UK Travels – Things to Do in the North Lake District this Autumn

Things to Do in the North Lake District this Autumn

The beauty of the Lake District lends itself well to every season, but summer undeniably remains the most popular time to visit. However, even with autumn quickly approaching, there are still plenty of things to do in the North Lake District, and plenty of activities and events to enjoy this autumn. As an added bonus, it’s unlikely that many other people will think of visiting in Autumn so hotels will be cheaper, and attractions far less busy than usual.

Further Reading: Living in the UK? 4 Fabulous Places for a UK Staycation

1 – Enjoy a Distillery Tour

As the chilly weather begins to set in, a distillery tour is the perfect thing to get you out of the cold, and the tasting portion of the tour will be sure to warm you up. Located close to the beautiful Bassenthwaite Lake, The Lakes Distillery makes vodka, gin, and whisky using fresh Lakeland water. If you’re not a fan of the harder stuff, the well-known Keswick Brewing Company also runs tours where you can get a glimpse inside the brewery and sample some of their beers.

UK Travels - Things to Do in the North Lake District this Autumn - The North Lakes - Derwentwater — Derwentwater

2 – Have Fun Indoors

The Lake District is world-famous for the outdoor activities it has on offer like hiking and sailing, but as the leaves begin to turn, it’s a good idea to look at some indoor options to explore on your visit. Keswick is the ideal location for an autumn visit to the Lake District. With plenty of indoor attractions and Keswick hotels to choose from, you’ll be sure to find somewhere to stay that will be a short distance away from all the fun things to do.

UK Travels - Things to Do in the North Lake District this Autumn - Keswick — Keswick

3 – Take a Boat Cruise

One of the main attractions of the Lake District is the sailing opportunities available across the different lakes and waters. Although some of the cruises do run all year round, autumn is probably the latest in the year when you’ll want to be out on the water, unless you don’t mind the icy wind that often accompanies sailing in colder weather.

Further Reading: A Short Guide to The Best Weekend Destinations in the UK

4 – Go for a Hike

Like with the boat cruises, it won’t be long before the conditions make it impossible to go for a hike on the more difficult routes until spring comes around again. Many of the most famous routes in the north of the Lake District require good visibility and conditions that aren’t too damp or icy so now is your last chance to conquer them before they become too difficult to tackle.

UK Travels - Things to Do in the North Lake District this Autumn - Hike — North Lake District Hiking

5 – Experience The Winter Droving

The Winter Droving festival is a yearly celebration held in Penrith and an unmissable attraction if you’re visiting the Lake District in autumn. Taking place in late October/early November, the festival is a celebration of Penrith’s history as a marketplace where people from the local area would bring livestock and produce for sale. Although the day is filled with music, mayhem and a variety of performances, the highlight of the Winter Droving is the torch parade through town – featuring a procession of street bands, lanterns, and fire torches.

UK Travels - Things to Do in the North Lake District this Autumn - Cumbrian Herdwick Sheep — Cumbrian Herdwick Sheep

6 – Explore Mirehouse

Mirehouse is a feast for the eyes, the house having lovingly been restored by the family which currently owns it. Dating back to the 17th century, the ground floor of the house and the grounds themselves have remained open to the public despite Mirehouse still being used as a family home. Immerse yourself in history as you walk through the richly decorated interior of Mirehouse and enjoy the sights it has to offer before the end of the season on 31st October. The grounds are a joy to explore too, with plenty to keep adults and children alike occupied.