Why visit Cumbria?
The Lake District
When the idea of camping in Cumbria comes up, the Lake District is usually the first place that springs to mind. And for good reason: it’s the UK’s most visited – and biggest – national park, with 912 square miles of lake-studded moorlands and mountains to explore.
High points
Cumbria is home to the mighty Scafell Pike, England’s tallest mountain at 978 metres above sea level. It’s also got first-rate fells – the local name for hills – like Catbells, Loughrigg and the Old Man of Coniston. Hardcore hikers camping in the Lake District might want to brave the lofty heights of glacier-carved Helvellyn Ridge.
Much-loved lakes
As the name suggests, the Lake District is known for its numerous bodies of water. You’ll find England’s deepest and longest lakes here (Wastwater and Windermere), along with some of the country’s prettiest (Ullswater and Grasmere).
Postcard-worthy places
Lakeside market towns like Kendal and Keswick are home to old-school pubs, tiny art galleries and outdoor gear shops. Make Penrith your base if you’re keen to explore all of Cumbria – set just outside the Lake District off the M6, it’s centrally located.
Literary locations
The Lake District is so lovely that it’s inspired creative types for generations. Visit famed poet William Wordsworth's Dove Cottage (especially in March to gaze at the daffodils), then learn about the creator of kids’ favourite Peter Rabbit and his friends at The World of Beatrix Potter.
Essential things to do in the Lake District
There are countless experiences to have when staying at camping sites in Cumbria – especially around the Lakes. Here’s what not to miss:
- Climb a fell – the walk up to Orrest Head, just above Windermere, takes under an hour
- Sail on a vintage steamer boat from Ullswater to Aira Force waterfall
- Catch a contemporary or classic play at the Theatre by the Lake
- Hire a paddleboard, canoe or sailing dinghy at Coniston Boating Centre
- Trek the aptly named Struggle trail from Ambleside up to Kirkstone Inn for a pint.
- Get your adrenaline running on an outdoor adventure near Keswick, choosing from ghyll scrambling, rock climbing, caving and so much more
- Relax at Wilf's riverside cafe in Staveley, in a sweet spot behind a old mill between Kendal and Windermere
- Explore the Lake District at your pace by discovering some of the best drives around the area, or if you don't have your own vehicle, take some of the most scenic public transport routes the area has to offer
Unexplored Cumbria
Outside the Lake District
Cumbria is synonymous with the Lake District, but there’s so much more to the county than this national park. The area also includes the equally enticing Eden Valley, the North Pennines, the Furness Peninsula and a small section of the Yorkshire Dales.
Adventures aplenty
The beauty of camping or glamping in the Lake District? All you need for fun-filled days is a pair of walking boots. But the area’s also a thrill-seeking hotspot with campsites near places to kayak on lakes and rivers, climb steep crags and mountain bike down massive fells.
Wild swimming
While you can’t go wild camping in the Lake District – at least not without permission from the landowner – you can go wild swimming. The Eskdale valley, with its clear river pools, is just the place for a post-wander dip. Leap into the lakes (Derwentwater, Rydal Water and Rydal Water are easy to access) as well or refresh yourself under the waterfall at the Langstrath valley’s Black Moss Pot.
Wildlife watching
Walk around Whinlatter, the UK's only true mountain forest, popping by the Red Squirrel Sanctuary to admire the rare woodland animals. Keep a beady eye out for the local deer, red kites and ospreys enroute.
Here’s how
On your Lake District camping trip, you might like to make sure there’s access to a toilet block and shower. Or perhaps you want a Cumbrian campsite with a bar and clubhouse for local ales to top off your day? Either way check out some of our favourite campsites in the Lake District.
When we say ‘camping’, we also don’t just mean pitching up in a tent. If you’re not one for canvas-based breaks, browse caravan parks and glamping lodges in the Lake District. There are also shepherd’s huts placed above the North Pennines, luxury cabins set by lakes, and low-key camping pods on real farms.
* Dog-friendly campsites in Cumbria
* Parks that allow campfires in Cumbria
* Cumbria pitches with electricity
* Fully serviced pitches in Cumbria
Alternatively, if you fancy touring the Lake District in a motorhome, there are several local companies you can hire from including VW Camper Hire, or Cumbria motorhome hire, who can save you from doing your full journey the in camper. However, be sure to check out our top tips for motorhome beginners before you hire.
Wherever you decide to stay, or how you plan to travel, make sure you read our camping guide first for all sorts of info on outdoor stays.
