Planning a trip to Cumbria? Here’s a list of some of the things to do in Cumbria!
From animal attractions to visit, landmarks, outdoor activities and beaches to visit, we’ve collated a list of the best things to do in Cumbria below:
Alpacaly Ever After
Whinlatter Forest, Braithwaite, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5TW
Based in the beautiful Lake District with a mission to rehome Alpacas and Llamas from all over the country. Alpaca Ever After is a fun, interactive experience for any animal lover. Every Saturday and Sunday (with extra dates during school holidays), get up close and personal with Alpacas, spend time hand feeding and learning all about the herd from the friendly guides. Alpaca Ever After offers a Full Day Llama Trekking experience for older guests, an adventure day like no other! Hike over 2000ft accompanied by a guide and one of their loveable Llamas surrounded by the breathtaking views over Derwentwater. Get to know your new furry friends and enjoy a freshly prepared lunch and snacks along the way.
The World of Beatrix Potter
Crag Brow, Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere LA23 3BX
This is a magical attraction that brings Beatrix Potter‘s stories to life. Learn about the famous Miss Potter, meet Peter Rabbit and take a walk through Mr McGregor’s vegetable garden. A range of events are held throughout the year, such as Tea Parties and chances to Meet Peter Rabbit. The New Laundry cafe can also be found onsite, serving freshly baked treats, signature afternoon tea, and picnic baskets perfects for kids. The attraction shares a building with the Old Laundry Theatre, which has a great drama, comedy, music, and filming programme. During the summer, the highly-acclaimed musical show ‘Where is Peter Rabbit?’ is performed live in the theatre up to three times a day. Not to be missed!
Ullswater Steamers
The Pier House, Glenridding, Cumbria CA11 0US
Ullswater Steamers is an award-winning environmentally accredited Lake District attraction. Operating one of the largest heritage vessel fleets in the world, cruises connect to some of the most famous and iconic walking routes in the National Park, with views of Wordsworth’s daffodils on the west shore in spring. So taking a ride on the Steamers is an excellent opportunity to take in the area’s scenic sights. The valley is home to a range of wildlife such as Red Deer, Ravens, Cormorants and Peregrine Falcon. All of the vessels have fully licensed bars onboard. A selection of teas, coffees and light refreshments are available throughout the journey. Bikes and Dogs are permitted onboard, but small charges may apply.
Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum
Threlkeld Quarry, Threlkeld, CA12 4TT
The museum is situated three miles east of Keswick, in the heart of the breathtaking Lake District. It has been run by caring, knowledgeable and dedicated staff for over 25 years and the site’s collection continues to expand each year. Put on your hard hat and take a trip down the lead and copper mines. Please note, the mine tours are weather dependent, and you should contact the museum before arrival to ensure they are running. There is a range of activities on offer suitable for all the family and events held throughout the year. Plenty to see and much more to learn!
The Keswick Spy Mission Treasure Trail
Keswick
Kids are sure to have an exciting time solving clues and cracking codes along this thrilling treasure trail. Secret agent H. B. Jotter has discovered an evil plot to destroy Keswick’s Graphite Mine, orchestrated by criminal mastermind Dr Leadfinger. This villain has planted a device, and the code to stop it has been lost! Can you solve the sneaky Clues around Keswick to retrieve the deactivation code and save the day? The trail spans along two miles and lasts around two and a half hours. The pack can be downloaded as a PDF or sent out to you in the post. The trails are targeted towards kids aged 6+.
The Puzzling Place
9 Museum Square, Keswick, Cumbria, United Kingdom, CA12 5DZ
Home to the ‘Anti-gravity Room’, ‘Hologram Gallery’ and ‘Eyellusion Exhibition’, this attraction is a fun and fascinating day out into the world of optical illusions. Witness balls rolling up hills, grow and shrink in the ‘Ames room’ and get some great photos in the upside-down room. The Puzzling Place is suitable for children of all ages and is open seven days a week during school holidays. They also have a gift shop full of puzzles and gadgets where you’re sure to find something that grabs your attention.
Abbott Lodge
Clifton, Nr Penrith, Cumbria, CA10 2HD
Abbott Lodge is a working dairy farm that produces over 30 flavours of homemade Jersey ice cream. See the Jersey Cows and calves in the fields and learn about the farms work with the Countryside Stewardship Scheme. Kids can have fun in the indoor and outdoor play areas as well as the ride on tractor circuit for kids under 8. Admission is free and is open Monday to Friday 10 am – 5 pm.
Wordsworth House and Garden
Main Street, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9RX
At Wordsworth House, you can experience first hand what working life was like during the 18th-century in a Stately Home. Chat with the maids and manservants about what daily life was like for them and discover the happiness and heartache the house has witnessed. Explore the picturesque gardens that inspired William to write many of his poems and see the beautiful flowers, fruits, and vegetables used in the house. Finish your visit with a drink and a delicious cake or scone fresh from the cafe.
Lakeland Motor Museum
Address: Old Blue Mill, Backbarrow, Ulverston LA12 8TA
A perfect day out for all car lovers out there! With over 30,000 exhibits, the museum covers road transport evaluation through the twentieth century with cycles, motorbikes, motor cars, and automobilia. Take a look inside the 1930’s garage or visit the vintage toy shop and bookstore to see what’s on offer. For a more exciting visit, you can grab a quiz from reception and search the museum for clues and answers for a chance to win a gold medal at the end.
Muncaster Castle & Gardens
Ravenglass, Cumbria, CA18 1RQ, England
This castle offers an unforgettable experience in the idyllic setting of the Lake District. Take an audio tour guided by Tom Fool, the court jester and learn of the ghost stories and rich tales of the castle grounds. The exhibitions at the castle are constantly being updated so you can see something new every time you visit. The play areas and vast woodland area are perfect for kids to run around in whilst you grab a bite at Creeping Kate’s Cafe or sit down for tea at The Owl Tree Garden.