As the summer draws to a close, it’s time to start thinking about holidays later in the year. Some caravan and motorhome enthusiasts pack their leisure vehicle away into storage for the winter, while others continue to go touring through the colder months.
For those not keen to face the elements in their own camper, Pure Leisure has a number of lodges for sale instead. With this in mind, the holiday park operator has put together a selection of things to enjoy in the Lake District this winter.
Wintry walks
Hiking is a popular pastime in the Lake District year-round, but in the winter you get an extra sprinkling of magic with frosty sunsets, snow-capped mountains and glittering white
fields.
Among the best in the winter are:
- Tarn Hows
- Blea Tarn
- Stock Ghyll Force
- Catbells
- Grizedale Forest
- Latrigg
- Skiddaw
Warm up in the pub
The traditional English pub is the perfect way to warm up after time in the great outdoors. Enjoy a roaring fire and a local ale in the likes of Hole in t’Wall in Bowness or Ambleside’s The Flying Fleece and The Drunken Duck (as long as you’ve parked your vehicle up for the evening, of course).
Lake swimming
It’s not called the Lake District for nothing, meaning there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy a cold water swimming experience. From Rydal Water to Stickle Tarn, each spot is different. Make sure you take the proper precautions before going for a dip and don’t swim in multiple locations in wet swimwear, as this can spread an invasive weed species to pristine lakes.
Christmas markets
Tap into the Lake District’s artistic culture with a visit to one of its Christmas markets. For an entirely unique experience, try the Ulverston Dickensian Christmas Festival, where people dress up in Victorian clothes.
Literary heritage
It’s hard not to visit the Lake District without understanding why it inspired poets such as Wordsworth. Visit his former home of Dove Cottage in Grasmere and the neighbouring Jerwood Centre, which houses manuscripts, paintings, books and memorabilia relating to the Romantic poets and includes Wordsworth’s own library.
Ancient history
The Castlerigg Stone Circle is a Neolithic monument dating back to 3,000 BC and affords panoramic views of Helvellyn and High Seat. It can easily be combined with a wintry walk and warm up in a heritage pub.
Afternoon tea
If a pub’s not for you, then why not enjoy a decadent afternoon tea at Armathwaite Hall, while enjoying views across Lake Bassenthwaite. The menu includes delicate savoury finger sandwiches, pastries, cakes and a choice of plain or fruit scone, served traditionally with strawberry jam and clotted cream.
Distillery tour
Find out more about the processes involved in making whisky, gin and vodka at The Lakes Distillery in Setmurthy near Bassenthwaite Lake. The tour includes plenty of samples for those who aren’t driving.
Winter boat ride
Windermere is the biggest lake in England and hopping aboard a boat to head onto the water represents a great way to get a different perspective on the surrounding landscape. Alternatively, Ullswater is home to a fleet of steamers, which stop at a number of locations where you can get off and explore.
Wet weather activities
While the main draw of a caravan holiday in the Lake District is enjoying the outdoors, there are plenty of activities to enjoy if the weather’s not on your side. Check out:
- Blackwell – a Grade I-listed arts and crafts mansion designed by Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott and complete with stunning interior decor.
- The World of Beatrix Potter – from a captivating illustration of characters from the famed author’s 23 tales to meeting Peter Rabbit, this family-friendly attraction will help create lasting memories.
- Lakes Aquarium – meet native and exotic fish at this haven for animal lovers, as well as frogs, axolotls, otters and harvest mice.
Photo credit: Unsplash/Jonny Gios
