Food
Days Out
Beach
Bike & Hike
Sports
Nature
Gardens
Activities
Historical
Eating & Drinking
Enjoy excellent food complemented by an extensive wine list and first-class service in the exceptionally comfortable and relaxing ambiance of the Red Well Inn.
This traditional village pub serves good home cooked food and is especially renowned for its Sunday lunches.
These tearooms are popular for their seasonal farm-fresh menu of light lunches, homemade cakes and refreshments. Its farm shop also stocks locally produced fruit and vegetables, cheeses and award-winning home reared and prepared meats.
Here you'll enjoy a friendly atmosphere, good food and excellent service where attention to detail are the watchwords. Check out the early bird menu featuring a 3 Course Meal for only £8.95!
This 17th century coaching inn has retained much of its original character including the open log fire in the bar. Featured in the 'Good Pub Guide', it specialises in locally brewed beers.
This friendly family run pub offers three distinct experiences in each of its cocktail bar, lounge and restaurant. The restaurant's proud claim is to serve a 'world of food' in an eclectic menu ranging from oriental dishes to meat platters.
Cedar Manor, built in 1854 and located in the heart of the Lake District, provides a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere for a drink or meal after long walks in spectacular scenery.
The New Hall Inn is also referred to as the Hole in t' Wall and proudly carries the title of being the oldest pun in Bowness, and is ideally located in the heart of the village. It was constructed back in 1612 and remains pretty much today as it was back then other than the inclusion of electricity and central heating. It has a true olde world charm and a lovely warm and inviting atmosphere, you will find both the staff and locals to be friendly and chatty. It is full of character with a traditional decor and is decorated with unusual and quirky items. Enjoy a drink by the roaring open fire as you soak up the lovely pub atmosphere. The Hole offers a diverse choice of cask ales and excellent hearty pub grub, that is available all day with great customer service. There is a patio/beer garden area that is heated so can be used all year round and is particularly pleasant on a warm summers day. The New Hall Inn is popular with both locals and visitors and it is not difficult to see why, a lovely traditional pub that should not be missed.
Lovingly restored 16th century Kelsick Hall is the location of the Priest Hole restaurant, serving a Mediterranean and English menu, all freshly prepared in their own kitchen.
Rothay Manor is an elegant country house hotel, with a well known restaurant, situated in the heart of the Lake District.
Fun Days Out
Rheged - 22 Miles (35.2 KM)
An award winning family day out, Rheged attractions include a giant cinema with a screen the size of six double decker buses, a kids play centre and an international mountaineering exhibition as well as superb shops and great food.
Richmond - 23.1 Miles (37 KM)
Richmond is a historic market town set on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Places to visit and things to see include monuments, abbeys, a Norman castle and the cobbled market place surrounded by Georgian buildings. The town is threaded by the fast-flowing River Swale and surrounded by breathtaking scenery - its restored railway station is a must to visit, with its cafe/restaurant, cinema, art gallery, micro-brewery and bakery.
Westmorland indoor shopping mall is set in the historic Lakeland market town offering a variety of your favourite shops to browse or buy.
The Forbidden Corner is one of England's most recent follies. Comprising a unique labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, follies, paths and passages that lead nowhere, it's great fun to explore.
Hall Hill Farm is home to a number of farmyard animals, some of which you can stroke and feed. Visitors here can enjoy a complimentary farm trailer ride and there are also donkey rides.
Imagine something beautiful, sculpted by nature over years and years? White Scar Cave is the longest show cave in Britain filled with streams, waterfalls and thousands of stalactites. Take a fabulous tour through these and don't forget to look for the wonderful prehistoric mud pools...never disturbed by man.
Experience the great outdoors in a whole new way with Crags Adventures! Book a session and enjoy fresh air, natural scenery and the adrenaline rush that comes with abseilling, rock climbing or Ghyll scrambling. Services for stag and hen parties are available. Educational courses are offered that include learning how to lead, navigation skills and winter survival skills.
Mountain Goat Day Tours bills itself as the "best way to see Lakeland." Travellers can explore all the best sights and attractions in the area by choosing a unique tour offered by Mountain Goat. Christmas shopping trips are available as well as daily tours covering Beatrix Potter's countryside, Yorkshire Dales, Ten Lakes, Hadrian's Wall, Tarn Hows and the South Lakes.
Every journey is exciting when it's taken with Dave's Adventure Company! Discover the best of the Lake District, Cumbria and Yorkshire with group and family tours. Multiple day extreme outings are offered which feature canyoning, mountain walking, caving, abseiling, climbing, ghyll scrambling, kayaking, canoeing and climbing. See natural terrain and landmarks in a whole new way by going on an adventure with Dave's!
There is even more to see and do here now as it's just undergone a whole new refurbishment! Now all 23 of Beatrix Potter's tales are brought to life in three dimensions.
The Lake District Walker offers the most exciting way to savour this lush region. Take a navigation course or traverse Scafell Pike. Go Ghyll Scrambling and slide down waterfalls, jump into refreshing pools and prepare to get wet! A wide range of instructional courses are available ranging from one to five days in length.
Ambleside (Central Cumbria) has a population of 2600, and is ideally situated in the Rothay Valley just north of the head of Lake Windermere. Another favourite for hikers and walkers.
Beach
No recommended Beach found within 30 miles of this property.
Biking & Hiking
Take in the impressive waterfalls on this 4.5 mile long trail. The surrounding woodlands also provide a lovely setting and the entire area has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Only revealed to the world in 1837, this series of tunnels and passages are a wonder to all who visit them. A guide will take you around the fascinating formations and explain them throughout. Discoveries are still being made and in 2001, the remains of woolly rhinoceros were uncovered at the end of the footpath!.
Fairfield Horseshoe Walk - 28.8 Miles (46.1 KM)
A circular walk starting in Ambleside and following the skyline reaches Faitfield summit. A walk of about 10 miles, giving you roughly 7 hours to enjoy the glorious scenery.
Loughrigg & Grasmere Walk - 29 Miles (46.4 KM)
A guided walk with superb views of Windermere. You walk along Grasmere and the onto the famous 'Coffin Road' passing Rydal Mount and Rydal Hall.
A former railway line that is now a lovely traffic free path open to pedestrians, cycles, horses, and dogs, its 10.5 mile route winds all the way up from Swalwell to Consett.
Golf & Sports
Premier paragliding school in the UK offering BHPA courses in the Lakes and Yorkshire Dales. See the stunning scenery from the air as qualified instructors guide you in a taster course of this exhilarating sport.
Just one mile north of Barnard Castle town centre, this is an excellent 18 hole golf course. Play a round on this beautiful course and soak up the lovely, local scenery.
This community leisure centre offers a range of facilities including a 25m swimming pool, toddler pool, skate park, squash courts, adventure play area and fitness suite.
This fabulous 18 hole golf course is ideally situated on the outskirts of the picturesque town of Richmond. Its clubhouse offers a bar and restaurant.
This community swimming pool offers a range of facilities including a jacuzzi, steam room and sauna - as well as general fun sessions for all the family.
Unique 9 hole course located amongst limestone rock with breathtaking views of surrounding countryside. Once you have tackled this fabulous green why not take advantage of a refreshment as catering is available all day and parties can be arranged.
Climb 365 - 28.2 Miles (45.1 KM)
Climb 365 offers family adventure days which are specifically designed around the ages, abilities and needs of your family. Take a trip back into nature on these Cumbrian courses in climbing. Soak up the truly beautiful scenery as you battle with the elements!
This community swimming pool offers a range of facilities including a 25m swimming pool, 3 diving boards and two water slides. You can also play squash or hit the gym.
Watersports activity centre with a wide range of equipment available and a great location for waterskiing, windsurfing, sailing and canoeing — just a few of the activities on offer.
A great place for course fishing and a well know local carp haven. Some fish caught here have weighed in at 30lbs! There is also Perch, Pike, Bream and Roach to be found in plentiful supply in the lake.
Activities here include: Caving, gorge walking, rock climbing, abseiling and mountain biking. Full tuition is available, and they cater for all abilities.
Nature Reserves
With plenty of waymarked cycle and walking trails, this is the perfect start point from which to explore the beautiful nearby North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It also features a visitor's centre, tearooms and an adventure play area.
A stunning lake, in a beautiful part of North Yorkshire. Keep an eye out for shovelers, merlins, oystercatchers, curlew sandpipers and yellow wagtails, to name a few. A whole host of various species of wildlife have made their home in and around the peaceful area that is Swale Lake.
Gardens & Woodlands
17th century Acorn Bank Garden's claim to fame is its collection of medicinal and culinary plants, the largest in Northern England with over 250 varieties.
The Lowther Parklands consist of 150 acres of grounds with play activities for children, including rides, boating, adventure playgrounds, miniature railway and a putting green.
A moorland country park on the banks of the Derwent Reservoir, ideal for that country walk with the dog or cycling by the river.
Holehird Gardens is the official home of the Lakeland Horticultural Society. This gorgeous, lush area features some of the most breathtaking green spaces in the region. The entire garden spans 17 spacious acres with hillsides covered in shrubs, trees, heather gardens, rocks, a walled garden and alpine houses. This location is also a popular spot for public events.
Located at the centre of Ambleside, White Platts is a gorgeous recreation area that offers some of the most popular miniature golf along the lakes. The 9 hole course offers a variety of challenge levels for players. The grounds also include three full size tennis courts and a bowling green.
Local Attractions
Preserved steam and diesel locomotives from Britain and overseas run between Alston station and Kirkhaugh. There are refreshment facilities and a railway shop at the station.
Bootleggers Bar offers a wide range of live music, including seasoned artists and budding college bands. Free and paid gigs are offered throughout the week with a DJ taking over each Saturday evening. Farrers coffee, tea and free wifi are also offered. The upstairs gallery bar can be hired for private gatherings and gigs.
Woodmatters was created to spread awareness of the many benefits of sustainable woodlands in Cumbria. The organisation helps manage the green woodwork, Bushcraft courses and the community wood fuel scheme. Unique courses are offered through out each month, including spoon carving and family Bushcraft camping. Visitors can also shop for wood-based products such as bean poles, charcoal and kitchen utensils.
Brave travellers looking for a fun thrill can test their endurance and stamina at Treetop Trek! This exciting course includes two levels of high ropes with a low course hanging at 4 to 7 metres. The higher levels rise to 17 metres and includes swings, wobbly logs, rope bridges and much more, all tethered to big green trees!
Lakeland - 27.7 Miles (44.3 KM)
Lakeland labels itself as one of the "U.K.'s home shopping pioneers." This enjoyable retail experience includes an enormous catalogue that focuses on home wares. Find something special for the kitchen, including unique merchandise that's difficult to find elsewhere. Around the home items include furnishings, bins, cleaning accessories, organisers, electricals, laundry accessories and travel items.
Have you ever wanted to drive your own 4x4 on an off road adventure? Kankku Off Road Driving Adventure offers travellers the rare opportunity to take the wheel and navigate rugged terrain. Sessions are designed for drivers of all skill level, from the beginner to the seasoned adventurer. Brave visitors can choose from a variety of tour packages, including a self drive 4x4 safari, bring your own 4x4 and team convoy challenge.
For over 6 years, Raw War Paintball has been supplying high intensity excitement to locals and travellers. Test your abilities in any of 12 paintball game scenarios. Eight unique combat arenas are available, each equipped with a variety of forts, villages, towers, bridges, rivers and old mine works. Instruction and supervision is provided to make sure everyone stays safe while they have a great time.
The Civic Darlington Theatre offers a wide array of performances from professional shows to seasonal pantos.
Sailing Dinner Cruises offer the perfect experience on the beautiful Lake Windermere, as you sail aboard this luxurious 38ft cruiser yacht, taking in the beauty of the lakes and the stunning surroundings and soaking up the peace and tranquillity of the waters. The experienced skipper encourages all guests to try their hand at all aspects of sailing the yacht however, if you prefer you can simply relax on board that is fine too. This beautiful yacht can accommodate six persons on board and all safety equipment is provided. There are a choice of sailing options from half to full day hands on sailing, a murder mystery cruise, evening dinner cruise, afternoon tea cruise and champagne and cocktails cruise or you can privately charter the yacht. The skippers David and Veronica are lovely people, friendly, hospitable and knowledgeable and have lots of information and stories to tell, making for a wonderful excursion. The yacht is beautiful with lots of amenities and is very comfortable and smooth on the waters. Sailing Dinner Cruises is the only way to see the lakes, a truly memorable and delightful experience, great food, hosts and setting.
Sail 'n' Dine is located on the beautiful Lake Windermere in the picturesque Lake District, and gives you the ideal opportunity to take in the beauty and tranquillity of the lakes whilst enjoying fine wines and fantastic food. You are taken aboard a premium sailing yacht where you can relax in the comfortable and luxurious surroundings and all the amenities on board that make your trip as enjoyable as possible. The glass panoramic roof windows allow you to take in these magnificent surroundings and you will find her to be a smooth and steady on the waters. This skippered yacht can accommodate upto nine people depending on the sail option you choose. There are a choice of sail options from sailing by the hour to half days on the lake or an evening sail and dine or perhaps a romantic stay over, all will award you with the peace and tranquillity of the waters and splendid scenery. It is recommended to wear soft non-slip shoes and to wear warm clothes for those cooler days and don't forget the camera, you are assured to get some lovely photographs. Sail 'n' Dine is operated by John who is very capable, friendly, professional, knowledgeable and passionate, he will ensure you have a memorable excursion with lots of history and stories leaving you wanting to come back again. The prices are very reasonable for the quality of the overall experience and standard of service you receive, highly recommended.
Historical & Heritage Sites
A fascinating museum for all the family to enjoy, the Bowes Museum houses the greatest collection of European fine and decorative arts in the North of England.
Delve into the history of mining on the North Pennines in this fascinating museum. Hear about the people that worked there, the lifestyle they lead and the legacy this important mine had on the social and cultural history of the area.
A courtyard castle with rectangular towers, this spectacular medieval fortress is still in grand condition and situated in the heart of Wensleydale, inside the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
The renowned Settle-Carlisle Railway claims to be "England's most scenic railway." This historic transportation resource runs through northern England. It was built in the 1870s and offers breathtaking views of some of the finest countryside in the North Pennines and Yorkshire Dales. Visitors can still travel the Settle-Carlisle line today.
The Quaker Tapestry Exhibition Centre began all because of an offhand remark made by an 11 year old boy. His teacher, an accomplished embroiderer, was inspired and envisioned large tapestry panels that tell the Quaker story. The project began in 1982 and expanded over the years. Today more than 4,000 individuals of all ages across 15 countries have contributed.
The award-winning Lakeland Museum offers a great way to delve deeper into the rich history of the Lake District. Find out what life was like in this isolated region before the railway and motorcar was made travel easier. Displays tell stories of the people who had a lasting impact on the district.
Middleham castle was once home to some of the most powerful lords of the 15th century, including Salisbury, Warwick and Richard, Duke of Gloucester, later King Richard III. After the castle fell into disrepair much of the stone was taken from its walls and used by locals to build many of the houses in this small Dales town, above which its ruins still tower.
Once the largest of the British Roman forts, Binchester has been partly excavated,but much remains undiscovered. Stare in wonder at the ancient Roman bath house and its incredible 1700 year old underfloor heating system!
Enjoy all the charm of the Elizabethan Levens Hall. For more than five decades, this gorgeous structure has drawn in curious visitors. Tremendous conservation efforts have gone into maintaining the garden and park. Explore the Great Hall, Dining Room, Drawing Room, Library and Bedrooms while learning about the legends surrounding this great house.
Blackwell Arts and Crafts House offers visitors a unique opportunity to view up close the wonderful and highly acclaimed work of MH Baille Scott, this beautifully maintained house is a true celebration of his work and the revolutionary Arts and Crafts Movement at this time in the twentieth century. Today the house is classified as one of the most endearing historic houses in the Lake District, situated in Bowness in an idyllic position on the hill overlooking the beautiful Lake Windermere. The house is a celebration of the beauty and craftsmanship of this time and many of the wonderful original features are still here, as well as the furniture and furnishings of the time and you are free to roam around there are no restricted areas. A real bonus of Blackwell House is the amazing vistas it gives of this beautiful region of the Lake District. There are lots of stories and information pertaining to its history, as well as a number of exhibitions, there are staff available to answer any questions you might have. The house is open for the majority of the year except for the first couple of weeks in January. There is a charge for adults but children under 16 and full time students are free. The Tea Room is a warm, inviting and cosy and celebrates the simplicity of good food through their selection of homemade hot and cold dishes and beverages, they are delicious and excellently priced, and the service is very good too. The craft and book shop holds a lovely selection of the best pieces in craft, art and books and much more, you are sure to find a nice souvenir here. Blackwell Arts ad Crafts House is an impressive and interesting experience for all, it is a unparalleled example of the Arts and Crafts Movement and should not be missed.
Kiplin Hall - 29.8 Miles (47.7 KM)
Kiplin Hall was built in the early 1620s as a hunting lodge for King James I. Now furnished as a welcoming Victorian family home, it contains paintings and furniture collected by the Calverts, Crowes, Carpenters and Talbots - the four families who once lived here. (Ground floor accessible to wheelchair users)
