Things to Do in the Lake District
Welcome to our favourite things to do in the Lake District. We are a family who love simple outdoor adventures that help you slow down and feel good, from short woodland walks and peaceful lakeside paths to waterfall wanders, scenic viewpoints and, when the mood strikes, bigger climbs into the fells.
Everything on this page comes from our own visits, with easy directions, parking tips and friendly guidance wherever possible. Whether you’re planning a relaxed day by the water, your first hill walk, or a longer adventure with wide open views, these are our tried and loved Lake District days out.
Orrest Head Walk, Windermere
A gentle woodland walk with one of the most rewarding viewpoints in the Lake District. Orrest Head is famous as Wainwright’s first fell and offers wide views across Windermere in just under a mile each way. With benches at the top, a viewing plate, and step free access via Miles Without Stiles, it’s perfect for families, beginners, and anyone wanting big views without a big climb.
Todd Crag Walk from Ambleside
A short but satisfying mini fell adventure starting right in Ambleside. This family friendly walk passes peaceful Lily Tarn before climbing to Todd Crag, where you’re rewarded with sweeping views over Windermere and the surrounding fells. With a playground nearby, dog friendly paths, and a real sense of achievement at the top, it’s a brilliant first Lake District hill walk.
Stock Ghyll Force, Ambleside
Tucked just behind Ambleside, Stock Ghyll Force is one of the Lake District’s most accessible waterfalls. A short woodland stroll leads to this powerful cascade, making it ideal for families, photographers, and anyone short on time. It feels wonderfully wild for such an easy walk, with mossy paths, rushing water, and that lovely sense of stepping straight into nature from town.
Derwentwater & Friars Crag
A peaceful lakeside walk with classic Keswick views across Derwentwater towards Catbells and the surrounding fells. Starting near the Lakeside car park, this gentle route leads to Friars Crag, home to one of the Lake District’s most loved viewpoints. Add a boat trip with Keswick Launch for a relaxed day out, with plenty of benches, paths, and scenery to enjoy.
Bowder Stone, Borrowdale
One of the Lake District’s most fascinating natural landmarks, the Bowder Stone is a huge balancing boulder hidden in the Borrowdale valley. A short, easy walk leads from the nearby National Trust car park to this impressive rock, which weighs around 2,000 tonnes. Adventurous visitors can climb the staircase to the top, while little explorers love scrambling around its base.
Aira Force, Ullswater
Aira Force is a must visit for waterfall lovers, with tumbling cascades, stone bridges, and woodland paths weaving through a beautiful gorge. Well marked trails make it easy to explore, whether you choose a short stroll or a longer circular walk. With a large National Trust car park and multiple viewpoints, it’s a brilliant family day out in the Ullswater area.
Brothers Water, Patterdale
A quiet and scenic lake tucked away near Patterdale, Brothers Water feels far removed from the busier parts of the Lake District. Surrounded by rolling fells and open countryside, it’s perfect for gentle walks, picnics, and peaceful moments by the water. Wildlife is often spotted here, and the calm atmosphere makes it ideal for slowing down and enjoying nature.
Rydal Caves
A short and adventurous walk from White Moss leads to the atmospheric Rydal Caves, carved out of old slate workings above Rydal Water. Expect stepping stones, hidden chambers, and lovely lake views along the way. It’s a firm favourite with families, kids, and dogs, offering just the right mix of exploration and scenery for a memorable Lake District outing.
If you enjoy planning your adventures, you can check what the weather and scenery look like right now. We’ve gathered live webcams from across the Lake District and put them all in one place, including Windermere, Keswick, Ullswater and beyond. It’s a simple way to get inspired before your next trip.
We’re slowly building this Lake District guide with real places we’ve explored ourselves, adding new walks, waterfalls and peaceful spots whenever we visit. If you’re planning a trip, save this page and check back for updates.
And remember, it doesn’t have to be a big hike or busy attraction. Sometimes a short walk, a quiet bench by the lake, or a moment watching the water is enough. If you explore nature for a better mindset, you’re already part of the Outdoor Exploring Family.