hidden gems in the Lake District
- holidays
- outdoors
- places to visit
Are you planning a trip to the Lake District soon and in need of some inspiration on what to do?
Overall, the area is known for its impressive lakes and mountains, but there are quite a few hidden gems that you may not have heard about too. So, we thought we’d put together this list of hidden gems in the Lake District that will make the perfect days out during your next visit. Whether you are after some unique sights or incredible experiences there is something to suit everyone in the list below.
our Lake District resorts:
Galleny Force/Fairy Glen
Borrowdale, Keswick, CA12 5UW | 34 min drive from Keswick Reach, 44 min drive from Thanet Well
Galleny Force is a well-hidden waterfall in Borrowdale with incredible plunge pools that are known as the Fairy Glen. It’s a great place to explore and perfect for those with children of all ages as the walk to the waterfall is pretty straightforward. When you arrive at the waterfall you will quickly realise why it is known as Fairy Glen, with magical plunge pools, deep gorges and boulders and trees surrounding the area, it is the perfect place to explore. There is a circular walk you can do that is roughly 4 miles long or you can just walk to the waterfall and back from the car park.
Raven Crag
Keswick, CA12 4TF | 28 min drive from Keswick Reach, 31 min drive from Thanet Well
Overlooking the Thirlmere reservoir, Raven Crag is a short, but steep fell walk that is worth the climb with the views you can enjoy at the end. As you make the climb up from the reservoir you will go through areas of woodland and steep steps before you head onto the boardwalk which is what makes this fell walk so unique. The summit consists of a long boardwalk that stretched all the way to a viewing platform which makes the perfect photo opportunity.
Rydal Cave
Rydal, Ambleside, LA22 9LW | 38 min drive from Keswick Reach, 42 min drive from Thanet Well
The Lake District is known for many walks and most of them include steep climbs so if you are after something a little bit different Rydal Cave could be perfect for you. Rydal Cave is a large cavern on the side of Loughrigg Fell and is only accessible by walking along the stepping stones through the shallow lake at the entrance of the cave. It is a great picture spot and perfect if you are looking for a shorter walk that doesn’t take all day.
Moss Force
Cockermouth, CA13 9XA | 31 min drive from Keswick Reach, 45 min drive from Thanet Well
Moss Force waterfall is over 100m high and is located between the Newlands Valley and the Buttermere Valley. It isn’t as busy as some of the other known Lake District waterfalls which is great if you are wanting a change from the usual visitor attractions in the national park. Rather than it being one continuous waterfall, Moss Force is split into three sections creating natural pools as it flows down the rocky valley. The walk itself is only around 500m from where you park meaning it is nice and easy for everyone to enjoy.
Infinity Bridge at Honister Slate Mine
Honister Pass, Keswick, CA12 5XN | 39 min drive from Keswick Reach, 49 min drive from Thanet Well
If you are after something adrenaline fuelled during your trip to the Lake District the Infinity Bridge at Honister Slate Mine could be the perfect option for you. Suspended 1,000 feet above sea level, you will be able to complete the longest high wire bridge in Europe. It’s a great experience if you are wanting to test your nerve and take in some incredible valley views in a totally unique and memorable way.
Cathedral Cave
Little Langdale, Ambleside, LA22 9NT | 1hr drive from Keswick Reach, 1hr drive from Thanet Well
Cathedral Quarry, also known as Cathedral Cave, is a small network of quarries that sits above Little Langdale. Its main chamber is what is known the most standing around 40 feet in height with two openings providing light inside. During good weather you can enter the tunnel and explore the various tunnels that are within, some will require a torch. The walk to the caves takes no longer than 15 minutes and there is a tunnel to enter the main chamber with ease.