There are absolutely loads of outdoor activities in the Lake District. With the varied landscape of valleys, mountains, rivers, crags and - of course - lakes, you truly are spoiled for choice when you want to get some fresh air. Take some inspiration from the below outdoor activities in Cumbria and get ready for an incredible time.

Ghyll scrambling and canyoning

Always a popular choice for an outdoor adventure activity, ghyll scrambing - also known as gorge scrambling - is great fun and accessible for most ages. You slip, slide and scramble down a mountain river, taking in rock pools, mini waterfalls, and some awesome scenery.

Canyoning is ghyll scrambling’s older sibling. Everything’s a bit bigger here: bigger jumps, deeper river gorges, and deeper pools. It’s for those who love to really get that adrenaline pumping!

Ghyll Scrambling

Paddle boarding

Though paddle boarding has been around in some form since at least the 18th century, it really started growing in popularity in the UK just a few years ago. And it really has sky-rocketed! When ever you’re near a Lake District lake, you’re bound to see someone floating serenely across a lake as they admire the stunning scenery.

The best places to paddle board in the Lake District

Rock climbing

The Lake District - and Wasdale more specifically - is known as the birthplace of British climbing. Pioneers of the rock climbing world took on death-defying ascents here, without the help of the ropes and safety equipment we have nowadays. We wouldn’t recommend taking on the likes of Pillar without, but if you want to get onto the rock, there’s no better place to do it than the Lake District.

Wakeboarding and wakesurfing

Because of speed restrictions, there aren’t loads of places you can ride the waves and go wakeboarding in the Lake District. However this option is available if you want to give it a go!

The best place for wakeboarding is The Lakes Aqua Park in South Cumbria, where both beginners and experienced wakeboarders can enjoy themselves. There are two tower cable systems, ramps and bars, and one-to-one tuition available.

For wakesurfing, head to Windermere, where a number of outdoor adventure providers run the activity.

Via Ferrata Xtreme

At Honister Slate Mine in Borrowdale is the infamous Via Ferrata Xtreme! Following the footsteps of the former miners, this scary route scales the edge of cliff faces up to the top of Fleetwith Pike. Peer way down into the valley below as you hold onto the narrow ropes, wires and cargo nets that guide you to the summit.

Swimming

Take a dip in one of the lakes or quiet river pools of the Lake District. Wild swimming is proven to be excellent exercise and a brilliant stress reliever. Pop on your cossie or wetsuit, and dip your toes. Popular places to go wild swimming in the Lake District include Derwentwater, Borrowdale, Ullswater and Eskdale.

Take a dip in one of the lakes or quiet river pools of the Lake District. Wild swimming is proven to be excellent exercise and a brilliant stress reliever. Pop on your cossie or wetsuit, and dip your toes. Popular places to go wild swimming in the Lake District include Derwentwater, Borrowdale, Ullswater and Eskdale.

Go Ape and Treetop Nets

Found in both Whinlatter and Grizedale forests, Go Ape is a tree-top adventure with high-ropes courses, zip wires and suspended platforms. You’re safely secured the whole time, but still feel the rush as you step out onto the tree-to-tree crossings with only thin air between you and the ground!

For something similar but different, head to Brockhole on Windermere for trampolining in the sky! Treetop Nets is a series of springy nets in the tree canopy. Tunnels and slides also keep the whole experience fun and interesting!

Walking

Of course, the best way to explore the landscape of the Lake District is to go walking. Whether you’re up high or down low, there are routes for all ages, abilities, and inclinations. Our favourite walks around Keswick include Skiddaw, Latrigg, Catbells, and Friar’s Crag.

Horse riding and pony trekking

Animal lovers can enjoy the great outdoors with a pony trek on the Lake District fells, along the coast, and by the rivers. There are numerous options for horse riding in the Lake District. You can take lessons if you’re brand new, have a guided tour, or explore on your own if you’re an experienced rider.

Sailing

Gliding across the water using only the natural elements: it sounds like bliss to us! Cut the engines and feel the power of nature when you go sailing. You can find lessons and boat hire at most of the bigger lakes, including Coniston, Windermere, Derwentwater and Ullswater.

Raft building

If you have a strong sense of competition and a group, then raft building is an incredibly fun outdoor activity. Race the clock to build a floating raft out of nothing but some wood, rope, and barrels. How do you fix them together most effectively? Will it really float, or are you destined to sink to the bottom of Derwentwater…? Perfect for two groups competing against each other, or for one group that wants to give those grey cells a bit of a workout.

Raft Building

Kayaking

Whether you’re using a full kayak, a sit-on kayak, or an inflatable kayak, nothing beats paddling across the lake under your own steam! This sport is forever popular as it’s easy to pick up with plenty of fantastic locations in the Lake District.

Kayaking

Outdoor activities in the Lake District

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Outdoor Activities