Best Free Things to Do in the Lake District
Discover the best free things to do in the Lake District, from scenic walks and waterfalls to viewpoints, markets, and historic towns. Explore Catbells, Buttermere, and Aira Force without spending a penny.
Local news, honest reviews and useful guides for making more of Cumbria.
Discover the best free things to do in the Lake District, from scenic walks and waterfalls to viewpoints, markets, and historic towns. Explore Catbells, Buttermere, and Aira Force without spending a penny.
The Bowder Stone is one of the Lake District’s most striking landmarks, a massive volcanic boulder resting in Borrowdale, near Keswick. Rising nearly 30 feet high and weighing an estimated 2,000 tons, this natural wonder has fascinated walkers, scientists…
Autumn transforms the Lake District into a blaze of colour, and Keswick is one of the best places to see it. Golden woodlands, crisp mountain air, and peaceful lakeside reflections make this season ideal for walking. Whether you’re after a gentle stroll or a…
Rain showers are part of life in Cumbria, but that doesn’t mean your day out in Carlisle has to be a washout. From historic sites and cultural attractions to cosy cafés and family activities, there are plenty of ways to make the most of a rainy day in the…
I recently picked up a box of Kendal Mint Tea (£5.50) from The Big Shop with the Little Door in Pooley Bridge, and it’s quickly become a favourite. This tea is pure peppermint, no blends, no extras, which makes for a beautifully clean and refreshing cup. The…
The Uppies and Downies is one of Cumbria’s most dramatic and historic folk games. Played every Easter in the town of Workington, it pits hundreds of players against each other in a battle to carry a ball to one of two goals. With no teams, no referees, and…
The Egremont Crab Fair is one of the world’s oldest and most unusual festivals. First held in 1267 when the Lord of Egremont gave away crab apples to townsfolk, it has grown into a unique blend of medieval tradition and modern celebration. Today, it is famous…
The World Gurning Championships are one of Cumbria’s most eccentric and beloved traditions. Every September, crowds gather in Egremont to watch contestants put their heads through a horse collar and twist their faces into grotesque, comic, and often hilarious…
If there’s one dish that captures the spirit of Cumbria, it’s the Cumberland Sausage. Coiled like a farmhouse rope, sizzling in the pan, and bursting with peppery flavour, this rustic sausage is more than food, it’s heritage on a plate.
When you picture Cumbria, the Lake District’s fells and lakes may come first. But this region is also a powerhouse of flavour. From centuries-old recipes to Michelin-starred innovation, Cumbrian food and drink celebrates a county shaped by farming, community…
Brampton is a historic market town in north-east Cumbria, just 9 miles from Carlisle. Surrounded by rolling countryside and Roman heritage, it’s a gateway to Hadrian’s Wall and a welcoming base for exploring northern Cumbria. ## A Market Town with…
Allonby is a charming seaside village on Cumbria’s Solway Coast, blending sandy beaches, historic cottages and a laid-back atmosphere. Perfect for a day trip or a quiet holiday base, it’s a hidden gem on the edge of the Lake District. ## A Seaside Village…
Tell us about a brilliant Cumbria place we may have missed. Every suggestion is checked before publication.