Besides being home to England’s highest mountain (Scafell pike) and deepest lake (Wastwater) Cumbria also has England’s largest National Park so it’s a sure-fire bet that the scenery is everything you could imagine it to be. Though the ‘great outdoors’ is a big part of any visit to the area it’s not all about what’s outside.
We have put together a small selection of links to things you may find interesting, just to help whet your appetite. Naturally, during your stay at Highside we can make many more recommendations.
Places to Visit
There are a great many places to visit during a trip to the magnificent Lake District and Cumbria as a whole. Shopping, sightseeing, history, things to do, places to go, people to learn about – so much in fact that there never need be a dull moment whatever the weather!
Bassenthwaite Lake
Bassenthwaite lake is one of the largest in the Lake District being some 4 miles long.
Wordsworth House
Visit the Grade I listed house of William Wordsworth now owned by the National Trust.
Jennings Brewery
Have a tour around and sample the likes of Cocker Hoop, Cumberland Ale and Sneck Lifter.
Honister Slate Mine
Take a tour deep underground of the mine providing history and insight in to the workings.
Theatre by the Lake
Bringing the magic of theatre and the excitement of the imagination to one of Britain’s loveliest counties.
Keswick Launch Co.
Cruise around Derwentwater or get off at one of the jetties and stroll back.
Outdoor Activities
Walk it, run it, jog it, fly it, climb it, see it, do it! If the great outdoors is your thing then there’s certainly no shortage of places for you to go.
Keswick Railway Footpath
The four mile long footpath was created by the Lake District National Park Authority.
Osprey Watch at Dodd Wood
During most days you will be able to see Ospreys flying, feeding, fishing and sitting – bring your binoculars.
Castlerigg Stone Circle
Castlerigg Stone Circle is one of the earliest British Circles dating back to about 3000BC.
Honister Pass
Honister pass starts at the southern end of Buttermere and is one of Cumbria’s highest passes.
Whinlatter Forest Park
A great place for walking with unrivalled views and many miles of gravel roads.
Places to Eat & Drink
From the award-winning restaurants to gastro pubs and cafes, Cumbria offers some of the best in food and drink. From the local beer to the renowned Lakeland lamb and beef, an abundance of excellent local food combined with international influences provide for even the most discerning food lover.
The Snooty Fox, Uldale
The Snooty Fox in Uldale offers good food and well kept ales in abundance.
The Pheasant Inn, Keswick
The Pheasant in is situated on the outskirts of Keswick and serves outstanding, traditional pub food.
The Royal Oak, Braithwaite
The Royal Oak in Braithwaite is a bustling, busy pub in a gorgeous small village.
Castle Inn, Bassenthwaite
Lakers Bar at the Castle Inn, a great place to relax and enjoy traditional meals.
Ravenstone Lodge, Bassenthwaite
Just a short walk from Highside Farm the Coach House restaurant is not to be missed
Fun for the Children
Action and adventure galore awaits those that dare. Adventure deep into the forest at Whinlatter for some serious climbing in the skies. For those that wish to keep a little closer to the ground then follow adventure trails, visit some of the wildlife, or learn how pencils are made – plus loads more…
Pencil Museum
Visit the Pencil museum where kids can get messy in the art studio and see the world’s largest pencils.
Whintlatter Forest – Go Ape
Fantastic adventure in the forest for the kids, riding zip slides over water and through the skies….
Lake District Wildlife Park
Wander around our beautiful 24 acre parkland and see over 100 species of animal.
South Lakes Wildlife Park
The ultimate interactive animal experience. See Lions, Tigers and Rhinos.
Little Legs & Buggies Walk
Walks suitable for people with limited mobility, wheelchair users and families with pushchairs.
Whinlatter Wildplay
What more could the kids want with this unique adventure trail which takes you through the dense trees.
Mirehouse
Mirehouse is a family run historic house attraction open to visitors to enjoy its strong literary connections, live piano music and children’s activities.