The Lake District is one of the most beautiful and scenic areas of England. But despite its remoteness (and often shabby weather), the region can often get overrun with tourists, especially in the summer months. So where can you go to truly get away from it all and spend some time off the beaten track?
Windermere
Lake Windermere, at over 10 miles long, is the largest lake in England and a magnet for visitors drawn to the picturesque views, the boating and sailing. Large parts of the coast are owned and maintained by The National Trust. To experience the quiet life, steer clear of the main towns of Ambleside and Bowness unless you have a penchant for expensive pottery mugs. One of the most stunning locations on the lake is Fell Foot Park found right at the southern point. Here you can head down for the day and splash around in a row boat, or simply sit on the banks admiring the view. The National Trust offer camping during the summer months, so you can stay relatively cheaply without the hustle and bustle of town life.
Bassenthwaite
Lake Bassenthwaite is one of the few lakes in the Lake District that doesn’t have a town on it’s shores. It is the perfect place to stay if you are planning to climb Skiddaw which looms ominously like a giant shadow over the waters. Once of the most serene churches in Britain, St Bega’s church is found on the west coast and is well worth a visit in storm and sun. The church is in the grounds of Mirehouse who have a gorgeous little open-air theatre with performances throughout the summer. Bassenthwaite Lakeside Lodges are just up the road from here, and the lodges are wonderfully well-equipped and comfortable if you are looking for somewhere to stay.
Ullswater
Many tourists visit Ullswater to ride on the glorious steamers that run up and down the lake. If you’re looking to get away from the masses however, hire a bike from Pooley Bridge and head up through the hills. The glacial formation of the lakes have made the scenery spectacular. If you are looking for somewhere to stay, The Quiet Side in Watermillock have made the most of blending their accommodation in with the scenery. This carbon-neutral site offer quaint timber camping pods nestled in the hills above the lake. A little rustic perhaps, but it is a great place to stay if you are looking for some tranquillity.
And finally…
To truly get away from it all in The Lake District visit during the winter months. Wrapping up warm is very much worth it to see the snow lining the hills of this dramatic landscape. It gives you a feeling that The Lake District is an ancient and special place, virtually unchanged by modern development.
