Parks In The Lake District

Embark on a Lake District adventure where majestic fells stand guard over tranquil lakes. Here, families can conquer Scafell Pike, England's highest peak, or cruise on Windermere, soaking up the serene beauty. Foodies will savour the local Herdwick lamb and Cartmel sticky toffee pudding, a sweet treat not to be missed. For the curious, the region is home to the deepest lake, Wastwater, shrouded in awe-inspiring landscapes. Opting for a family break at a UK holiday park in the Lake District means quality time in nature's playground, with the convenience of top-notch facilities and entertainment at your doorstep – a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Have You Discovered UK Holiday Parks?

UK holiday parks are essentially self-contained resorts offering a variety of accommodation options such as caravans, lodges, and sometimes tents or glamping pods. They're designed for families, with facilities like pools, playgrounds, and entertainment programs. You can expect a community vibe, with amenities often including shops, restaurants, and sports facilities.

The benefits over hotels include more space, self-catering facilities, and on-site activities, which can be a godsend with kids. You've got the freedom to eat in, which can save money, and the extra living space means you're not all crammed into one room come bedtime.

Compared to flying abroad, holiday parks are a breeze. No passports, no airport meltdowns, and no luggage limits. Plus, you're contributing to the local economy and reducing your carbon footprint. It's a win-win.

Why Take Your 2024 Family Holiday Park Break in Lake District?

The Lake District is a gem for families, with its stunning mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and charming towns. It's not just about the scenery; the area is steeped in literary history, being the home of Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth.

New for 2024, some parks are introducing luxury eco-lodges, tapping into the sustainable travel trend. Keep an eye out for the Keswick Mountain Festival and the Windermere Children's Book Festival for unique experiences.

Holiday parks in the Lake District offer a different vibe from hotels – think more space, nature on your doorstep, and the flexibility to set your own pace. The area's uniqueness lies in its blend of outdoor adventure and cultural heritage.

If you're visiting Lake District with kids

Absolutely, the Lake District is a playground for children. With boat trips on Windermere, the World of Beatrix Potter attraction, and treetop adventures at Go Ape, there's no shortage of activities.

Holiday parks cater well to kids, with play areas, kids' clubs, and family entertainment. They offer the perfect base to explore and then come back to a place that feels like home.

Things to pack for kids:

1. Waterproof clothing and boots – for those unpredictable Lake District showers.
2. Swimwear – for the pool or lake paddling.
3. Sunhat and sunscreen – yes, it does get sunny sometimes!
4. Backpack – for their little treasures collected on walks.
5. Outdoor toys – frisbees, footballs, etc.

Pet Friendly Lake District Adventures

The Lake District loves pets, with many trails, pubs, and cafes welcoming furry friends. The Drunken Duck Inn near Ambleside and The Watermill at Ings are just a couple of the dog-friendly pubs where you can refuel after a day of exploring.

Other tips: bring a towel for muddy paws, and check if your holiday park requires dogs to be on leads in certain areas.

Dog walking ideas in Lake District

Route	Distance (miles)	Scenery	Postcode
Grizedale Forest Trails	3-10	Woodland	LA22 0QJ
Derwentwater Walk	10	Lake & Mountains	CA12 5DJ
Rydal Water Circuit	3	Lake & Woodland	LA22 9SE
Tarn Hows Loop	1.5	Lake & Hills	LA22 0PP
Buttermere Circuit	4.5	Lake & Mountains	CA13 9UZ

Dining at the park, or heading out

Many holiday parks boast on-site restaurants, offering convenience after a long day of adventures. The local cuisine includes hearty dishes like Cumberland sausage and tattie pot.

For families, try The Pheasant in Bassenthwaite for a relaxed atmosphere. Couples might enjoy the more intimate setting of L'Enclume in Cartmel.

Outdoor Family Adventures

The Lake District is home to outdoor centres like Windermere Outdoor Adventure Centre, offering sailing, kayaking, and canoeing. Prices vary, but a family sailing lesson might cost around £50 per person. Seasonal opening times apply, with most centres operating from Easter to October.

Nearby shopping

Name	Type	On Offer	Postcode
Grasmere Gingerbread Shop	Speciality Foods	Local Gingerbread	LA22 9SW
Windermere Boutique	Shopping Centre	Various Retailers	LA23 1QA
Hawkshead Relish Company	Delicatessen	Artisan Foods	LA22 0NZ
The Lakes Distillery	Distillery Shop	Whisky & Gin	CA13 9SJ
Booths Supermarket	Supermarket	Quality Local Produce	Various

Top Parks for 2024 in Lake District

White Cross Bay, Cumbria

Driving Distance: 21 minutes (11.27 miles) | Sleeps: 8 | Pet friendly? Yes

About this park: White Cross Bay is nestled on the shores of Lake Windermere, offering a serene lakeside setting with a marina, alongside a plethora of activities for the whole family, including a heated indoor pool, sports court, and adventure playground.

For the kids - Youngsters can splash around in the pool, challenge each other in the amusement arcade, or climb and slide in the adventure playground. There's no shortage of fun to be had!

What's on-site? The park boasts the Boathouse Bar and Restaurant with stunning views, a takeaway for cosy nights in, Wi-Fi in designated areas, sports and leisure activities, and a shop for essentials. The heated indoor pool comes with a jacuzzi and steam room, perfect for unwinding.

What's nearby? Major attractions include the World of Beatrix Potter (21 minutes away), with tickets around £8 for adults and £4 for children. Adventure seekers can enjoy treetop treks and watersports on the lake.

Accommodation options: White Cross Bay offers a range of accommodations, from the Bassenthwaite caravan for groups of 8 to the pet-friendly Woodhow Lodge for 4, ensuring a comfortable stay for couples, groups, and families alike.

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Landal Whitbarrow, Cumbria

Driving Distance: 24 minutes (14.77 miles) | Sleeps: 6 | Pet friendly? No

About this park: Landal Whitbarrow is a charming holiday village set amongst the Blencathra Fells, offering a range of family activities, a wellness centre with an indoor pool, and local culinary delights at the Eden Café Bar.

For the kids - Children can enjoy the pool, explore the cobbled streets, or engage in the various activities offered by the park, ensuring a memorable and active holiday.

What's on-site? On-site, you'll find a sauna, steam room, hot tub, and gym, alongside the Eden Café Bar serving local cuisine. The park's facilities ensure relaxation and indulgence for all guests.

What's nearby? Nearby attractions include Aira Force Waterfall (8 miles away) and Walby Farm Park (34 miles away), offering a mix of natural beauty and family fun. Rookin House Activity Centre (4 miles away) provides outdoor adventures like pony trekking and archery.

Accommodation options: Landal Whitbarrow's accommodations range from the luxurious Farmhouse suites to the family-friendly Troutbeck Den Spa, all designed with comfort and style in mind, though none are pet-friendly.

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Fell End, Cumbria

Driving Distance: 51 minutes (30.56 miles) | Sleeps: 6 | Pet friendly? No

About this park: Fell End is an award-winning park set in a beautiful nature reserve within the southern Lake District, featuring wildlife, woodland walks, and excellent facilities including an indoor pool and gym.

For the kids - The park offers a soft play area and an amusement arcade, ensuring that children have plenty of options for play and entertainment during their stay.

What's on-site? The park includes a leisure club with a gym and steam room (charges apply), a children's soft play area, and the Woodland Edge bar and restaurant, which also shows BT Sports for the adults.

What's nearby? The park is located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, perfect for nature walks and spotting local wildlife from the park's hides.

Accommodation options: Fell End offers a variety of holiday homes, such as The Arnside and The Silverdale, providing comfortable living spaces for families and groups, with some pet-friendly options available.

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Lakeland Leisure Park, Cumbria

Driving Distance: 57 minutes (30.67 miles) | Sleeps: 8 | Pet friendly? Yes

About this park: Lakeland Leisure Park is set in Flookburgh, near Grange-over-Sands, offering a mix of natural beauty and activities such as swimming pools, water sports, and evening entertainment at the Marine Lounge.

For the kids - The park has indoor and outdoor pools, an arcade, and a nature guide program, ensuring that children have a variety of fun and educational activities to choose from.

What's on-site? The park features a bar and restaurant, fish and chips shop, sports facilities, and live entertainment, providing something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

What's nearby? The surrounding area is perfect for exploring the Lake District's landscapes, with hiking and cycling paths, and the nearby towns offer local shops and cafes.

Accommodation options: Lakeland Leisure Park provides a range of caravans, from the Deluxe models that are pet-friendly and can sleep up to 8, to the Standard options for smaller groups or couples.

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Family Days Out In Lake District

Windermere Lake Cruises

• Opening Times: Varies seasonally, generally 10:00 - 18:00
• Prices: Adult £11.40, Child £5.70, Family (2+3) £29.50
• Postcode: LA23 3HQ
• Est. time required: 1-3 hours
• Nearest parking: Pay and display at Bowness Bay

Windermere Lake Cruises are a hit for families, offering a serene experience on England's largest lake. The fleet includes historic steamers and modern launches. The best time to visit is on a clear day to enjoy the stunning views. To get more from your visit, consider a combined ticket with a local attraction like the Lakes Aquarium or the Lakeland Motor Museum.

Phone number: 015394 43360 | Web: windermere-lakecruises.co.uk

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The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction

• Opening Times: 10:00 - 17:30
• Prices: Adult £8.20, Child £4.10, Family £22.00
• Postcode: LA23 3BX
• Est. time required: 1-2 hours
• Nearest parking: Rayrigg Road car park

The World of Beatrix Potter brings the beloved author's tales to life. Kids will love exploring Mr. McGregor's Garden and meeting their favourite characters. The attraction has recently updated its displays with interactive elements. It's especially magical for younger children. To avoid crowds, visit outside of school holidays. Grabbing a Peter Rabbit themed afternoon tea at the on-site café is a must.

Phone number: 0844 504 1233 | Web: hop-skip-jump.com

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Brockhole on Windermere

• Opening Times: 10:00 - 17:00
• Prices: Free entry, pay for activities
• Postcode: LA23 1LJ
• Est. time required: Half to full day
• Nearest parking: On-site parking available

Brockhole on Windermere is a one-stop shop for family fun, with an adventure playground, mini-golf, and boat hire. The Treetop Trek is a highlight, offering aerial obstacle courses. New additions include archery and laser clay shooting. It's perfect for active families and best visited on a dry day. To save money, pack a picnic and enjoy the gardens.

Phone number: 015394 46601 | Web: brockhole.co.uk

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Lakes Aquarium

• Opening Times: 10:00 - 18:00
• Prices: Adult £7.95, Child £5.95, Family £23.50
• Postcode: LA12 7LZ
• Est. time required: 1-2 hours
• Nearest parking: Lakeside car park

The Lakes Aquarium offers an underwater journey from the local lakes to exotic seas. It's great for all ages with a range of freshwater and marine life. The otter enclosure is a crowd-pleaser. They've recently updated the seahorse and ray tanks. It's a good rainy-day option. Tip: Look out for combo tickets with the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway for a full day of fun.

Phone number: 015395 30153 | Web: lakesaquarium.co.uk

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Ravenglass & Eskdale Steam Railway

• Opening Times: Varies, check timetable
• Prices: Adult £13.90, Child £6.95, Family £34.50
• Postcode: CA18 1SW
• Est. time required: 2-3 hours
• Nearest parking: On-site at Ravenglass station

The Ravenglass & Eskdale Steam Railway is a nostalgic journey through stunning scenery. The open-top carriages are a hit in good weather. They've recently introduced a new steam engine to the line. Train enthusiasts and families will love it. To get the best experience, combine your trip with a walk in the Eskdale Valley. And don't miss the homemade cakes at the Fellbites Café at Dalegarth Station.

Phone number: 01229 717171 | Web: ravenglass-railway.co.uk

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Go Ape Grizedale

• Opening Times: 10:00 - 16:00, varies by season
• Prices: From £20 per person, varies by activity
• Postcode: LA22 0QJ
• Est. time required: 2-3 hours
• Nearest parking: On-site parking available

Go Ape Grizedale offers an adrenaline-packed day with treetop courses and zip lines. It's ideal for families with older kids and teens. They've added new Tarzan swings and a challenging free-fall experience. Visit on a dry day to make the most of the activities. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak times. Don't forget to wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes.

Phone number: 01603 895500 | Web: goape.co.uk/locations/grizedale

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Remember, these attractions are just a stone's throw away from some fantastic holiday parks in Lake District, making them easily accessible for a family day out. Whether you're staying at a lakeside lodge or a cosy caravan, these top spots can add that extra bit of excitement to your holiday.

FAQs

This is our first stay on a holiday park, what will it be like?

Expect a blend of outdoor adventure and home comforts. Holiday parks like White Cross Bay or Fallbarrow Park offer facilities such as indoor pools, kids' clubs, and evening entertainment. Accommodations range from cosy caravans to luxury lodges, many with stunning views of the Lake District's fells and lakes.

What should I pack when visiting Lake District?

Pack for all weathers – waterproofs and walking boots for the unpredictable Lake District climate. Don't forget swimwear for on-site pools or spontaneous lake dips. Essentials like toiletries are a must, but check if your holiday park provides items like towels to save space in your luggage.

Is Lake District a good place to visit ‘off-season’?

Absolutely, the Lake District is stunning year-round. Off-season means fewer crowds and cosy evenings in your lodge. Plus, places like Limefitt Park offer a tranquil retreat with winter walks and local pubs with roaring fires. Just ensure you check the opening times for attractions and pack warm clothing.

Will my hot tub be cleaned before we arrive?

Yes, if your accommodation includes a hot tub, it will be cleaned and maintained to high standards before check-in. Parks like Keswick Reach Lodge Retreat prioritise cleanliness for your peace of mind, so you can jump straight into relaxation mode upon arrival.

Can we bring our pets to the holiday park?

Many holiday parks in the Lake District are pet-friendly, knowing that dogs are part of the family. Parks such as Thanet Well Lodge Retreat welcome furry friends, with plenty of walking trails nearby. Always check the park's pet policy and any additional fees when booking.

How do we book activities, and do they need to be booked in advance?

Booking activities can usually be done online or at the park's reception. During peak times, it's wise to book in advance to secure your spot. Activities range from archery to water sports, with parks like Tattershall Lakes offering a diverse activity schedule.

Are there any child-friendly dining options on-site?

Most holiday parks cater to families, with on-site restaurants offering kid-friendly menus. For example, White Cross Bay has a restaurant with a dedicated children's menu and relaxed dining atmosphere. Always handy after a day of exploring, when cooking is the last thing on your mind.

What's the best way to explore the surrounding area?

Renting a bike or bringing your own is a fantastic way to see the countryside. Many parks are close to cycle paths and trails. Alternatively, local bus services or a short drive can get you to nearby attractions. Some parks even offer shuttle services to popular spots.

Are there any discounts for local attractions?

Yes, some holiday parks offer discount vouchers for local attractions. Check with the reception at your park, like Skiddaw View Holiday Park, for any current deals. It's a great way to save money on family outings to places like the World of Beatrix Potter or Lake District Wildlife Park.

What happens if we need medical assistance during our stay?

Holiday parks have procedures for medical situations, with staff trained to assist and direct you to the nearest medical facility if needed. It's also a good idea to know the location of the nearest A&E, like the one at Westmorland General Hospital in Kendal, just in case.

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