How to Weekend in the Lake District

The moment I touch down at Heathrow International, I feel like I’m home. London is my favourite city in the whole world, hands down. And I each time I visit, I have a ritual. I set aside an entire day for the British Museum. Another day for the National Gallery. A couple of days for window shopping. High Tea somewhere fun, and a day or two to explore new sights, wander old haunts and do some shopping. But sometimes, London’s incessant buzz can temporarily grate on my nerves, and I ache for space, quiet, and pastoral serenity. A three hour train ride or four and a half hour drive (far more scenic), will take you into the heart of some of the most beautiful landscapes you’ve ever seen. So here’s how to properly weekend in the Lake District:

Stay in a B&B

There are plenty of gorgeous country estates in and around in and the Lake District, but to truly appreciate the tranquility England’s largest National Park has to offer, opt for a charming little cottage like this one. B&B’s are the most cost effective types of accommodation. They’re also located in some of the best locales and your hosts will often be a wealth of information for you. My B&B happened to be located next door to where Beatrix Potter lived, and my room overlooked Mr. McGregor’s garden, a prominent fixture in the children’s book, Peter Rabbit.

Befriend the Local Wildlife

If there’s one thing you’ll see plenty of when you weekend in the Lake District, it’s sheep! And no, they’re not wild per se, but they’re certainly a national treasure. The Lake District is home to the Herdwick sheep, one of the few species that survived the foot and mouth disaster in 2001. World renown Beatrix Potter was once the President of the Breed Association.

Bring your Rainboots!

You never know what the weather is going to do on your weekend in the Lake District. Here I am trouncing around at the end of July in a jumper and yep, gumboots. Consistently being prepared for the elements is an English rite of passage, so remember your ‘brolly’ and a good set of ‘wellies’.

Channel Your Inner Artist

There’s a very good reason why eighteenth century English literature was so whimsical, serene and romantic. “Language is the armory of the human mind, and at once contains the trophies of its past and the weapons of its future conquests” (Samuel Coleridge). Whether you are a painter, writer, or photographer, landscapes like this are in abundance and sure to inspire your next masterpiece.

Take a Photography Class

I don’t know about you, but memories and photos are my favourite souvenirs. I’d rather fill my walls with moments, than clutter my shelves with dust-collecting trinkets. If there is anywhere in the world you should take a landscape photography course, it’s here! Because the light is always changing, and you’re working with shadows, shading and enough texture to make your lens burst, this is a great way to spend your weekend in the Lake District.

Walk to Your Heart’s Content

When I first visited England sixteen years ago, someone asked me if I wanted to go on a “walking holiday.” I looked at them incredulously. The next thing I knew, we were in Suffolk, a couple of lightweight packs strapped to us, exploring the English countryside a few kilometers at a time. You can easily fill your weekend in the Lake District with day trips to Lake Sawrey and Windermere, or into the foothills of Scafell Pike, England’s tallest mountain.

Explore Village Life

You’re going to get thirsty…and hungry, and some of the best food and drink I’ve had in all of England is here in the Lake District. A Yorkie (Yorkshire pudding) and a pint is the perfect end to a rewarding trek. Some of the pubs here date back to the 17th century and have as much character as the locals who bring them to life.

Bring a Loved One or Travel Solo

A weekend in the Lake District can be a solo endeavour, a family vacation or the perfect couples getaway. It’s safe, affordable (yes, even with the British Pound kicking our butt!) and if you’re someone in need of relaxation, adores nature, and or loves the idea of being part of a living painting, I can’t wait for you to experience one of my favourite places on Earth.

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