Exploring the Lake District by water

From peaceful lakes surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery to thundering waterfalls hidden in enchanting woodland, the Lake District boasts one of the most beautiful landscapes in the UK. While there are miles upon miles of winding roads and footpaths to explore, why stay on land when you can experience some of the best of the Lakes by water?

Here’s some of our favourite ways to explore the lakes of the Lake District.

Hop on an Ullswater ‘Steamer’

Regarded by many as England’s most beautiful lake, Ullswater is 9 miles long and surrounded by some of the Lake District’s highest mountains. The best way to explore the area is undoubtedly on one of the traditional Ullswater ‘Steamers’ which cruise around the lake and stop off at some of the region’s best walking routes and visitor attractions. Whether you cruise around the entire lake or stop and explore quaint Lakeland villages and beauty spots (such as Wordsworth’s daffodils and the Aira Force waterfall), the ‘Steamers’ are the perfect way to explore this picture-perfect location.

Hire a rowing boat on Windermere

Windermere is England’s largest lake, and it’s surrounded beautiful villages and dramatic peaks. If you fancy exploring the area at your own pace, why not hire your own boat from Bowness or Ambleside piers? With luxury motor boats and traditional cabin boats (perfect for exploring whatever the weather), as well as classic Windermere rowing boats for hire, you can take your loved one for a romantic trip around the lake or enjoy a fun-filled afternoon on the water with friends and family.

Canoe to Derwent Island House

If you’re in search of a cultural outing with a difference, then a Derwent Island House open day could be just the thing. There are only five open days held throughout the year, however you’ll have the opportunity to take to the water and paddle across a short stretch of Derwentwater in a canoe before enjoying a 45 minute guided tour of Pocklington’s Georgian house and gardens. This mini adventure is the perfect way to learn about the history of the lake and experience some amazing views.

Stroll around Buttermere

Lake Buttermere offers one of the best round-the-lake walks in the Lake District. The easy route circles the lake and will take around 3 hours to complete. The views are simply stunning, so it’s well worth including in your itinerary. The walk also takes you through Sourmilk Gill woods which are teaming with wildlife, and an interesting tunnel that was carved by a Manchester Mill owner in the 19th century. You’ll also have the chance to see the iconic image of the famous ‘lone tree’ which is positioned on the lake’s northern shore.

Visit Holme Force waterfall

Another easy lakeside walk worth embarking on is the Corpse Road and tumuli walk which takes you along an ancient road and past several natural and archaeological features. Part of the route takes you along the shore of Loweswater, one of Cumbria’s smaller lakes, and through Holme Wood which is home to deer, red squirrels and Holme Force – a spectacular secluded waterfall that is known to locals as ‘the grey mare’s tail.’ This walk is the perfect way to explore one of the lesser known lakes in Cumbria and find out more about the history of its ancient landscape.

Do you have any photographs of your recent adventures in the Lake District? We’d love to see them! Be sure to tag us in your pictures on Instagram for a chance to be featured.