Plan a trip
Cumbria is England's second largest county and the roads are slow, so pick a base rather than trying to see it all. Keswick and Ambleside suit fell walkers, Windermere and Bowness have the most to do on a wet day and the only railway station in the central Lakes, and Penrith, Carlisle and the coast are quieter and cheaper.
Before a day on the high fells, check the Lake District Weatherline fell top forecast. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the police, then Mountain Rescue.
- Getting around without a car
Trains, buses and lake steamers that reach the walks.
- Parking for walks
Car parks at the start of popular routes, with who runs them and charges.
- Bringing a dog
Walks, pubs and stays that suit dogs, and the rules about livestock.
- Accessible days out
Easy walks with no stiles.
- When it rains
Museums, houses and walks that suit wet weather.
- What's on
Shows, festivals and markets, with confirmed dates.
- Where to stay
Hotels and inns across the county.
- Where to eat
Restaurants and pubs worth the trip.