The tranquil lakes of Derwentwater, Bassenthwaite Lake, Crummock Water, Buttermere and Thirlmere all enjoy breathtaking mountain settings with lots of places to relax and enjoy the scenery. The visitor has unparalleled opportunities to enjoy a great variety of sports including walking, cycling, golf, fell running, horse riding, paragliding, rock climbing and water sports
With the highest mountains in England - Skiddaw (931m), Scafell (964m), Scafell Pike (977m) and Helvellyn (949m) on your doorstep the serious fell walker and rock climber is spoilt for choice. For those less keen on steep ascents many of the smaller hills such as Latrigg (367m) and Catbells (445m) afford splendid views at modest effort whilst many level walks can be enjoyed through picturesque valleys and along the lake shores. The compact nature of the area means that there is very little travelling time and many walks can in fact be started from your door.
With five major lakes within ten miles and Windermere and the West Coast nearby there is plenty of opportunity for canoeing, kayaking, sailing, fishing, rowing or just pottering around in the water. Tuition in water sports is available at several centres and boat hire is widespread. However, the emphasis throughout the Northern Lakes is on peaceful enjoyment rather than on engine power.
Whether you bring your own bike or hire one locally you'll find no lack of choice of cycle routes. For the long distance aficionado there is the C2C route whilst for families cycling on approved forest trails is very popular. The horse rider, too, has room to travel without contact with vehicles or pedestrians. The keen golfer will be welcomed at Threlkeld on the testing 18 hole course set in spectacular surroundings. Families will enjoy the miniature golf, putting and obstacle golf in Hope Park, Keswick. Bowling facilities are excellent in Keswick and Braithwaite while there are opportunities to play tennis at several venues.
