The Ultimate Lake District Post Lockdown Bucket List

24 February 2021

We’ve all buckled down, stayed in, worn our masks. We’ve done Taskmaster and baked cloud bread; worked out with Joe Wicks and taken up yoga. We’ve played Animal Crossing and the guitar; planted vegetables and taken up knitting. Bike sales have boomed and jigsaws are flying out of the shops.

But now, we’re starting to plan what we’ll do post pandemic; what our post corona bucket lists will look like. Here we have some bucket list ideas for visitors to the Lake District, ideal for families and couples.

Derwentwater

Right now, we’ve been asked not to travel, but when we can, Derwentwater is calling. South the of beautiful Lakes town of Keswick, there is a steady 8 mile walk around the lake. There is also a 50 minute round the lake cruise on Keswick Launch, with 7 landing stages. Nearby Keswick has some beautiful attractions, including two parks, two stately homes and Castlerigg Stone Circle. Families can enjoy the Pencil Museum and the Puzzling Place, and the whole town is very dog friendly.

Alpacaly Ever After

No trip to the Lake District would be complete without a visit to the adorable Alpacaly Ever After. This wonderful, award winning attraction rehomes alpacas and llamas from across the UK. They offer fun, interactive experiences with the animals. They also make and sell gifts ranging from super soft socks to mugs to delightful wooden jigsaw puzzles. You can meet the alpacas at the Lingholm Estate or Lakes Distillery. Walk with them at Lingholm or Whinlatter Forest, or go Llama trekking at Littletown Farm.

Tips: They’re taking bookings for later in the year, which are eligible for 18 months in case of any changes, and offering gift vouchers.

Book your alpaca adventure.

Visit a Spa

Over lockdown, cramped home offices, makeshift workstations and stress have all taken their toll on our bodies. One survey found that over a third of pollsters had had increased back pain over lockdown. So, when lockdown is over, why not head to a spa? There are some incredible Lake District spas, including Pure Essence. There you can have those aches and pains luxuriously kneaded out in a tranquil, relaxing environment. Pick specific treatments, such as the ESPA hot stone massage. Or book a spa day package (some exclusive to those staying at South Lakeland Leisure Village) for your Lake District bucket list.

Picnic at Aira Force

It’s a little fresh at the moment for al fresco dining, but with restrictions looking to ease in Spring, it’ll be the perfect time of year for a waterfall picnic. Take a long, leisurely walk around Aira Force, exploring the dappled woodland glades, even top the snow topped Gowbarrow fells, then stop by the waterfall to dine. If it’s still cool, wrap up warm and swap a cool bag for an insulated pack. You can easily take chili or curry in a thermos, seat yourself on a thick, cosy blanket, luxuriate in the stunning surroundings – and don’t forget your camera.

Explore Cathedral Cavern

Cathedral Cavern is a dramatic and stunning hidden gem in the Langdales. Popular with walkers, it’s now owned and maintained by the National Trust. The cave was originally part of a network of quarries, and was also rumoured to have been the location of illegal ‘cave raves’ in the 1980s. Fans of climbing and abseiling can work with local companies to explore the more inaccessible parts of the cavern.

Many visitors have advised that as parking is limited, it is best visited as part of a longer trek.

Tips: Consider stopping off at the Three Shires Inn for lunch. They have vegetarian options, a kid’s menu and focus on fresh Lakeland produce.

Art Walk in Grizedale Forest

Exploring Grizedale is like being lost in an enchanted forest. You can traverse over 4000 hectares of forest and woodland, dotted with exquisite sculptures, crafted by some of the best names in contemporary art. You can travel the forest on foot or by bicycle, learn more about the artworks, and meet the latest resident artist. There are also ten walking trails, 9 cycle trails, a visitor centre, café, play area and Go Ape centre. You can hire a Segway or bike onsite.

Tips: As we wait for lockdown to be over, why not explore the Digital Forest, a collaborative online art project examining people reconnecting with nature.  

Rheged Centre Shops

The lockdown-fuelled e-commerce boom has been great in many ways, but some of us do still enjoy the pastime of shopping in person. Many of us miss the tactile thrill of the hunt; and post lockdown, many will be heading to the emporia at the Rheged Centre. The popular attraction boasts that their shops showcase the beautiful, unusual, ethical and handcrafted. A place for Noa Noa, L’Occitane, handcrafted Sedbergh soap and wooden toys from Djeco.

Tips: A popular place for families, with a cinema, soft play centre and toy store.

Lakeland Motor Museum

One of the most popular attractions in the Lakes, and perfect for a rainy day, Lakeland Motor Museum has over 30,000 exhibits. With over 140 classic cars, the museum also features Campbell Bluebird displays, Vincent motorcycles and a TT tribute. You can also explore the histories of gunpowder, historic female fashion and 1950s café culture. In spring and summer, they feature special events centred around vintage vehicles. You can dine at the charming riverside Café Ambio, with views over the Leven, which specialises in delicious, locally sourced Lake District food.

Tips: You can pre-book now for 17^th May 2021, and in normal times, local residents can get discounted entry.

And while we’re looking forward to visiting some of our favourite attractions in the Lake District, and staying in our favourite holiday park, don’t forget the small pleasures. Simply savouring a cup of coffee in a warm café, a rich plate of ragu and film at Zefferellis, walking with friends on the shores of Grasmere. Being able to rifle through racks of clothes in boutiques.

What are you most looking forward to?

What’s on your post lockdown Lake District bucket list?