If you are visiting Cumbria this summer, then grab a packed lunch and make the most of some of the best picnic spots in the Lake District.
10 of the best picnic spots in the Lake District include:
Aira Force, Ullswater
Aira Force is surrounded by stunning scenery and this is probably the most beautiful waterfall in the Lake District. There are plenty of places around the falls where visitors can enjoy a picnic, and this is a great place to spend a day if you want to walk in the footsteps of William Wordsworth, who wrote the famous poem, ´Daffodils´ after walking along this route.
Tarn Hows, near Coniston and Hawkshead
Tarn Hows lies between the quaint villages of Coniston and Hawkshead. This beauty spot is surrounded by thick, enchanting woodland and is overlooked by the dramatic Langdale Pikes and the imposing Helvellyn. Famous children’s author, Beatrix Potter bought Tarn Hows in 1929, before selling it onto the National Trust. Visit outside the main summer season to enjoy a haven of tranquility and peace.
Loughrigg Tarn, north of Windermere
Loughrigg Tarn is a natural lake just north of Windermere and just north of the village of Skelwith Bridge at the foot of Loughrigg Fell. Loughrigg Tarn is a fantastic spot for walking and picknicking, and is undoubtedly one of the Lake District’s hidden treasures. It offers tremendous views of miles of rolling fells, across to the rugged beauty of the Langdale Pikes. The calm tarn boasts clear blue water, which during the summer months is adorned with colourful water lilies.
If you want to make the most of your break in the Lakes, why not book into a luxury Windermere spa suite?
Catbells and Ashness Bridge
Catbells and Ashness Bridge offer stunning views down to Derwentwater, and Catbells is a popular walk for families. The route is not too difficult and the stunning views from the top make it all worthwhile. Autumn is a great time to visit when the trees surrounding Derwentwater turn to gold. If you are not feeling too energetic, pack your picnic and head up to Ashness Bridge in the car.
Gummer´s How, near Windermere
If you want to enjoy stunning sun sets over Windermere, there is no better place to visit for a picnic than Gummer´s How. Visit in the day time and you can enjoy stunning views which sweep north across Windermere.
Birdoswald Roman Fort
Birdoswald is situated towards the western end of Hadrian´s Wall, and is considered to be one of the most picturesque settings along the entire 73 miles of Hadrian´s Wall. The Roman fort stands high above the River Irthing and can be seen from miles around.
High Dam Tarn, Finsthwaite
High Dam Tarn is a typically stunning Lake District beauty spot. This place was once described by Alfred Wainwright, walker and writer of Lake District guides as ´a much nicer place than the over-populated Tarn Hows´, although both spots are quite beautiful.
Ruskin´s View, Kirkby Lonsdale
This incredible view is arguably one of England´s finest, and this stunning spot, looking over the River Lune was commemorated by William Lakin Turner who painted a picture of the famous view. Another famous local resident, John Ruskin, described this spot as ´one of the loveliest scenes in England.´
Talkin Tarn Country Park near Carlisle
Talkin Tarn Country Park is located just a few miles from Carlisle and is made up of 120 acres of parkland and countryside. The Talkin Tarn is at the centre of the park, providing a beautiful walk around the water´s edge.
Orrest Head, Windermere
Orrest Head is only a 30 minute walk up from the town of Windermere. Stunning views of the lake are available from the top, making this one of the best picnic spots in the Lake District. The walk is a great outing for all the family, and there are plenty of places to stop on your way up.
If you are planning to stay a few nights in Cumbria, treat yourselves and book into a luxury Windermere spa suite. You won’t be far from Lake Windermere and some of the best picnic spots in the Lake District.