Your Ultimate Guide to Visiting The Lake District in Spring [2026]

Living in The Lake District, I get to see the national park all year round, and each season has its own beauty. But Spring is potentially my favourite time of year. Everything starts coming back to life – the trees and plants start blooming, colour comes back to the landscape, the sounds of the birds saying hello as they come back. The days are feeling longer, there’s warmth at times in the sun, and it truly does feel magical.

This winter especially has felt looong and over the last few weeks, and the breath of fresh air that has come with the longer and brighter days has felt extra special this year. There really is nothing better than seeing the sunshine on the fells, and taking in the scenery.

So, if you’re looking for some ways to explore The Lake District this spring, here is your ultimate guide, brought to you by a local of the area.

How to Get to the Lake District + how to get around

Getting to The Lake District is easier than you probably think. Yes, you can drive here, but you can also get here easily by the train.

If you are coming by train, the easiest way is up the West Coast Main Line (Avanti West Coast). If you’re wanting to explore the South Lakes (i.e Winderemere, Grasmere, Hawkshead) and base yourself there, the best place to get off the train is Oxenholme Lake District where you can then change to a Northern train that will take you into the lakes. If you’re wanting to explore more of the North Lakes (i.e Keswick, Ullswater, Buttermere) take the train to Penrith where you can then change onto local bus services via Stagecoach.

Especially during the summer months when there are more tourists here, the roads around the Lake District are busy. What a lot of people don’t realise is that the Lakes is really well connected with bus services. So even if you travel here by car, you can still easily get the around the county car free.

22 best things to do in the lake district in Spring 2026

I’ve put together my unofficial top things to do this Spring in the Lake District. I’ve tried to put something in for everyone – from foodie adventures, to incredible hikes, to more low level walks, to days out and family friendly adventures.

1. Hike up Catbells for the best views of Derwentwater

Dubbed as one of the ‘easier’ Wainright walks you can do in the Lake District, Catbells will give you some of the most incredible views of Derwentwater.

Whilst this is a brilliant hike to do, and is a well trodden path, don’t let it being called the ‘easy’ Wainright fool you. It’s steep and there is a little scramble at the end. Be careful, dress properly for hiking, and don’t go up in bad weather conditions.

2. Walk around Buttermere

Buttermere is a gorgeous lake to walk around. It’s around 7km in total and promises stunning views of the lake and the mountains. This is a great walk for beginners (or if you’re looking for a more gentle walk) as it’s well signposted, mainly flat, but still offers those iconic Lake District views.

Make sure to head to Skyes Farm Tearoom as well for some of the most incredible pie you will eat!

3. Take on The Ullswater Way (or at least part of it!)

Another round the lake walk is the Ullswater Way, however this is a Monmouth 20km. The beauty of this walk is that you can do it in sections – which I’ve been doing myself and completed earlier this year.

There are four main sections – Pooley Bridge to Aira Force, Aira Force to Glenridding, Glenridding to Howtown and Howtown to Pooley Bridge. You can walk whichever section you want, and then catch either the bus or boat back to your starting point.

4. Explore Rydal Cave

Rydal Cave is one of those places that feels a little bit magical, especially in spring when the light starts to change and everything around it turns green. It’s actually not a natural cave. Originally it was an old slate quarry — but that doesn’t make it any less impressive.

The walk to get there is beautiful in itself, taking you through Rydal Woods with stunning views of Rydal Water along the way. It’s a relatively easy walk and great for all abilities, which makes it a brilliant one to do with kids or if you just fancy a gentler day out.

5. Watch the sunrise from Orrest Head

If you’re willing to set that early alarm, Orrest Head will absolutely reward you for it. It’s a short walk from Windermere town (we’re talking around 20–30 minutes), however it is steep, but the panoramic views at the top are genuinely breathtaking, especially at sunrise when the light hits the lake and the fells.

It was actually the first fell that Alfred Wainwright ever climbed, so there’s a lovely bit of history to it too. Take your morning coffee up with you in a flask and soak it all in.

If you’re ready for a delicious brekkie afterwards, head into Bowness-on-Windermere, head to Homeground Kitchen + Coffee for a bang up brunch.

6. See the bluebells at Rannerdale Knotts

Every spring, Rannerdale Knotts turns into what can only be described as a sea of purple-blue, and it is stunning. The bluebells carpet the valley floor usually from late April into May, and it’s one of those things you really have to see in person.

The walk up Rannerdale Knotts itself is a lovely short hike with incredible views over Crummock Water, so you’re getting the best of both worlds. Keep an eye on the timing though as the bluebell season is short, so it’s worth checking locally before you visit.

Parking wise, there are two roadside car parks at Cinderdale Common on the B5289 between Lorton and Buttermere. If these are both full there is also a small parking area in Buttermere Village.

If you are visiting, make sure to stay to the path and keep dogs on leads – the bluebells are really delicate and it’s our collective responsibility to make sure they’re here for the years to come as well!

7. Follow in the Footsteps of Wordsworth’s Daffodils

If you know your Wordsworth, you’ll know that his famous poem I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud was inspired right here in the Lake District, specifically at Ullswater.

Every spring, the daffodils come back and it really is as dreamy as he made it sound. If you’re ready to explore the shores of Ullswater, and see these famous daffodils, this walk between Aira Force and Glenridding is perfect. Once you’re in Glenridding, pop to The Ramblers Bar at Inn on the Lake for a delicious lunch, or head to the shores of the lake with a picnic and soak up the spring sunshine.

8. See Newborn Lambs at Walby Farm Park

This one is a firm favourite for families! Spring in the Lake District means one thing above all else, lambs. Everywhere you look there are little fluffy ones bouncing around the fields, and it genuinely never gets old.

Walby Farm Park near Carlisle is a brilliant day out if you want to get up close to them, but honestly, even just driving or walking through the countryside you’ll spot plenty. It’s one of those simple joys of visiting in spring that just makes everything feel a bit more wonderful.

9. Go on a sunrise Lake Cruise

We already talked about catching the sunrise from Orrest Head, but if you fancy doing it from the water is even better.

There’s something really special about being out on the lake as the sun comes up, with the mist still sitting on the water and the fells coming into view. It’s peaceful, it’s beautiful, and it’s the kind of experience you’ll be talking about long after you’ve got home.

Ullswater Steamers often run sunrise photography cruises, where you can also get advice on how to improve your photography!

10. Visit Suprise View at golden hour

Surprise View near Keswick is aptly named. You’re walking up the hill and then suddenly the most incredible view of Derwentwater opens up in front of you. Visit at golden hour and it goes from incredible to absolutely jaw-dropping.

The light on the water, the silhouette of the fells, the stillness of it all. It’s also really easy to get to, so there’s genuinely no excuse not to go. I’ve got a full guide on visiting here

11. Visit Windermere Jetty + take a Heritage boat trips

Windermere Jetty is a brilliant museum celebrating the history of boats on the lake, and it’s well worth a visit even if you don’t think you’re particularly into boats (trust me on this one!). The collection is fascinating and the building itself is stunning. You can read all about my last visit here

While you’re there, make sure you look into taking a heritage boat trip out on Windermere. There’s truly nothing better than being out on England’s largest natural lake on a beautiful spring day.

12. Try Wild Swimming in the Lake District (Or Visit a Lakeside Sauna)

It’s no secret that I’ve become a bit of a wild swimming fanatic over the last 18 months. Spring is a brilliant time to give it a go as the crowds haven’t arrived yet and there’s something about that cool, crisp water that feels so invigorating.

Keeping water safe is paramount though, and just because it’s warm and the sun is shining, it doesn’t mean that water is. In spring it’s still cold and cold water shock is incredibly serious and takes many lives every year in the lakes. To be safe, go in slowly, have a float with you, and breathe.

If the idea of jumping into a cold lake fills you with dread though, a lakeside sauna is the perfect alternative and we’re lucky to have some really good ones here. My recommendations are Fahrenhut and Fellside Sauna – there’s truly nothing more relaxing than a sauna and lake dip!

13. Book a Paddleboarding Lesson on the lake

Never tried paddleboarding? Spring is a great time to give it a go, the lakes are quieter, the scenery is gorgeous, and there are plenty of brilliant local instructors who will have you up and standing in no time.

Even if you do end up in the water (it happens to the best of us), you’ll have had the best time. It’s a really fun way to see the lakes from a completely different angle.

14. Visit the Lake District’s Best Beaches

Yes, the Lake District has beaches! And I don’ just mean the beaches along the shores of the lakes, no we have an actual coastline here as well.

So pack a picnic, go on a drive through the lakes and head to the seaside. Wondering where to go? You can get some inspo from these posts to get you started.

15. Chase waterfalls at Aira Force

Aira Force is one of my favourite walks to do – I don’t know why, but I get such a good feeling when I’m here. It’s one of the most dramatic and beautiful waterfalls in the Lake District, and in spring, when all that winter rainfall is flowing through, it’s particularly impressive.

It’s a national trust site, with plenty of parking, and a really beautiful walk through the woods to reach it. There are a few walks you can do here – up to the waterfall, go further up to the high cascades, or go and walk up to Gowbarrow Fell to squeeze in a Wainright.

16. The Best Brunch Spots with Views Over Windermere

Is there anything better than a really good brunch with an incredible view? The answer is no, absolutely not. The Lake District has some brilliant spots to eat well with stunning scenery right outside the window and spring is the perfect time to enjoy them before the summer rush arrives.

Now, for the best brunch spot with a stunning view over Windermere. It has to be Force at Ambleside. They have a relatively small car park, but there’s a brilliance walk through the woods and up to Stock Ghyll Force waterfall so you can leave your car in Ambleside village and head up!

17. The best afternoon tea in The Lake District

Afternoon tea and the Lake District just go hand in hand, don’t they? There’s something so fitting about sitting down to finger sandwiches and scones after a morning walk, with the fells outside the window. The Lakes has some truly special spots for afternoon tea however if you’re a savoury fan like me, you will love the afternoon tea at Low Wood Bay, with views over the lake.

This wood-fired afternoon tea is a mix of sweet and savoury and includes some of the most popular dishes in the restaurant. Filled with mini burgers, smoked salmon, chicken, nachos and lots more, plus some incredible sweet treats, afternoon tea at Low Wood Bay is perfect.

18. A coffee fuelled walk around Derwentwater

Derwentwater is one of my absolute favourites, and a coffee-fuelled walk around it in spring is pretty hard to beat. The full loop is around 10 miles, so it’s a decent day out but it’s well worth it for the variety of views you get.

You’ve got the reflections of the fells on the water, the gorgeous woodland sections, and some truly beautiful spots to stop and take it all in.

For coffee lovers like me, as you walk around the lake at various points you’ll come across different coffee vans, all selling incredibly good (and local!) coffee to keep you going!

19. Ride the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway

The Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, aka the La’al Ratty, is one of those hidden gems that locals absolutely love and visitors are always amazed by. It’s a narrow gauge steam railway that runs through some of the most beautiful and lesser-visited scenery in the Lake District, from the coast at Ravenglass all the way up to Boot in Eskdale. It’s fun for all ages and a really lovely way to see a part of the Lakes that many people miss.

20. Visit Hill Top – the home of Beatrix Potter

Hill Top in Near Sawrey is where Beatrix Potter wrote and illustrated many of her famous stories, and it is the most charming little farmhouse you’ll ever visit.

In spring, the garden comes to life and it looks like something straight out of one of her books with wildflowers and vegetable patches. It’s a National Trust property so a perfect day out for national trust members, and make sure to keep an eye out for the golden egg in the garden!

21. Spend the day in Hawkshead

Hawkshead is one of those villages that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time — all whitewashed cottages, cobbled lanes, and independent shops. It’s a lovely place to just wander around and soak up the atmosphere.

One place I always go to when I’m here is The Little Ice Cream Shop. It’s a Lake District institution at this point, and no trip is complete without a delicious ice cream from here!

22. Take a day trip to Grasmere

No trip to the Lake District is complete without a visit to Grasmere. It’s a beautiful little village surrounded by some of the most iconic scenery in the national park, and in spring it is especially lovely. Of course, no visit to Grasmere is complete without picking up some of the famous Grasmere gingerbread from the little shop by the church, however some other spots you need to check out whilst you’re there are the Wordsworth Grasmere museum and Fairyland Grasmere – a beautiful little cafe and boat hire on the shore of the lake.

What to Pack for the Lake District in Spring

Right, let’s talk packing — because spring in the Lake District is wonderful, but the weather can be unpredictable to say the least. The rule here is always: layer up and be prepared for everything. You can genuinely have four seasons in one day up here, so packing smart is key.

Here’s what I’d recommend throwing in your bag:

Waterproof jacket — non-negotiable. Even on a sunny day, always bring a waterproof. Always. My favourite one is this from Amble as it packs up so small and is 100% waterproof

Walking boots — if you’re planning on doing any walking at all (and you should be!), decent boots will make your trip so much more enjoyable. The paths can be muddy and wet in spring, so leave the trainers at home. These are my go to boots, which I’ve had for 2 years now, are waterproof, lightweight and comfy as anything!

Layers — a base layer, a mid layer (think a fleece or lightweight down jacket), and your waterproof on top. Spring temperatures can feel warm in the sunshine but drop quickly when the cloud comes in or the wind picks up on the fells.

Warm hat and gloves — especially if you’re heading up any of the fells. It can be surprisingly cold at the top even in April and May.

Suncream — yes, really! The sun in spring can be stronger than you think!

A good rucksack — for day hikes, packing snacks, water, and all those extra layers.

Reusable water bottle — the water up here is incredible straight from the tap, so fill up before you head out.

A camera (or just your phone) — because you will want to capture everything. The light in spring is gorgeous.

An OS Map or downloaded offline map — if you’re heading out on longer walks, don’t rely on phone signal. Download your route in advance or pick up an Ordnance Survey map for the area.

The Lake District in spring really is something else, and I feel so lucky to call it home. I hope this guide has given you a little taste of just how special it is at this time of year and more importantly, I hope it gets you booking that trip! As always, if you have any questions or need any more local tips, drop them in the comments below or send me a DM on instagram. And if you’re in need of more Lake District inspo, there’s a whole section of travel guides, reviews and ideas of places for you to go which you can check out.