Best Nature and Wildlife Areas in Rydal Water

"In collaboration with Cumbria Tourism, we had been lucky enough to be provided with tickets for some activities at Brockhole. Located a few miles from Bowness and on the way to Ambleside, Brockhole is an absolute gem of a day out for families. There is a real mix of activities on offer for all ages and although you have to pay for parking, there are lots of activities that are free to take part in (although you will be tempted by the abundance of activities on offer that you do need to pay for so be prepared!)."

"Enjoy the famous adventure playground, paddle in the lake, and explore the fabulous Mawson designed gardens with good pushchair and wheelchair access. Hire a boat on the lake, with motor boats, rowing boats, kayaks and paddle boards for hire. Challenge yourself with archery, laser clay or inside caving."

"Take in the scenic views and gardens down to the shores of Windermere. Browse round the shop and treat yourself to something tasty in the café. The extensive gardens are a delight whatever time you choose to visit."

"Wray Castle is a Gothic castle situated on the north-west shores of Lake Windermere and is run by the National Trust. Your whole family can try sailing with taster sessions taking place on selected days through the summer holidays. They also offer self-led activities which include den building, skimming stones or making a daisy chain, which you can tick off the National Trust’s ‘50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾’ list."

"Wray Castle is a Victorian neo-gothic building at Claife in the English county of Cumbria. The house and grounds have belonged to the National Trust since 1929, but the house has only recently opened to the public on a regular basis."

"Market Square, Keswick (10 min walk) — Offering great tasting burgers (including vegan and vegetarian options), using local ingredients, homemade sauces and inventive twists on classic combinations. Cocktails are crafted with love and there is a wide enough selection to suit all tastes. Failing that, the beers, wines and soft drinks should have you covered."

"Fifth on the list of Keswick restaurants is The Round, a stunning eatery and the sister restaurant of Fellpack. The Round sits at the base of Moot Hall in Keswick’s vibrant market square. This is recognised as the starting point of the Bob Graham Round, a fell running challenge which sees individuals embark on a journey around 42 peaks in just 24 hours."

"Last but not least on our list of best Keswick restaurants is The George Hotel, Restaurant & Bar. The hotel dates back to 1665, making it one of the oldest hotels in the Lake District and Keswick. Admire the characterful features as you enjoy a spot of pub grub at this traditional restaurant in Keswick."

"This popular little cafe, nestled on a side street in the heart of town, is a great place to relax and recharge while exploring all Ambleside has to offer. Slate walls and soothing tones provide the perfect backdrop to enjoy a freshly ground coffee made using Mr Duffin’s Coffee, locally roasted in nearby Staveley. Open for breakfast and lunch, as well as coffee and home baked cakes, there’s plenty of indoor seating as well as a small garden in which to enjoy those sunny Lake District days."

"01/03/2021: We visited the Copper Pot Cafe twice during our stay in Ambleside, and both times we were treated to a fantastic breakfast.We were able to get a walk in table each time, with only a minor wait.The staff are friendly, and the food was excellent, with generous portions.The only downside is that there's only one toilet, which is accessed externally, which can mean queueing in the rain, however everything else was so good it doesn't warrant knocking off a point."

"A fairly new cafe in Ambleside, but quickly has become a firm favourite among locals and visitors. This cosy little cafe has cute decor and beautiful food. There are a few tables inside, dog friendly of course, and a little courtyard."