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Most Beautiful Lakes for your Trip to England

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When people hear trip to England, they automatically think either urban London or rural farms and fields – they don’t realize the goldmine of stunning lakes and peaks sitting in England’s Lake District National Park. England’s largest national park, the Lake District, is home to some of the most magnificent lakes in the world and planning a vacation there will definitely be one of your best Europe trips ever! A visitor could easily spend weeks there exploring the stunning lakes, villages, and peaks. As most people unfortunately don’t have that amount of time, I’d like to narrow down your trip by sharing some of my favorite spots in Cumbria.


Windermere 

Windsurfing, rowing, sailing, swimming, surfboarding, canoeing, waterskiing, and just about everything you can imagine, Windermere has to offer. It is the perfect place for water sports enthusiasts during your trip to England! At 10.5 miles, Windermere is England’s longest lake and is named for the town in which it is located. Visit the western shore where they have bikes for rent, and spend the day cycling around this picturesque lake. Situated at the head of Windermere is the lovely village of Ambleside, where you can explore and check out some of the local attractions such as Wray Castle.

Aerial view of Windermere

Ullswater

Surrounded by rolling green hills is England’s second largest lake, Ullswater. Ullswater is also home to a variety of excellent activities including water sports, cycling, hiking and walking trails, and even local shopping. Ullswater’s beauty has been compared to Lake Lucerne in Switzerland, and is often considered the most beautiful of the lakes. Towards the northern end of the lake, you can find Pooley Bridge, a quaint village with great accommodations including hotels and bed and breakfasts. The whole lake is surrounded by these picturesque villages, including Askham, where you can visit the Queens Head Pub for an authentic English pub experience.

Ullswater jetty reflections

Derwentwater 

Encircled by beautiful wooded hills (locally referred to as “fells”) and dotted with small islands, Derwentwater is considered to be one of the most scenic lakes in the area. It’s a great place for visitors looking for a relaxed stroll rather than a strenuous walk or hike. North of the lake lies Keswick, a beautiful and friendly town, with lovely shops and grassy picnic areas, where you will probably encounter a few sheep and cows.

Rowing boats are lying on the shore of Derwent water in the English Lake District during sunset. In the background are Catbells, Causey Pike and a few other popular fells of the National Park.

Buttermere 

Visit Buttermere in the north-west of the Lake District. The landscape is a perfect combination of lakes, streams, and beautiful purple heathered fells of varying sizes. Because of all that this lake offers, it is the perfect place to spend a day, a weekend, or even an extended vacation.

Vibrant orange sunrise with moving clouds and snowcapped mountains reflecting in calm still water with lonely tree in foreground at Buttermere, Lake District, UK.

Coniston Water

For an unspoilt, uncommercialized experience, visit Coniston Water, the third longest lake. Because of its proximity to excellent climbs, it is a very popular lake for hikers. Enjoy the main local attraction: a boat ride on a 19C steam gondola.

Sheep graze on a hillside above Coniston Water

Tarn Hows

Located just two miles north of Coniston lies the serene Tarn Hows. Sit on the grass and enjoy the reflective views of the surrounding fells and woods on the water’s calm surface. Follow the path that winds along the water’s edge, and at the bottom of the lake you will find waterfalls and forests, with quaint wooden footbridges: straight out of a fairy tale.

Tarn Hows in Lake District

Wastwater 

Finally, to save the best for last, Wastwater is my favorite of all the lakes. Many people consider Wastwater to be one of the most beautiful views in the country. This stunning lake lies under the shadow of Scafell Pike, the second-tallest mountain in England, giving it an almost eerie feeling. It’s also more remote than some of the other lakes, which adds to its uniqueness. Less tame and more wild, this scenery allows for a more genuine and natural experience. Enjoy the amazing views of the surrounding peaks, whose tops are often covered by mist and fog. On a nice day, seeing the sun burst through the clouds and illuminate the lake is a really spectacular treat.

Wastewater the Lake District

What was your favorite thing about your trip to England in the Lake District? Let us know in the comments below!

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