If you’ve visited the Lake District, or if you live here, you’ll probably have a good idea why it is such a special place.

If you haven’t visited yet, what are you waiting for? Stunning scenery, with plenty to do throughout the wintry months - we believe the Lake District truly is the diamond of Great Britain.

One of the best things about the Lake District is that it never stops giving – so if you’re a first-time tourist, a frequent visitor, or if this is where you call your home, it’s a place that we can guarantee you will never tire of.

So what do we think are the true highlights of the Lake District? Well… how much time have you got? We could talk all day (literally) about how marvellous this part of the world is, but we thought instead we would break it down into our ultimate reasons why we love the Lakes and the things you should add to your ‘must do’ list on a visit here.

ENJOY A WEEKEND HIKE OR CYCLE ALONG BRITAIN’S MOST BEAUTIFUL BACKDROP

There are a number of superb walks around the Lake District. One of the all-time favourites of visitors and locals alike is Great Langdale, home to some of the Lake District’s most iconic hikes. You can tackle the Langdale Pikes, or take the challenging circuit along the Crinkle Crags and Bowfell.

Or if you prefer to explore the area on two wheels rather than by foot and are feeling particularly energetic, you can take on all or part of the epic 190 mile route of the newly unveiled Lakes & Dales Loop, where you can enjoy the sights of Cumbria and the Yorkshire Dales while cycling along the boundary of the Lake District National Park on its north, west and south sides, then complete the loop traveling through the Lune and Eden Valleys to the east.

VISIT WORDSWORTH’S HOUSE, GRASMERE, AND THE ESTATE THAT INSPIRED BEATRIX POTTER

The cottage situated near Grasmere was William Wordsworth’s first home in the Lake District. Now owned by the Wordsworth Trust, it is full of memorabilia, including his ice-skates, passport, a pair of his reading glasses and a portrait of one of his favourite dogs, Pepper. At the back of the cottage is Wordsworth’s 'domestic slip of mountain’, the half-wild garden where he liked to sit and compose poetry.

If you venture towards Keswick, you’ll find the grand Lingholm Estate where Beatrix Potter wrote some of her most famous children’s books. During your visit, you will spot many features from the author’s illustrations – including Mrs Tiggywinkle’s kitchen and Mr MacGregor’s cottage garden.

CRUISE AROUND DERWENTWATER OR WINDERMERE

Derwentwater is said to be Beatrix Potter’s favourite lake, and cruisers take guests across the lake from the jetties beside Hope Park, or there are traditional wooden rowing boats if you want to explore at your own pace. Alternatively, you could explore Windermere, which is not only the largest lake in the Lake District, it’s the largest lake in England. You can catch a scenic boat trip around the lake and its 18 islands.

INDULGE IN CULINARY DELIGHTS

Here in the Lake District, we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to fabulous restaurants, and many pride themselves on only using the very best local produce. (Michelin stars included). Be sure to tuck into some local delights, including a Cumbrian sausage washed down with a local ale made from the region’s fells, or Baxters potted shrimps, and take home some Kendal Mint Cake too!

We would love to know the reasons why YOU love the Lake District and your favourite things to do, see, drink and eat... FB, Tweet or Insta us to let us know!