The vibrant colours of autumn make many places in the UK look absolutely stunning. However, when you add in the dramatic scenery of the Lake District, the small villages and the crisp fresh air there really is no place that can beat it.
If you are planning an autumn trip, then the Lake District really should be at the top of your list. There are so many places to visit and things to see that in order to make the most of your trip you may well want to stay for a few nights, at least. Fortunately you will find a variety of accommodation options available, and hotels in Keswick make a fantastic base from which to explore all that the local area has to offer.
Walking
No trip to the Lake District is truly complete without at least a little walk, and fortunately there are plenty of wonderful walks for those of all abilities. Whether you are looking for a gentle stroll that is suitable for walking with a pram, a linear walk with good public transport to get you back to your starting location of something more challenging that will see you climbing to the top of one of the wonderful peaks for some truly breath-taking views, then there really is something to suit. The weather in the Lake District, like the rest of the UK, can of course change rather rapidly, however. If you are planning a walk, make sure you pack the right clothing and appropriate equipment.
The Lakes
There are 16 lakes in the Lake District – although if you are nit-picking only Bassenthwaite is actually named as a lake, the rest are all waters or meres. Boat trips and lake cruises operate on just four of the lakes; Windermere, Ullswater, Coniston Water and Derwentwater, and these are a great way of appreciating the scenery without the need to climb too high. Each company operates a slightly reduced timetable during the autumn and winter months, so it is a good idea to make sure you know the sailing times.
It is possible to get on and off some of the launches which make them a great way to explore the views from the other side of the lake. However, with the reduced timetables make sure you know what time the last boat you can catch is. Otherwise, you could be in for a rather long walk.
Literary links
There are some rather famous writers linked to the Lake District and plenty of places to visit where you can learn more about them. Children will love the World of Beatrix Potter attraction in Bowness and there is also Hill Top, the National Trust property that was once the home of the writer, where you can see the garden that inspired the Peter Rabbit tales and take a look at how Beatrix Potter might have lived. On the edge of Grasmere village is the Wordsworth Grasmere Museum which details the life and works of the poet who was inspired by the local scenery. Nearby Rydal Mount, the home of Wordsworth until his death in 1850 is also well worth a visit. And finally if you loved Swallows and Amazons as a child don’t forget to visit Coniston Waters, the inspiration for Arthur Ransom’s book.
Rainy days
Unfortunately it can rain in the Lakes so be sure to plan some rainy day activities for your trip. The Lakeland Motor Museum offers a great day out and a chance to see a superb collection of vintage cars and motorbikes as well as learn all about Donald Campbell’s Bluebird and his record breaking speed attempts. The Pencil Museum in Keswick is also a fascinating place to spend time on a rainy day.
To sum up, there’s certainly plenty of choice on your doorstep and a little further afield if you base your autumn break in the Lake District, and you’re sure to enjoy your getaway, whatever the weather.
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