Plan a day out in the Lake District

A must-visit for food lovers, Cartmel is home to two Michelin-starred restaurants by Simon Rogan, bringing the village a total of 4 Michelin stars. It’s also the birthplace of the famous Sticky Toffee Pudding. Enjoy a craft brewery, a variety of independent shops, and more.

Ulverston is a lively town that remains the heart of the local community, featuring a bustling market hall and unique independent shops. It also hosts special events like Printfest and the Victorian Christmas Fair. And because it's the birthplace of comedy legend Stan Laurel there is even a Laurel & Hardy museum to visit.

This charming Victorian seaside resort offers a relaxing atmosphere, complete with quaint independent cafes and shops. Highlights include The Hazelmere Cafe, Abi & Tom’s garden shop at the station and the renowned Higginsons pie shop. In summer, don't miss the Art On The Prom exhibition.

If you’re exploring nearby villages, a stop at Yew Tree Barn is highly recommended. This delightful Antiques and Garden Reclamation centre features a café and gift shop, offering a unique shopping experience just a short detour south of the lake.

Holker Hall is a large stately house with a great garden, plus two shops including their own farm shop selling local produce. Combine it with a visit to Grange-over-Sands and Cartmel, only a short drive away.

We’ve crafted an itinerary highlighting some of the area’s best gardens and garden centres. Explore Levens Hall with its historic topiary and a great café. National Trust properties include the stunning Sizergh Castle and the Beatrix Potter Garden at Hill Top.

At Old Hall Farm near Haverthwaite (at the southern tip of Windermere), you can experience the largest collection of steam-powered vehicles in the North. Step back in time and try your hand at firing up one of these vintage machines.

Also at Old Hall Farm, you can take part in tractor driving and ploughing activities, or for something even more traditional, try driving a pair of Shire Horses. It’s a chance to experience Cumbrian rural life as it once was.

Get hands-on with local crafts at The Lakeland Farm Visitor Centre in Ings, located between Windermere and Kendal. Learn the art of wool spinning from Herdwick fleece or try your hand at dry stone walling without the need for a full course.

For fans of industrial history, Threlkeld Quarry and Mining Museum is home to the Vintage Excavator Trust. Here you can see massive machines in action, from rock crushers to vintage excavators, perfect for those fascinated by heavy machinery.