The British Lake District, located in the North of England is a diverse and magnificent landscape, awarded UNESCO Heritage status in 2017. Stunning lakes, beautiful tarns and idyllic natural beauty sit harmoniously alongside picturesque villages. With a plethora of things to do in the Lake District, how will you spend your time? A pleasant lakeside amble followed by afternoon tea or an exhilarating hike and a pub lunch? Perhaps boarding the Ullswater steamer appeals or a visit to Hill Top to discover the delights of Beatrix Potter. Or if for you, it’s all about speed, adrenaline, being out of your comfort zone and trying something new, read on to find out about some thrilling adventure activities in the Lake District.
Kerry and I are always up for trying something different, especially when we’re on holiday. From sea kayaking in Thailand to zip lining in Costa Rica, white water rafting in Canada and biking in South Africa. I loved bungee jumping and skydiving in New Zealand, Kerry wasn’t too thrilled about caving in Cuba… But when it comes to the UK we hadn’t realised just how many opportunities there are to participate in adventure activities in the Lake District. Yes, we have enjoyed plenty of hikes both low level and strenuous but it seems, the Lake District is definitely a place to visit if you want to test your stamina and nerves!
Check out our Top 5 ideas…
Ghyll Scrambling
Looking for an adrenaline rush? An adventure activity in the Lake District? Then look no further than a day Ghyll Scrambling in the Lake District. For those of you not familiar with the idea it involves getting wet, very wet as you clamber up or down a mountain stream, jumping from boulders, climbing up waterfalls, and shooting down natural slides into the Lake Districts pristine streams.
The great thing about Ghyll Scrambling is that it’s suitable for everyone, no experience required. As long as you are comfortable in the water and are up for a challenge then it’s for you. Lots of companies tailor make scrambles depending on the group and with so many excellent Ghylls in the Lake District, there’s an adventure out there for everyone.
Most companies provide all the gear, for around £50 per person.
Do you want to maximise your adrenaline? Then maybe try canyoning, this is taking ghyll scrambling to the next level, involving, abseiling, and jumping into deep plunge pools and letting the water carry you downstream. It requires good physical fitness and an adventurous spirit!
Via Ferrata, Honister
Maybe you want a climb with a difference? Then the Via Ferrata in Honister is for you. Follow the original miner’s route to the top of Fleetwith Pike and see the natural beauty of the area from a unique vantage point. The classic route is suitable for all abilities, for those who want an extra challenge, then book the Xtreme route!
If you don’t fancy climbing, then maybe try suspending yourself 2000m above the valley floor on the Honister Infinity Bridge. It is the longest bridge of its kind in the UK. Both the Via Ferrata Classic and the Infinity Bridge are suitable for anyone age 10 or above, minimum height 1m 30cm.
Complete your experience with a visit down the slate mine, and even take home a slate souvenir.
Go Ape
With two locations in both the North and South Lakes, Go Ape provides an adrenaline filled adventure activity in the heart of Grizedale and Whinlatter forests. Do you want to test your nerve on the Tree Top adventure course, set high above the forest floor? Will you free fall on the Tarzan swing or zip your way across the Douglas Firs? (Ages 10+)
Grizedale forest is also home to the Tree Top Junior Course for all ages to build their confidence.
If ziplining is your thing then Grizedale has a Zip Trekking Adventure for you, cross the forest in tandem with a friend or partner along 3km of line building speeds of up to 45MPH.
Take your bikes, a picnic or pack those hiking boots and make a day of it in one or both of these beautiful forests.
Rock Climbing
The Lake District has some of the UK’s finest climbing and definitely the most beautiful. So for an adventure activity in the Lake District maybe try your hand at one of the many magnificent rock faces on offer. From family adventure to extreme climbing and anything in-between. Maybe you have been climbing indoors for a while but want to take the next step. There are tons of places all around the area, and many companies offering a half day climb.
If you’re not ready for Lakeland rock just yet or maybe the rain has set in, then head to the Keswick Climbing wall and Newlands Adventure Centre to hone your skills away from the elements.
Mountain Biking
The Lake District is a bikers playground, from quiet country lanes to many off-road routes. Bring your own bike or hire one. Need a little help on those uphill country lanes then try an electric bike. Whinlatter Forest is home to the Altura Trail, 19km long and rising up to 500m high. Grizedale offers family-friendly trails to extreme black off-road routes. Ullswater and the Boredale Valley provide one of the most technical rides in the UK. Start looking and you will be spoilt for choice. Many companies offer guided rides and technical coaching.
Why limit yourself?
So, that’s our Top 5, but to be honest we haven’t even scratched the surface. With miles of UNESCO beauty you can hike, bike, sail, ride, row, or just be! There are so many opportunities for adventure activities in the Lake District, that even the rain can’t spoil!
So what will you choose? If none of the above is for you, what about kayaking, canoeing, hiring a quad bike or a paddleboard? Would you rather see this stunning landscape on horseback or maybe you want to go all out and take off in a hot air balloon… Your adventures are only just beginning.
For more information check out the Go Lakes website.
If you want to find out more about the Lake District read our Top 5 Lake District Villages blog. If you are looking to camp read our review of The Langdales campsite near Ambleside.
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