A Family Guide to Outdoor Adventures in the Lake District
The Lake District is a stunning playground for families, offering a wealth of outdoor activities that cater to all ages. With its breathtaking landscapes, tranquil lakes, and majestic mountains, it’s the perfect destination for family adventures. Whether you’re looking for leisurely walks or exciting activities, the Lake District has something for everyone. Here’s your ultimate family guide to outdoor adventures in the Lake District.
Family-Friendly Hikes
Exploring the great outdoors doesn’t have to be daunting, especially with the variety of family-friendly hikes available in the Lake District. Here are a few top trails that are suitable for children:
Catbells: This popular walk offers fantastic views of Derwentwater and is a manageable ascent for families. The well-marked path makes it easy to follow, and kids will love the sense of achievement at the summit.
Bowness-on-Windermere to Ambleside: A flat and scenic walk along the shores of Windermere, this route is perfect for a leisurely family stroll. Enjoy the views and stop for a picnic along the way.
Tarn Hows: This easy circular walk around Tarn Hows is accessible and offers beautiful scenery, making it an excellent option for younger children with plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Wildlife Spotting
The Lake District is rich in wildlife, making it a fantastic place for families to engage in nature observation. Here are some tips for wildlife spotting with kids:
Visit Nature Reserves: Places like Haweswater and Mirehouse provide excellent opportunities for seeing local wildlife. Bring binoculars to help kids get a closer look at birds, deer, and other animals.
Wildflower Identification: Encourage your children to learn about different plants and flowers. Create a fun scavenger hunt to find and identify various species along your walks.
Photography Challenge: Give each child a camera or smartphone and set a challenge to capture photos of wildlife. This keeps them engaged and encourages attention to their surroundings.
Ghyll Scrambling
For families seeking an exciting water adventure, ghyll scrambling is an unforgettable experience. This activity involves navigating through rocky streams and waterfalls, providing a thrilling way to explore the Lake District’s natural beauty. Here’s what to expect:
Guided Sessions: Book a family-friendly ghyll scrambling session with a local provider like Rocqua Adventures. Expert instructors ensure safety while guiding you through the exciting twists and turns of the ghyll.
Suitable for Families: Ghyll scrambling is accessible for children aged 8 and up, making it a fantastic bonding activity for families looking for adventure.
Embrace the Elements: Expect to get wet and muddy as you climb, slide, and splash your way through the water. It’s a great way to connect with nature while having fun together.
Adventure Parks
For families seeking a bit of thrill, the Lake District has several adventure parks that cater to all ages:
Go Ape Grizedale: This treetop adventure park offers zip lines, high ropes, and forest segways, providing a fantastic way to get the family active while enjoying the beautiful forest surroundings.
Brockhole on Windermere: This lakeside visitor center features a range of activities, including a treetop adventure course, mini-golf, and pedalos, making it perfect for a fun-filled family day out.
Kendal Climbing Wall: For those interested in indoor climbing, this facility offers sessions for families and beginners. It’s a great way to introduce climbing if you’re not ready for outdoor rock faces.
Keswick Climbing Wall: Another fantastic indoor option is the Keswick Climbing Wall, providing climbing experiences for all ages. Tailored sessions for families make it a perfect way to introduce kids to the sport in a safe environment. Rookery Wood Play Area Located at the Keswick Climbing Wall, the Rookery Wood Play Area offers a fantastic space for younger adventurers. It features treehouses, slides, and climbing structures, providing a safe and fun environment for little ones to burn off energy.
Educational Activities
The Lake District is also home to several educational activities that can enhance your family’s outdoor experience:
Visit a Working Farm: Farms like Hill Top Farm (formerly owned by Beatrix Potter) offer tours and educational programs for kids, teaching them about farm life and local produce.
Nature Workshops: Many local organizations run workshops for families, focusing on nature conservation, wildlife education, and outdoor skills. This is a wonderful way for children to learn while having fun.
Historic Sites: Explore historic places like Dove Cottage or Rydal Mount to learn about the region’s literary heritage, with activities designed for children that make learning interactive.
The Lake District is a treasure trove of outdoor adventures for families, combining fun, education, and stunning scenery. From hiking and wildlife spotting to thrilling adventure parks and educational activities, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy quality family time in this beautiful region.
At Rocqua Adventures, we offer a range of exciting outdoor activities that cater to families, including ghyll scrambling, rock climbing, and our unique BloKarting sessions. So pack your bags, grab the kids, and get ready to create lasting memories in the Lake District!
