1. Boats Are The New Cars
Exploring the untouched areas of each lake is best done by boat. Windermere is a good place to take a trip because there is lots to explore on the boat, Wray Castle and beautiful parkland. It's always a good idea to plan your route but Windermere Lake Cruises are a fabulous option, friendly and punctual with a little bar inside you can get to so many different places on the lake and enjoy the rural beauty of Cumbria. No trip here is complete without a boat trip.
2. It's Not Just For The Older Generation
People are under a misconception sometimes that The Lakes only attract walkers or middle aged people but there are plenty of young people enjoying what it has to offer and also lots of hostels too which are nicely situated. A lot of the hotels are afforadable for students also, it depends what you want, the B&B market is thriving up there, but of course there are more luxury hotels. Just recently, was the hotel I stayed in at Windermere. Read my review here. The Lake District offers pubs and true vibrancy, and can be enjoyed by all ages!!
3. Plan Thoroughly & Keep A Map On Hand
If you're not there for a long time, you could easily miss spots you truly want to see. Everywhere is beautiful but you may want to walk a specific walk or stop at a specific town. Make sure you plan it beforehand and have a map in hand too. A hard copy of a map is very important because some roads may not pick up on a sat nav and if you're walking you may not always get strong phone signal. It's the best way to get the most out of your trip.
4. The Popular Lakes May Not Always Be The Best
Many people have heard of the Lake District, and when they're asked to name names of lakes, they'll probably be able to tell you about Windermere, Grasmere, and perhaps Coniston. However, having explored a little more, I was utterly wowed by Lake Thirlmere and Derwent Water. Lake Thirlmere feels completely nordic, with almost a swiss vibe from the road, and you really feel completely emmersed in nature. Take time to visit the lesser touristy lakes also, as well as the popular ones, you'll be surprised!
5. Only ONE Body Of Water Is Actually A Lake
This is a fun fact for those of you who love to find out more about geography! The only true 'lake' in the Lake District is actually Bassenthwaite Lake, the others are made up of different types of bodies of water. Either way, they are beautiful! For more facts and figures of the lakes, click here!
6. It Has That Northern Hospitality Everyone Loves
Being a northerner, you appreciate and understand how northerners work. Friendly, hospitable and salt of the earth, but sometimes when you move out of your area to a tourist area, you can find a lack of Northern Hospitality, but in Cumbria, people seem happy (no surprise), and very friendly. It has a very relaxed vibe, and nobody is in too much of a rush, it has a very European pace of life, which is very welcoming! People will be happy to give you directions or offer you advice on where is good to go. A really friendly warm place and always a good cup of tea ready to be found in a cute tearoom!
7. You Come Home Feeling Like You've Had A Holiday
Away from all the hustle and bustle of the city and the mountainous terrain, it truly feels as if you've escaped England! It is such a treat, with so many hotels and cafes and bars that you feel as if you're indulging in a summer escape! There are a few main areas to shop also, Windermere, Keswick and Penrith being the major ones, and a little down in the south there's Kendal, the home of the famous Kendal Mint Cake, and there's always plenty of that to find in gift shops!