It’s raining today… it rains a lot in the Lake District, I’m sure you noticed! But not to despair – you probably don’t feel like a long hike in the driving rain (although some people do actually enjoy that apparently!), but there are tons of amazing things to do in the Lake District when it’s raining. Here are some of our absolute favourite rainy days out with the family.
Take to the caves!
Something the Lake District is packed full of is big rocks; so, it’s not surprising that there are a fair number of natural caves in the Lakes. Our favourite, most family friendly cave to explore is Rydal cave, on Rydal Water, near Grasmere. This cavernous cave sits on the North edge of Loughrigg Fell but can still be easily accessed from the road. Visitors to the caves must cross a set of stepping-stones to get to the entrance, so wellies are advisable. The cave itself is not very deep but offers amazing views out across Rydal Water and Nab Scar. Lunch in Grasmere after your excursion is an absolute must!
Adventure Even Deeper!
Honister Slate mine, located at the far end of the Borrowdale Valley, on the route known as Honister Pass, offers all sorts of brilliant family-fun packages. Take a guided tour of the mine, perfect for rainy days. Or for more active families, Honister have a ‘Climb the mine’ tour, which can basically be described as ‘Go-Ape’ but inside a giant cave! Finish off your day with a drive over Honister Pass to Buttermere, for a pub lunch and a well-deserved pint.
Visit the Gingerbread shop!
Sarah Nelsons Grasmere Gingerbread is a part of the Lake District’s heritage; harking back to 1854, the recipe is a closely guarded secret. The shop itself is the old schoolhouse where William Wordsworth once taught and stepping inside is like taking a step back in time. The shop welcomes visitors from all over the world, including many celebrity faces. A definite must-visit if you find yourself in Grasmere on a drizzly afternoon.
Keswick is a Puzzling place!
A super fun day out (or ‘in’, should we say) is the Puzzling Place in Keswick. Discover an array of fantastical optical illusions, and plenty of hilarious family photos waiting to be taken! Topped-off with a ‘chippy-tea’ at one of Keswick’s many brilliant eat-in fish and chip shops makes for a perfect rainy day out.
A Hop-Skip-and-Jump away!
This list wouldn’t be complete without giving the World of Beatrix Potter a mention. As well as a good hours’ worth of interactive entertainment, exploring the house and grounds, the WOBP also has a café and gift-shop to peruse. While you’re exploring Bowness-on-Windermere you should definitely book a trip with Windermere Lake Cruises. Even on a rainy day, a boat trip on the Lake is a perfect way to soak in the amazing atmosphere of the place!
