The county of Cumbria is located in the North of England. Largely rural, it is considered to be one of the most beautiful regions in the whole of the United Kingdom.
Cumbria encapsulates the whole of the Lake District, often referred to as the Lakelands. The North Pennines, Eden Valley and a section of the Yorkshire Dales are all located within Cumbria, making it an area with so much to see and do, and extremely popular for those with a real love of exploring the great outdoors.
There is more to Cumbria than just the scenery though the area has a rich and interesting history to explore as well as a reputation for fine food and drink.
Cumbria has a wide selection of accommodation types to choose from, including some local hotels and B&Bs, though why not spoil yourself and stay in a luxurious Lakeland spa hotel, perfect for a relaxing, pampering break.
Visit the Lake District
When visiting Cumbria, a trip to one of the four lakes is a must. Lake Windermere offers the perfect introduction to the Lake District. With a variety of Lakeland paths to enjoy, including ducks and geese looking to be fed, it’s very popular with young children. The village of Windermere itself has plenty of shops and nice restaurants, allowing you to shop and dine while taking in the great scenery that surrounds you.
Bring the family to Grizedale Forest, with tree-top adventure activities and much more for a great family day out. There are different levels of walking trails to suit all abilities. Why not take a picnic and make a day of it?
Visit Cumbria
Cumbria is a real treasure trove of historic sites, including some of the earliest stone circles in the UK. Hadrian’s Wall runs along its border, making for a real interesting place to delve further into Britain’s historic and famous past.
There were twelve abbeys and priories in Cumbria in the middle ages, as well as four Friaries, and while not many of them remain today, a visit to these areas gives you a real flavour for the history of this area. Explore Cartmel Priory, a simple and beautiful priory with some great examples of Norman architecture. This large priory in the small village of Cartmel does not disappoint in terms of structure, with a beautifully carved effigy of a knight and his lady, coupled with interesting wall plaques and floor tomb stones. This is well worth a visit if near Cartmel.
Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the North Pennines is one of England’s most special places. Expansive countryside of heather moors and peatlands, with lush green dales as far as the eye can see, this area is perfect for a short break for those of you who enjoy spending time outdoors and hiking for hours. Its warm communities and the remains of its mining and industrial past make the North Pennines an interesting and welcoming place to visit when in Cumbria. The Nenthead Mines Site has a small museum, where you can explore the history of the areas mining industry.
Cumbria is an area you’ll instantly fall in love with, and one you’ll be keen to return to over and over again.