Things to do in Autumn in the Lake District

Autumn competition

9 October 2017

There’s no such thing as a post-summer-slump in the Lake District. As golden hues sweep across the landscape, it’s time to reach for your wellies and explore the beautiful National Park, at perhaps the most beautiful time of the year.

Think you can make your way through this list? Let us know how you get on and share your photos with us on Twitter and Instagram using #WeAreTheLakes. 

Competition time!

This Autumn we are running a competition for all you sn ap happy photographers. To enter share your photos with us on Instagram using #WeAreTheLakes.   

Winners will colourful Herdy UK umbrella to brighten up your wet Autumn and a cuddly limited edition World Heritage Herdy.

Competition closes Monday 13 November.

Terms and conditions apply.

Follow us on Instagram for inspiration.

See your favourite attractions in a new light…literally!

As the summer buzz mellows, autumn is a great time to visit the Lake District attractions. Beatrix Potter’s home Hill Top, The World of Beatrix Potter, Blackwell Arts and Craft House, Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage, Muncaster Castle and Brockhole Lake District Visitor Centre, to name but a few, are all great days out for all the family.

Feel the sand between your shoes!

It may not be bikini weather, but the shores of the lakes are still beautiful areas of the National Park to enjoy in the autumn, with 26 miles of coastline and estuaries to choose from. You could even take in the views with a picnic…just remember to pack plenty of blankets and a flask of hot coffee to keep you warm!

Will you ‘Brave the Cave’?

Brockhole’s exciting new indoor caving experience is opening for the first time this October half-term and will be open every weekend and during school holidays. It’s an adventure for adults and children over 5, and it’s not to be missed! Can you Brave the Cave?

For fantastic views of the changing landscape, head to Derwentwater.

If you’re worried about getting lost on the fells then join one or our guided walks. This autumnal route above Derwentwater is just two hours long and the next guided walk here will be running on 21st October.

Take to the trees for a fun-filled day out.

How better to enjoy the changing seasons than to head up high? Treetop Trek is great fun for adults and children, with 35 challenges along the way. Just don’t forget to take in the views whilst you’re up there!

Cover more ground on a family bike ride.

If it’s family fun you’re looking for then grab your bicycles and helmets and head outside! On 29 October a guided family cycle ride will set sail on the bike boat from Brockhole to the western Windermere shore, and will tour traffic-free trails that the whole family will love.

When the classic Cumbrian weather strikes head indoors and tuck in to some tasty treats.

The Bluebird Café is set upon the Coniston Lake and lets you enjoy lakeside views whatever the weather. With a delicious menu of sweet and savoury dishes you can drop in anytime for a fix of the Park’s beautiful views, without getting wet!

Follow in famous footsteps.

Join the Cathedral Caves guided walk on the 22 October and spot locations from the fantasy blockbuster Snow White and the Huntsman along the way. This route is a family favourite so make sure you get there in plenty of time to avoid missing out.

Warm up in a cosy country pub.

After a day of exploring the Lakes you may be ready to cosy up next to a roaring fire, with a real ale in hand and a hearty home-made meal on order. We may be biased, but if you ask us nowhere does a cosy country put quite like the Lake District! See the Telegraph’s favourite 10 pubs and inns.

Time for a Brew?

Having spent an evening in a country pub you’ll probably be keen to learn more about the fantastic beer brewed all over the Lake District. Make a day of it at Hawkshead Brewery with lunch in the Beer Hall before a tour of the Brewery.

Enjoy an afternoon of classical music.

Fancying a little lakeside sophistication? On 10 October and 9November head to Brockhole on Windermere, and enjoy a classical concert followed by afternoon tea. Spaces are limited so make sure you book.

Kendal Mountain Festival is back!

Between the 16 – 19 November outdoor enthusiasts will descend on Kendal for the annual Mountain Festival. With film and photography at the heart of the festival, you won’t be short of inspiration for your next adventure. And if you’re planning to head to the fells during the winter, make sure you’re fully prepared for walking in more challenging conditions by booking on one of our winter skills courses, led by our fell top assessors.

Layer up and set sail.

Give your legs a break from all that hiking and cycling and see some spectacular views from the water. Visit Windermere Lake Cruises or Coniston Boating Centre for plenty of boat cruise and hire options.

Branch out with Cumbria’s top 50 trees.

What better time of year to appreciate the stunning trees that decorate the National Park? As the leaves begin to fall and the frost sets in, these trees can look different each time you visit. How many of the top 50 have you seen already?  

Don’t forget your sugary souvenir!

Whether you’re here on a day trip or a holiday, a visit to the Lake District isn’t complete without a mouth-watering memento. Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding, Grasmere Gingerbread and Kendal Mint Cake are all perfect souvenirs…although we’re guessing they won’t last for long!

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