Tempting as it is to make a weekend of it in the Lake District, time and money don’t always allow an overnight stay. Lucky for us, this world-famous national park is close enough to Manchester and Liverpool that you can have a day out in the Lake District and be back home by bedtime, if you set off at a decent hour.
By car, it’s about an hour and a half from Manchester or Liverpool to Windermere. By train it’s about two hours. Of course, the travel time goes up the further north you go, so here we’ve listed our favourite days out in the South Lakes – places you can visit easily without booking a B&B.
We’ve also got lots of recommendations for restaurants in the Lake District – in case you want to make the most of the fantastic food while you’re up there.
-
FinsthwaiteHigh Dam Tarn
More detailsHigh Dam Tarn, hidden in the fells north of Newby Bridge, is a dream spot for sunbathing, swimming and soaking up the beauty of the South Lakes.
-
AmblesideRydal Mount
More detailsRydal Mount is the family home of William Wordsworth and it is still owned and managed by his descendants today. The famous Romantic poet lived here from 1813 until his death in 1850.
-
KendalSizergh Castle
More detailsSizergh Castle, or Sizergh – National Trust as they’re calling it nowadays, sits just outside the southern boundary of the Lake District, but its parkland stretches right up to the National Park’s border.
-
LakesideWindermere Lake Cruises
More detailsNot everyone is up for bounding up mountains in search of the perfect view. If you prefer a more relaxing way to see the iconic landscape of the Lake District, Windermere Lake Cruises is just the ticket.
-
WindermereThe World of Beatrix Potter
More detailsThe World of Beatrix Potter is always handy to have up your sleeve if you’re in the Lake District and the forecast looks a little rainy. Kids love Peter Rabbit, as the always-on-rotation CBeebies cartoon proves, and the books with their delicate drawings and grim realities (rabbit pie) are a hit too.
-
AmblesideWray
More detailsWray is a great value day out near Ambleside. It’s a National Trust castle and parkland but entry is currently free – check before you go to make sure. The best way to arrive is by the Windermere Lake Cruise – catch the Green Cruise from Waterhead Pier in Ambleside.
