicle and passenger short cut across the centre of the lake (Bowness to Far Sawrey). Lake steamers and launches on Windermere, Coniston, and Ullswater offer a scenic way to travel and connect to various walking routes, effectively taking you off the roads.
Public Transport: The main centres (Windermere, Ambleside, Hawkshead, Coniston) are connected by the Stagecoach bus network. The 505 and X6 routes are particularly useful. However, bus services to the deep Western valleys (Wasdale, Eskdale) are extremely limited, often running only a few times a week or requiring a taxi/pre-booked private service.
Parking: Parking in popular villages like Ambleside, Hawkshead, and the main scenic spots can be limited and expensive during peak season. Arrive early, particularly for popular trailheads. Consider using park-and-ride options where available.
Be Prepared for the Weather: The weather in the Lake District can change rapidly, even in summer. Always carry waterproof and windproof layers, a map, a compass, and enough food and water, even for short hikes. Don’t rely solely on phone GPS in the remote areas.
Fell Walking Etiquette: When on the mountains (fells), close all gates behind you to keep livestock contained. Stick to marked paths to prevent erosion and respect the working life of the farms. A simple “Hello” or “Good day” to fellow walkers is customary.
The Heritage of Wool and Sheep: The Herdwick sheep is the iconic native breed of the central and western fells. Their tough wool and grazing habits help shape the landscape. You’ll see them everywhere; they are hefted, meaning they naturally stay within a certain area. Do not disturb them or feed them.
Local Cuisine – Not Just Pub Grub: While the region is famous for traditional pubs, try local specialities like Cumberland Sausage, Sticky Toffee Pudding (invented in the area), and a slice of Grasmere Gingerbread. Look for local produce at farm shops and farmers’ markets.
Hidden Gems:
Tarn Hows: A universally beautiful but artificial lake near Coniston, popular with Beatrix Potter, it offers a gentle, accessible, circular walk with spectacular views of the Coniston fells.
Wray Castle: A Victorian Gothic castle on the shores of Windermere that, surprisingly, has virtually no furniture inside, allowing you to explore the stunning architecture and play spaces for children.
The Blacksmith’s Arms at Broughton Mills: A classic, remote, and highly-regarded pub nestled in the Duddon Valley, offering a true taste of traditional Lakeland life and real ale.
St Olaf’s Church, Wasdale Head: A tiny, incredibly ancient church (possibly the smallest in England) set against the dramatic backdrop of Great Gable, a perfect quiet spot after a strenuous climb.
Booking Accommodation: Accommodation, especially in the remote Western valleys and during the peak summer months, books up very far in advance. Secure your lodging before finalising your trip itinerary.
Top Restaurants
The Drunken Duck Inn & Restaurant [$35-$60] – A legendary and well-regarded traditional inn near Ambleside with its own microbrewery, serving elevated, hearty pub food focusing on local Cumbrian produce.
The Old Dungeon Ghyll [$20-$40] – An iconic and historic climbers’ and walkers’ pub in Langdale, famous for its rustic atmosphere, traditional pub grub, and real ales.
The Britannia Inn [$25-$45] – A popular, traditional pub in the beautiful village of Elterwater, known for its hearty pub lunches, daily specials, and a great outdoor seating area.
The Sawmill Café and Farm Shop [$15-$30] – Located in the stunning Wasdale Valley, this rustic spot offers a locally sourced menu in a perfect setting to relax and restore after a hike.
The Black Labrador [$30-$50] – A renowned, dog-friendly Lakeland pub in the village of Underbarrow, offering excellent food made with locally sourced ingredients in a relaxed environment.
The Pheasant Inn [$35-$55] – An unspoiled, traditional inn near Bassenthwaite Lake, offering a comfortable and classic setting for dining with a focus on local and seasonal produce.
The Wateredge Inn [$25-$45] – Located right on the shores of Windermere, this spot offers traditional pub food and a great selection of drinks with stunning lake views.
The Punch Bowl Inn [$35-$60] – A highly-regarded gastropub in Crosthwaite known for its award-winning, refined pub food and commitment to using local ingredients.
The Cavendish Arms [$30-$50] – A traditional village pub in Cartmel offering a friendly atmosphere and a menu of well-executed classic dishes.
The Dog and Gun Inn [$40-$70] – A proper British pub in Skelton serving high-quality, Michelin-rated food in a classic, warm, and casual environment.
Gilpin Spice [$40-$70] – Located in the Gilpin Hotel near Windermere, this relaxed 2 AA Rosette restaurant has an open kitchen and serves a fun and flavourful pan-Asian menu inspired by the spice trail but using Cumbrian ingredients.
Henrock [$80-$120] – Simon Rogan’s restaurant at Linthwaite House, Bowness-on-Windermere, focusing on seasonal ingredients, including produce from his own farm, with influences from around the world.
Kysty [$50-$80] – A popular and highly-rated bistro in Ambleside known for its modern British cuisine, offering a relaxed and informal dining experience with creative dishes.
The Yan at Broadrayne [$30-$55] – A licensed bistro in Grasmere offering a delicious seasonal menu with rustic Cumbrian classics, nostalgic British favourites, and exciting modern dishes using local ingredients.
SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel [$150-$250] – The Michelin-starred main restaurant at Gilpin Hotel, offering a fun, vibrant, and innovative fine dining experience with a focus on technique and creativity.
Chesters By The River [$15-$30] – A popular and vibrant spot at Skelwith Bridge known for its amazing vegetarian food, delicious pizzas, and sweet treats in a lovely riverside location.
Lake Road Kitchen [$100-$180] – A highly-rated restaurant in Ambleside known for its intimate, unique, and special dining experience, with a focus on hyper-seasonal, creative cuisine.
Rogan & Co. [$120-$180] – Simon Rogan’s more relaxed, one-Michelin-star sibling restaurant in Cartmel, offering contemporary and inventive seasonal British fare in an intimate cottage setting.
Urban Food House [$25-$45] – A modern restaurant and bar in Bowness-on-Windermere specialising in small plates, offering a contemporary setting for brunch, lunch, and dinner.
Steam Bistro [$30-$50] – A relaxed and friendly bistro in Coniston, focusing on modern, high-quality, and unpretentious food.
L’Enclume [$300+] – Simon Rogan’s flagship, three-Michelin-starred restaurant in Cartmel, renowned for its farm-to-table philosophy, exquisite tasting menus, and unique culinary creativity using produce from its own 12-acre farm.
The Old Stamp House Restaurant [$100-$180] – A one-Michelin-star restaurant in Ambleside, housed in the former office of William Wordsworth, offering award-winning cuisine heavily influenced by Cumbria’s heritage and landscape.
The Cottage in the Wood [$150-$250] – A Michelin-star restaurant in a tranquil location in Whinlatter Forest, known for its creative tasting menu that uses local, seasonal ingredients to create delicious works of art.
The Forest Side [$150-$250] – A Michelin-star restaurant in a beautiful country house in Grasmere, where 90% of the ingredients are sourced within a 10-mile radius, including from its own garden, focusing on the flavours of the landscape.
Heft [$120-$200] – A 17th-century village inn in Newton in Cartmel, beautifully restored, offering a Michelin-starred tasting menu that pays homage to Cumbrian traditions and hospitality.
The Cedar Tree by Hrishikesh Desai [$100-$160] – A Michelin-star restaurant at Farlam Hall, known for its opulent decor, impressive ceilings, and fine dining experience with calming views.
The Samling [$150-$250] – A luxury hotel restaurant in Windermere offering modern, high-end cuisine in a spectacular setting overlooking the lake.
Base Pizza [$15-$25] – A popular spot in Bowness-on-Windermere, serving delicious wood-fired pizzas with a slow-rising sourdough base, perfect for a casual, satisfying meal.
Crafty Baa [$15-$30] – A cosy and charming hidden gem in Windermere known for its excellent selection of local and imported beers, great wine, and top-notch sharing plates like charcuterie boards.
Hooked Restaurant [$30-$55] – A highly-rated seafood restaurant in Windermere, using the best available local produce for a regularly changing menu, a must-visit for fish and seafood lovers.
The Bistro At The Distillery [$25-$45] – Located at The Lakes Distillery near Bassenthwaite Lake, this bistro embraces the spirit of the Lake District by using regional ingredients with a focus on freshness, flavour, and simplicity.
Ambleside Tap Yard [$15-$30] – Ambleside’s destination for craft beer and real ale enthusiasts, complementing its full bar offering with a menu of quality wood-fired food.
The Terrace Coffee House & Restaurant at Brantwood [$15-$25] – Located at John Ruskin’s historic house overlooking Coniston Water, this spot offers teas, coffees, and homemade light lunches with stunning views from the terrace.
Mizu Pan Asian Restaurant [$40-$70] – An award-winning restaurant at Lodore Falls Hotel, offering authentic pan-Asian cuisine with an open kitchen and views of the Lodore Falls waterfall.
The Ratty Arms [$15-$25] – A unique location on the platform of Ravenglass station, offering a chance to relax with a drink and enjoy pub food while watching the trains of the scenic Cumbrian Coast Line.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
The Fizzy Tarté: A luxurious café bar in Bowness-on-Windermere, known for its decadent afternoon teas, Champagne, and an extensive list of impressive, high-quality cocktails, served in a sophisticated setting.
The Reverie (The Samling): Located at The Samling Hotel near Windermere, this moody blue retreat offers a connoisseur’s selection of finely curated, world-class spirits and unique cocktails, best enjoyed under the stars on the terrace with sweeping views of Lake Windermere.
BAHA Bowness – Ground Floor Bar: While a multi-level venue, the ground floor in Bowness-on-Windermere operates as a stylish bar during the week and becomes a lively cocktail spot on weekends, offering bold cocktails, food, and a buzzing atmosphere.
Lakeside Lounge (Langdale Chase): Situated within the Langdale Chase hotel, this bar and lounge near Windermere offers an all-day menu and classic cocktails with a twist, all set against stunning views over the lake and the Lakeland fells.
The Lily Bar: Ambleside’s only independent bar, this spot is perfect for a relaxed dining experience with an excellent selection of great cocktails, wine, and local beer, often featuring live music on weekends.
Derwent Walker Cocktail Bar And Restaurant: Found in the heart of Keswick, this welcoming venue boasts bespoke cocktails crafted by expert mixologists using infused spirits and homemade syrups, alongside a selection of English-style tapas.
Koppers: A modern, cosy bar nestled within Cockermouth’s former Police Station, known for its vibrant atmosphere and a vast choice of cocktails, gin, rum, and vodka, offering a modern twist on the traditional pub.
Hunter’s Bar: Popular with a younger crowd, this lively establishment in the centre of Cockermouth offers a good selection of draught drinks and a range of cocktails, often hosting live music and karaoke at weekends.
The Crafty Baa Keswick: A quirky, very dog-friendly bar on Bank Street in Keswick that, while known for its craft beer, also serves other drinks in a cosy, characterful setting.
The Mortal Man: A historic seventeenth-century pub in Troutbeck, close to Windermere, offering a charming bar with exposed beams, where you can enjoy traditional tipples and a selection of spirits after a day on the fells.
The Drunken Duck Inn: A highly-regarded gastropub set in a secluded pocket of greenery in Barngates near Ambleside, it features a cosy bar where patrons can enjoy fine wines, real ales, and other quality drinks.
Hole in t’ Wall: Follow the winding roads to this traditional Lakeland pub in Bowness-on-Windermere, known for its atmosphere, well-stocked bar, and being a perfect spot to sip a drink and chat.
The Wheelhouse Club & Lounge Bar (Top Floor Quayside): Though primarily a club, its lounge bar offers a wide and exciting line-up of drinks, including cocktails, on the top floor of Quayside in Bowness-on-Windermere.
Wheelhouse Club & Lounge Bar (Quayside): The Lake District’s premier nightclub, located on the top floor of Quayside in Bowness-on-Windermere, boasting a state-of-the-art light and sound system, a large dance floor, and a lively atmosphere, open late on weekends.
BAHA Bowness – Top Floor Party Venue & Night Club Space: Situated on the top floor, this lively space in Bowness-on-Windermere transforms into a night club on weekends, offering an energetic, elevated atmosphere with live DJs playing house, chart-toppers, funk, and retro anthems. It features a Tiki-style bar serving blended cocktails and is considered a premium alternative to the traditional nightclub experience.
Ruskins: Found in Kendal, this late-night bar stays open until 3 am on weekend nights and features a dance floor, offering one of the closest experiences to a traditional nightclub in the area.
Smokies: A popular late-night spot in Kendal, open until 3 am on Friday nights, providing a great atmosphere and a venue for those looking to continue their night out.
The Factory Tap: Located in Kendal, this spot is mainly known for its craft beer but often has a late, lively atmosphere, serving as a hub for local socialising that extends into the evening.
Handsome: A popular craft beer and general bar in Kendal that can get quite busy and lively late on weekend nights, drawing a crowd for drinks and conversation.
The Barrel House: Another excellent craft beer option in Kendal, which maintains a social, buzzing atmosphere and is a great option for a longer evening out.
The New Union: A good pub option in Kendal that often stays open later and caters to a lively social crowd, functioning as a late-night bar on weekends.
Fletcher Christian Tavern: A Craft Union Pub located on Main Street in Cockermouth, known for its wide range of drinks and weekly live entertainment, providing a lively evening environment.
The Castle Bar: A family-run pub and sports bar in the Market Place, Cockermouth, with a large sun-terraced beer garden, which becomes a busy social spot, especially on weekends.