Coniston Boating Centre
Take the whole family out onto Coniston Water! Let our electric motor boats take the strain or take the helm of a traditional wooden rowing boat. Both take up to 6 passengers, and well-behaved dogs are welcome on board too. Try out sit on top kayaks, open Canadian canoes or have fun splashing about on paddleboards. Our friendly team will give you all the help you need.
Enjoy a train trip
The Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway
The Ravenglass and Eskdale railway is one of the longest narrow gauge railways in England. The journey is 7 miles long and takes about 40 minutes each way with stunning views of the Lake District.
Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway
Take a short trip on a steam train and travel 3.5 miles from Haverthwaite to Lakeside pier, south end of Windermere lake. When at the lake you can catch a boat to Bowness or Ambleside with Windermere Lake Cruises. Find more information on the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway website.
Child and buggy-friendly walks
We’ve 50 Miles Without Stiles routes, a few favourites:
- 4.Scout Scar near Kendal- see for miles and miles from the sea to the mountains!
- 6.Windermere’s Western Shore – Get the ferry from Bowness, good for bikes and buggies
- 11.Elterwater to Skelwith Bridge in the Langdales, waterfalls, woods and refreshments
- 13.Tarn Hows near Coniston circular walk around a beautiful tarn with mountain views
- 36.Friar’s Crag Keswick circular along Derwentwater
Explore a forest
Grizedale Forest
Discover art sculptures through the forest, 10 walking and 9 cycle trails to explore, including off-road mountain bike trails. Owned by the Forestry Commission, Grizedale Forest is between Windermere and Coniston, Hawkshead. LA22 0QJ.
Whinlatter Forest
Also owned by the Forestry Commission, Whinlatter has amazing views across Bassenthwaite, Derwentwater and Keswick, with 9 walking trails and 3 cycling trails to explore. Whinlatter Pass, Keswick. CA12 5TW.
Come prepared and enjoy a stress-free visit
The Lake District does get the odd rainy day or two. Ok, quite a few actually, but there’s still loads to do, places to go to keep dry and ways to enjoy this unique landscape whatever the weather.
Make the journey part of your adventure and use one of the great public transport links to and around the Lake District National Park. Locate public toilets and Information Centres for a rest break. Why not explore the beautiful landscapes on one of our accessible Miles Without Stiles routes, perfect for little-legs and pushchairs.
Toilets and changing facilities
Toilet locations and baby change facilities are listed on our public toilets page. Many are located near our car parks.
Information Centres
Our friendly knowledgeable staff are here to help you get the best out of your stay in the Lake District. Whether you need advice on local attractions, walking and cycling routes, or transport options, we’ve got you covered. Enjoy free WiFi, browse our selection of maps, books, and guides, or pick up a special gift or souvenir to remember your trip. Some of our information centres have cafes and bike hire.
Travel and transport
Whether by boat, bus or train, traveling by public transport allows you and the family to experience the beauty of the Lake District in a more immersive and stress-free way. The view from the window becomes a TV-screen of inspiring landscapes, adorable sheep and quirky villages.
Weather
The weather in the Lake District can vary a lot, not just between seasons but even within one day! Whether you’re heading out for a scenic walk or pottering around a village, no matter the forecast, the right preparation makes all the difference – so pack appropriately, plan ahead, and enjoy the adventure!
