Articles
The latest features, guides, and stories from Cumbria & The Lake District
The Best Restaurants in the Lake District - Our Complete Guide
From cosy village pubs serving locally-sourced fell lamb to award-winning fine dining establishments, discover the Lake District's finest culinary gems with our insider guide to the region's best restaurants.
Ambleside After Dark: The Local's Guide to Evening Entertainment and Late-Night Eats
From cosy lakeside pubs to late-night pizza spots, discover how Ambleside transforms after sunset with authentic local venues that keep the good times rolling.
Coniston's Hidden Gems: Secret Walks Around England's Third Largest Lake
Discover the quieter paths and secret corners around Coniston Water, where dramatic fells meet peaceful woodlands and hidden tarns reward those who venture beyond the beaten track.
Cockermouth's Independent Breweries: The Craft Beer Trail Taking Over West Cumbria
Discover how Cockermouth has transformed into West Cumbria's craft beer capital, with independent breweries creating world-class ales inspired by the dramatic Lakeland landscape.
February Half-Term in the Lakes: Indoor Activities When the Weather Turns Wild
When Cumbrian weather shows its wilder side, discover cosy museums, artisan workshops, and warming experiences that capture the Lakes' magic from indoors.
Hawkshead's Medieval Secrets: Exploring the Village's 700-Year History
Nestled between Esthwaite Water and Coniston Water, Hawkshead's labyrinth of medieval lanes reveals seven centuries of Lake District history through its ancient grammar school, Tudor courtyards, and time-worn cobblestones.
Wordsworth and the Lake District - A Literary Walking Guide
Follow in the footsteps of William Wordsworth through the landscapes that inspired his greatest poetry, from Dove Cottage in Grasmere to the shores of Ullswater where he penned 'Daffodils'.
A Perfect Weekend in the Lake District - The Insider Itinerary
Forget the tourist traps and crowded viewpoints. Here's how locals would spend a perfect weekend in the Lakes, from secret sunrise spots to the best sticky toffee pudding in Cartmel.
The Langdale Valley Challenge: Five Epic Walks Starting and Ending in Ambleside
Discover five spectacular circular walks from Ambleside that showcase the dramatic beauty of the Langdale Valley, from gentle riverside rambles to challenging fell conquests.
Farm-to-Fork Dining in Grasmere: Where Local Chefs Source Their Seasonal Ingredients
Discover how Grasmere's finest restaurants champion Cumbrian producers, from Herdwick lamb to Kendal Mint Cake, creating unforgettable dining experiences rooted in the valley's rich agricultural heritage.
Lake District Festivals and Events 2026 - The Complete Calendar
From literary celebrations in Grasmere to food festivals in Cartmel, discover the Lake District's vibrant events calendar for 2026. Your insider guide to the best festivals, markets, and celebrations across Cumbria.
Windermere's New Wave: The Boutique Hotels Redefining Lakeland Luxury
A new generation of intimate boutique hotels around Windermere is transforming the traditional Lake District experience with artisan touches, locally-sourced dining, and thoughtfully designed spaces that celebrate Cumbria's dramatic landscape.
Keswick's Saturday Market Renaissance: From Victorian Trading Post to Modern Foodie Destination
Keswick's historic Saturday market has evolved from a traditional Victorian trading post into a vibrant foodie destination showcasing the finest local produce against the dramatic backdrop of Skiddaw and Blencathra.
The Most Scenic Drives in the Lake District: A Local's Guide to Unforgettable Routes
Discover the Lake District's most breathtaking driving routes, from dramatic mountain passes to tranquil lakeside roads, complete with insider tips on where to stop, park, and explore along the way.
Helvellyn via Striding Edge - the complete guide to the classic scramble
Everything you need to know about tackling Cumbria's most famous scramble, from parking at Glenridding to celebrating your triumph in Grasmere afterwards.
Bowness Property Watch: The Waterfront Homes Breaking Records in 2025
Lakefront properties in Bowness-on-Windermere are commanding unprecedented prices as buyers seek their slice of England's most dramatic waterfront real estate.
Romantic Getaways in the Lake District: The Most Enchanting Hotels for Couples
From intimate boutique hideaways in Grasmere to luxurious lakeside retreats on Windermere, discover the Lake District's most romantic hotels perfect for couples seeking unforgettable moments together.
Keswick Town Guide: Your Complete Local's Guide to Shops, Restaurants and Things to Do
From bustling market squares to tranquil lakeshores, discover why Keswick remains the beating heart of the northern Lakes. Our local guide reveals the best shops, eateries and activities in this beloved Cumbrian town.
Wild Swimming in Cumbria: The Best Lakes, Tarns, and Rivers for Your Next Dip
From the iconic waters of Windermere to hidden tarns tucked away in the fells, Cumbria offers some of England's most spectacular wild swimming spots. Here's your local guide to the best places to take the plunge.