Things to Do in the Lake District: Spring Events, Activities & Attractions
Spring is a wonderful time to visit the Lake District, as the national park awakens from its winter shroud and bursts into colour.
The Lakeland fells take on more vibrant hues, daffodils are still in bloom across the landscape and the longer, warmer days create the perfect setting for a spring getaway.
Understandably the school Easter holidays are always incredibly popular, but April in general typically offers a quieter, more relaxed experience compared to the busy summer months, while still providing plenty to see and do.
Enjoy Spring Walks and Outdoor Adventures
Spring is without doubt one of the best seasons for a stay in the Lake District with kinder temperatures and plenty of that wonderful fresh countryside air – ideal for walking, hiking, and cycling.
Popular routes such as Catbells and the shores of Derwentwater near Keswick provide rewarding views without being overly challenging, making them perfect for casual walkers.
A relatively short walk through Elleray Woods on the edge of Windermere will take you to Orrest Head – not a challenging undertaking, but the views encountered by Alfred Wainwright on his first visit were enough to convince him to relocate to the area and begin his love affair with the Lakeland Fells.
More experienced hikers may choose to tackle of those higher peaks and tick off a few ‘Wainwrights’ – the 214 Lakeland Fells above 1,000 feet described by Alfred in his seven-volume Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells.
Something of a hidden gem can be found near Kendal, just on the edge of the National Park – Scout Scar. This quite dramatic limestone landscape offers quite incredible 360° views not only of the Lakeland Fells but east towards the Howgills and the Yorkshire Dales and Morecambe Bay.
There are also plenty of family-friendly, low-level and accessible trails across the Lakes so no excuses, everyone can get out and enjoy the great outdoors!
If you need some ideas, the National Trust and the Lake District National Park websites offer plenty of ideas and walking routes.
Cycling is another great way to explore the area, with scenic routes on quieter B-roads passing through beautiful villages and along peaceful country lanes with the added benefit of stunning views pretty much around every corner.
If you need some more persuasion to head out and push those pedals, there are plenty of tea rooms, cafés and bakeries to help keep you fuelled on your adventures!
If you feel like taking to the water there are boat trips, lake cruises and hire boat options offering a relaxing way to experience the dramatic scenery from a different perspective.
Windermere Lake Cruises run cruises all year-round on England’s largest lake, and there’s also Ullswater ‘Steamers’ and, our personal favourite, the beautiful Steam Yacht Gondola operated by the National Trust on Coniston Water.
Visit Gardens, Lakes and Local Attractions
Spring is synonymous with daffodils in the Lake District, famously celebrated in Wordworth’s poetry and found in abundance.
Charming villages such as Grasmere and Ambleside are perfect for a leisurely day out, offering independent shops, plenty of cosy cafés, and traditional pubs. For those travelling with children, attractions like Brockhole on Windermere provide a mix of outdoor play areas, gardens, and water-based activities.
Most heritage properties remain open throughout the year, but spring is a chance to see them (literally) in a new light and explore their gardens and surroundings. The National Trust properties at Allan Bank (Grasmere), Sizergh Castle (near Kendal), Wray Castle (near Hawkshead) and Acorn Bank (near Penrith) are always worth visiting.
Events and Festivals
Whatever time of year there always seems to be a local event or festival of some sort going on in Cumbria!
Food festivals are a highlight, with local events celebrating Cumbrian produce, artisan food, and street markets – perfect for visitors wanting to sample regional specialities and experience the local culture.
The ‘Taste Cumbria’ festivals are always worth seeking out – this April, there’s one in Cockermouth to look forward to: https://tastecumbria.co.uk/taste-cumbria-cockermouth/
In addition, visitors may find live music, community events, arts and cultural performances taking place across towns and villages, offering an authentic taste of life in the Lake District.
It’s worth checking out the links at the bottom of this page for latest events and festivals.
Why visit the Lake District at this time of year?
Choosing a Lake District holiday or short-stay in spring really offers the best of both worlds – the landscape is at its most colourful, visitor numbers are lower than peak season, and there is a wide range of activities available for all ages.
For couples, it’s an ideal time for a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature and cultural sites, whilst families can easily find plenty of entertainment and outdoor fun for the kids.
And for walkers and cyclists, the weather is typically ideal for exploring the fells and dales, forests and woodlands.
Staying in a holiday cottage or lodge allows you to fully experience the beauty of the National Park at your own pace – whether that’s enjoying a morning walk and drinking in the views, visiting local attractions, or simply relaxing in the stunning surroundings of this World Heritage Site.
Useful links
We hope you’ve found this beneficial and given you some inspiration for your next visit to the Lakes. Here are some useful links to help you get the most out of your stay in the Lake District this spring:
Visit Lake District, Cumbria What’s On Guide: https://www.visitlakedistrict.com/whats-on
LDNPA Places to Visit: https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/visiting/places-to-go
LDNPA What’s On Guide: https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/visiting/things-to-do
LDNPA Plan Your Visit and be Lake District Kind: https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/visiting/plan-your-visit
Information and links to other organisation’s websites are provided in good faith and with the intention that these will be of interest to visitors coming to the Lake District this spring. Please note that we are not responsible for the content published on these websites, nor can we be held responsible for the accuracy of information provided.
Should any organisation wish to have the link to their website or reference to them removed, please contact us and we shall happily oblige.
Photo credits:
Chris Linnett
