The Lake District in Cumbria is not just a national park—it’s a soul-soothing blend of majestic landscapes, quaint villages, and unforgettable hikes. If you’re planning your first trip (or returning for more), here’s a complete breakdown of an epic 5-day itinerary, based on Suitcase Monkey’s immersive travel vlog.
Day 1: Arrival in Ambleside & Local Flavors
After a 6-hour drive, the trip begins in Ambleside, a centrally located village near Lake Windermere, England’s largest lake. The town offers great access to the region and easy walks by the water. With a Full English breakfast to fuel up, it’s the perfect start to the adventure.
Must-Try Food:
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Kendal Mint Cake – A peppermint-flavored glucose bar originally created for mountaineers. It’s intensely minty, slightly tough at first bite, but melts into sugary energy.
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Available in local sweet shops, it’s part of the Lake District’s charm—and survival kit for novice hikers.
Day 2: Helm Crag Hike & Exploring Grasmere
The first full hike is up Helm Crag, a 400-meter “fell” (as locals call it) with stunning views and a manageable path for beginners. One of the vlog’s funniest notes? Hoping not to collapse on the way—and being motivated by a friendly hello from a passing hiker. You’re definitely not in London anymore!
Why Grasmere is Special:
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Historic home of poet William Wordsworth.
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Lovely riverside cafes and simple yet delicious local fare.
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The best gingerbread in the world at Sarah Nelson’s Gingerbread—chewy, spicy, and sold only at the original cottage or online.
Day 3: Thirlmere & Derwentwater Walks + Keswick
After a quiet moment at Thirlmere, the journey shifts north toward Keswick, a bustling market town nestled at the top of Derwentwater.
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Derwentwater Hike: A peaceful, flat walk along the lake’s edge. The landscapes are breathtaking and dog-spotting becomes a fun side activity (they’re everywhere).
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Rowing on Derwentwater: A romantic and comical attempt ends with a reminder—rowing backwards is way easier than forwards.
Day 4: Aira Force & Gowbarrow Park Hike
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Aira Force Waterfall: A popular 70-foot waterfall just minutes from the car park. The lesser-known upper river path features mini waterfalls and serenity away from the crowds.
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Gowbarrow Park Circular Hike: Described as the best hike of the trip—remote, scenic, and immensely rewarding.
Dinner wraps up in Bowness and Windermere Village, bustling with restaurants, pubs, and Beatrix Potter-themed attractions.
Day 5: Final Hike to Easedale Tarn
The last day is cloudy, damp, and physically demanding—but ends with triumph at Easedale Tarn, a glacial lake filled with meltwater from 11,000 years ago. The hike is worth every step, especially after a comforting breakfast of cheesy beans on toast.
Travel Tips You’ll Actually Use
For Grasmere:
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Start and end hikes here—it’s perfectly located.
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Park at The Lancrigg Hotel (fee redeemable for food/drink).
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Visit the gingerbread shop during its final trading hour to avoid long queues.
Accommodation:
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Centrally located hotel with breakfast, near the Windermere ferry. Around £120/night.
Cash & Cards:
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Many places are card-only (gingerbread shop, pubs, even public toilets).
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But some parking machines still require coins—have both on hand.
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Download the PaybyPhone and RingGo apps before arrival (Wi-Fi is slow in rural areas).
Driving vs. Public Transport:
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Easier than driving in the Cotswolds.
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Public buses are decent, though less frequent—can work if planned carefully.
Dining:
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Book tables ahead, even just a few hours before. Popular spots fill up fast.
Gear & Hiking:
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Use the AllTrails app for routes (offline version available via Pro).
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Bring hiking boots, refillable water bottles, and yes—Kendal Mint Cake.
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Local shops stock good-quality last-minute gear at fair prices.
