Top 10 Must-See Places in the Lake District for 2024

Introduction

• Presenter: Robbie Rames, travel guide writer.
• Spent 4 weeks exploring the Lake District for a new road trip guidebook.
• The Lake District is filled with beautiful locations; selecting a top 10 was challenging.
• Encourages viewers to watch until the end for the best location.

Must-See Places

10. Bassenthwaite Lake

• Often overlooked by visitors, making it quieter.
• Nearby Whinlatter Forest: England's only mountain forest, offers hiking and biking trails.
• Activities: Kayaking, wild swimming.
• Close to MS Lakes Distillery and Lake District Wildlife Park.

9. Western Lakes

• Includes towns like Maryport and Whitehaven.
• Rich in history and culture.
• St. Bees and Cumbrian Beaches comparable to top UK beaches.

8. Coniston

• Home to Coniston Water, ideal for boating, kayaking, and swimming.
• Recommended walks:
  • Baned Quarry: Easy for most.
  • Coniston Coppermines Walk: Hidden wild swimming spots.
  • Old Man of Coniston: Challenging but rewarding views.

7. Ambleside

• Located north of Windermere.
• Popular town with cozy cafes, quirky shops, and dining options.
• Home to Stock Ghyll Force waterfall and Bridge House.
• Great base for hikes to Loughrigg and Rydal Water.

6. Buttermere

• Considered one of the most beautiful bodies of water.
• Circular walk around the lake takes 1-2 hours.
• Offers flat paths with many photo opportunities.
• Nearby attractions: Crummock Water, Scale Force, and Moss Force waterfalls.

5. Keswick

• Charming town on the shores of Derwent Water.
• Features independent shops, pubs, restaurants, and craft markets.
• Rainy day options available.
• Castlerigg Stone Circle nearby is worth visiting.

4. Ullswater

• Known for its stunning landscapes and historical significance.
• Best explored via Ullswater Steamers (cruise routes available).
• Can reach Aira Force waterfall.
• Nearby attractions: Pooley Bridge and Glenridding.

3. Scafell Pike

• England's highest mountain at 3,209 feet.
• Notable for its spectacular views; visibility includes the Isle of Man and Blackpool Tower.
• Recommended route from Wasdale Head car park; allow 4-6 hours for round trip.
• Caution advised during bad weather; wrong descent could lead to costly taxi back.

2. Catbells and Derwent Water

• Merging two locations for accessibility and views.
• Catbells walk offers breathtaking views of Derwent Water and Newlands Valley.
• Achievable for most hikers; around 2-3 hours for the round trip.
• Derwent Water provides circular drive/walk options.

1. Windermere

• Largest lake in England, 10.5 miles long.
• Great base for exploring central Lake District.
• Towns of Bowness and Windermere offer numerous attractions.
• Recommended activities: Lake cruises and boat hires.

Conclusion

• Encouragement to explore more Lake District locations.
• Link to a longer Lake District road trip video provided.
• Promotion of the road trip guidebook available on Robbie's website and Amazon.
• Invitation for viewers to share their own top 10 Lake District places in the comments.