Lake District Activities for Couples
There are few areas in the country that exude as much romance as the Lake District. The stunning scenery is the perfect backdrop for your couples’ escape. Of course, you will not have to try too hard to find romantic things to do in the Lake District, but in any case, here are a few ideas to help get you started.
Hire a rowboat on Grasmere
The Grasmere is one of the Lake District’s most idyllic locations and the perfect base for a nautical adventure. Hire a rowing boat, hop aboard, and explore the Grasmere in style. You can rent boats for up to an hour, subject to availability and weather conditions. Once you are back on firm ground, reward yourselves with some famous Grasmere Gingerbread®.
Relax at the spa
Who said romance could not be relaxing? Succumb to the natural tranquillity of the Lake District and unwind with a spa day. It presses pause on what is most likely an active trip, and is a great way to save a rainy day. Our recommendation? Cumbria’s Bannatyne Health Club offers an indulgent spa day, consisting of three tantalising treatments and full access to their state-of-the-art leisure facilities.
Go for a candlelit dinner
The Lake District truly is a foodie paradise, whether you are a couple who love a cosy local pub or a more high-end Michelin dinner. Popular restaurants include the Holbeck Ghyll, widely regarded as one of the best restaurants in the North, and the Michelin-starred Cottage in the Wood, showcasing chef Sam Miller’s creative cooking.
Take your love to new heights
There are few things more romantic than enjoying a helicopter flight over the Lake District. You will see the best of the area’s rolling green hills, lakes, and mountains from a whole new vantage point. One thing is for sure: it will be one of the more memorable things that you do in the Lake District.
Experience a movie at a century-old cinema
A cinema is a classic date for a reason, but the Keswick Alhambra Cinema will elevate your viewing experience more than ever before. Showing everything from the latest movies and arthouse films, to live-streamed events, the cinema itself is nothing short of extraordinary. Initially constructed in 1913, it has witnessed just about every trend in the film industry, and continues to be popular with both tourists and locals alike.
Whisk them away on a steam train
There is something about steam trains that just inherently scream romance and the beauty of the Lake District rolling past the window certainly helps too. One of England’s oldest narrow-gauge railways, embark on a scenic 14-mile return journey through the beautiful Eskdale Valley. Highlights of the tour include the Scafell range, Ravenglass Estuary and Eskdale Valley. After alighting the steam train, take your seats for a delectable cream tea at the Fellbites Café.
Lake District Steam Train Trip and Cream Tea for Two
Head out on one of England’s oldest narrow-gauge railways for a scenic 14-mile return journey through the beautiful Eskdale Valley along the foothills of some of England’s highest mountains, and enjoy a cream tea at the end of your trip with this Lake District Vintage Steam Train Trip and Cream Tea for Two.
Find out more
Watch a show together
Right on the banks of River Derwent, you will find the locally renowned Theatre by the Lake. The 400-seat main house and 100-seat studio host a sheer variety of productions, from stand-up comedy and cultural plays, to live music and beyond. The theatre boasts a constantly changing roster of performances, designed to delight all audiences.
Meet some cute animals
South Lakes Safari Zoo is a must-visit Lake District destination, with over 1,000 of the rarest and most endangered animals to see. It is up to you whether you just enjoy entry to the zoo, or make the most of the multitude of animal encounters, ranging from giraffes and sloths to penguins and rhinos.
Climb a mountain
It would not be right to be in the Lake District without climbing a mountain. Guaranteed to give you an unrivalled sense of accomplishment, there are lots of fells to climb for both beginner and experienced climbers. You can encourage each other to reach the summit and if you time it right, catch a beautiful sunset to end the day in style.
See 10 lakes in a day
If it is a whistle-stop tour of the Lake District you are after, you are in luck. Led by friendly and knowledgeable guides, you will see 10 lakes, including Windermere, Brotherswater and Ullswater to name just a few. Travel over mountain passes, through valleys, past waterfalls and traditional Lakeland villages - the perfect backdrop for your next couple selfie!
Outdoor Activities in the Lake District
With the varied landscape of valleys, mountains, and rivers, you truly are spoiled for choice when you want some fresh air. Take some inspiration from the below outdoor activities in the Lake District and get ready to soak up all that the area has to offer.
Ghyll Scrambling
Given all the lakes and rainfall here, it is hardly surprising that ghyll scrambling has grown in prominence. The outdoor adventure involves both ascending up (often called gorge walking) and down a mountain stream (often called canyoning). Some routes are more challenging than others, and it is very much an activity heightened by rainfall.
Honister Slate Mine
Honister Slate Mine is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find a myriad of adrenaline-pumping adventures on the award-winning site. Start by crossing the famous infinity bridge, 100ft above the valley floor, before tiptoeing over Europe’s longest wire bridge. Following the route of the original underground mine workings, confront vertical climbs, rope-bridge crossings, steel ladder ascents and more. The finale is the brand-new and the UK’s only flight line freefall.
Get out on two wheels
You do not need to be the next Sir Bradley Wiggins or Laura Kenny to enjoy the Lake District by bike. With everything from quiet country lanes to steep mountain biking tracks, it is a sport that anyone can enjoy. Whinlatter Forest Park is home to the largest purpose-built mountain bike trail in the Lake District, where you can encounter amazing views and rewarding descents.
Visit the World’s Oldest Topiary Gardens
Being outdoors does not necessarily mean you have to be all about adventure. Located in the heart of Cumbria, Levens Hall is the world’s oldest topiary gardens. Boasting 10 acres of beautiful private land to explore, delve into British history and tour the Elizabethan house, featuring spectacular interiors and beautiful collections of furniture, clocks and paintings.
Hop in a kayak
Kayaking is a truly one-of-a-kind way to soak up a unique view of the Lake District. Whether you are complete beginners looking for a gentle paddle, or more experienced paddlers after a more advanced route, there is something for everyone. Take a beginners lesson or simply hire a kayak for your own expedition.
Foraging
Ever wonder how you would find food if you suddenly found yourself stranded in the middle of nowhere? A foraging course will teach you about the basics of identifying wild ingredients that are safe to eat. You will sample plenty of delicious tasters, before cooking up a three-course lunch utilising the ingredients you collected yourself.
Foraging, Cookery and Lunch with Totally Wild
Head back to nature with this fantastic Foraging, Cookery and Lunch for one with Totally Wild. You will join a professional forager to learn the basics of foraging and wild food, before cooking up your very own wild food lunch.
Find out more
Abseiling
Step back, take a deep breath, and take the plunge. Abseiling involves dropping down a steep cliff face, whilst attached to a harness and navigating your way down with a rope. It takes a lot of courage, but it is an exhilarating way to see the landscape. There are plenty of centres in the Lake District, who offer such an endeavour.
Go Ape
Everyone’s favourite forest adventure, Go Ape has two locations in the Lake District: Grizedale Forest and Whinlatter Forest. Embarking on a sky-high adventure, navigate tree-top walkways, high-rise bridges and cargo nets. The Grizedale Forest site is also home to the longest dual zip wire experience in the UK, measuring a whopping 3km. Whiz past the tops of majestic Douglas fir trees, high above the forest floor.
4x4 Off-Roading
If you want to explore the Lake District off the beaten path, but are not one for long treks, consider a 4x4 off-road adventure. Unlike other cars, 4x4s are designed to give the car greater traction, no matter what challenges the terrain poses. Negotiate your way over side slopes, steep climbs and sharp descents, all whilst staying warm and dry.
Skydiving
The ultimate outdoor adventure! Skydiving provides an entirely different perspective to the lakes. Enjoy the unique sensation of free fall, before that all-important moment when your parachute is deployed. Finish with a gentle float back down to the ground, taking in the spectacular scenery below you.
Tandem Skydive
Get into your jumpsuit, strap on those goggles and board the aircraft. This is a fantastic experience where you will feel the thrill of jumping from a plane door at a height of up to 12,000 feet. Enjoy the unique sensation of free fall before that all important moment when your parachute is deployed and it’s time to slow down and take in the spectacular scenery below you. There’s not much to worry about, you will be strapped to a qualified and experienced instructor the whole time so you can relax and enjoy the ride. Bring along some friends so they can witness you take on this unusual opportunity to display your adventurous side.
Find out more
Where to Stay in the Lake District
From rural cottage hideaways to luxury spa resorts, there’s no shortage of quality accommodation in the Lake District. Whatever kind of accommodation you are looking for, we have rounded up a handful of the best venues to host you.
Ennerdale Country House
Grade II listed, Ennerdale Country House is tucked away in the heart of Cumbria’s Cleator. Filled with antique furniture and character, the quaint hotel boasts five acres of landscaped gardens and Italian fountains. The perfect base to explore the stunning Lake District, you will also receive £25 each towards dinner in the hotel’s Fountain Room Restaurant, overlooking the gardens, as well as breakfast in the morning.
Langdale Hotel
Relax and revive your senses with an indulgent spa break at Ambleside’s Langdale Hotel. Surrounded by some of the country’s finest walking and biking routes, spend one night in a Lakeland Signature room with full access to the Brimstone Spa’s facilities, which include a relaxation pool and thermal experiences.
The Quiet Site
Welcoming visitors to Ullswater for over 50 years, The Quiet Site continues to be popular accommodation for holiday-makers throughout the year. Camping without the discomfort, your accommodation comes in the form of an eco pod, complete with a carpeted floor and a light wooden interior. The on-site facilities include a shop, family playroom, free Wi-Fi and so much more.
One Night Eco Camping Pod Break at the Quiet Site, Lake District
Enjoy camping in style with this One Night Eco Glamping Pod Break in a camping pod at the 100% carbon neutral Quiet Site in the Lake District. It’s camping without the discomfort and far more fun than staying in a tent. With room for up to two adults and two small children, bring the family and make the most of this interesting experience.
Find out more
Briery Wood Country House Hotel
Just moments from the shores of Lake Windermere, the stunning 19th century Briery Wood Country House Hotel is set in seven acres of secluded gardens. Just a stone’s throw away from Ambleside, you’ll enjoy all the comforts of home, combined with informal and friendly service. Make the most of the cosy lounge areas or grab a drink in the bar, surrounded by majestic landscapes, lakes and fells.
Hillthwaite
Set between the villages of Bowness and Windermere, you could not be better placed for your Lake District break than at Hillthwaite. Head out for lakeside walks or just sit back and relax by the pool, before retiring to your Classic Double Room oasis. Along with a vast array of local options, you could choose to dine at Hillthwaite's elegant restaurant.
Cragwood Country House
Nestled on the shores of one of England's most beautiful lakes, the grand Edwardian Cragwood Country Hotel is home to 20 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland. Refined, country-chic awaits, with cosy lounges to soak up the winter views. And the pièce de résistance is a mile of prime lake frontage with its own private jetty.
Appleby Manor
Tucked away within Cumbria’s Eden Valley, you will find the 4* luxury Appleby Manor hotel. Your deluxe room will either be situated in the characterful Victorian manor house or the newly converted part of the building with beautiful views of the award-winning gardens. Priding itself on fine cuisine, start the morning with a scrumptious breakfast before getting out there to explore the wonderful countryside.
Merewood Country House Hotel
Overlooking Lake Windermere, the refined early 19th century Merewood Country House Hotel is nestled amongst 20 acres of stunning landscaped gardens and woodlands. Just an 11 minute walk from Brockhole Visitor Centre, the hotel is a cosy blend of traditional and contemporary comfort. As part of your stay, enjoy seven courses of award-winning seasonal fare at a restaurant with two AA Rosette awards to its name.
Top Lodge Cottage on the Netherby Estate
When it comes to rural hideaways, you really cannot go wrong with the Top Lodge Cottage on Carlisle’s Netherby Estate. An original gatehouse to Netherby Hall, the cottage boasts a brand new fully equipped kitchen, cosy sitting room with wood-burning fire, shower room and more. Spend the time as you wish - wandering around the beautiful Netherby Estate, discovering the River Esk or crossing the old suspension bridge to Kirkandrews Church.
Best Western
With a prime location in the heart of Carlisle, the Best Western offers a guaranteed great night of sleep. The striking Victorian architecture is complemented by contemporary and modern interiors, making it a popular destination for all visitors to the area. There are plenty of local sights, including Carlisle Racecourse and the 900-year-old Carlisle Castle, as well as the Lake District’s exhilarating walks and water sports.
Summary
A little slice of paradise, the Lake District and Cumbria offer an idyllic backdrop for unforgettable activities. Don’t forget to browse our full collection of Lake District experiences, packed with over 100 different adventures.
