From adrenaline pursuits to cultural attractions, Cumbria’s plentiful visitor attractions are ideal for keeping all the family entertained.
Families can enjoy magic moments at the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway - affectionately known as La’al Ratty - as it steams into its 150th summer of welcoming passengers. The recent refurbishment of the station building at Dalegarth introduces a welcoming new café space, while visitors of all ages can explore interactive exhibitions at the free-to-enter Ravenglass Railway Museum, exploring the iconic line’s remarkable history.
Meanwhile, the award-winning Lakeland Motor Museum has 30,000-plus exhibits, plus dedicated Isle of Man TT and Bluebird showcases, as well as an interactive children’s quiz. Available free of charge, the fun quiz allows youngsters to explore the museum in a style in keeping with their age range.
Games, crafts and activities feature highly at Wordsworth Grasmere and Dove Cottage. Play Litcraft, an interactive online game where youngsters can travel around Wordsworth’s world in a game based on Minecraft or visit the craft cart for opportunities to get creative with drawings and writing.
There are even costumes for little ones to dress up in the style of the former residents.
Similarly, Brantwood House and Gardens, the former home of artist and writer, John Ruskin, caters well for the family market with a whole room dedicated to kids' play and activities, alongside a 250-acre estate and gardens.
High-octane adrenaline activity can be found among the high ropes and zip wires of Zip World Windermere. With their bouncy nets too, the starter age for participants at the attraction is just three years old.
Located at Brockhole, the site has a pier that’s used by Windermere Lake Cruises, meaning visitors can plan a joint activity, combining a leisurely cruise.
Even better is that at the Bowness end of the Windermere cruise, the new Trenchers Fish and Chip Restaurant offers the perfect spot to fill hungry tummies after a fun-packed day.
Then head north east to enjoy a cruise with Ullswater ‘Steamers’ and soak up awe-inspiring views for all the family.
Connect boat and bus by combining your cruise with a lakeside walk exploring part of the Ullswater Way and make the most of the newly-expanded Ullswater ‘Hopper’ bus services to get around car-free.
Visit www.visitlakedistrict.com for more inspiration.
