Father’s Day is coming up on Sunday the 18^th of June 2023 and it’s the perfect day to celebrate your wonderful dad! Forget novelty mugs, silly socks, or another bottle for the drinks cabinet: this year, why not treat him to an exciting day out in the Lake District as a thoughtful Father's Day gift? There are tons of incredible things to do in the National Park that dad will love, and we’ve got you covered with our pick of some of the best!

Ghyll Scrambling

If your dad likes to get wet and wild, ghyll scrambling is the perfect outdoor adventure activity! It can be done in pairs, or as a whole family, and is even suitable for children as young as 7, so no one has to be left out!

Dip into the cool river waters of the Lake District and make your way downstream on a fun frollick over rocks, through pools, and alongside stunning scenery.

Book ghyll scrambling

Go Ape

Head high into a forest canopy: Go Ape sees you tackling high platforms, rope bridges, and hanging obstacles amongst the trees. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but it’s certainly a cool Father’s Day gift! In the Lake District you can find Go Ape experiences at Whinlatter Forest and Grizedale Forest. There are even family discounts available so everyone can join dad in the canopy!

Kayaking

If your dad loves the outdoors but is perhaps looking for a gentler experience, hop in a kayak and sail over beautiful Derwentwater. This gentle-paced activity is ideal for spending some quality time together on Father’s Day.

Our sit-on kayaks are wide and sturdy, giving you more balance that sit-in kayaks. You can even choose to go on the lake or on the river. Whichever you (and your dad) would prefer, you're bound to have a wonderful experience amongst the stunning Lake District scenery.

Book kayaking

Go-Karting

Who would win a race between you and dad? If you’re the competitive type, then go-karting will allow you to let off some steam on some of the most iconic tracks in the UK! Cumbria Kart Racing Club at Rowrah is famous in the world of go-karting for its technical demands and excellent driving. Or stay dry at West Coast Indoor Karting in Maryport.

Axe Throwing

Let out your wild side with a spot of axe throwing! Nothing feels quite as cathartic as lugging a great big axe at a wooden target and seeing how deep you can embed it! The Wild Boar near Windermere has a great axe throwing experience when booked alongside a meal at their renowned restaurant, which includes a Grill & Smokehouse.

JCB Operating

Is your dad just a big kid who loves his machines and toys? Then you can give him a really unique Father’s Day gift learning how to operate a JCB at Rookin House! Near Ullswater, this activity centre has all sorts of interesting activities to experience. You can even create a full package if you want to give your dad a longer day out.

Steam Train Rides

Tootle along the side of Windermere Lake or head deep into the remote valley of Eskdale on one of Cumbria’s charming steam trains. The Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway and La’al Ratty (a miniature single-gauge train) both provide an ideal trip out if you’re in the Lake District for Father’s Day weekend. They’re fun for all the family too!

For something steam-train related and a little different, book yourself a table at Bassenthwaite Lake Station. This café is inside an old repurposed steam train that lives alongside Bassenthwaite Lake, on the site of one of the former train stations.

Golf Days

If your dad enjoys a round of two or golf, how about visiting some of the country’s most spectacular courses for a relaxing day on the green? Keswick Golf Club is overlooked by the imposing mountain of Blencathra, or Seascale Golf Club near Wasdale has fells to one side and the sea on the other. What a place!

Wolf Walks

Unique Father’s Day gifts are the best, and we love this one by Predator Experience in the South Lakes. Their amazing wolf walks let you get up close and personal with a wolf hybrid pack. You’ll all have the chance to learn about these animals, their conservation, and their habitat. I’m sure your dad will love the opportunity to practice his wolf howls too!

Eat Like a Viking

One of Cumbria’s hidden gems, Moorforge Viking Settlement is a unique location near Cockermouth. It has its own Viking-era forge and workshop so that your dad can let out his inner Norseman! Eat Like a Viking is led by Craig Brook, author of the book of the same name. He’ll demonstrate how to start with basics like creating a fire, and go on to practical tasks like making your own butter, cheese, sausages and more. Once the food is made and consumed, sit back with your mead and listen to some mythical storytelling.

A Little Extra Treat

If you're joining us for Father's Day on one of our outdoor adventure activities, then get in touch about adding some Keswick Adventures Ale to your day! Once you're safe back on dry land, we can sit back in the sun and enjoy our unique beer - it's the perfect way to wrap up an exciting Father's Day!

Last-Minute Father’s Day Ideas

If you’re hear because you’ve left things a little late, don’t worry, we’ll get you sorted. Our gift vouchers can be used throughout the year and are the perfect last-minute present for your dad, offering flexibility on dates.

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