The Lake District is such a captivating part of England that it made sense to split my review into two posts. From our first impressions around Windermere Lake, I can honestly say that what we experienced exceeded all expectations. The raw beauty of the landscape, the warmth of the locals, and the unspoiled charm of nature left us in awe.

Today, DOYOUSPEAKLONDON invites you to join the second part of this journey through the Lake District, as we explore more lakes that are just as essential and breathtaking as Windermere.

Rydal Water: Exploring the home of the ‘Lakes Poets’

Heading north of Ambleside, you’ll find the quaint village of Rydal, nestled by Rydal Water, one of the smallest lakes in the area.

Rydal is best known for its connection to William Wordsworth, the Romantic poet who settled here in the late 18th century.

Along with Coleridge and Southey, he became part of the famous Lakes Poets.

You can explore Wordsworth’s historic home and gardens, and even enjoy a cup of tea there. A perfect way to be a little romantic for a day while soaking in the poetry and charm of the Lake District!

Grasmere: scenic lake and legendary gingerbread

If you follow the main road, you’ll easily reach Grasmere Lake. Our first visit was under heavy showers, but when we returned on a sunnier day, the lake was simply stunning, its waters perfectly reflecting the surrounding landscape left me completely captivated.

Grasmere is also famous for “Grasmere Gingerbread,” invented by Sarah Nelson in 1854. This unique, spicy-sweet treat (a cross between a biscuit and a cake) is now sold worldwide.

Don’t expect a large shop or a romantic tea room, though; there’s barely room for two customers at a time! Yet the story of this determined woman creating a recipe that gained global fame is truly touching. Heaven for gingerbread fans!

We also had a wonderful time at The Wordsworth Hotel & Spa, enjoying tea while the rain fell outside. With cosy armchairs, a charming veranda, a lovely bar, and attentive staff, it’s a perfect spot to relax and soak in the Lake District atmosphere. A highly recommended stop!

Tarn Hows: nature’s gem in the heart of the lakes

One of the most delightful walks in the Lake District is around Tarn Hows, located just west of Windermere.

This gentle, family-friendly trail winds through lush forests, past sparkling waterfalls, and around the tranquil lake, offering stunning views at every turn.

The combination of woodland, water, and open green spaces makes it a perfect escape for nature lovers of all ages.

Grizedale Forest: adventure and art in the heart of the lakes!

As both art lovers and avid walkers, we thoroughly enjoyed exploring a 5-mile family trail in Grizedale Forest.

The trail winds through towering trees, serene woodland paths, and open clearings, where nature blends seamlessly with art.

Along the way, we discovered intriguing sculptures and installations crafted from wood and stone, each thoughtfully integrated into the landscape.

The peaceful forest walks, crisp fresh air, and unexpected artistic surprises made it a truly memorable experience.

On top of that, we were delighted to see bluebells carpeting the trail. Their delicate beauty never fails to amaze me.

On our way back to Ambleside, we stopped at The Drunken Duck Inn for a late lunch (around 3 pm) and it truly lived up to its reputation as one of the best places to eat in the Lake District!

The dishes were delicious, with flavours inspired from around the world. The peanut curry and fish chowder with poached egg were standout favourites. The staff were attentive, the atmosphere cosy, and some tables were even set up outside to enjoy the stunning views. I can’t recommend it highly enough!

Derwentwater: Castlerigg Stone Circle and the Bowder Stone

Near Keswick, we visited the Castlerigg Stone Circle, an extraordinary site steeped in history and mystery. 

Set against a dramatic backdrop of rugged mountains, the circle offers panoramic views across the surrounding fells and valleys, making it not only an archaeological treasure but also a breathtaking spot for photography and reflection.

Standing among these ancient stones, with the mountains towering around us, we couldn’t help but feel a deep connection to the history and natural beauty of the Lake District. A perfect reminder of why this region is truly unforgettable!

I was amazed to learn that Britain is home to over 300 stone circles, yet Castlerigg stands out as one of the earliest, believed to have been built around 3000 BC. Its ancient origins and dramatic setting make it one of the most popular sites in the Lake District.

Be sure to linger and fully immerse yourself in the remarkable atmosphere; it’s an experience you won’t forget.

After our visit, we made our way to the Troutbeck Inn for lunch and had a wonderful experience. The atmosphere was peaceful, and the food was absolutely delicious.

Next, we took a walk to the Bowder Stone, a massive boulder thought to have originated from a rock fall. More likely than being a glacial erratic, according to some local guides…

The Bowder Stone is one of the area’s most famous landmarks, offering fantastic views from the top. Towering 30 feet high and weighing an estimated 2,000 tons, it’s truly impressive. The walk to reach it is pleasant and relatively short, making it an easy and rewarding stop. A must-see!

Our final stop was at the Flock Inn, conveniently located just opposite Yew Farmhouse.

It’s a popular stop for cyclists, who often pause here to enjoy a tea or ice cream while soaking in the views. Fortunately, the sun was shining that day, as there’s no indoor seating.

The garden outside is equally delightful, where you can relax and watch the sheep grazing peacefully in their tranquil surroundings.

The ever-changing skies of the Lake District

I couldn’t resist sharing a photo of the Lake District sky. It’s simply breathtaking! Always shifting with the wind and sun, it’s a constant source of inspiration and wonder.

As our trip came to an end, we wished we had more time to explore additional lakes and charming spots.

Still, this part of the Lake District had offered the perfect mix of history, stunning scenery, and delightful stops along the way, making it a journey we won’t soon forget, even as London called us back.

If the Lake District has left you inspired, we’d love to hear your stories on DOYOUSPEAKLONDON!

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To find out more:

Wordsworth House and Garden website
Address: Main Street, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9RX

 

See my other recommendations for England getaways here.

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