Experience the Lakes
Nothing makes better memories than a great hands-on experience and this activity is what Cartmel and the Lake District do best. Top of the list for many is Cartmel Races, with an expanding calendar of events making for a big day out at this small race course . Also in Cartmel you will find Lakeland Segway, the UK’s longest running Segway Tour company, awarded "Best Experience in Cumbria" award by Cumbria Tourism, it’s a great way to get out and see the area without too much of the effort.
Take To The Saddle
If you love horses try the Friesian Experience in Cartmel, where you can get close to these powerful, black horses. To enjoy a horse ride consider full or half-day riding hacks with Fell Pony adventures.
Walking is undoubtedly the top way people experience the Lake District, which offers everything from simple strolls to highly strenuous and challenging climbs. From Pembroke Cottage you can easily access Hampsfell with its outstanding views and rare Limestone pavement summit. Also nearby is Gummers How, a small prominence by Lake District standards but huge views and more accessible than many other fells. For a great introduction to walking in Cumbria and the Lake District visit the National Trust walking webpage.
Take To The Water
Head over to Windermere for more aquatic fun, starting at Fell Foot Park where you can paddleboard, canoe, kayak, or just swim in Lake Windermere (check daily water cleanliness here). Hire a boat or launch your own boat here (by appointment). Many of the same experiences are also available at Brockhole visitor centre further up the lake. Boat hire is also available in Bowness, at the Marina, no prior experience required.
Just a short drive from Cartmel you will find Grizedale Forest, a real hub for getting outdoors and getting involved. In addition to copious walking and biking trails, Grizedale also offers a Go Ape tree top and zip trekking adventures for all ages, forest scuptulres and a children’s play area.
Cycling is another of the Lake District’s most popular activities, for more on where to go and where to hire a bike take a look at visitlakedistrict.com or hire bikes here.
If you want to see the Lake District in all its glory but don’t know where to start consider a guided tour with Lake District Tours, where local experts take the hassle out of getting around and take you to all the best spots whilst sharing their intimate knowledge of the area.