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Famous spots in Cumbria

Apr 26, 2022
Lake District

Birthplace of William Wordsworth and home to some spectacular National Heritage sites, it’s no surprise that Cumbria is one of the most touristic places in the UK. From hidden idyllic villages, rolling hills and romantic peaks, this part of the North West is all to discover. If you’re visiting for the weekend from Liverpool or Manchester or planning a week of explorations with your family, we’ve put together a list of the most famous spots to see in the county.

Lake District

There is no Cumbria without the Lake District. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is by far one of the most beautiful places in the UK, offering breath-taking views of sparkling lakes, charming villages and deep valleys. The two largest lakes, Windermere and Ullswater, are crossed by boats and ferries and provide watersport activities for adults and children.

Keswick

With a fascinating history going back to 553 AD, Keswick is a pretty market town in the Lake District, surrounded by Skiddaw Mountain to the north and Helvellyn to the south. It is a base camp for walking trails to Derwent and Cat Bells while also being popular for its cultural attractions like the Theatre by the Lake and the Pencil Museum.

Ambleside

You can’t visit the Lake District without stopping in Ambleside. Many of the Victorian stone-built houses you’ll see are hotels or guesthouses, and there are also fine-tasting restaurants and nice boutiques. But it’s the surrounding natural scenery that makes Ambleside so popular among tourists. If you fancy a hike, you can conquer Loughhrigg Fell on a circular trail. The views are breathtaking!

Penrith

Once the capital of Cumbria, Penrith is a charming historic town known for being the central hub of the scenic Eden Valley. You can visit the majestic 15th-century Penrith Castle – built to defend against Scottish raids – go on a trip boat around the lake in Ullswater or visit the Penrith Beacon. And if you still have time, make sure you experience the beauty of Aira Force waterfall, which plunges 20 metres.

North Pennines

Named as Area of Natural Outstanding Beauty in 1988, the North Pennines are one of the most picturesque spots in the country. Meadows, moors, rolling hills and more make this place a must-go if you’re visiting Cumbria. The natural scenery is spectacular, but the nearby villages are also worth exploring. Cow Green, the cobblestone town of Alston and Brough are three characteristic places you can’t miss.

Kendal

Another pleasant gateway to the Lake District, Kendal offers stunning scenery and various cultural attractions. Sizergh Castle, Levens Hall and Kendal Castle’s ruins above the River Kent provide beautiful views of the countryside and are a chance to learn more about the local history.

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