Lake District Activities For Families: Top 10 Things To Do

Top 10 Things to Do in the Lake District for Families

1) Grizedale Forest

A visit to Grizedale Forest is a fantastic choice for family days out in the Lake District. As one of the most popular Lake District walking destinations, it offers a variety of scenic trails suitable for all ages and abilities. We highly recommend the Grizedale Sculpture Trail, famously known as the home of real-life fairies. As you follow the winding woodland paths, keep an eye out for hidden artworks and magical woodland details – and don’t forget to have your camera ready to capture the adventure.

As one of the most dog friendly hotels in the lake district we know that hiking is a great dog-friendly Lake District activity. Meaning, if you are visiting the Lake District with dogs, you can bring them along to Grizedale forest. In fact, the vast majority of the walks are open to all, meaning that you every member of your family can pack their bags for an exciting trip. Take a look at our guide to the dog friendly lake district if you’re looking to be inspired for more walks you can take the pooch on.

Hiking doesn’t have to end after your trip to Grizedale! In fact, there are thousands of different trails and walks for you to take part in, such as the Whinlatter Forest, Ennerdale Forest and Dodd Wood.

2) Lake District Activities at Brockhole

Brockhole is one of the most popular things to do in the Lake District for families, especially if you want lots of options in one place. Set on the shores of Windermere, it combines outdoor space with a wide mix of activities, making it ideal for families with children of different ages.

Depending on when you visit, you may find everything from adventure play and gardens to watersports, trails, and seasonal activities. It is the kind of attraction that works well if you want a full family day out with plenty to do, while still enjoying one of the best known Lake District settings.

3) The Swan Hotel, Newby Bridge

After a day of exploring, it helps to stay somewhere that gives families space to relax as well as plenty to enjoy on site. At The Swan, families can make the most of comfortable rooms, great dining options, and facilities that work for both grown ups and children.

If you are planning a family break in the South Lakes, staying somewhere well placed for local attractions makes a real difference. Newby Bridge is a great base for getting out to explore during the day, then returning somewhere comfortable in the evening.

For families looking to combine days out with a relaxing place to stay, The Swan makes a strong base for a Lake District break.

4) Wray Castle

For families spending time around Windermere, Wray Castle is a great option for mixing history, open space, and fun. Its striking setting and grounds make it an easy place for children to explore, while adults can enjoy the scenery and learn more about one of the area’s best known historic sites.

It is a good choice if you are looking for family friendly days out that feel a little different from the usual walk or activity centre. Pair it with time by the lake and you have the makings of a very easy South Lakes day out.

5) Coniston Boating Center

If your family enjoys getting out on the water, Coniston Boating Centre is one of the best Lake District things to do for families. Hiring a boat is a lovely way to see the landscape from a different perspective, while still keeping the day fun and relaxed.

For more active families, the area also offers opportunities for paddling, canoeing, and other waterside activities. It is a good option if you want a family day out that feels scenic as well as adventurous.

6) The Rheged Center

Not every family break comes with perfect weather, which is why indoor attractions are always worth having in mind. Rheged is one of the best rainy day things to do in the Lake District for families, with a mix of cinema, exhibitions, shopping, food, and creative activities all under one roof.

It is especially useful if you want to break up your trip with something indoors while still keeping the day enjoyable for children and adults alike. For families planning a Lake District stay, places like Rheged help make the region just as appealing in bad weather as it is on sunny days.

7) Kong Adventure Park

For older children, teenagers, and families who enjoy something more energetic, Kong Adventure is a great option. With a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, it suits visitors looking for something more action packed than a traditional sightseeing day.

It is particularly good if you are searching for things to do Lake District family groups with a taste for adventure will genuinely enjoy. Climbing, challenge based activities, and high energy experiences help make it a memorable addition to a family break.

8) Muncaster Castle

Muncaster Castle is another strong choice for families looking to mix history, grounds, and something a little different into their trip. It is the sort of place that can turn a simple day out into a bigger family experience, especially if you enjoy places with character and plenty to explore.

For many visitors, this is what makes the area so appealing. One day might be full of forest trails and adventure, while the next could involve castles, boat trips, or indoor attractions if the weather turns.

If you are planning your trip and want even more inspiration, you could also take a look at our Beatrix Potter Tour for another family friendly day out idea. And when the exploring is done, The Swan is a lovely place to return to for a relaxing family stay in the South Lakes.

9) Lake Windermere Boat Trips

If you are putting together a list of the top 10 things to do in the Lake District, a boat trip on Windermere deserves a place on it. It is one of the easiest ways to enjoy the scenery as a family, and it suits a wide range of ages.

For younger children, it adds a sense of adventure without needing too much walking. For older children and adults, it is a chance to take in the views and see a different side of the Lakes. It also pairs well with nearby attractions, cafés, and short walks, making it easy to build a full day around it.

10) Family Friendly Walks in the South Lakes

Some of the best things to do that families can enjoy are the simplest. A gentle walk, a picnic stop, and a scenic view can be just as memorable as a big attraction, especially if you are travelling with a mix of ages.

Choosing family friendly walks in the South Lakes gives you flexibility. You can keep things short and easy with younger children or build in longer routes if your group wants more of a challenge. When you are staying somewhere like The Swan in Newby Bridge, you are well placed for getting out and exploring without overcomplicating the day.

In conclusion, there is no limit to the amount of Lake District family activities you can enjoy. Whether you are exploring nature, soaking up history at one of the famous Lake District attractions, or simply enjoying a delicious meal together – you’ll never want the holiday to end. But that doesn’t matter, as we’d be happy to welcome you back to the Swan Hotel anytime.

We also have an itinerary for a great family day out at the Beatrix Potter Tour, if that’s something that would interest you and your family. After all this family time, you may want to enjoy sometime for yourself. As a highly regarded spa hotel in the Lake District we have you covered with everything you could need to pamper yourself.