So, you’ve booked your trip to The Lake District.
You’ve been told is rains a lot -so you’ve packed your waterproofs and wellies.
You’ve been told you could find yourself in the middle of nowhere – so you’ve filled the car with snacks.
Similarly, you’ve told your friends you may be out of signal for a while – things are still a little patchy up here!
Sounds like you’ve prepared well- But, like anywhere, there are always some things you’ll only discover once you’re here. We’ve put together a little list of interested facts/tips/advice on how to really make the most of your holiday to the most beautiful place in England.
- They are called Herdwick Sheep
You’ll see them everywhere – on the fells, in the fields, on the roads, knocking down walls and causing havoc throughout the gardens of Cumbria. Don’t be surprised if one pops its head through your front door – they’re very cheeky!
Herdwicks are a traditional breed of domestic sheep native to the Lake District, with friendly little white faces and grey woolly bodies. These lovely animals have provided a livelihood for locals for centuries and are synonymous with the Lakeland landscape.
- We love Beatrix Potter
You might have already stumbled upon Cumbria’s obsession with Beatrix Potter, but it is with good reason! Famous for her writing, illustrations and conservation, Beatrix has become a treasured icon, and part of Lake District culture. Her books are cherished by people all over the world and her tremendous contributions to local conservation are still prevalent today. Visit Hill Top or Tarn Hows two walk in her footsteps.
- You must try a local ale
Cumbria is blessed with many, many small breweries. Pop into any local pub and you will no doubt find a fine selection of local brews. Bowness Bay Brewing, (famous for its Swan Gold), Hawskhead Brewery, Great Corby Brewhouse (try the fox brown ale), Grasmere Brewery and Keswick Brewing co, to name a few. Finish that hike of with a pint of liquid gold and a bowl of chips. Don’t forget to buy a few bottles for home!
- Technically, there is only one lake
Bassenthwaite Lake is technically the only lake in the Lake District, the others are ‘meres’ or ‘waters’, but we’ll let them off.
Windermere is the largest, at 14.8 square km or 10.5 miles long! Ullswater takes second place at 8.9 square km. It’s hard to visit the area without bumping into multiple bodies of water – just remember not all these enticing pools are suitable for a dip, they get very deep and very cold. Currents and ledges lurk under the surface. So, take care!
- Get yourself some gingerbread
Even on a hot day in summer, it’s worth queuing for a package of Sarah Nelson’s famous Grasmere Gingerbread. Somewhere between a cake and a biscuit, this irresistible recipe has been kept secret for decades, and enticing people back through those doors again, and again, and again!
Photo by Amit Jagnade on Unsplash