Although the weather is typically grim and miserable, we are now well into summer, which means no excuses when it comes to getting the family together for a day out.

For a family wanting adventure and terrific scenery, you will be hard-pressed to find anywhere else in the country better than the Lake District, obviously.

The largest national park in the UK is as impressive as it is majestic, stretching far and wide over Cumbria with a few hidden gems dotted throughout.

As previously mentioned the weather is, grim, however, do not let that deter you as even in the pouring rain the Lake District has a charm like nowhere else.

Here we list some of the best things to do in the Lake District this summer with your family:

1) Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway

Take a short trip on a steam train and travel three and half miles from Haverthwaite to Lakeside pier at the southern end of Windermere lake. When you reach the lake you can visit the Aquarium of the Lakes, or catch a boat to Bowness or Ambleside with Windermere Lake Cruises.

Location: South Lake District, near Ulverston.

2) Take a boat cruise

Boat cruises on Windermere, Coniston, Derwentwater and Ullswater all have covered boats, many with refreshments and toilets on board. And any electric hire boats have covered cabins, to watch the rain splashing on the lake beside you.

3) The Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway

The railway is one of the longest narrow-gauge railways in England. The journey is 7 miles long and takes about 40 minutes each way with stunning views of the Lake District.

Location: Ravenglass, Cumbria, CA18 1SW

4) The Lake District Wildlife Park

Over 100 species of exotic animals live at this 25-acre park, which participates in six endangered species programmes. There are parkkeeper talks throughout the day, an on-site cafe and an indoor soft-play and outdoor adventure playground.

Location: Near Keswick, North Lake District.

5) Lakes Aquarium

Go on a journey of underwater discovery! Set on Windermere lakeshore, this award-winning attraction has the UK's largest collection of freshwater fish. You can arrive at the aquarium by boat, from Bowness or Ambleside with Windermere Lake Cruises.

You can catch a steam train with the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway. There are a café and shop on site, and entry for children under three is free.

Location: Lakeside, the southwestern shore of Windermere.

6) Wray Castle - National Trust

Wray Castle sits on the west shore of Lake Windermere. With church-like interiors, turrets, towers, informal grounds and miles of lakeshore paths, Wray Castle provides the perfect backdrop for a day exploring outdoors in the Lakes.

You can start the day on the water and arrive at Wray Castle by Windermere Lake Cruise boat, which runs until the end of October. The west shore path with endless lake views is bike and walking-friendly.

The team in the cosy café make everything fresh on-site, and it’s the perfect place for a warming drink and treat after a day’s exploring.

Location: West shore of Windermere, near Ambleside.