Lake District countryside

The National Trust has cared for the iconic mountains, fells, and farms of the Lake District for over 100 years. Each valley has a unique character - whether remote or bustling - there's something to inspire every nature lover, adrenalin seeker, literary maestro or archaeology buff...

Borrowdale

This is a spectacular landscape of rugged crags, inviting fells and wooded valleys. Borrowdale includes half of Derwentwater and the well preserved Castlerigg Stone Circle near Keswick. It has been a favourite haunt of artists and writers over the years, including Beatrix Potter.

Buttermere and Ennerdale

This tranquil area of dramatic fells, farms and woodland encompasses three lakes: Buttermere, Crummock and Loweswater. Take a boat out to enjoy the lakes from a different perspective or to see if the fish are biting.

Coniston & Tarn Hows

The steam yacht Gondola on Coniston Water in the Lake District
© NTPL / Mike Williams

Take to the water: one of the best ways to view Coniston Water and its surrounding scenery is to take a ride on the steam yacht Gondola. At the head of Coniston Water, Tarn Hows, with its magnificent views of the mountains, is one of Coniston's favourite beauty spots.

Grasmere and Great Langdale

Walkers in Great Langdale, the Lake District
© NTPL / Leo Mason

You'll find a wide range of walking opportunities, from high fells to lakeside and woodland paths, across this classic Wordsworth countryside. Stay outdoors in the fantastically located National Trust campsite at the head of Great Langdale, a sweeping glaciated valley.

Hawkshead and Claife

Explore Hawkshead, a classic Lakeland village surrounded by beautiful scenery. The village is home to the Beatrix Potter Gallery. You can take a 4-mile walk from the village along the side of Lake Windermere for superb lakeside views and discover hill walks and woodland paths along the way.

Ullswater and Aira Force

Follow in Wordsworth's footsteps as you roam around the site of his famous daffodils. Ullswater is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Lake District, which winds through a glaciated valley. One of the highlights of a visit is the impressive Aira Force waterfall, around which you can follow dramatic walks.

Wasdale, Eskdale and Duddon

Wasdale is the home of England's highest mountain, Scafell Pike, and deepest lake, Wastwater. This wild area of the Lake District is remote, quiet and dramatic. There are well-marked footpaths which offer access to the fells. Extend your visit by staying at the stunningly located National Trust campsite at Wasdale Head.

Windermere and Troutbeck

You'll discover fine varied walking country around Lake Windermere, at the heart of the Lake District. Hire a boat and take to the lake itself, or use the network of footpaths to reach the best high-level views. There are lots of options for places to visit, including Ambleside Roman Fort and Troutbeck Park, which was once owned by Beatrix Potter.