The Best Villages in the Lake District
As the largest national park in England, the Lake District offers the perfect combination of glacial lakes and storybook villages nestled along serene shores and in valleys, along with stunningly rugged fells. The region is famous for its breathtaking landscapes and its outdoor adventures. However, its smaller areas are worthy of more than just a passing glance. If you are looking for a quieter, more intimate way to experience the lakes, then its villages are the ideal choice. Each one offers its own charm, history and character. Let’s take a look at some of the best villages you might want to consider visiting in the Lake District.
Grasmere | Poetry in motion
Nestled in the heart of the Lake District lies the village of Grasmere. This famous village was home to the Romantic poet William Wordsworth. His legacy and link to the area still lingers, with the Wordsworth Museum and Dove Cottage playing an important role in local tourism. Visitors also flock to the local churchyard where Wordsworth is buried. The village is surrounded by the gentle waters of Grasmere, one of the smallest lakes in the region, and the lush hillside. The village is a haven for nature enthusiasts and literary lovers.
Sarah Nelson’s Grasmere Gingerbread shop is one stop that shouldn’t be missed, with the enticing smell of the warming spices used in their closely guarded recipe filling the air around it.
Keswick | The heartbeat of the north lakes
Keswick is more than just a pretty village – it is also a thriving market town, offering the perfect blend of cultural richness and natural beauty. With plenty of Keswick accommodation options, the village makes a great base for exploring. Set between the tranquil waters of Derwentwater (sometimes referred to as the Queen of the Lakes) and the towering Skiddaw Mountain, Keswick is a popular destination for walkers and kayakers. The centre of Keswick is pedestrian-friendly and lined with independent shops, traditional pubs, and cosy cafés. It also plays host to a vibrant weekly market.
A walk around Derwentwater, which is 10 miles and takes between 3-4 hours, offers peaceful woodland trails and incredible views. The Theatre by the Lake, Keswick Museum and the Art Gallery offer a welcome dose of culture.
Keswick is an incredibly versatile location, offering a great welcome to those seeking a slow-paced stay and also adrenaline junkies alike. Whether you are drawn to Keswick to hike Catsbells or sip tea in a riverside café, Keswick has a little bit of everything you will find throughout the Lake District condensed into one place.
Cartmel | Culinary delights
Cartmel can be found tucked into the southern edge of the Lakes. Famous for its Michelin-starred restaurant and sticky toffee pudding, it is a foodie paradise. Carmel is the perfect combination of gourmet indulgences and stunning architecture. As well as the cobbled streets, you will also find a 12th-century priory in Cartmel, which helps to give the village a somewhat timeless feel. The racecourse and its artisanal shops help to provide a more modern twist.
Bowness-on-Windermere | Lakeside leisure
One of the first villages you might come across if entering the Lake District from the south, Bowness sits on the shores of Windemere, the largest lake in England. Here you will find everything from boutique shopping to boat cruises. There is always a lively atmosphere, although it can get very busy in peak season, and plenty of stunning lake views.
Ambleside | Gateway to the fells
For those who love walking, Ambleside, with its trails that lead directly into the fells, is the place to be. The village itself is filled with character, with waterfalls, stone buildings, and a thriving arts scene. It is home to one of the most photographed buildings in the Lakes, the quirky Bridge House – a National Trust property.
With so many stunning villages to visit in the Lake District, you may find that you need to stay in the region for a few days to fully appreciate everything that there is to offer.
