Outdoor Activities In The Lake District

Located in Cumbria in the North West of England, the Lake District remains one of Britain`s most stunning and popular holiday destinations. It has firmly become a part of our National heritage, famous for its mountainous views, its beautiful lakes, its rich history, pubs and wildlife as well as its association with literature and art.



All land in England higher than three thousand feet above sea level lies within this National Park, making it ideal for a vast number of outdoor activities. As you will see below, there is something for everyone - deciding what to do first may be your biggest challenge.



Walking/Hiking

The Lake District is frequently voted the UK`s favourite choice in destination for walking. Whether it be a relaxing lakeside ramble, a determined mountain walk or even a high-level traverse you`re after, you will certainly find it here. Whether you choose to explore the guides of William Wordsworth or Alfred Wainwright, or even amble from Windermere to Beatrix Potter`s Hill Top Farm, walking around the beautiful lakes of Rydal Water, Grasmere and Tarn Hows, remains one of the best ways to explore this area.



Mountain Biking

The Lake District offers some challenging yet stunning off-road terrains for mountain biking though the routes you take should depend on your experience and fitness levels as the gradients can be extreme. Beginners can join a number of clubs where they can enhance their skills in balance, braking, descending and ascending and in the right places – a typical route might be from Troutbeck, East of Windemere, to Ullswater, with a handy pit-stop at one of the many welcoming pubs in the area. The Roman roads that can still be seen in parts of the Lake District; make excellent trail guides though it is worth taking advice from experienced riders who know the area well.



Canoeing

With large tranquil lakes to exciting white waters, the Lake District is surely one of the most diverse places in the UK to try out canoeing. There are many canoe operators with the region, offering group activities to family day experiences on the water and with professional guides available, canoeists can be assured that they are in capable hands.



Kayaking

Kayaking beginners will require instruction prior to being let loose on the unpredictable waters of the Lake District. Structured lessons are available from a number of activity centres where basic skills in sea kayaking can be learned on some of the great lakes. White waters depend on rain and snowfall but there are a number of challenging routes along the river Eden between Lazonby and Armathwaite weir though a sound local knowledge of the river will be required for safety reasons.



Climbing

From absolute beginners to the risk-taking fanatics of rock climbing, the Lake District has a variety of challenges for anyone all year round. The mountains, known as fells, reach heights of up to 3210ft at Scafell Pike – the highest in England and the area is rich in slate, granite, limestone, sandstone and Borrowdale volcanic rock, all with many excellent bolt protected routes. There are a number of rock climbing clubs and societies that offer instruction for climbers of all experience whether it be for an individual challenge or a weekend group activity.



The Lake District is home to several large outdoor activity programmes where experienced and knowledgeable experts can guide you through the most challenging routes. Whilst reputable companies will insist on correct safety measurements, anyone going it alone should be wary too. Always inform someone on the route you plan to take and the time you intend to return, and invest in the correct safety clothing for the activity you will be taking: life jackets, helmets, arm and wrist bands, sound footwear and approved safety equipment in the case of more dangerous activities such as ropes for climbing. For help in getting started with your trip to the great outdoors, visit Merrell