About Cumbria
Cumbria, in England’s northwest, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, from serene lakes to rugged mountains. It blends breathtaking natural beauty with a rich literary and cultural legacy, making it a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Known for its charming villages and inviting countryside, Cumbria draws visitors year-round to experience its tranquil beauty, unique local traditions, and vibrant arts scene. It’s a destination that inspires relaxation, adventure, and a deep connection with England’s natural splendor.
6 Incredible Tourist Attractions You Can’t-Miss in Cumbria
Here are some of the best places to visit in Cumbria
1. Lowther Castle & Gardens – Castle
Lowther Castle & Gardens is a magnificent historic site blending Gothic grandeur with expansive gardens and captivating ruins. Once the seat of the influential Lowther family, the restoration of the castle’s romantic setting and impressive grounds has created a popular destination for history enthusiasts, garden lovers, and families alike.
Location
Lowther Castle & Gardens is situated just outside the village of Lowther, approximately 5 miles from Penrith and near the Lake District National Park. There is plenty of guest parking and easy access to the estate via automobile. Because of its position, it’s a great place to stop for anyone taking in Cumbria’s beautiful scenery.
Key Attractions
- Castle Ruins: Although partially in ruins, its majestic façade and Gothic architecture remain stunning, offering a glimpse into its grandeur.
- Exhibitions and Events: Lowther Castle hosts a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, focusing on art, history, and the local environment. Seasonal events, such as craft fairs and outdoor concerts, also occur on the grounds.
- The Lost Castle Adventure Playground: This large play area is one of the UK’s biggest adventure playgrounds, perfect for families.
Things to Do
- Explore the Gardens: Wander through diverse garden landscapes with wildflower meadows, topiary, and hidden pathways.
- Shop for Souvenirs: The on-site gift shop has various unique items, from local crafts to garden-inspired gifts.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Kids can enjoy the sprawling adventure playground or participate in seasonal events like treasure hunts.
2. Lake District Wildlife Park – Wildlife and Safari Park
The Lake District Wildlife Park is a family-friendly attraction within the beautiful Lake District National Park. This wildlife park is dedicated to conserving and educating various animal species, offering visitors an engaging opportunity to observe and learn about wildlife worldwide. The park spans 24 acres of lush countryside and features a diverse range of animals, interactive exhibits, and educational programs designed to promote awareness and appreciation of wildlife.
Location:
The Lake District Wildlife Park is in the village of Keswick, approximately 3 miles from the town center. It is at Lake District Wildlife Park, Longthwaite Road, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4RD, England.
Key Attractions:
- Diverse Animal Exhibits: The park has more than 100 animal species, including otters, wallabies, lemurs, red pandas, and various birds. The staff designs every exhibit to resemble the animals’ natural environments.
- Interactive Experiences: Visitors can participate in daily animal talks and feeding sessions, providing unique learning opportunities about animal behaviors and care.
- Reptile House: Explore the indoor reptile house, which features snakes, lizards, and other fascinating reptiles. The home also features educational displays about their natural history and conservation efforts.
Things to Do:
- Animal Encounters: Participate in special animal encounter sessions to get up close and personal with particular animals. Knowledgeable staff members frequently conduct these excursions and offer insights into the animals’ habitats and habits.
- Educational Seminars: Attend the park’s staff’s daily seminars and presentations to learn about animal behavior, wildlife conservation, and the value of preserving natural environments.
- Explore the Gardens: Stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds, which are home to native plants and provide habitats for local wildlife.
3. South Lakes Safari Zoo – Zoo
The South Lakes Safari Zoo is a distinctive wildlife park in Cumbria, England, that provides guests with an up-close encounter with various animals in realistic settings. In addition to offering families and animal enthusiasts an enjoyable and exciting setting, the zoo supports conservation and education. South Lakes Safari Zoo, which focuses on endangered species, is essential to wildlife conservation and breeding initiatives.
Location:
Dalton-in-Furness is about three miles from Barrow-in-Furness, home of the South Lakes Safari Zoo. Parking is plentiful, and driving to the zoo is simple. Thanks to its convenient location off the A590 road, it is easily accessible from all parts of Cumbria and beyond.
Key Attractions:
- Safari Drive-Through: The drive-through experience, which lets guests witness animals like antelopes, zebras, and giraffes wandering freely in large enclosures, is one of the zoo’s primary attractions.
- Walk-Through Exhibits: The zoo features several walk-through areas, including the lemur walk-through, where guests can observe these playful primates up close in a safe and engaging environment.
- Endangered Species: The zoo is home to some endangered species, including African elephants, red pandas, and Amur tigers. The group works to protect these species and their habitats while educating the public.
Things to Do:
- Animal Viewing: Take your time to explore the zoo’s various exhibits and habitats, observing a wide range of animals, including big cats, birds, reptiles, and more.
- Educational Talks and Demonstrations: Attend daily talks and demonstrations led by knowledgeable staff, where visitors can learn about animal behavior, conservation efforts, and the importance of wildlife protection.
- Zoo Keeper Experience: For those interested in a behind-the-scenes look, the zoo offers a keeper experience program, allowing participants to learn about animal care and assist with feeding and cleaning designated areas.
4. Windermere – Lake
The largest lake in England, Lake Windermere, is in the center of the Lake District National Park. This gorgeous glacial lake, which is more than 10.5 miles (17 km) long and reaches a maximum depth of 220 feet (67 meters), is well-known for its serene waters, beautiful scenery, and recreational options. Because charming villages, rolling hills, and rocky mountains surround the lake, it attracts many vacationers seeking adventure and relaxation.
Location:
Lake Windermere is situated in the South Lakeland district of Cumbria, approximately 12 miles (19 km) south of Keswick and around 25 miles (40 km) northwest of Lancaster. The town of Bowness-on-Windermere and the village of Ambleside are located on the eastern and northern shores of the lake, respectively, and serve as primary gateways for exploring the area. The lake is easily accessible by road and rail, with Windermere railway station connecting major cities.
Key Attractions:
- Bowness-on-Windermere: Known for its stores, eateries, and attractions like the World of Beatrix Potter, where guests may lose themselves in the well-known author’s cherished tales and characters, Bowness-on-Windermere is a thriving town on the lake’s eastern bank.
- Ambleside: Located at the lake’s northern end, this quaint community is well-known for its old structures, such as the Bridge House, and is an excellent place to start several hiking routes.
- Windermere Lake excursions: Guests can take part in picturesque lake excursions that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and the opportunity to board and disembark at different locations around the lake, such as Bowness, Ambleside, and Lakeside.
Things to Do:
- Water Activities: Various water sports are available, including windsurfing, sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Numerous equipment rental businesses surround the lake.
- Cycling: Rent a bike and enjoy cycling along the lakeside paths or the scenic countryside. Various routes are catering to different skill levels.
- Fishing: Lake Windermere is known for its fishing, which provides opportunities to catch trout and pike. Anglers can obtain fishing permits for a day on the lake.
5. Derwentwater – Lake
Derwentwater is a stunning lake in the heart of the Lake District National Park, known for its picturesque scenery and tranquil waters. It is often considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the region, framed by rolling hills, rugged mountains, and charming villages. The lake has long inspired artists, writers, and nature lovers, offering a serene escape and a wealth of outdoor activities.
Location:
Derwentwater is situated just south of Keswick in Cumbria, England. It is easily accessible from Keswick, which serves as the central hub for visitors to the lake. The lake is surrounded by several notable falls, including Catbells, Skiddaw, and Walla Crag, providing a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures. The A66 road provides convenient access to the area from other parts of the Lake District.
Key Attractions:
- Keswick: The nearby market town of Keswick is a vibrant base for exploring Derwentwater. It offers shops, restaurants, and attractions like the Keswick Museum and the Pencil Museum.
- The Jetties: Several jetties around the lake allow easy access to boat trips, providing scenic views and opportunities to explore different lake areas.
- Derwent Isle: A small island in the middle of the lake, accessible by boat. It features a historic house, Derwentwater House, set in beautifully landscaped gardens.
Things to Do:
- Boat Trips: Enjoy a scenic cruise on Derwentwater. Various options, including passenger ferries, rowing, and electric boats, are available for hire. These provide a unique perspective of the lake and its surroundings.
- Walking and Hiking: Explore numerous trails around Derwentwater, including the popular circular walk around the lake. More challenging hikes, like those to Catbells or Walla Crag, offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding landscape.
- Wildlife Watching: Derwentwater is home to diverse wildlife, including birds like swans, ducks, and herons. Bring binoculars to spot local fauna.
6. Lakes Aquarium – Aquarium
The intriguing Lakes Aquarium is on the shores of Lake Windermere in Cumbria’s Lake District National Park. This family-friendly aquarium offers a fascinating glimpse of aquatic life in the lakes, rivers, and oceans through exhibits highlighting native and foreign species. Because of its focus on conservation and education, the aquarium provides visitors of all ages with an enjoyable and instructive experience.
Location:
The Lakes Aquarium is near Lakeside, Cumbria, at the southernmost point of Lake Windermere. Parking is close by, and getting there by automobile is simple. Additionally, guests can enjoy boat services that connect to Bowness-on-Windermere and other locations along the lake from the aquarium’s handy location close to the Lakeside Pier.
Key Attractions:
- Freshwater Exhibits: The aquarium features native fish from the Lake District, such as trout, salmon, and eels. Interactive exhibits teach visitors about their habitats and habits.
- Tropical Displays: Explore the vibrant world of tropical fish, including colorful reef fish, piranhas, and exotic species from rivers around the globe. These exhibits highlight the importance of global conservation efforts.
- The Underwater Tunnel: The underwater tunnel is one of the aquarium’s features. Visitors can walk through it and watch fish swimming around them, giving them a unique perspective on aquatic life.
Things to Do:
- Participate in Workshops: The Lakes Aquarium often hosts educational workshops and events, providing opportunities to learn more about marine biology and conservation.
- Visit the Gift Shop: The aquarium’s gift shop sells souvenirs, educational toys, and gifts related to marine life and conservation.
- Boat Rides on Lake Windermere: Take advantage of the aquarium’s location by enjoying a scenic boat ride on Lake Windermere. Cruises operate from the Lakeside Pier, allowing visitors to see the stunning landscape from the water.
Culinary Delights
Cumbria is renowned for its varied culinary scene, featuring traditional and modern recipes highlighting regional ingredients and its strong agricultural background. Cumbria offers a variety of culinary delicacies, some of which include:
- Cumbrian Sausage: Cumbrian sausages, particularly the Cumberland sausage, are famous for their coarse texture and rich flavor. Often seasoned with black pepper, herbs, and spices, butchers sell these sausages in long coils, and you can grill, fry, or use them in casseroles.
- Herdwick Lamb: Herdwick sheep are native to the Lake District and are known for their unique flavor. Chefs often slow-cook or roast the lamb, making it tender and juicy. Many local restaurants serve dishes featuring Herdwick lamb, highlighting the meat’s quality and flavor.
- Grasmere Gingerbread: This unique gingerbread originates from the village of Grasmere. This sweet treat combines traditional gingerbread with a unique recipe and a spices blend. Its crumbly texture and aromatic flavor make it a popular souvenir for visitors.
- Lakeland Cheese: Cumbria is home to several artisan cheese makers who produce a variety of cheeses, including the well-known “Cumbrian Blue” and “Mrs. Kirkham’s Lancashire Cheese.” Restaurants often feature local cheeses on their cheese boards; you can purchase them at local markets.
- Sticky Toffee Pudding: This traditional British dessert originates from the Lake District. It has a delicious toffee sauce, finely chopped dates, and a soft sponge cake. It is a guest favorite served warmly with custard or vanilla ice cream.
- Cumbrian Ale and Beer: The region boasts a vibrant brewing scene, with numerous microbreweries producing a wide range of ales and craft beers. Look for locally brewed options in pubs and restaurants, such as “Jennings Brewery” and “Bowness Bay Brewing.”
- Black Pudding: A traditional blood sausage made from pork, oatmeal, and spices, Cumbrian black pudding is often a hearty breakfast. It can be used in various dishes, including salads and starters.
- Local Game: Game dishes are popular in Cumbria, especially during the hunting season. Look for options like venison, pheasant, and partridge on menus at local restaurants, where chefs creatively prepare these ingredients in seasonal dishes.
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