When you are planning a Lancashire Spring break or a Lancashire Summer holiday, you will need to research what activities and events you are going to include. We’ve helped you out with a few suggestions below.
Canal Cruising
Kingfisher Cruises
A great way to see views of the county from the comfort of Kingfisher, a comfortable 60 passenger boat with modern interior, and open deck at the front. Kingfisher Cruises also offer entertainment cruises, quiz cruises, private hire and Afternoon Tea cruises. Keeping it traditional, you can choose a horse drawn canal cruise taken at a leisurely pace.
Cycling in Lancashire
Dunsop Bridge
A relatively easy 8 km cycle ride for all the family. The route starts in the village of Dunsop Village in the Ribble Valley where you travel beside the River Dunsop into the Forest of Bowland. Beautiful scenery along a flat tarmac path.
Lytham St Anne’s Promenade
Another good one for children passing the windmill at Lytham Green and Fairhaven Lake with a playground and café. Lovely views across Ribble Estuary with lots of birdlife and bird watching sites.
Bay Cycle Way
The Bay Cycle Way is a long-distance cycle route, but you can choose smaller sections for a very enjoyable day out for all the family. The cycle say starts at Walney Island, near Barrow in Furness and finishes at Glasson Dock, near Lancaster. We can thoroughly recommend the stretch along Morecambe Promenade, stopping off for refreshments at The Midland hotel.
Mountain Biking at Gisburn Forest
The largest forest in Lancashire, Gisburn Forest provides a variety of mountain biking for both adults and older teenagers. Fantastic views of the Forest of Bowland from high above the Ribble Valley. The routes are graded so that you can choose the appropriate skill level.
Country Parks
Thornton Hall Country Park
A great farm park with the exciting addition of Quadtrex, Thornton Hall Country Park has 160 acres of woodlands, fields and quarryland to diiscover on a quad bike. Be prepared for mud! The rest of the park is an award-winning working farm with deer park, safari park and the opportunity to get up close with a hands-on animal encounter. There’s a huge play barn for younger children, and an onsite eatery, making this a great all-weather experience for the whole family.
Gisburn Forest
The largest forest in Lancashire, Gisburn Forest has a range of waymarked footpaths and forest trails, including four mountain bike trails. They are also an accredited Dark Sky Discovery Site for those who love to star gaze.
Beacon Fell Country Park
Looking for a great view? At the Beacon Fell summit there is a spectacular view over the Forest of Bowland and Morecambe Bay, and if you are lucky with the weather, all the way to the Isle of Man. Beacon Fell Country Park has 271 acres of woodland, moorland and farmland. Full of wonderful wildlife including roe deer for the quick of eye, stoats, weasels, rabbits and hares, dragonflies and damselflies.
The Bowland Visitor Centre within the park is commended for the quality of its visitor information and for the way it encourages children to explore the natural environment.
Rivington Pike
A steepish climb but worth the effort. Rivington Pike commands spectacular views across Cheshire, the Lake District and the Isle of Man. Starting at Rivington Hall Barn, the route takes you through Rivington Terraced Gardens, named one of Britain’s Best Lost Gardens by Countryfile in 2014. You will pass beside summer houses, man-made caves, stone bothies and the Japanese Gardens. Most of this was the design of Thomas Mawson, commissioned by William Hesketh Lever, founder of Lever Brothers. Once you have explored the gardens, the path takes you out to Belmont Road where Rivington Pike Tower can be clearly seen on the hill above you. There’s a bench at the foot of the hill where you can take a break before you start the steep ascent.
Theatre and Arts
Dukes Theatre
Opened in 1971 in a converted Church, The Dukes Theatre continues to deliver outstanding theatre productions, the latest box office films, gripping drama, family shows, comedy and, of course, their annual award-winning Play in the Park.
The Platform
The Platform is a restored Edwardian railway station in Morecambe and offers live music, comedy, theatre, children’s shows and community events.
The TERN Project
Make your way to Morecambe’s seafront and follow the trail of award-winning sculptures that celebrate the birds and wildlife of the Bay. Cormorants, gannets, razorbills sit atop roundabouts. On the Stone Jetty, just behind The Midland there’s a giant compass, word puzzles to figure out, and a strange mythical bird. Follow a trail towards Festival Market and take a closer look at the poems and quotes by famous entertainers, authors and artists. Of course, don’t forget to smile for the camera alongside the statue of Eric Morecambe, the highlight of the trail.
Headlands to Headspace
The long horizons and big skies of Morecambe Bay inspired the Headlands to Headspace, a series of sculptural landscape artworks. Horizon Line Chamber is one of the commissioned pieces open to the public at Sunderland Point. It’s a conical stone chamber created out of reclaimed building stones unearthed at Sunderland Point, an original port settlement. The sculpture, or chamber, mimics an upturned boat. Inside, a projector inverts the outside world onto the walls and captures the ever-changing moods of the sea as well as the unique light of the Bay.
The Ship sculpture at Half Moon Bay is the creation of Anna Gillespie and depicts two figures balanced on a seafaring structure, referencing the strong link to the area’s Viking heritage. The two figures of the structure look in opposite directions, a point of welcome and a symbol of farewells.
Events and Festivals
Scorton Steam Weekend
Looking for ideas for Father’s Day – this fits the bill perfectly. With over 600 vintage and classic vehicles, steam engines, classic cars, military vehicle this is a great day out. There are arena displays, food stalls and beer tent, crafts and exhibitions, stunts, live music and a fairground and soft play areas for the children.
Royal Lancashire Show
Held at the end of July, the Royal Lancashire Agricultural Show is held at Salesbury Hall Estate in the heart of the Ribble Valley. A great day out for the family, with the best of Lancashire livestock, show jumping, ferret display, dog agility, dry stone walling diplays, shire horse parade and even a Shetland pony grand prix.
Wonderhall
A live music event held in the grounds of Lytham Hall in August. Wonderhall will be headlined by tenor Russell Watson as part of the Lytham Proms concert. There’s a mix of major headliners and picnic-style concerts. All ticket sales will be donated to the restoration of Lytham Hall, one of the finest Grade I Georgian houses in Lancashire couched in eighty acres of beautiful parkland.
Highest Point
A 2-day live music festival held in May at Williamson Park with many headline acts with crowds of over 35,000. This is a non-camping event.
Lancashire Game and Country Festival
Lancashire Game and Country Festival is a great day out for all the family at Scorton, Garstang, just off the M6. There are dog and horse shows, the fun of the Gundog scurry, Fly Fishing demonstrations, Birds of Prey Displays and Falconry sessions. All the usual fun of the fair with live music, country shopping a food village and theatre.
Lancaster Music Festival
Lancaster Music Festival has grown steadily over the last eleven years to become one of the UK’s largest urban music festivals.The city rings out with music from over thirty venues, all within easy reach of the city centre. You will find bands and artists in most of the city’s pubs and bars, in the courtyard of Lancaster Castle and in many of the cafes and coffee shops. The musical genres vary enormously which is part of the festival’s appeal. There will be over 200 artists, mostly performing free. Alongside the musical performances there will be street theatre and workshops. It’s held in October, so although not strictly a summer activity, it might be worth booking your accommodation early.
Other Things to do in Lancashire
We have lots of other information to help you plan your stay in Lancashire. Check out Walk Lancashire in Spring and Summer, Lancashire Attractions for Families, Lancashire Attractions for Adults and Couples, Unusual Spring Summer Activities in Lancashire and Lancashire Castles, Grand Houses, Museums and Monuments. Places to Stay in Lancashire.
Places to Stay in Lancashire for a Spring Break or Summer Holiday
Two great holidays that make a comfortable base to explore the wonderful Red Rose county. Lancaster House is just minutes from the city centre but with the added benefit of being on the doorstep of the Forest of Bowland. The Midland offers a luxurious seaside location with exceptional views over the Bay.
There’s lots to think about when taking your family on holiday. Top of most people’s list is ‘how will be entertain the kids?’ To make it easier for those planning a Spring Summer short break or holiday in Lancashire, we’ve gathered together a few suggestions for children of all ages.
Lancaster House Fun Trail
If you are staying at Lancaster House, ask Reception for their Lancaster House Fun Trail. It’s a fantastic way to explore the city of Lancaster, with lots of things to do and to find. Read our blog to discover how Matilda got on with her Fun Trail map.
Animal Farms and Parks
Windmill Animal Farm
Get up close to a range of rare breed and exotic farm animals around the farm at Windmill Animal Farm. The indoor Farmyard Friends encounter allows you to hold rabbits and guinea pigs and there’s a reptile house for those brave enough. An excellent selection of things to do for children, including indoor and outdoor play areas, train track, pedal tractors, roller racers, maize maze, go carts and excavators.
Bowland Wild Boar Park
Not just Boars, there’s a whole host of species at Bowland Wild Boar Park, including Red Deer, Ostriches, Emus, Peacocks, Ducks, Hens, Pigs, Polecats, Alpaca, Water Buffalo, Llamas to name just a few.
There are opportunities to hand feed the lambs and hold baby chicks, but check the schedules on arrival. When the weather permits, there are barrel, tractor and trailer rides. You can even try your hand at tank driving! There’s an outdoor children’s playground and indoor entertainment. A great day out for all the family.
Wild Discovery
Billed as the Zoo that Interacts with You, Wild Discovery has a huge range of Mammals, Birds and Reptiles from all parts of the world. Experiences include Keeper for a Day, Animal Encounters and Bitesize Animal Encounters where you get close enough to feed and tend the animals. Set on the site of Ribby Hall Village, there’s plenty to do, from scenic walks around the 100 acre woodland to water slides, and outdoor play park.
Cobble Hey Farm
This is a family-run farm with an environmental conscience. Take a tour around the Cobble Hey Farm and see how a working farm operates. Opportunity to feed and walk some of the animals, or enjoy the beautiful gardens where there’s a new bloom every day of the year. There are also indoor and outdoor play areas.
Farmer Ted’s
The Shaun the Sheep Adventure is a collaboration between Farmer Ted’s and Aardman Animation, creators of Wallace and Grommit and Shaun the Sheep. There are specially landscaped grounds, and Shaun the Sheep-themed activities with an outdoor performance space. Shaun the Sheep Adventure Farm has lots going on and will keep the children entertained for hours. Guinea pig village, Laura the Llama, Shetland ponies and ferret racing are great fun. There’s an adventure theme park, indoor and outdoor play areas, mammoth maize maze and an opportunity to meet Shaun the Sheep and Bitzer themselves.
Butterfly House at Williamson Park
Whilst visiting Williamson Park, the Butterfly House is worth a look. Set in a spacious Edwardian palm house, it contains many and varied species of colourful butterflies, birds as well as a mini zoo.
Nature Reserves
RSPB Leighton Moss
The largest reed bed in Northern England, Leighton Moss is an important breeding habitat for bird populations throughout the year. The area includes reed-fringed wetlands, coastal marsh, saltwater lagoons and woodland and limestone grassland. Favourite sightings are Bearded Tits, Stars Avocet, Oystercatchers, Bittern and Marsh Harriers. Although you can be assured of catching a wide array of birds in different habitats, you may also be treated to colourful wetland flowers, rare butterflies, dragonflies, otters and deer. The Visitor Centre is very well equipped and there are accessible walks for pushchairs and wheelchair users around the site. There’s also an all-terrain Tramper scooter available for free of charge hire, pre-booking essential.
Pendle Nature Reserve
Pendle has not one, not two… but five nature reserves ripe for exploration.
Alkincoates, Greenfield, Lomeshaye Marsh, Upper Ballgrove Park, and Quarry Hill. There are woodlands, meadows, ponds and wetland. In total, hundreds of species of grasses, trees, herbaceous plants, birds and pondlife.
Take your binoculars because the quick of eye might spot deer, rabbits, shrews, hares or foxes.
Brockholes Wood Nature Reserve
Managed by Lancashire Wildlife Trust, Brockholes Wood nature reserve is set on a 250-acre site and features a floating Visitor Village with café and shop. There’s an ancient woodland to explore, and walks around lakes or along the River Ribble which is teeming with wildlife. Butterflies, moths, dragonflies in abundance and keep an ear out for a spectacular collection of birdsong.
Bring your binocular and cameras as the hides and viewing points along the paths allow you to get close up to the wildlife. Brockholes have a calendar of events for children and young people which is worth checking out. https://www.brockholes.org/events
Theme Parks, Splash Time and Bounce
Blackpool Pleasure Beach
This is where the committed thrill seekers flock to enjoy adrenaline fuelled rides, including Icon, the UK’s first double launch roller coaster. There are too many rides to mention. Indeed, it claims to be the world’s most ride intensive amusement park. Miles and miles of roller coasters. We’ve all heard of The Big One, the UK’s tallest roller coaster, but there’s also the UK’s first looping coaster, Revolution. Talking about firsts, Infusion is the UK’s first suspended looping coaster completely over water.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach is not just for adults and older teenagers, it is also home to Nickelodeon Land where SpomgeBob SquarePants, Chase, Marshall and Skye from PAW Patrol make regular appearances. Lots and lots of rides, fun and excitement for the younger members of the family.
A day of thrills and spills for all the family.
Happy Mount Park
The clue is in the title – lots of happy memories to be made here. Happy Mount Park in Morecambe is free to enter and thrives on laughter and family fun. On hot days, the children can enjoy Splash Park’s jets of water squirting from every direction and keeping them cool. It costs just £1 per person for a session in Splash Park. There’s an indoor Pay and Play soft play area for youngsters, Adventure Golf for the whole family and Rastelli’s café to keep energy levels up. It’s also a great place for a picnic and located just across the road from the promenade, it is perfectly located for a walk by the sea.
Splash Park Zone, Lytham
Set within the beautiful Grade II Listed Promenade Gardens in St Annes, Splash Park Zone is a free entry splash area for young children. It is built in the former open air paddling pool and has seating around the side for Mums and Dads. A great range of watery thrills including spray loops, bucket drops, water spray and domes and a section for paddling.
Jump Rush
A fun and energetic activity for children young and old – and perhaps the parents also. Jump Rush is a trampoline park that has got several zones and 100 trampolines. There’s a 2m air bag, ninja zone and Inflatarush, an inflatable zone.
Great for rainy days, or to get the children active. There are sessions for babies and toddlers and a soft play bounce area. Check the website for events throughout the year such as Disney Days and Super Hero Days.
Other Things to do in Lancashire in Spring and Summer
We’ve got lots of other suggestion for adults and children. Check out the following pages for more ideas to help you plan your Spring or Summer Break. Walk Lancashire in Spring and Summer; Things to do in Lancashire in Spring and Summer; Lancashire Attractions for Adults and Couples; Unusual Spring Summer Activities; and Lancashire Castles, Grand Houses, Museums and Monuments.
Places to Stay in Lancashire for a Spring Break or Summer Holiday
Two great venues for a Spring break or Summer holiday for families, including man’s best friend.
Lancaster House is perfectly placed on the outskirts of Lancaster but also within easy reach of the beautiful Forest of Bowland. It has the added benefit of easy access to the motorway which means that a trip to Blackpool makes a great day out. The on-site Health Club is great for a family group – relaxation for adults, and swimming action for the kids. If the weather keeps you indoors, you can enjoy the indoor pool, hot tub, steam room and sauna. For the fitness conscious visitors, there is also a fully equipped gym.
If a seaside holiday is what you are after, The Midland is a real find. Forty-four art deco inspired bedrooms offering comfort and luxury. The Rotunda offers lighter meals and snacks, and of course a cocktail or two. The Sun Terrace Restaurant features the best local produce with a stunning view over the Bay thrown in.
If you are planning a spring break or summer holiday in Lancashire and need inspiration for activities and attractions, look no further. We have several suggestions that will be great for adults or couples. We can also recommend Lancaster House and The Midland as two hotels perfectly placed to take advantage of all that is going on in the area.
Escape Rooms
One for adults and older teenagers in the family, Lancaster Escape Rooms allows you to challenge yourself to escape from one of three newly developed escape rooms. The clock is ticking – you have just one hour. This is a great puzzle solving experience that will require excellent communication and analytic thinking to work through the clues and make your great escape. Interactive and challenging.
Browse a Farmers Market
There are several farmers markets around the county to choose from including the weekly Thorton Clevelys and Lytham St Annes market. The county benefits from a rich variety of local produce. There are no fewer than nine cheesemakers of Protected Designator of Origin and fresh seafood including the world renown Morecambe Bay Shrimps. The rich coastal soil delivers succulent root vegetables, potatoes and salads and the mineral rich water is put to good use by the 23 local Lancashire breweries.
An award-winning tourist attraction, Fleetwood Farmers Market is a traditional coastal market with over 200 indoor and outdoor stalls. Open Tuesday, and Thursday – Saturday. The atmospheric Victorian building has changed very little over the years, but has been extended to make is one of the largest markets in the North West.
Meet local farmers and producers and choose fresh local seasonal products, whether that’s cheeses, meats, vegetables, bread and baking, crafts, plants and so much more.
Take A Cheese Trail
There are three self-directed cheese walks to choose from – the Creamy, the Crumbly and the Tasty. Maps for each trail can be downloaded and printed. Visit a range of different cheese producers and sample award-winning cheeses. The Tasty Cheese Trail takes you over a 6 mile route, mostly footpaths and tracks with a little road walking. It starts at Inglewhite, under Beacon Fell. The walk passes Mrs Kirkhams, Butlers and Greenfield Dairies. Also 6 miles in length, The Crumbly Cheese Trail follows footpaths and the canal towpath. South of the market town of Garstang, it takes you around the Dew Lay dairy which has a factory shop where you can taste their delicious crumbly cheese. The Creamy Lancashire Cheese Trail is 3.3 miles close to the beautiful village of Chipping. It features Leagram Organic Dairy, one of the smaller producer and the first place in Lancashire to produce cheese commercially. Enjoy the eclectic display of cheese making artefacts and sample their wares in the small on-site shop. Best to ring ahead to check that it is open!
Shop for Antiques
A treasure trove of items from a bygone age. Rooms and rooms filled with colourful and interesting objects and memorabilia. GB Antiques is the biggest antiques and furniture centre in the UK with 40,000 square feet of furniture, porcelain, pottery, glass, toys, sporting collectables and music instruments, telephones, gadgets and toys.
Walk Lancashire
We’ve listed a number of beautiful walks around the county of Lancashire here. These include canal walks, walks in the beautiful Forest of Bowland and wheelchair and pushchair friendly walks.
Visit a local Festival or Show
There are a number of Lancashire shows and festivals. One that is popular for Father’s Day in particular is Scorton Steam fair. Alternatively, the Lancashire Game and Countryside Festival.
Other Things to do in Lancashire
We have several other suggestions of things to do in Lancashire in summer. Click the links to discover Unusual Spring Summer Activities in Lancashire, Lancashire Castles, Grand House, Museums and Monuments, and Things to do in Lancashire in Spring and Summer.
Two Great Afternoon Teas
Having the time to treat yourself to Afternoon Tea is surely a treat itself. You will be spoilt for choice between our Lancashire Afternoon Tea at Lancaster House featuring the very best Lancashire recipes and produce, and Afternoon Tea at The Midland beside the sea.
Looking for something a little bit unusual for a day out in Lancashire. We’ve listed a few suggestions below, as well as two great hotels to base yourself for your Spring or Summer holiday.
Bee Keeping
Fancy yourself as a Bee Keeper? Well, here’s your opportunity. The Bee Centre in Preston runs an award-winning Bee Experience where participants are given an introduction to honeybees and beekeeping. You are then invited to put on one of The Bee Centre’s beekeeping suits and get up close to the bees and the hives. A great way to learn about the valuable role of honeybees in supporting our environment. Take away a jar of honey made by Samlesbury Hall bees as a memento of your day.
Parachute Jump
The Black Knights Parachute Centre offer a range of skydiving courses. Booking is essential and it can be subject to the weather, but it is an experience you will never forget. It is the longest running parachute jump centre in the country, in operation for over 50 years. They offer Accelerated Freefall and Static Line courses throughout the year and can offer Tandem skydiver to 15,000 ft – the highest in the UK.
There are options to do your jump for charity and get family and friend involved, and your charity will give you guidelines on how to do this before booking.
Be a Blacksmith for a Day
Blacksmithing can be traced back as far as 1500 BC. In mediaeval times every village in the land had a blacksmith creating functional pieces of equipment and tools – works of art in their own right.
John Law of Bespokers Forge loves this ancient craft and operates an open door policy to give people the opportunity of seeing blacksmithing in action. He produces beautiful bespoke pieces and is inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement and Art Nouveau design.
It is also possible to take part in a Blacksmithing course for a maximum of 2 people where you will learn the basic techniques before trying your hand at a project of your choosing.
Carnforth Heritage Centre
Carnforth Railway Station is ‘Milford Junction’ the setting of the iconic 1945 film, Brief Encounter, the Carnforth Heritage Centre celebrates everything about one of the best-loved films of all times. The screenplay was written by Noel Coward, and the movie was directed by one of the leading film makers of the time, David Lean. The Heritage Centre has a wealth of information about the film shoot and the leading actors, Trevor Howard and Celia Johnson. The Life and Works exhibition features details of David Lean’s personal and professional life, including contributions from the British Film Institute. There’s also the opportunity to watch the movie played on the big screen whilst making yourself comfortable in the original theatre seats donated by The Winter Gardens in Morecambe.
The Brief Encounter Refreshment Room has been restored to the 1940s glory and you can enjoy home made fayre whilst imagining yourself as a star in the movie. Breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea are served daily.
Take A Brewery Tour
Learn about brewing beer by taking a tour at Lancaster Brewery Tour. A great way to discover the brewing process including malting, mashing, transfer to the Copper where hops are added for bitterness, fermentation, racking and cold store. There are different tours available from Amber, Blond to Premium Red. You can even become a brewer for a day for the ultimate learning experience. Questions are encouraged and your tour will end at the bar, of course. The choice of pint is then down to you.
Morecambe Bay Walk
Prepare to get your feet wet at times, as you are led across the infamous sands of Morecambe Bay.
The Guide over Sands Trust is a charity formed in 1877 by the Duchy of Lancaster to see people safely across the Leven and Kent estuaries. The guides have specialist knowledge of the sands and the dynamics of the bay, usually fishermen. In recent years, crossing the bay has become very popular, particularly with charities. Be prepared for changeable weather and different conditions underfoot including sand, footpaths and marsh land. It is mostly flat rippled sand, sometimes under water. Barefoot walking on sand can be hard on the feet, but exhilarating at the same time. The Arnside to Grange walk will guarantee that you get wet, usually up to your knees. Check out the charity walks as a great way to have fun and be contributing to a worthwhile cause.
Other Things to do in Lancashire in Spring and Summer
For additional suggestions of things to do in Lancashire, take a look at the following pages – Lancashire Attractions for Children and Families, Lancaster Castles, Grand Houses, Monuments and Museums, Lancashire Attractions for Adults and Couples, Things to do in Lancashire in Spring Summer and Walk Lancashire in Spring and Summer.
Lancashire Hotels offering a particularly warm welcome
Lancaster House
Close to the grandeur of the Forest of Bowland, Lancaster House is a comfortable base with lots of added benefits. Tired from your day’s excursions relax n the warmth of the sauna or steam room, or take a few lengths of the indoor pool. With a choice of places to eat in either The Sandeman Bar, or the urban chic Foodworks Restaurant, there’s something for everyone. Our bedrooms and suites offer the best in comfort – everything necessary for a fantastic short break or holiday in Lancashire.
The Midland
Boasting superb views over Morecambe Bay to the Lake District Hills beyond, The Midland is a real art deco gem. Forty-four bedrooms offering comfort and luxury with some unusual design twists. Enjoy a cocktail or glass of wine in The Rotunda before dinner featuring the freshet and best local produce served in The Sun Terrace Restaurant where you are very likely to be treated to an awe-inspiring sunset with your meal.
Looking for things to do in Lancashire in Spring or Summer. Here are a few suggestions to put on your ‘must visit’ places. Lots of history, stunning architecture and beautiful settings.
Lancaster Castle
Credit: Lancashire County Council
A fascinating glimpse of Lancashire history through the ages. Lancaster Castle is a site of great importance having guarded the city all the way back to Roman times. Learn about the trial of the Lancashire witches and the imprisonment of George Fox, the founder of the Quaker movement. Guided tours open up a wealth of information about the history and characters involved down through the years, and there are special events to watch out for throughout the year.
Maritime Museum
Credit: Ralph Rawlinson Creative Commons 2
Take a stroll along St George’s Quay, Lancaster’s 18th century harbour and discover the maritime history of the Port of Lancaster. The Maritime Museum, housed in the city’s former Customs House, include exhibitions that give an insight into the shadier side of the city’s economy during years of slave trading, and how it brought great wealth to certain sections of society. Learn about the treacherous Morecambe Bay sands, the local fishing industry, how they stored goods from around the world and the boats that were used for cargo on sea and canal.
Ashton Memorial
The Ashton Memorial is a Grade 1 listed monument completed in 1909. It was built as a memorial by rich industrialist Lord Ashton in memory of his wife, Jessy. It forms a commanding presence and can be seen for miles around. It is open on week days when visitors can enter and learn about the history and architecture of the monument. It sits in the beautiful grounds of Williamson Park, with extensive woodlands and open parkland. Great for picnics and family get togethers.
Lancaster Priory
Lancaster Castle and Priory
This is still the site of a worshipping Christian community, but Lancaster Priory Church dates all the way back to Saxon times. Most of the current Grade 1 listed building dates back to the 1600s, with the tower an 18th century addition, but it is thought a Roman building occupied the site as early as the year 200 AD. It is known as a place of excellence for its music tradition. There are a number of items of the utmost historical importance such as the 10th century marble tomb chest and effigy surrounded by cast iron railings, a resored Gothic style 18th century sundial, a Saxon doorway and carved choirstalls dating from 1340. Truly a history-lover’s treasure trove.
Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery
Opened in 1874 as a purpose-built free museum, Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery has a fascinating collection ranging from fine art to coin collections, manuscripts, Egyptian artefacts, Japanese prints and the largest icon collection outside London. The Lewis Textile Collection gives a fascinating insight into the local cotton trade. Thomas Boys Lewis, a local cotton manufacturer, established his collection to celebrate the developments in cotton manufacture during the Industrial Revolution. An industry that had made him very wealthy.
Hoghton Tower
Hoghton Tower Creative Commons !
Enjoy magnificent views towards the Lake District and Irish Sea from the elevated position of Hoghton Tower. Although the current building dates back to 1565, there is a much earlier history going back as far as 1109. The building tells the story of noble visitors, renowned artists and authors such as Dickens and Shakespeare.
This is a great day out for all the family with interactive tours, and the opportunity to dress up as knights and dragons on the ramparts of the tower. There’s also a diary of events throughout the year including theatre shows and spooky tours. Outside there are three walled gardens to enjoy and explore.
Judges Lodgings
Four hundred years of history are brought together in this fascinating house built in 1625 by Thomas Covell, Keeper of the Castle. The city’s oldest town house, Judges Lodgings housed travelling judges from the Assizes Courts. They were known as ‘red judges’ because of their scarlet robes. They sat on famous cases such as the Pendle Witch Trials and sealed the fate of many a villain, and possibly a few innocents as well. Between 1782 and 1865 over 200 people were sentenced to death by hanging, giving Lancaster the reputation as “the hanging town”.
The house contains beautifully decorated rooms and hosts some beautiful pieces of furniture designed and made by Gillows of Lancaster. You can also visit the Museum of Childhood and take a nostalgic journey through toys through the ages.
Stonyhurst College
Creative Commons 3, Credit: Imaginative Name at English Wikipedia
Stonyhurst College is an impressive Grade I Listed 16th century manor house and is one of the most prolific catholic boarding schools in the UK.
Open at weekends and in school holidays, it is certainly worth a visit. It is set in the picturesque village of Hurst Green, surrounded by hills and woodland. A guided tour around the building is fascinating and you will discover the long list of famous literary, sporting and military who’s who that relate to the college in some way. Arthur Conan Doyle set his famous novel The Hound of the Baskervilles here, and it is said the J.R.R. Tolkien took inspiration for his Lord of the Rings trilogy from the surrounding countryside.
Samlesbury Hall
Credit: Andrew Matthewson Creative Commons 2
A stunning mediaeval house dating back to 1325. Built of half-timber, this striking black and white manor house is a magnet for history lovers. It houses a kaleidoscope of different eras with a Victorian kitchen, a 1950s bedroom and a school room. The beautiful grounds are a haven of peace and tranquillity with manicured lawns, pretty borders, a wishing well and a pretty woodland. There are a few working animals, including rescued hens, which holds added interest for children visiting the hall.
The Hall is also a museum, and the archive rooms hold a plethora of interesting stories and tales about characters that form an important social history of the hall, the area and the country as a whole.
There’s a great calendar of events throughout the year, including theatre productions, murder mysteries, and guided tours.
Other Things to do in Lancashire this Spring and Summer
There are more than castles, grand houses, museums and monuments to visit in Lancashire. Take a look at our other suggestions including Lancashire Attractions for Children and Families, Unusual Spring Summer Activities in Lancashire, Lancashire Attractions for Adults and Couples, Walk Lancashire in Spring and Summer, and Things to do in Lancashire in Spring Summer.
Places to Stay in Lancashire in Spring and Summer
We have two fantastic 4* Hotels in Lancashire that would make a great base for exploring the beautiful county of Lancashire.
Lancaster House
Close to the city of Lancaster, on the doorstep of the picturesque Forest of Bowland and within a short drive of the coast, Lancaster House is a perfect choice. Start your day at our fully equipped gym, or take time out from sight seeing to lounge beside our indoor pool, or relax in our indoor and outdoor hot tubs, steam room and sauna. With a choice of bar or restaurant, luxurious accommodation, together with the best Lancashire welcome, you will feel right at home.
The Midland
Seaside, promenade, ice creams, cocktails, quirky rooms and stunning views across the Bay, The Midland is the perfect choice for those looking for something that little bit different and very special. Check out this iconic art deco gem, and don’t forget to book yourself Afternoon Tea at The Midland as a little holiday treat.
Lake District Attractions for Families
There’s are lots of great days out to be had in the Lake District for families, including children of all ages. We’ve included a few of our favourite Lake District attractions and experiences for you to choose from.
Windermere Lake Cruises
This is sort of an indoor-outdoor activity as you can choose to sit outside, or alternatively, take cover whilst you glide past some of the most beautiful scenery of the Lake District. It remains the number one tourist attraction in the area. Windermere Lake Cruises offer various cruises to choose from, boarding from Bowness-on-Windermere, Brockhole or Waterhead pier. Discover all the length and breadth of England’s longest lake, and extend your trip with a walk, cycle, steam train ride or visit to Wray Castle.
World of Beatrix Potter
The World of Beatrix Potter is of the most popular family attractions in the Lake District. Whether you are a ‘big kid’ reliving your childhood memories, or a child who has just discovered Peter Rabbit, the magical walk-through attraction will bring the well-loved characters like Jemima Puddleduck, Mrs Tiggy-Winkle and Flopsy, Mopsy and Cottontail to life. Beautifully laid out with scenes from the popular Beatrix Potter book series. You will also learn more about the author and her life in the Lakes and outside, Mr MacGregor’s garden is well laid out and he’s ready to catch Peter Rabbit.
Hawk Walk
The Wild Boar Inn partners with Lake District Falconry to offer a Falconry Experience and Hawk Walk in our ancient woodland in the Gilpin Valley. Before you put on the falconer’s glove and call the hawk, you will be given expert tuition in how to handle the bird of prey, and how to develop trust between you and it. Our resident falconers will explain everything you’ve ever wanted to ask about these majestic creatures. Walk through the woods with the hawk alongside you soaring and swooping on a simulated hunt. Great photo opportunities.
Water Sports
Fun on Lake Windermere. The Watersports Centre at Low Wood Bay will get you out on the lake on kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, motorboats or yachts. There is nothing more pleasant on a spring summer day than being on the water – either with speed, or just cruising along under your own steam. Tuition is available and wetsuits and buoyancy aids are provided.
Chocolate Factory
Fantastic family fun! Hawkshead Chocolate Factory is a children’s chocolate dream. The workshop which parents can observe from the viewing window or join in themselves in a family chocolate workshop. Create your own chocolate bar by mixing white and milk chocolate and decorating with a choice of toppings. Finish with a flourish by scribing your own name, in chocolate of course! Move on to a hands-on chocolate mould creation, and chocolate covered marshmallows. All chocolate creations are wrapped to take home along with apron and hair net. Lovely gooey chocolatey fun for all!
The Puzzling Place
The Puzzling Place attraction will have you scratching your head and having to work out what is real, and what is fiction. Five Optical Illusions including an Anti-gravity Room where you stand at an impossible slant without falling and the Hologram Room with holograms and horror-grams that come to life when viewed from different angles. Eyelusion is an optical illusion interactive exhibit using art and sculpture. Grow tall or shrink tiny in the Ames Room or manoeuvre a 90-degree twist in the Sideways Room.
Climbing Walls
A choice here. Ambleside Climbing Wall and Kendal Wall both have sessions for experienced climbers, but also offer instruction sessions for beginners. A great wet weather activity.
Derwent Pencil Museum
Discover where the first pencil was created and learn about the graphite mine and cottage industry that it supplied before Derwent Pencil Museum expanded to the worldwide business that it is today. There are secret WW2 pencils, hidden maps, an 8-metre coloured pencil and miniature pencil sculptures as well as various artistic activities. Perfect for budding artists!
Aquarium of the Lakes
A great wet weather activity for the family. The Aquarium of the Lakes features thirty displays of freshwater and seawater life. Standing in the underwater Lake Tunnel gives a very different perspective, and if you are there at 4 pm, the duck diving is very entertaining. There’s also a good selection of wild fowl, as well as amphibian and insect life. It’s great to arrive by a Windermere Lake Cruises steamer and a very popular extension to your day is a journey on the Lakeside and Haverthwaite steam train ride. It all adds up to a great day out in the Lake District.
Lake District Wildlife Park
Wildlife parks are always high on the list of family outings in the UK, and the Lake District Wildlife Park is definitely one to put on your ‘must visit’ list. Set in twenty-four acres of stunning Lake District land, there’s over a hundred species of animals and wildlife from around the world. There are also seasonal activities at the park, including Keeper Talks, Alpaca Walking, Meet the Meercats. For a more immersive experience, book the Keeper Experience and become an animal keeper for the day.
Low Sizergh Barn
Passionate farmers, food lovers and retailers of the best local products, Low Sizergh Barn is a great example of farming and diversification. As well as a flower walk for children, complete with fairy doors to open and plant life quizzes, there’s a 2-mile farm trail from the farm to the nearby woodland.
It’s inside the buildings that things get really colourful. Three floors of crafts, gifts, clothing and local foodstuffs are housed in the 17th Century barn shop. The adjoining tearoom has delicious home baked produce. If you time your visit right – about 3.30 pm – you can watch the herd of cows being milked from the large viewing windows in the café. Fun and fascinating for all the family.
Jetty Museum
Windermere Jetty, Museum of Boats, Steam and Stories, on the shores of Lake Windermere houses a fascinating collection of historic steamboats and motorboats, including SL Dolly, one of the oldest mechanically powered boat in the world. Get up close to Esperance, the boat that inspired Arthur Ransome’s houseboat in Swallows and Amazons, and Beatrix Potter’s wooden rowing boat. This museum displays an important part of the Lake District’s history and heritage and there’s an onsite workshop where you can watch boats being restored, using traditional crafts. One of the exhibits has a particularly close connection to English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues.
Stott Park Bobbin Mill
The only working bobbin mill left in the Lake District, Stott Park is the only working bobbin mill left in the Lake District. In its heyday it was a major employer in the area, with 250 men and boys working there, often in extreme conditions. Their work produced a quarter of a million wooden bobbins every week which were sent off to Lancashire for use in the spinning industry. Today the bobbin mill is an award-winning attraction and takes visitors on a production tour from tree to the final product, including the use of the original machinery. There’s also an opportunity for children to dress up and imagine what working life in the mill would have been like.
Brockhole
Brockhole is the Lake District Visitor Centre. The grounds sweep down to the lake and contain an Arts and Crafts designed house with gardens and a great adventure playground for children of all ages.
Treetop Treks
Also sited within Brockhole Visitor Centre, children and adults will love Treetop Treks – adventure high in the branches of some pretty old oak trees. There are 35 exciting high-level challenges to traverse such as rope bridges and wobby logs. There’s a spectacular 250 metre zip wire finish – not for the faint hearted! There is a mini version Trek lasting around one hour which is open to adults and children over 5 years. Also on offer is Treetop Nets, giant bouncy nets, tunnels and ball zones and an outdoor climbing wall again with a zip wire finish.
Go Ape
Along the same lines and set in the extensive and picturesque Grizedale Forest, Go Ape has five different adventures on offer. Treetop Adventure and Treetop Adventure Plus for younger children, and Treetop Challenge for the ones with no fear! High platforms and very tricky crossings taking 2 – 3 hours to complete. There is also a Zip Trekking Adventure which takes you on a series of zip wires through 3 km of the forest. https://goape.co.uk/locations/grizedale
Wray Castle
A castle? More accurately, a gothic-style private house that’s called a castle and looks like a castle. Wray Castle was built by a retired surgeon from Liverpool with his wife’s inheritance, history records that Mrs Dawson did not share her husband’s love of gothic architecture, declaring she would never live there. Turrets and towers, with a sweeping informal lake side garden, this is a great family day out. This National Trust property is unusual in that it doesn’t have period furniture, artwork or drapery, but is relatively empty – excellent for inspiring children’s imaginations. There are spacious living quarters and smaller servants’ quarters and activities like a dressing up box, crown making or ‘build your own castle’.
Windermere Lake Cruises Green Cruise travels between Brockhole, Waterhead and Wray Castle. Guests at Low Wood Bay can use our Waterbus service by waving from the Cannon Jetty to request a stop.
Motor Museum
Lakeland Motor Museum houses thirty thousand exhibits describing the history of motoring manufacture over a period of one hundred years. Classic cars, bikes and trikes, motorbikes a plenty. There’s also a 1920s garage complete with car mechanic tools of the time, period shopping displays, an Isle of Man TT tribute, and the Campbell Bluebird exhibition with full-sized replicas of the 1935 Bluebird car, 1939 boat and 1976 hydroplane. A testament to the UK’s rich heritage of motoring, engineering, daring and speed.
Horse Riding
There are a number of horse-riding centres around the Lake District but very close to Low Wood Bay is Lakeland Pony Treks . Set in the beautiful Troutbeck Valley, the riding school offers lessons for beginners from the age of 4 years old and upwards. If you are an experienced rider, you can enjoy an hour’s fell trek on the bridle paths on the hills around the valley.
Great Places to Stay within the Lake District National Park
The swimming pool at Low Wood Bay resort
There is a great choice of accommodation types and fabulous amenities at Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa. Perfect for a short stay or longer summer holiday. The Wild Boar Inn, Grill & Smokehouse is also a great venue for families with a range of activities in the adjoining Wild Boar woods.
Lake District Houses, Castles and Museums
We’ve selected a few of the best Lake District houses, castles and museums which will make a great Spring or Summer day out.
Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top
Possibly the most famous house in the Lake District, although there are a few top spot contenders. Hill Top is the home of Beatrix Potter, full of her character and her belongings. Although very small in scale as a home, it allowed her imagination the space and freedom needed to produce her delightful tales that have thrilled readers for over a hundred years. The cottage garden is just how you might imagine it to be from her writings – natural, full of flowers, herbs and fruit trees, including her beloved Bramley apple tree. Hill Top is just one of the many National Trust properties in the Lake District. Here are a few more that we like.
Sizergh Castle
Sizergh Castle belongs to the Strickland family whose ancestors lived in this striking house as early as 1239. Indeed, it is of the longest family-inhabited country house in the UK. The house sits in stunning surroundings with immaculate gardens, ponds, lake, woodland and pastureland. The house itself is of medieval architecture and boasts fine examples of furniture, tapestries, and ancient portraits.
Rydal Mount and Gardens
Home of William Wordsworth from 1813 until his death in 1850, Rydal Mount was where the bard spent time with his family, in his garden and within his beloved Lake District. This was where he wrote The Prelude, arguably his most accomplished work. Samuel Taylor Coleridge would walk the fifteen miles from Keswick to Rydal to visit William, his friend and fellow poet. The house retains a homely lived-in feel, and the five-acre garden is kept authentic to how Wordsworth would have experienced it.
Dove Cottage
Home of William Wordsworth and his sister, Dorothy, from 1799 to 1808, Dove Cottage reflects their humble but happy life during that time. Their poems, letters and journals are used to tell their story, from the normal everyday happenstance to the times of great creativity and genius writing. Dorothy’s journal gives a fascinating insight into the hustle and bustle of village life and her relationship with her beloved brother. The garden that they created together has also been restored to be very much as it was 200 years ago when it was described by William as ‘the loveliest spot man has ever found’.
Abbot Hall
Abbot Hall is a Grade 1 Georgian House overlooks the River Kent and Kendal Castle and boasts a plethora of local and international art through the ages, from 18th Century to modern and contemporary pieces. It features one of the best collections of George Romney’s paintings, a fitting tribute as Kendal was where he served his apprenticeship. Abbot Hall also exhibits a stunning collection of drawings and water colours by another local resident from a bygone era, John Ruskin.
Museum of Lakeland Life
A fascinating insight into the industries encapsulated within the Lakeland landscape. Farming, mining and tanning were all an integral part of life in the county. The Museum of Lakeland Life and Industry can be found in the former stable block of Abbott Hall in Kendal. This is an opportunity to explore what life was like for the people of the land, their local customs, how they lived and how the Arts and Crafts movement informed Lake District life.
Brantwood
Brantwood is the former home of the much discussed, debated and written about, John Ruskin. The house is in a beautiful location overlooking Coniston Water and gives a valuable insight into the man – art critic of the day, gifted painter, prominent political social thinker and philanthropist. Many of Ruskin’s personal possessions and paintings have been retained and visitors step back in time, glimpsing a little of the character and personality of the man.
There are no less than eight gardens on the 250-acre estate surrounding the property, with amazing views and eclectic plant collections. Check the website for details of guided garden walks which are included in the entry price.
Townend House
A farming family’s home from way back in the 1700s. Discover how the Browne family lived, and if you choose your visit right you can even see how the family meals were made and served in the farmhouse kitchen. Towend House is an important building and home that showcases Lakeland’s social and farming history. Most afternoons the warming and welcoming fire will be lit in the kitchen. There’s an interesting collection of every day 18th century tools and implements as well as George Browne’s very own carved furniture and his library of 1,500 books. The recipe book of his wife, Elizabeth, is also on display with an interesting mix of 80 recipes of the day. Outside the traditional cottage garden will be coming to life again after the dark winter days. Here you will be a prize-winning collection of colourful shrubs and flowers, kept very much as the Brownes’ experienced it.
Blackwell, Arts and Crafts House
Designed by Baillie Scott and built in 1901 as a holiday home for a Manchester brewer, Sir Edward Holt, Blackwell has an elegant timeless quality. The impressive architecture and interior typify the arts and crafts movement within the Lake District. It has the most impressive collection of exquisite art, ceramics, stained glass, fireplaces, wooden panelling and rare wall-hangings and tapestries. It is set within magnificent gardens with sweeping views across Windermere from the terrace. The café and gift shop is also well worth a visit.
Lots More Lake District Spring Summer Attractions
Whether you are looking for a quiet Lake District holiday for two, or an adventurous and exciting break with family, or a combination of all of the above, check out our Lake District Spring Summer Activities, Unusual Spring Summer Activities in the Lake District, Lake District Houses, Castles and Museums and Lake District Activities for Children and Families.
We are delighted to put the spotlight on English Lakes Executive Chef, Daniel Winstanley. As part of his role, Daniel also heads up the English Lakes Culinary Academy, an aspect of his job that he loves and is very well qualified for. Here’s Daniel’s story.
The Lad from ‘up North’
Born and brought up ‘up north’ as a Wigan lad, Daniel realised very early in life that he had a passion for food.
I loved making my favourite breakfast of scrambled egg on toast, and at every opportunity I worked on perfecting it.
An Early Call to Catering
He recalls that his earliest memories were of wanting to be a Chef. Inspired by watching the late great Gary Rhodes on TV, with his ‘crazy spiky hair’ and fabulous cooking, it became more even appealing. From the age of 9 years, Daniel knew that his course in life was already set.
First, he had to get through school, and he confesses that it wasn’t his favourite place. As soon as he could, and with his career already set in his mind, Daniel headed to catering college. Here he achieved the nationally recognised Level 2 and Level 3 catering qualifications, along with some extra credits. He has fond memories of some of the catering challenges he faced, such as Chelsea Flower Show, Royal Ascot & Aintree Grand National.
Learning His Craft
Working part time whilst studying, Daniel couldn’t get enough of the buzz that being in a kitchen gave him. His first full-time role was at The Mulberry Tree in Wrightington. Mark Prescott, the Head Chef there, provided all the inspiration that Daniel needed to pursue his chosen career. Mark had worked under Albert and Michel Roux, and later partnered with Michel Roux. As you can imagine, Mark had ruthlessly high standards in the kitchen, but that drove Daniel and the other junior chefs to be the best they could be.
When it came time to fly the nest, Daniel packed his rucksack and headed to the Lake District. He had three interviews lined up and was pleased to secure a position at Low Wood Bay, the largest 4* property on his list of hopeful opportunities.
With lots of hard work, countless late nights and early mornings Daniel gained a reputation as a good chef with an excellent work ethic and high standards. He was given the opportunity to work at all five of the English Lakes hotels over the next eighteen months. After this time, he took the helm as Head Chef at Low Wood Bay. A lot of responsibility, with a one-million-pound food revenue – it was a great challenge and one that Daniel rose to admirably.
Inspiring a New Generation of Chefs
After four years with the company, and working alongside young ambitious Chefs, Daniel realised he had a desire to help others achieve their career goals whilst also inspiring the next generation of chefs. He contacted the local college where three of his young employees were studying for workplace qualifications and started to study for his Assessor’s qualification. He was hooked! Very soon he found himself full time further education as a qualified lecturer.
I had an amazing 6 years… La Parade de Chefs Medal winner 2014, a passion to inspire others, taking part in some challenging events and working with talented colleagues and students. Highlights from that time included being awarded Grade 1 outstanding from OFSTED and spending 6 weeks teaching in China.
Daniel was drawn back to the Lake District and returned to the hotel industry where he helped support the major redevelopment at Low Wood Bay. This involved a new concept restaurant and the general expansion of the food offering at Low Wood Bay resort.
When Low Wood Bay re-opened Daniel took the opportunity to establish his own business. Perhaps watching the Low Wood building project was contagious. Daniel bought a derelict building in Eyemouth, Scotland and had it re-designed, built and re-opened within the space of just four months. Eyemouth is an idyllic fishing town on the Scottish borders. From his restaurant he watched the boats land their catch and could wander down and chat with the local fishermen. He even joined the local Lifeboat Station, volunteering his time to ensure safety at sea.
Enjoying the Best of Both Worlds
The years rolled on and Daniel was invited back to English Lakes Hotels as Group Executive Chef, with responsibility for the Culinary Academy. This is the best of both worlds for Daniel, combining his creative talents as Chef and his love of teaching others. He spends some of his time engaging with schools and colleges, inspiring and helping others reach their potential and fulfil their dreams. Whilst not training others, Daniel continues to oversee the food offering at English Lakes.
Ever dreamed of living in the Lake District and being part of a vibrant community surrounded by mountains, lakes and picture-postcard villages and towns? There may be a way to have that life if you choose a job at English Lakes Hotels.
A Lake District Life
Here are a few of the things you could be enjoying if you are successful in being offered a job at Low Wood Bay resort or The Wild Boar Inn, both of which are situated within the beautiful Lake District National Park.
Hill Walking in the Lake District
There are literally thousands of beautiful walking routes in the Lake District. Many of our employees at Low Wood Bay and Wild Boar Inn will get their boots on when they have a day off, and take to the hills. Our hotels have maps available at Reception, and plenty of advice from locals and those who have already discovered the beauty of living and working here. There’s just something about leaving the tourists and visitors behind for a few hours and finding a quiet route with a view – even if it takes a bit of energy to get there. Here are five walks within easy reach of Low Wood Bay.
Open Water Swimming
The Great North Swim put Windermere on the map for open water swimming, and it is understandable why so many wild swimmers have this lake at the top of their list of places to go. Low Wood Bay resort is pleasantly situated on the shores of Windermere.
Wild Swimming has really taken off in the last few years and there are many great natural bodies of water in the Lake District to enjoy this sport. Windermere is the longest lake in England and as such, perhaps a little bit daunting for a first open water swim, but there are many other options for open water swimming within the National Park. Find a swimming buddy, or swim solo, but always remember the importance of staying safe.
Fell Running
For those who have already attained a good level of fitness, or aspire to challenge yourself to go further in your fitness journey, fell running can be a wonderful element of life in the Lake District. You will encounter all types of terrain from steep mountain paths, ancient woodland, meadows, high level lakes and tarns, to dry stone walls and wooden stiles. The views as well as the effort can be breathtaking, and those that are passionate about this sport say how much of a connection it gives you to the mountains. The Lake District has a proud history of fell running going back to the 19th Century and village fairs and sports days still feature the Guides Race, a hotly contested and challenging run. Having access to the gym and swimming pool at Low Wood Bay is a distinct advantage when it comes to training for such events.
Cycling in the Lake District
Choose quiet country lane, a bridle path or mountain bike trail – there’s a route for every type of bicycle and skill level. Grizedale Forest has Walking & Cycling Trails at Grizedale – Visit Lake District has a good selection of off road trails. You don’t even need to own a bike, as there are plenty of bike hire places which will allow you to try this sport before you need to purchase your own bike. Cycling is a great way to get around from village to village and a fantastic way to explore the beautiful National Park. Some of our employees take it to the next level and have competed in the challenging Fred Whitton challenge. Read their story here.
Explore Local Villages
You don’t need to be super fit, or even passionate about sport, to enjoy a Lake District life. We are surrounded by quaint and beautiful villages that are ripe for exploring. You will be spoilt for choice with the number of good quality coffee shops with delicious home baked fare – you will very quickly establish your own favourites. The shops tend to be independent with great choice of art, crafts, clothing and local specialties. There are great bus routes connecting the villages and it is easy to jump on and off and have plenty of time to discover the character of the place. Here are five of our favourite Lake District villages.
Discovering The Wild Boar Woods
Working for English Lakes Hotels gives you the opportunity to discover the ancient woodland around The Wild Boar Inn Grill & Smokehouse. Seventy-two acres with beautiful trails, its own tarn and lots of wildlife. A great place to find peace and solitude on your own, or for a quiet stroll with friends and colleagues.
Watersports Activities
One of the benefits of working for English Lakes Hotels is having access to Low Wood Bay Watersports Centre, with discounts off all the water sports activities. There’s lots to choose from – paddle boarding, canoeing, sailing, motorboat hire, wake surfing to name a few. Take to the lake, challenge yourself and see the surrounding countryside from a completely different perspective.
Relax & Unwind
There’s no doubt that you will work hard as part of the team at English Lakes Hotels, whatever your role. However, at the beginning or end of your shift, you have magnificent scenery to enjoy, sport and fitness or perhaps just your own little place to relax, unwind and read a book.
Find Your Lake District Job
Check out the current English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues Job Vacancies and start your journey to a new Lake District life.
Calum Lewis has worked for English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues for just under four years.
He manages digital marketing for our hotels, including social media, SEO, website maintenance and loads of other projects besides. Calum shares how Covid-19 affected his work/life balance, and how the benefits of working for English Lakes has helped him on his fitness journey.
Working from Home
Because most of my work is online, the only thing that was disrupted by COVID-19 was where I worked. Instead of working from the office, I worked from home where I had easy access to my computer. I quickly discovered that, without my previous one hour commute, working from home gave me much more time in the mornings and evenings.
I’ve probably had it easier than many during lockdown. I don’t have any children to entertain or educate, and I have found that working at home on my own helps me concentrate. I’m definitely more productive and less distracted. Having the extra time at either side of my working day means that I can fit in exercise in the morning without having to get up at 5 am. After work I can enjoy a post-work stroll down Morecambe promenade.
Journey to Weight Loss and Fitness
It started primarily as a weight loss journey. For the first 18 months all I did was walk/hike every day, gradually increasing the distances whilst also reducing my calorie intake. Once my weight loss had plateaued I had to start taking my exercise a little further and made use of my gym membership through work. Each morning before work, I used the Health Club at Low Wood Bay, this was around 6 months pre-COVID. Once COVID hit, I was stuck without the gym. I started running every day, but I ended up with painful knees and injuries. Joe Wicks was a big source of inspiration, showing that you can do workouts at home with minimal or no equipment. Since then, I have found I enjoy running mostly and I’ve developed my own gym and fitness plan to help maximise and increase my fitness, whilst preventing any joint problems.
The Benefits of Gym Membership
As an employee of English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues, the free gym membership at both Sandpiper Club and The Health Club at Low Wood Bay have certainly been big encouragements. When I am in the office, I can easily fit in a session before or after work at and be at work straight afterwards. Then, when working from home, Sandpiper Club is only 20 minutes away from my house.
Recovery is a big part of fitness, and one that I hadn’t really factored in. Having access to hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms and spa facilities always makes it much easier for the body to relax, and help muscles and joints recover. Even if you’ve just been for a hike in the Lake District, it’s nice to be able to nip into The Health Club at Low Wood Bay for a swim or relax on the way home, or to Sandpiper Club when I’ve been out walking or running in the Forest of Bowland.
Competitive Events
Since I have only really started running during lockdown, there were no official runs or races available. Like most people, I wanted to start with a 5K race, then 10K, and then work up, but since I was already running between 10 and 13 miles before any official events had started, I decided to sign up to a half marathon as my first event. I was pretty nervous, mostly about running with lots of other people, since during lockdown I have only every run alone. The festival-like atmosphere was a bit of a shock to the system. However, once I started running, the adrenaline pushed me round and I finished 19th out of 525 competitors, which I was pretty happy with.
I’m now planning to sign up for a few more trail races and will try to improve my time and increase the distance. My running friends are confident that the Bob Graham is somewhere in my future but I’ll hold off that one as long as I can.
