Lake District National Park
UNESCO World Heritage lakes, fells and valleys for all
At a Glance
Best Ages
All ages
Cost
Free
Time Needed
Half day to full day
Indoor/Outdoor
Outdoor
Weather Fit
All weather; check forecasts
Stroller Access
Yes on Miles without Stiles routes
Washrooms
At visitor centres and car parks
Food
Villages and cafes nearby
Parking
Pay-and-display car parks
Booking
Not required
Parent Effort
Medium (planning and supervision)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and England's largest national park, the Lake District offers families an unbeatable mix of gentle lakeside strolls, accessible trails, and dramatic mountain scenery. With free entry, thousands of kilometres of paths, and activities from boating to wildlife spotting, it is a year-round destination that rewards repeat visits at every age.
About This Place
England's largest national park, covering 2,362 square kilometres of lakes, fells, and valleys in Cumbria. Home to Scafell Pike (England's highest mountain), Windermere (its largest lake), and hundreds of walking routes, the park draws millions of visitors annually for hiking, sailing, cycling, and scenic drives through some of England's most celebrated landscapes.
Official Website open_in_newCheck the official website for current opening hours.
- Admission
- FREE
Prices were last verified in 2026. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date rates.
Endless outdoor adventures
Over 3,100 km of walking, cycling and riding routes across lakes, fells and forests.
Accessible for all
Miles without Stiles routes are designed for wheelchairs, pushchairs and limited mobility.
Wildlife and nature
Spot red squirrels, ospreys and rare alpine plants in diverse habitats.
Free to explore
No entry fees; just pay for parking, activities and refreshments as you choose.
Good to Know Before You Go
- Barbecues
- Only use raised barbecues off the ground; never light open fires.
- Wild camping
- Not permitted without landowner permission; use designated campsites.
- Dogs
- Welcome on most paths; keep under close control around livestock.
- Countryside Code
- Respect, protect and enjoy; stick to marked paths and take litter home.
- Parking
- Arrive early at popular spots; many car parks are pay-and-display.
- Weather
- Changeable mountain weather; check forecasts and carry layers.
- Swimming
- Possible in many lakes; water is cold even in summer; supervise children closely.
- Information centres
- Friendly staff at centres such as Keswick, Bowness and Hawkshead.
Kid Fit by Age
Gentle lakeside paths and sling-friendly short walks; bring a carrier for uneven ground.
Miles without Stiles routes suit pushchairs; plenty of open space to toddle.
Love feeding ducks, paddling at lake edges, easy woodland trails and picnic spots.
Ideal age for first fell walks, boat trips, cycling and nature treasure hunts.
More challenging hikes, kayaking, climbing and independent exploring begin here.
Scrambling, wild swimming, longer treks and photography appeal to adventurous teens.
Insider Tips
Start with a Miles without Stiles route such as Fell Foot or Tarn Hows for an easy family win.
Visit lesser-known valleys like Ennerdale or Wasdale to escape the Windermere crowds.
Check the Weatherline forecast and Fell Top Assessor reports before heading high.
Combine a short walk with a steamer or boat trip on Windermere or Ullswater.
- •Mountain weather can change rapidly; always carry waterproofs and a map.
- •Keep children close on steep or unfenced paths and near deep water.
- •Cold lake temperatures can cause cold shock; supervise water play closely.
- •Mobile signal is patchy in valleys; agree a meeting point before splitting up.
- •Miles without Stiles routes are barrier-free and suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
- •Information centres and some car parks have accessible toilets.
- •Terrain is mostly natural and uneven; not all paths are surfaced.
- •Accessible boat trips and adapted cycling are available at some locations.
schedule Best Time to Visit
Spring and autumn offer mild weather, fewer crowds and beautiful colours. Summer is busiest, especially weekends and school holidays; arrive early. Winter brings snow-capped scenery but some high-level paths may be hazardous.
shopping_bag What to Bring
- check_boxWaterproofs and warm layers whatever the season
- check_boxSturdy walking shoes or boots for uneven paths
- check_boxPicnic, snacks and plenty of water
- check_boxSunscreen and hats for exposed lakeside and fell-top walks
- check_boxA map or downloaded route as mobile signal can be patchy
Location
Address
United Kingdom
Phone
+441539724555
Last checked: 2026