Visiting the Lake District and looking for some unusual things to do? Since its formation in 1951 the Lake District National Park in the north west of England has always been popular. One quarter of the UK’s population visits the Lake District National Park annually. The park attracts millions of visitors from all over the world and it’s easy to see why. The Lake District is the largest national park in England and has both the tallest mountain and the largest lake in the country inside it! There is beauty everywhere you look, scores of historical sites to visit, plenty of places of cultural interest and almost everywhere you go there are literary references to explore. The Lake District is home to some of the UK’s rarer animals and plant life including red squirrels and ospreys!
Whether you prefer to take it easy, or like to push yourself and spend your days adventuring there’s plenty of unusual things to do in the Lake District.
What are some unusual things to do in the Lake District?
1. Visit the Herdwick Experience
The Herdwick Experience near Coniston really is an unusual outdoor activity in the Lake District. Herdwick sheep are a native breed to the Lake District who you’ll see grazing all over the national park. What makes the herdwick experience so special is the opportunity to cuddle the sheep! Yes, you read that right! The herdwick sheep at Yew Tree Farm are incredibly friendly, and loving. In a small group you’ll learn about the history of the breed and farm, including it’s links to Beatrix Potter before heading out on a short walk to meet, and spend time with the sheep. There are toilets and car parking on site, and it’s quite possibly (in my opinion) the best £45 you’ll spend in the lakes!
2. Take a drive over Hard Knott Pass
Taking a scenic drive in the Lake District should be on everyone’s bucket list. However if you’re looking for something unique then driving over Hard Knott Pass should be considered. Hard Knott pass is one of the steepest roads in the UK. Driving over the pass really will be memorable, and perhaps even a little scary at times! Hard knott Pass is a single track road, that of course, is very very steep with many twists and turns. If you need a break from driving then visit HardKnott Roman Fort, founded under Hadrain’s rule in the 2nd century. Entry is free.
PS. If driving over Hardknott Pass feels too scary, then you can also walk, or cycle it, but it’s certainly not for the feinthearted!
3. Ride Lal’ Ratty
Lal’ Ratty as the locals lovingly call it is the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway Line that first opened in 1875. Lal’ is Cumbrian dialect for little, and you guessed it, the train, or rather the railway line is a small one! The train runs along a beautiful, scenic route from Eskdale to Dalegarth Station near Boot. There are several walks that can be taken from stopping points along the railway, or there is a tea room at the station if you prefer to relax. If you go for the later you can expect to find both snacks, drinks and meals available. Riding the Lal Ratty is a lovely experience in the Lake District, and you may be lucky enough to spot a red squirrel when en route! Adult tickets start from £14 one way.
4. Visit Wast Water
Wast Water is often forgotten about on many Lake District itineraries. Yes, it’s a bit out of the way, but it’s England’s deepest lake and it’s surrounded by the most breath-taking scenery. You can swim or paddleboard in Wast Water and if you have a spare afternoon then you can opt to walk around the entire perimeter (approx 7 miles long). After all that walking, the nearby Wasdale Head Inn, nestled at the foot of England’s highest mountain is a great spot for lunch or a drink. It’s not one to miss, it certainly has character. The campsite at the pub is basic, but the spectacular views make up for it.
5. Dine at an AA Rosette Awarded Restaurant
Gilpin Spice near Windermere is a fantastic Asian fusion restaurant that has been awarded an AA Rosette. The setting is beautiful, the service is fabulous and the overall feel is very relaxed. Personally I always believed that a restaurant that was AA Rosette awarded would be incredibly expensive, however I found Gilpin Spice to be relatively reasonably priced and have always thoroughly enjoyed my experiences there. A word of warning though – it can get busy so booking is recommended.
There are fantastic vegetarian options, I highly recommend the pani puri and the chapata aloo tikki (pictured below). If you love Indian food, you certainly won’t be disappointed. Gilpin Spice is absolutely one of my favourite restaurants in the Lake District.
As you can see, there are plenty of unusual things to do in the Lake District, which are you choosing?
I’d love for you to let me know if you find any others in the comments below!
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