Cumbria Sightseeing, Attractions & Activities Guide

Dove Cottage in Grasmere was William Wordsworth’s home, where he wrote much of his poetry. The adjoining Wordsworth Museum showcases manuscripts, artefacts, and exhibitions, offering a rich glimpse into the poet’s life and the Romantic movement.

Hill Top Farm in Cumbria is the charming 17th-century farmhouse of Beatrix Potter. Preserved as she left it, the cottage showcases her belongings and illustrations, with a beautiful cottage garden and links to her beloved children’s stories.

series of dioramas showing scenes from all the famous children's books, including Peter Rabbit's garden and Mrs Tiggy-Winkle's Laundry

a delightful sheltered garden, with a partially restored watermill, renowned for its herbs and orchards, growing old English fruit varieties, and planted with over 250 medicinal and culinary herbs

a formidable fortress spanning some 900 years of conflicts and sieges. Mary, Queen of Scots, was imprisoned here for some 19 years

dating back to the twelfth century with a long and turbulent history with excellent stone carvings and medieval stained glass windows

local graphite mining led to the growth of the pencil industry. The museum gives an in depth guide to pencils and pencil making down the centuries

producing the famous Westmorland Green Slate, which has been extracted for centuries and offering a wealth of adventure experiences

this traditional brewery has nearly 200 years of brewing experience using pure Lakeland water drawn from the brewery’s own well

historic narrow gauge railway, located in the Western part of the Lake District National Park with two main stations, Ravenglass and Dalegarth

houses considerable collections of fine and decorative art, human history and natural sciences as well as holding a wide range of temporary exhibitions

Wordsworth's birthplace and family home, presented as it would have been when he lived here with his siblings and family servants

7 hectare park with mountain views across Windermere, wild play area and multiple activities on and off the lake for all ages and abilities

started as a small private collection, which quickly outgrew its original premises, this new, spacious museum was opened in 2009

Whinlatter is home to stunning views, fantastic walks, exhilarating mountain biking, rare wildlife and adventure play

Housed in a 17th-century building in Hawkshead, the Beatrix Potter Gallery showcases original illustrations and sketches by the beloved author. The gallery highlights her life, art, and Lake District inspirations in a charming historic setting.

Bridge House in Ambleside, a tiny 17th-century building spanning Stock Beck, is one of the Lake District’s most photographed landmarks. Once used as a home and shop, it’s now cared for by the National Trust and symbolises the town’s heritage.

constructed about 3000 BC, one of the earliest stone circles in Britain having commanding views over the surrounding countryside

Grizedale Forest in the Lake District is known for scenic walking and cycling trails, wildlife, and its unique outdoor sculpture collection. With a visitor centre, Go Ape treetop adventures, and stunning views, it’s a hub for nature and art lovers alike.

home to hundreds of amazing creatures from local wildlife to more exotic species from around the world

scenic rides on vintage steam trains, connecting with Windermere cruise boats at Lakeside, with a playground, picnic area and engine shed visits

a fine Elizabethan house with oak panelling, ornate plasterwork and period furniture, surrounded by magnificent 17th century topiary

this stately home spans the centuries with a colourful history and reputed ghost. There is also a Hawk & Owl Centre with a wide range of birds

Rydal Mount in the Lake District was home to poet William Wordsworth from 1813 until his death in 1850. Visitors can explore his historic house, beautiful gardens designed by Wordsworth himself, and enjoy sweeping views over Windermere and Rydal Water.

cliff-nesting seabird colony, with 3 viewing points giving superb views of the colony and on a clear day the Isle of Man is visible

Wray Castle, a striking Victorian neo-Gothic mansion on Windermere’s shores, features turrets, towers and lakeside grounds. Managed by the National Trust, it offers family-friendly spaces, scenic walks and stunning views of the Lake District.

for 28 years, the home of John Ruskin, scientist and art collector, with many personal artefacts, including his extensive geological collection

an historic house with magnificent gardens, much loved by its owners and reflecting the tastes of the three families that have lived here since the 16th century

founded in 1796, making it one of Britain’s oldest museums, boasting unique collections of natural history and archaeological artefacts

extensive collection, tracing development of road transport throughout the 20th century, plus local history and period shopping displays

originally built in the fourteenth century as a defensive fort against the Scots, then enlarged by Richard lll in the fifteenth century

a museum here since 1901, originally set up as memorial to Ruskin, but also celebrating the area's heritage, including Sir Donald Campbell

set in a beautiful and diverse garden, this Elizabethan castle is still a family home displaying portraits, alongside contemporary photographs

a fine example of vernacular architecture with the personal touch of the family who lived there including their well used library

Blackwell, a striking Arts & Crafts house near Windermere, showcases elegant architecture, intricate interiors and lakeside views. Visitors can explore period rooms, fine craftsmanship, gardens and exhibitions, all in a peaceful Lake District setting.

Furness Abbey, near Barrow-in-Furness, is a vast red sandstone ruin founded in 1123. Once one of England’s richest monasteries, its atmospheric remains include towering arches and intricate stonework set in a tranquil green valley.

Hawkshead Grammar School, founded in 1585, is where William Wordsworth once studied. Now a museum, it preserves original classrooms, desks and manuscripts, offering a fascinating glimpse into centuries of education in the Lake District.

The Armitt in Ambleside is a museum, gallery and library celebrating Lake District culture. It showcases local history, rare books, Beatrix Potter’s botanical art and works by Kurt Schwitters, offering a rich mix of heritage and creativity.