3 days in the Lake District
Last updated on January 29th, 2026.
I get butterflies in my tummy whenever I think about our short break to the Lake District.
It was one UK destination we'd always wanted to visit but one we'd never got around to seeing.
Finally, we were able to spend 3 days in the Lake District and discover the best attractions in this incredible region.
It’s romantic as it’s wild and inspiring.
A long weekend break in the Lake District is the kind of place where you can recharge and reset.
Where is the Lake District?
Located in the north-west of England, the Lake District is an ideal destination for an English weekend break.
Remarkable in terms of its nature and dramatic landscape, it’s your chance to experience the English countryside at its finest.
The Lake District sits in the English county of Cumbria; a region that sprouts umpteen shades of green from every corner.
If traveling from London, it’s about 4.5 hours by car and 3.5 hours by train. These timings depend on where you start your journey in London from and the amount of traffic on the road.
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3 days in the Lake District
We spent 3 days and 4 nights on our short break in the Lake District.
Create your bespoke Lake District itinerary by choosing the places you like best from the list.
Day 1
Arrival in Windermere
We arrived in Windermere just after 4pm on a Sunday afternoon.
The roads become quieter and slightly narrower as you veer off the main M6 highway and onto the ‘A’ roads. An orchestra of trees decorate the route eventually leading to a clearing to reveal the glorious Lake Windermere.
Sunday is a good day to arrive in the Lake District.
Weekend vacationers have since returned to their homes and regular schedules. What's left is a calm and serene lake town.
Where to stay in Windermere
Windermere is home to the largest lake in the region, Lake Windermere.
It measures 14.8 sq km and is also one of the lakes where they operate ferry and steamer services. Windermere happened to also be where our lakeside hotel, Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa was located.
Get familiar with the surroundings
Both a little exhausted from the drive, we spent our first (half) day exploring our ‘home’ turf.
The 4-star boutique hotel is built for total relaxation. Come summer, the roof terrace is ideal for enjoying dramatic sunsets with a glass of wine.
Take a short walk before dinner to the jetty by the lake. The sky before sunset turns a dusky shade of grey-ish blue and creates a striking scene.
We ended our evening at the resort’s restaurant, Blue Smoke on the Bay. The ingredients, ambience and service were impeccable. Our dinner was equally outstanding, ending the first of our 3 days in the Lake District on a high note.
Map: 3 days in the Lake District
Sights to see in Windermere
While the lake may be the biggest attraction in Windermere, the town has other notable sights within its vicinity.
The World of Beatrix Potter is one of several attractions included in the Beatrix Potter half-day tour. A big draw for children — and adults, there's plenty to discover about the author and her beloved characters.
Wray Castle is a mock Gothic castle that sits on the shore of Windermere Lake. A short drive from the hotel, it's a popular day trip for culture lovers and families with young children.
Exploring Ambleside
Our first stop was to the neighboring town of Ambleside.
From Windermere, it takes around 25 minutes on foot or 10 minutes by car. We didn’t see any physical sign to show we’d arrived in Ambleside — just more traffic leading to the town center.
Traditional stone chimney houses line the route to the main road as well as the smaller roads behind. The center’s a mixture of small independent cafes and shops, selling local eats and home-baked treats.
While here, don’t miss visiting Bridge House in the center of Ambleside. It’s a tiny stone house that dates to the 17th century connected to a bridge. Over the years, the house has been used as:
- an apple store
- a weaving shed and
- a family home for 8 people.
Grasmere
A few minutes’ drive from Ambleside is the town of Grasmere. A small sign indicates that you’ve arrived and it’s quite a view once you see the lake in the distance.
It was the second of the lakes we visited on our 3 days in the Lake District and we covered more ground here than the others.
If arriving by car, head to the parking area called White Moss Walks. It’s set among a space in the woodlands and gives direct access to Grasmere and Rydal Water. Parking prices are reasonable to leave the car for a few hours plus it’s also very safe.
It’s slightly redundant for me to go into detail about which route we took. Once you enter the woods, I encourage you to explore every bit of stream and green space you come across.
Rydal Water
Rydal Water is the third lake we visited in the Lake District and hidden a little off grid. It’s a short and scenic walk from Grasmere and there are several routes you can take to get there.
I was blown away the first time I saw Rydal Water. A scene plucked straight out of a painting, I'd to stop momentarily to take it all in. A squadron of ducks congregated on the still water sharing the land with the frolicking dogs on the land.
It’s a lake that everyone can enjoy. From dog owners and walkers to locals having a picnic, Rydal Water is one hidden lake that you can’t miss.
Rydal Cave
The paths around Grasmere are generally flat and the level of difficulty is easy to medium. Where it does get a little more challenging is the route towards Rydal Cave.
It's important to note that the cave is closer to Grasmere than it’s to Rydal Water. The caves are further uphill, and though mainly flat, it will test how fit, or unfit, you are.
It took us about 30 minutes at a leisurely pace to reach the cave from ground level.
The sight’s quite something as you gaze over the small cave with a gaping mouth. It's possible to enter — but only to a certain point. Inside, is a smaller pool of water with hundred of tiny fishes swimming around.
As you leave the caves, look for the paths that take you back down. Again, take it slowly and with caution as there are some rocky places in parts. From here, it's easy to head back to Grasmere.
The Apple Pie Café — where to eat in Ambleside
After a long morning of walking and a little hiking, it was time for lunch.
There are several good cafes around Rydal and Grasmere that serve light bites and at reasonable prices. Grasmere Tea Gardens has outdoor seating to enjoy the views — and the food at the same time.
The Old School Room Tea Shop in Rydal is a local favorite. It’s an ideal place to gather refreshment, and shelter, for when the rain pours down.
We decided to return to Ambleside as there was one place we’d passed that had caught my eye.
The Apple Pie Cafe is situated in Ambleside town center and is as good as it sounds. Its tiny shopfront looks misleading but there’s a larger restaurant area towards the back.
They sell everything from homemade pies and sandwiches to cakes and pastries. Prices are reasonable, and the food’s local, made fresh on site and is also very tasty.
Wind down at The Spa at Low Wood Bay
We ended the first day of our 3 days in the Lake District back at our hotel for some deserved wind down time.
The Spa at Low Wood Bay was the perfect antidote for relaxing our tired muscles.
Facilities at the spa include an infinity pool, indoor Jacuzzi and steam and sauna rooms. The herbal sauna has gorgeous swinging wooden benches to really help guests unwind.
Outdoors, the hot tub is perfect for guests that enjoy their relaxation time while surrounded by nature.
Day 2
Cruise Lake Windermere
Booking a Lake Windermere boat cruise was one of the best things we did on our 3 days in the Lake District.
A tour like this one includes a Lake Windermere cruise plus a visit to William Wordsworth's cottage. It’s a fun way of discovering the region and an activity that's suitable for all types of travelers.
Windermere Lake Cruises run regular steamer services across Windermere to neighboring towns like Bowness and Lakeside. There are several ticket types to choose from depending on the needs of your party.
We chose the ‘Freedom of the Lake’ ticket. Excellent value for the price given that it allows unlimited travel for 24 hours from the time of purchase.
Hop on and off at the other stops as many times as you like. We also combined our ticket with a ride on the steam railway at Lakeside. More on that later.
It takes about 30 minutes from Ambleside to Bowness and a further 40 minutes to get to Lakeside. The landscape slightly differs depending on which side you sit.
Make the journey an extra bit enjoyable by having a picnic on board. My fresh cream-filled scone with strawberry jelly went down a treat, and quickly too.
Board the steam train at Lakeside
Our final stop on the cruise was to Lakeside. The old-style steam train is visible long before you disembark from the boat.
A traditional steam train locomotive takes passengers on an 18-minute ride to the village of Haverthwaite. A taste of train time travel, you’re instantly transported to the period while listening to the overhead commentary.
At Haverthwaite, guests have the option to stay and explore the village. Unfortunately, we had to make the last boat back to Ambleside so jumped right back on the train.
Drinks and dinner at The Waterhead Inn
The Waterhead Inn is a 4-star boutique hotel just minutes’ drive away from Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa. Located opposite the port to Lake Windermere Cruises we didn’t have far to go.
G&T at The Waterhead Inn
As evening fell, the crowds dissipated leaving my husband and I with uninterrupted views of the lake.
We took advantage of the bright and dry summer’s evening by having drinks outside. Rather than settle on my usual glass of wine I opted for a gin and tonic (G&T). A unique feature of The Waterhead Inn, the hotel serves complimentary G&Ts in every room.
The bartender added a fruity and fresh berry twist to my G&T which I happily sipped in front of the lake.
The Bar & Grill Restaurant at The Waterhead Inn
Even if you’re not staying at The Waterhead Inn, the Bar & Grill Restaurant is an excellent choice in Ambleside. We dined on classics dishes like roasted cod loin, rib eye steak and baked Camembert.
The Bar & Grill Restaurant also have a gluten free dinner menu and vegan menu to suit dietary needs.
Day 3
A day trip to Buttermere
The saying ‘save the best till last’ is no truer than the places we visited on our last day of our 3 days in the Lake District. After hearing several recommendations from locals at our hotel, we drove towards Buttermere.
The weather gods were shining on us that day giving us plenty of sun and clear blue skies. Good weather not only makes a huge difference to the landscape but it also brings the scenery to life.
From Windermere, the drive takes about 50 minutes to reach Buttermere. It’s one of the most beautiful and scenic road trips we’ve ever taken, though also one of the most challenging.
We took the route passing through Keswick before tackling a very narrow country road. The views from here are special but nothing compared to what came next.
Upon exiting the small stretch of road we entered an entire new stratosphere. Enveloped by mountains of green on either side, we slowed down to admire the views and the happy free roaming sheep.
Our route took us past the small hamlets of Stair and Little Town. The road to Buttermere is long, winding and with a landscape that made me so grateful for nature and for our environment.
Buttermere
It was a welcome sight once we'd arrived at Buttermere Village.
With hardly anyone around and with just the feint sound of birdsong, the village felt a little off the grid. Parking was easy to find and the few locals we encountered greeted us with a warm smile.
The lake was close by and located just minutes away. After passing through the country gates (remember to close them behind you) we came face to face with Buttermere.
Setting eyes on Buttermere
We came to an abrupt standstill when we saw Buttermere for the first time. The stillest body of water surrounded by mountains and a cacophony of color stood before us. We said, and did, nothing but take in the entire still life scene.
Believe everything you read about Buttermere because it’s true. The most special and striking lake we visited in the Lake District, it was worth every minute of the challenging drive.
It takes around 3 hours to walk the length of Buttermere but choose whichever distance best suits you.
Good places to eat in Buttermere
We stopped at two places during our Buttermere visit.
Before starting our walk, we were lured in by the sign selling freshly churned ice cream at Syke Farm Tea Room. The produce comes from Sykes Farm next door and the quality is in the taste.
After our lake walk, we went for a late lunch at The Fish Inn. The classic English country pub also doubles as a hotel. Lunchtime finishes at 2pm so arrive earlier to avoid disappointment.
Crummock Water
A short distance from Buttermere is Crummock Water. Though bigger in scale than Buttermere it's nowhere near as spectacular.
Saying that, be sure to visit Crummock Water when in the area. Watch where you walk and be sure to wear appropriate footwear. The path we took was uneven at points and slightly rocky too.
Derwentwater
On the way back to Ambleside we took a detour through the town of Kewsick.
With no firm plans, we made a last-minute decision to explore the Theatre By The Lake.
While the name gave a clue to its location we weren’t expecting to find another lake. Derwentwater may not be the easiest name to pronounce but it’s one that will stay with you.
The third largest lake in the Lake District, Derwentwater measures 5.5sqr km and is a favorite among locals. Walk alongside the lake, or through the woods, it’s an idyllic setting among nature.
Like Windermere, Derwentwater also runs lake cruises. It’s a relaxing way to see the surrounding fells and to also discover more of the northern Lake District.
Dinner at The Grill & Smokehouse Restaurant — best restaurants in Windermere
There was nothing better than ending our 3 days in the Lake District with a traditional, and memorable, meal.
The Wild Boar is one of Windermere’s oldest hotels, something that’s evident the second you enter. Along with its historic background, it’s also home to the superb Grill & Smokehouse Restaurant.
The menu is classic country-style cooking served in a traditional and authentic atmosphere. As it states in its name, The Wild Boar has its own smokehouse on site. With this knowledge to hand, we knew we had to order something smoked on the menu.
We took the Wild Boar Smokehouse Pork Ribs for starters, which they serve with their special recipe BBQ sauce. It was a meaty feast alongside our main courses of rack of lamb and fillet steak.
As the photos show, the portions were generous and left us no room for dessert.
Dinner at The Grill & Smokehouse Restaurant was the perfect way to end our short break in the Lake District. Full, yet satisfied, we made the (slow) move back to our hotel.
What to wear in the Lake District
Like many parts of the UK, the weather in the Lake District can be very unpredictable. Because of this, knowing what to wear in the Lake District can include a diverse range of clothing and footwear.
During our visit in June we were extremely lucky to have clear skies and plenty of sunshine. However, we'd packed for any weather eventuality and came very prepared. The list below outlines what we packed for the Lake District for June.
- Light, waterproof trousers, shorts, or combat pants
- Good grip sneakers or hiking boots. These allow you to walk for longer and to also explore different types of terrain, some of which may be damp or slippery from the rain
- Light outerwear and hooded tops. It was very humid during our visit in June so we hardly used the jackets
What is the weather like in the Lake District?
We traveled to the Lake District at the end of June. Maybe we were just lucky because it didn’t rain once.
There was one day where it was overcast and grey and we were convinced a storm was coming. Instead, it stayed dry and was extremely humid.
Temperatures ranged between 60°F (16°C) and 70°F (21°C) during the day and fell to around 52°F (11°C) at night.
Would you like to spend 3 days in the Lake District? Does it look like somewhere you’d like to visit? Let me know in the comments below.
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Hi Lisa, I’m so pleased I came across your blog a few weeks ago as I’ve just returned from a three day trip to the Lake District and we pretty much followed your itinerary for day time activities / places to visit which was perfect! It’s such a wonderful place with breath taking scenery, just wish we had more time! Thanks again for sharing your tips!
Hi Emily! Thank you so much for your feedback, I'm so happy to read this. The Lake District is stunning and we'd love to go back one day. I'm so glad you enjoyed your time there. Thank you for reading x
I've wanted to visit the UK now for a very long time and now I'd love to even more! These photos are absolutely stunning. These are such beautiful landscapes. I hope to see them for myself one day!
Thanks Anna. The Lake District is so beautiful, and I highly recommend visiting, actually just skip London!
Interesting to see how someone else views my "home town"! I live in Windermere. Funny how we don't visit things that are on our doorstep. I have never been to the World of Beatrix Potter, though I have visited her house in Sawrey. I have not been on a steamer for many, many years. But I did walk up to the caves at Rydal a couple of days ago!
How lucky you are to live here Jane! I think most of us don't visit our backyards that often. The walk to the caves is so pretty, and great exercise too!
Wow! Gorgeous landscape, and the steam train looks fun. Love your photos. 🙂 I should definitely make sure to visit England again asap - as a matter of fact I've only ever been to London (several times, though). It does look a beautiful country! 🙂
Thanks Desiree for stopping by! You must come and visit the Lake District; it's so charming and more traditionally English too!
The Lake District looks absolutely delightful Lisa, and so peaceful. I can only imagine what a great break amidst nature this would be, away from the bustling city of London. I'd love to rent a car over the weekend, drive on those gorgeous roads, take a cruise on Lake Windemere or a stroll around the beautiful lake Grasmere. A glass of wine at the bar & grill restaurant in Waterhead with that view would be the icing on the cake!
It's somewhere you'd love Medha! The place is stunning and with plenty to see and do. I can still taste that glass of wine right now 😀
I love the Lake District, we go on a walking holiday a couple of times a year and its one of my fave locations
How lucky! It's a beautiful place to go walking 😀
I am intrigued by the beautiful pictures of the Lake District, Lisa. First I got confused with the one in Italy, then later when I scrolled down, I realized that you are talking of the one in UK. The place is pretty, and I loved the shot at Buttermere Lake the most.
Thanks Shreya! Yes, it's a magnificent place, and in England 😀
It sure looks like the Lake District lives up to its name. I honestly had no idea how incredible this region was, I'll have to move this up on the bucket-list!
Perfect! That's the reaction I was looking for 😀
The Lake District in the UK is such an underrated destination! I wish I had know about this destination sooner while I was visiting, I would have loved a break from the crowds in London and enjoyed some R&R in Mother Nature. I particularly love the caves you visited with lakes entering the mouths of them. That is so surreal and magnificent. I'm definitely tempted to find a kayak/canoe and venture deeper into them. Sounds like you had a fabulous getaway to the Lake District and were able to recharge.
We had an incredible time! I highly recommend others to try it, as the Lake District is a destination that needs to be seen!
Holy Moly, I better not show this to Darcee cause we didn't make it to the Lake district when we were in the U.K. and she would have loved it all. She loves Tea, and apple pie and steam trains! Plus the Lake Windermere looks amazing and I personally would have loved exploring the Cave too! What an amazing environment. Definitely need to add this area to our return to the U.K. Trip!
Aw maybe next time you can make it here! It's really a wonderful place to visit in England, and so nostalgic too 🙂
The Lake District seems to be the perfect place for a relaxing getaway in the lap of nature. Would love to spend a couple of days cycling or walking around the area and taking in its beauty. The town of Ambleside seems to be really cute and interesting and an ideal place to saunter around. This is a really detailed itinerary that would stand in good stead for those planning a trip to the Lake District.
Thank you so much Sandy! I wanted to add every small detail of where we went, and where we ate too!
As someone who grew up in Pennsylvania, it's funny seeing Carlisle and Lancaster on the map. I passed those towns on the train back in 2012. Lakes District looks beautiful.
Yes, I'm sure those place names are popular in the US! The Lake District is stunning
I would like to visit Lake District when I go to UK. I found it not too British with the castles views as it used to be. A great place to relax and do some hikes. Buttermere Lake is so beautiful. Spending some time there would be great.
It's really a beautiful place, and perfect for hikers like you!
When I see posts like this with stunning photos of the scenery in England it makes me want to pack up and move there. It's especially great weather you experience there. I'm a big fan of the landscapes and food of England and hope to visit again one day soon.
That's great to read Sara, it's really an amazing landscape!
Grasmere Lake is definitely my favorite. I like it very much. I haven't known that Lake District is so beautiful and has so many attractive places.
For my first time, it was a treat for the senses!
Lake district indeed looks wild and romantic being a house to so many beautiful lakes and pristine beauty of nature. I like the stunning views of Lake Windermere! Enjoying a ferry ride on its tranquil waters must be a mesmerizing experience. The 17th century, Bridge House looks fascinating – definitely one of the most Instagrammable places. The greenery around Grasmere Lake is a treat to the eyes and the Rydal Cave is just wow!! I would love to take the traditional steam train tour – a great way to peep into a historical period. Looks like you had an amazing trip!
We really did! It's an incredible place to visit, and it makes zero difference if you're not the most active person either 😀
It looks so beautiful and peaceful there! What a wonderful place to rest and relax 🙂
It's really a stunning region in England!
I wouldn't mind going off grid a bit for a view lie Buttermere Lake! That's gorgeous.
It was my favorite lake!
Take me in the suitcase next time haha I love your trips!
Lol I absolutely will!
I love visiting the lake! It's so peaceful and beautiful!
Agreed Shannon!
Wow what a beautiful adventure and trip! I love lakes, especially during the summer, it's a great destination to relax and chill.
Very true! And these lakes are especially beautiful 🙂
I have never heard of the lake district but it looks very beautiful. I love the vintage vibes.
It's a very beautiful part of England 😀
I wish I had seen this before traveling there! This guide is so great. Nonetheless, Lake District was absolutely beautiful!
Thank you! Aw, if you ever return, maybe you can follow my guide 🙂
The name of this area alone has always intrigued me. I love being near the water, cruising and especially riding trains so this sounds like a great place for me. I've done hop on hop off buses but never boats! If I ever make it back to the UK, I'll definitely keep this on my bucket list.
Perfect Ava! You'll really love the area especially if you like being near the water x
This looks like a place to relax and purify the soul! It looks so remote and peaceful. I would also enjoy the train journey because the scenery outside the windows is equally attractive.
It's really that kind of place, I can't deny it! Definitely think about visiting one day x
Such a perfect location for a getaway. I lived in the UK for several years and did not manage to get to the Lake District. The views of Grasmere Lake are beautiful. A visit to the Apple Pie Cafe would certainly be on my list of things to do. The weather is still quite cool in June time, you can never guarantee good weather when travelling in the UK.
You're spot on Jane. We were lucky with the weather this time around, as it was mild and didn't rain once! Grasmere is beautiful but I was blown away by Buttermere 🙂
I was in UK Lake District a few years ago, we choose to stay at Kendall Hotel Lake District. The location was not so ideal as it was about an hour from the Windermere. But, the hotel is still very pleasant. Glad that you have included a section on what to wear. It was pretty cold in the evening when we were about to leave.
Yes, Kendal is a little distance away from Windermere. I'm planning on doing a complete guide on what to pack for the Lake District, so watch this space!
Looks like a perfect place to relax and unwind. I would def add this on my travel list.
It's really a spectacular place to see!
I love being by the water during the warmer season. Enjoy the rest of the summer!
Thank you, you too 🙂
What a fantastic post about an area that I have also wanted to visit. However, it seems whenever I get to London, I can't seem to get myself out of there! I also love boat rides and think the hop on hop off option would be fantastic. The hotel and food looks amazing.
You really must get out of London the next time! It's a really beautiful area
This is the bucolic getaway I’m looking forward to. It’s amazing how you visited so many different lakes yet they all offered something different and unique. Definitely living up to the name of Lake District! From the photos, I’ve got to say Rydal water looks the most sublime!
It's so true! Rydal Water is stunning, but honestly Buttermere blew me away!
WOW!! What an amazing and comprehensive write up, thank you so much. I am training for a Himalayas trek and I'm looking to go to the Lakes to do some training -this is perfect! xx
Wow, that's quite an adventure Lara! I wish you the best of luck on your trek x
The Lake District looks such a lovely part of the UK and so much to see there - if the famous mist doesn't spoil the view. It is so far from us in Cornwall we've never been, but hopefully one day I'd like to visit.
That is a bit of a drive! But I'd say to visit one day, it's very special 🙂
That sounds like a great little trip. I love the views you've showcased for us. It's a really lovely area.
The Lake District is truly beautiful! And such a must see attraction in England too
The Lakes District looks so relaxing. Just to sit at The Waterhead and have a drink with that amazing view would be wonderful. The road to Buttermere is so pretty - I would like to visit soon.
Buttermere and the lakes there are spectacular! I really urge you to visit, it's a beautiful part of England 🙂