72 hours at Whitbarrow: Our guide to the perfect weekend in the Lake District

Nothing beats getting away from it all for a while, and a weekend break often provides the ideal amount of time to relax, unwind, and discover the very best of a local area.

With this in mind, we’ve planned the perfect itinerary for a stay at Whitbarrow, so you can ensure your trip features all the best bits of this beautiful corner of the Lake District National Park.

Friday

AM

After settling into your lodge and taking some time out to put your feet up with a glass of complimentary Taittinger, we recommend taking some time to get to know Whitbarrow and discover everything we have to offer.

Take a dip in the pool, enjoy coffee and cake at the Eden Cafe Bar, or simply spend a few hours soaking in your private hot tub – the choice is yours.

PM

Once you’re feeling thoroughly relaxed, why not book a table for dinner? An evening out is the perfect way to kickstart your weekend. After all, no one wants to spend the evening in the kitchen after a day of travelling. There are several great pubs nearby, including The Troutbeck Inn, The Mill Inn, and the Horse and Farrier. Or, you could simply stroll down to the Eden Cafe Bar for a bite to eat.

Saturday

AM

A trip to Whitbarrow wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Ullswater. England’s most beautiful lake is just a 20-minute drive away, and it’s the perfect place for a day of adventures. 

Begin your visit with a trip to the Aira Force waterfall – an iconic lakeland beauty spot. Afterwards, hop on an Ullswater ‘Steamer’ and take a trip to Glencoyne Bay where you’ll see Wordsworth’s famous daffodils in springtime. There are plenty of walking routes around the lake so, if the weather’s kind, we recommend spending a couple of hours soaking up the scenery. When you’re feeling peckish, travel north on the ‘Steamer’ to the village of Pooley Bridge for a spot of exploring and a light lunch in one of the pubs.

PM

In the afternoon, we suggest heading south to Grasmere – a pretty village surrounded by fells. There are plenty of quaint little shops to explore, as well as traditional tea rooms to pull up a chair in. Plus, a visit to the Grasmere Gingerbread shop is a must.

On your way back to Whitbarrow, stop at the Cocklakes Farm Shop. It’s just a stone’s throw from the resort and always has plenty of delicious seasonal produce, from local meats and cheese to fresh veg. The staff are fantastic too, and always willing to offer advice and inspiration for what to cook for dinner!

Sunday

AM

Whether you’re a keen hiker or have never been fell-walking before, we thoroughly recommend walking up Helvellyn. The 10-mile hike has been named as one of the nation’s favourite walking routes, and it begins at the nearby village of Glenridding. You can find out more about the walk, along with some of our other favourite walking routes in the Lakes here.

PM

The Helvellyn hike takes around 4 hours 30 minutes to complete, which means that the early risers among you will still have time for an afternoon of activities. Lowther Castle and Gardens is another must-visit attraction, and is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious afternoon tea or, on a sunny day, a peaceful stroll.

After what’s undoubtedly been an action-packed day, we recommend heading to the Eden Cafe Bar for a quick bite before whiling away the rest of the evening in your private hot tub.

Monday 

AM

When it comes to your final morning, you can always enjoy a long leisurely lie-in and make the most of our facilities. Or, you can pack up and hit the road as soon as possible before paying a visit to some of the Lake District’s other wonderful attractions.

From brewery and distillery tours to outdoor adventure activities, there’s plenty to get stuck in to, whatever the weather.

Feeling inspired to book your Lakeland getaway? Take a look at our accommodation at Whitbarrow and start planning your perfect weekend break.