The lakes
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| A Windermere cruise | The area's largest lake, with covered boats from Ambleside and Bowness between mountains and bays. | The boats are covered, so they work even in the rain |
| Derwentwater and Keswick | A lake about 5 km long that you can walk right round, with the famous Friar's Crag viewpoint on its shore. | Keswick |
| Ullswater | Many call it England's most beautiful lake, with steamer cruises. | East of the area |
Villages and families
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| Grasmere | A quiet village with the poet Wordsworth's cottage and the famous traditional gingerbread shop. | Centre of the area |
| Ambleside | A small town for shopping and restaurants, and the start of Windermere cruises. | North of Windermere |
| Wray Castle | A castle on the west shore of Windermere with gardens and lakeside paths. | West of Windermere |
| The Lakes Aquarium | The UK's largest collection of freshwater fish, a good place for children on rainy days. | On the shore of Windermere |
Tips before you go
- The train from London (Euston) to Oxenholme takes about 3 hours, then a bus or car to the lakes; a car is easier for getting around.
- The weather changes and it rains often, so bring a waterproof coat even in summer.
- You need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for the UK; Manchester is the nearest airport, with direct flights from Jeddah.
Hotels in the Lake District
Flights to Manchester
More places nearby
- Things to do in the UK
- Things to do in Manchester
- Things to do in Scotland
- Things to do in the Cotswolds
- Things to do in London and Harrods
Visa
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Frequently asked questions
What are the top things to do in the Lake District?
Windermere cruises, Keswick and Derwentwater, Ullswater, Grasmere, Ambleside and the Lakes Aquarium.
How do I get to the Lake District from London?
By train from Euston to Oxenholme in about 3 hours, then a bus or car to Windermere or Keswick.
Is the Lake District good for families?
Yes: boat trips, easy walks, an aquarium and quiet villages, loveliest from May to September.
Planning your trip to the United Kingdom? Read Travel to the UK from Saudi Arabia.
Last updated: October 2026. The information is for guidance only; ticket prices and opening hours are set by each attraction and may change, so check them on the official website before you go.