Things to do in Cumbria
Cumbria, in northwest England, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. At Haven we’re blessed with the excellent Lakeland Leisure Park near the county's coast, meaning that your base for exploring this stunning region is already sorted.
All that’s left is to fill your itinerary with fun things to do. With its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and an array of outdoor activities, Cumbria certainly doesn’t lack variety. In this guide, we'll explore the top things to do in Cumbria to ensure you make the most of your Lakeland Leisure Park stay.
Lake District Wildlife Park
Address: Bassenthwaite, Keswick CA12 4RD
For a family-friendly outing, it doesn’t get much better than the Lake District Wildlife Park. This charming park offers the opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of animals, from adorable lemurs and playful kangaroos to majestic birds of prey.
Explore the park's beautifully landscaped enclosures and enjoy informative talks and demonstrations from the knowledgeable staff. It's a fantastic way to introduce your kids to the wonders of wildlife and conservation while enjoying a fun and educational day out.
Tullie House Museum & Art Gallery
Address: Castle St, Carlisle CA3 8TP
Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery stands as Carlisle's premier visitor attraction, showcasing extensive collections spanning art, human history, and natural sciences. It offers a diverse array of exhibitions, events, and interactive displays.
This attraction beautifully marries the old and new, featuring the Grade-I-Listed Jacobean building known as Old Tullie House and the exciting exhibits found in the Border Galleries. The best part? It's an indoor attraction, so you can revel in the captivating mountainous landscapes no matter whether the sun is shining or the rain is pouring.
Wordsworth Museum Grasmere
Address: Town End, Grasmere, Ambleside LA22 9PP
A captivating addition to Grasmere's Town End area is the Wordsworth Museum, located in Dove Cottage, William Wordsworth's home from 1799 to 1808. This museum is a treasure trove of artefacts and interactive displays dedicated to the life and influence of the poet William Wordsworth.
If you're interested in Wordsworth souvenirs, a visit to the Wordsworth shop is a must, where you'll find rare edition books, paintings, postcards, and more.
Birdoswald Roman Fort
Address: Gilsland, Brampton CA8 7DD
Take a journey to the very north of the county and you’ll find yourself plunged into ancient history at the Birdoswald Roman Fort along Hadrian's Wall. This well-preserved fort offers an immersive look into the lives of Roman soldiers stationed at the northernmost edge of the Roman Empire.
Explore the extensive ruins, wander along the section of wall, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Grizedale Forest
Address: Grizedale Forest, Ambleside LA22 0QJ
Grizedale Forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, especially mountain bikers. The forest features a ropes course & a sculpture trail, and a network of exhilarating mountain biking trails suitable for all skill levels.
Whether you're a seasoned rider looking for challenging routes or a beginner seeking a more relaxed ride through the woods, Grizedale Forest has it all. Bike rentals are available on-site, making it easy to ride into the adventure.
Coniston Water
Address: Lake Rd, Coniston LA21 8AN
Coniston Water offers a range of activities set against a stunning backdrop of rolling hills. You can enjoy sailing and canoeing on the lake, thanks to the Coniston Boating Centre, which offers rentals and lessons.
If you’re looking for something more relaxing, take a scenic boat trip on the Steam Yacht Gondola, a beautifully restored Victorian steam-powered yacht. Also, don't miss the opportunity to learn about the area's mining history at the Ruskin Museum in the town.
Muncaster Castle and Gardens
Address: Ravenglass CA18 1RQ
Tucked away near the village of Ravenglass, Muncaster Castle is a captivating historical gem. The castle itself boasts a rich history that spans centuries, and the stunning gardens that surround it are a delight to explore for adults and kids alike.
While wandering through the gardens, be sure to catch one of their spectacular birds of prey displays put on by the Hawk & Owl Centre. Witness eagles, owls, and falcons take to the skies in awe-inspiring demonstrations that provide an up-close encounter with these magnificent creatures.
Carlisle Castle
Address: Castle Way, Carlisle CA3 8UR
Carlisle, a city steeped in history, is home to the imposing Carlisle Castle. This formidable fortress played a pivotal role in English history, particularly during the era of the Border Reivers and the English Civil War.
Guided tours offer an opportunity to delve into the castle's storied past, exploring its chambers, battlements, and even a medieval well-house.
Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway
Address: Haverthwaite Station Nr, Ulverston LA12 8AL
Visiting the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway is like stepping back in time to a bygone era of steam locomotion and scenic splendour. This heritage railway offers a nostalgic journey through lush woodlands and picturesque countryside.
Whether you're a railway enthusiast or simply seeking a charming experience, a ride on these vintage steam trains promises a delightful blend of history, natural beauty, and a touch of old-world romance. It's a captivating way to absorb the timeless charm of the region while savouring the rhythmic chug of the locomotive and the stunning vistas that unfold along the way.
Furness Abbey
Furness Abbey, located near Barrow-in-Furness, beckons history enthusiasts and curious travellers alike. Visiting this well-preserved Cistercian monastery is a journey into Britain’s medieval past, where ancient stone arches and hauntingly beautiful ruins transport you to a time of spiritual devotion and architectural grandeur.
Exploring the abbey's intricate stonework and tranquil surroundings offers a serene escape from the modern world, providing a deeper connection to the history and heritage of Cumbria.
Lakes Aquarium
Address: Lakeside, Newby Bridge, Ulverston LA12 8AS
A visit to the Lakes Aquarium in Cumbria is an underwater adventure that's both educational and entertaining. Situated on the shores of Lake Windermere, this attraction offers a fascinating glimpse into the aquatic world of the Lake District.
From colourful tropical fish to playful otters and curious reptiles, there is a diverse range of marine life on display. It's an ideal destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the mysteries of underwater ecosystems.
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Important information
Brand new holiday homes from £34,995
Holiday home price is for a new 3-bedroom ABI New Horizon holiday home and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
Price excludes 2024 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 19 July 2024, price is available at all parks, excluding Church Farm, Cala Gran, Kiln Park, Littlesea, Lydstep Beach, Penally Court, Perran Sands, Rockley Park, Seashore, Seaview and Thornwick Bay.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
New holiday homes from £33,995
Holiday home price is for a new 3-bedroom Willerby Ellerton Extra holiday and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
From 12 July 2024 the holiday home price is reduced from £37,995 to £33,995 and will remain at this price until all available stock is sold.
The holiday home price excludes 2024 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 12 July 2024 this price is available at Berwick, Burnham-on-Sea, Devon Cliffs, Doniford Bay, Hafan y Mor, Kent Coast, Lakeland, Marton Mere, Presthaven, Primrose Valley, Reighton Sands, Seton Sands and Weymouth Bay.
Haven reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time. Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
Pre-owned holiday homes from £19,995
Holiday home price is based on a Bronze Grade pre-owned holiday home 6 years or older and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
Price excludes 2024 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 12 July 2024, price is available at all parks, excluding Cala Gran, Church Farm, Cardigan View, Cleethorpes Beach, Craig Tara, Far Grange, Golden Sands, Haggerston Castle, Kiln Park, Littlesea, Lydstep Beach, Orchards, Penally Court, Perran Sands, Rockley Park, Riviere Sands, Seashore, Seaview, Skegness and Thornwick Bay.
Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times. Park cannot be used as a permanent residence.
Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
Let2offset - make no site fee payments until 2031
Let2offset is a contractual lettings product that offers eligible owners a guaranteed letting income at a preferential rate (calculated each year) in exchange for a stipulated number of letting breaks. It also allows eligible owners to pay their site fees and receive their letting income in 12 equal monthly instalments; the monthly site fee amount charged by Haven will be after deduction of the letting income.
‘Make no site fee payments when using Let2offset until 2031’ is available at 33 Haven parks excluding Burnham, Cardigan View, Far Grange, Garreg Wen, Lydstep Beach, Riviere Sands and Seaview. The letting income received will vary by make, model and location. The monthly site fee payment does not include running costs e.g. utilities, rates & insurance.
“Make no site fee payments when using Let2offset until 2031” is applicable to new and existing customer purchases of new Atlas Sahara 3 Bed or equivalent or superior grade holiday home purchases made through Haven where customers have also signed up to Haven’s Let2offset contract. It is not applicable to private sales and cannot be used in conjunction with our free Site Fee promotion. It is available across 40% of eligible Parks and applies when letting a new Atlas Sahara 3 Bed holiday home (or equivalent or superior grade for 15 weeks.
An example of how “Make no site fee payments when using Let2offset until 2031” operates under Let2offset is the purchase of an Atlas Sahara 3 Bed holiday home at Primrose Valley with a monthly site fee of £585.00 (includes purchasing discount of £45) and monthly letting income of £803.67. The monthly difference equates to £218.67, which will be credited to the owner's account. Both letting income and site fees are subject to yearly pricing reviews and the monthly site fee costs and letting income shown in the example are based on 2024 figures.
Modelled assumptions on expected annual site fee and letting income charges over the 7-year lettable life of the Atlas Sahara 3 Bed indicate that under Let2offset it is anticipated that these customers will continue to receive a monthly credit during this period, however, this is not guaranteed. The modelled assumptions are based on the historical performance of Haven over the past 5 years of trading.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.