The Lake District is a hugely popular UK destination due to its natural beauty, boasting stunning lakes, mountains, forests, and rolling hills which attract visitors from all over the world. The area has a rich and varied history that dates back thousands of years, and archaeological sites, such as the Castlerigg Stone Circle and Long Meg and Her Daughters date back to this period.
The Romans occupied the Lake District in the 1st century AD and established several forts and settlements in the region.
This article is going to give four in-depth reasons to visit the jewel in the crown of the UK countryside. So, let’s dive right in.
The Lakes
It’s called The Lake District for a reason: the area is home to 16 stunning lakes scattered throughout the region. Each lake has its unique character, and all are surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
Windermere is the largest lake in England, stretching over 10 miles and a popular destination for boating and water sports. Ullswater is the second largest lake and is known for its stunning scenery and is popular for hiking and boating.
Derwentwater is a beautiful lake located in the northern part of the Lake District with several islands, including Derwent Island, which is owned by the National Trust. Coniston Water is a long and narrow lake located in the southern part of the Lake District with clear water and stunning scenery.
Buttermere is a small and peaceful lake located in the western part of the Lake District, surrounded by mountains and forests, and popular for hiking and fishing. The lakes are one of the main reasons holidayers visit the area, with many buying static caravans at North Lakes.
Also Read: Best Ways To Keep Your Food Clean While Travelling
The Mountains
The Lake District is famous for its rugged and dramatic mountain scenery. Scafell Pike, standing at 3,209 feet, is the highest mountain in England and is a popular destination for hikers. Helvellyn is the third-highest mountain, standing at 3,117 feet, and offers gorgeous views from the summit.
Skiddaw is the fourth-highest mountain, standing at 3,054 feet, and is a popular destination for hikers. Great Gable is a distinctive and popular mountain, standing at 2,949 feet.
Catbells is a smaller mountain standing at 1,480 feet but still offers stunning views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. The Lake District mountains offer a range of hiking and climbing opportunities for visitors of all skill levels, and the stunning scenery makes them a major draw for visitors.
The Wildlife
The Lake District is known for its rich and diverse wildlife, which includes rare and endangered species. Visitors can see red squirrels, ospreys, red deer, golden eagles, and water voles in their natural habitat. The Lake District is one of the last strongholds for red squirrels and water voles in England.
The region is also home to nesting pairs of ospreys, which migrate from Africa to breed, and a healthy population of red deer. The region offers visitors the opportunity to see these rare and endangered species and learn about conservation efforts to protect them.
History and Culture
The Lake District is steeped in history and culture that dates back thousands of years. It has been inhabited since the Stone Age, with archaeological sites such as the Castlerigg Stone Circle dating back thousands of years.
The Romans occupied the region in the 1st century AD and established several forts and settlements. During the Middle Ages, the Lake District was a hub of monastic activity, with several abbeys and priories established in the region.
In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the region became a popular destination for poets and artists, such as William Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge, who contributed to the Romantic movement.
Since the late 19th century, the Lake District has been a popular destination for outdoor recreation, attracting visitors from around the world. The region also has a rich local culture, with traditional food, music, and crafts that reflect the unique history and heritage of the area.
Also Read: The Best Way To Experience Sightseeing in Kansas City
Scenic Drives
The Lake District is famous for its picturesque and stunning scenic drives. The roads in the region wind through mountains and valleys, offering unparalleled views of the lakes and fells. Kirkstone Pass, the highest mountain pass in the Lake District, provides panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Hardknott Pass is a narrow and winding road that offers incredible views, but it is not for the faint of heart. Wrynose Pass is another scenic drive that is popular with visitors, offering views of the rugged fells and valleys.
The drive from Keswick to Buttermere is also a favorite among tourists, with breathtaking views of the mountain scenery and the pristine lake. Other scenic drives in the Lake District include Honister Pass, Newlands Pass, and the A592 road that runs along the shores of Lake Windermere.
