Top 5 things you must do in the Lake District

This summer we’re off to the Lake District – 5 adults, 1 teenager, 1 baby and 3 dogs! Like something straight out of the Brady Bunch.It blew all our other choices out of the water in terms of things to do, how easy it is to get there (thank you Isle of Man Steam Packet!), and how beautiful it is.#nofilterneededPlus, it is pupper friendly, which is a big win for our dog-obsessed family. We couldn’t leave our furry beasts behind!We plan to load up the cars with all our walking boots, bikes, coats, dogs, and baby paraphernalia (I’m still trying to get my head around how babies require so much stuff!) and get on the boat to Heysham. We will sail on the Ben-my-Chree, so we can spend the journey with our doggos, they have a dedicated dog lounge or you can book a dog cabin.Thank goodness there’s no baggage restriction on the ferry as there’s so much to bring now I’m a mum to a four-month old, who goes through more outfit changes than Beyonce. Plus, we’ll be going through the joys of weaning and teething by the time we go, so I’ll have all sorts of extra bits and bobs to think about.The Lake District is a short drive away from the sea terminal – approximately 30 minutes from Heysham – and definitely one to tick off the bucket list. It’s been tough to narrow down the top things to do there, but here’s five that we’re really excited for.

Climbing Scafell Pike

We’re going all guns blazing and attempting to climb Scafell Pike – England’s highest mountain. The views are said to be absolutely breathtaking and it’s a real challenge for those who enjoy active holidays.Walking boots, backpacks, waterproof clothing, maps and a compass are essential, plus ALL the snacks.Doggos are also welcome to join in too, so it’s the ultimate walkies for your furry friends.

Grizedale Forest

Grizedale Forest is a 24.47 km² area of woodland nestled in the heart of the Lake District between lakes Windermere and Coniston. There’s loads of activities for even the fussiest of families from gentle walks to swinging through the trees at GoApe.There’s also some excellent cycling trails at Grizedale where you can hire bikes if you don’t want to bring your own.The Lake District is made for cycling, so we’ll be bringing our bikes and enjoy getting out and about at any time or place. Another plus for travelling by ferry!

Steam Yacht Gondola

We’re Manxie’s by heart so, naturally, we love everything Victorian. In case we’re feeling homesick and missing the steam trains and horse trams on the Isle of Man, we’ll be taking a ride on the Steam Yacht Gondola.It’s the oldest steam yacht in the North of England and takes you on Coniston Water, Cumbria’s third largest lake.Puppers are allowed on the outside decks so we’ll be sure to take a dog selfie or two.

World of Beatrix Potter

This one is partly for my daughter, but also partly for me because I LOVED Peter Rabbit when I was little. I’m low key most excited about this one and already know I’ll spend a fortune bringing back bags full of Beatrix merchandise “for the baby” (okay it’s for me).The Lake District’s natural beauty and wildlife inspired Beatrix Potter to write her much-loved stories, so this is where her tales are brought to life.

Alpacaly Ever After

Want to take some alpacas for a walk? Of course you do!Is this not reason enough to go to the Lake District? You can take them for a paddle (or a swim) in the lake, meet the herd and take part in feeding time.Bring your wellies and make sure you save some room in the car to purchase the delightful handmade gifts and knitwear to remind you of your visit.

Writing all this down has made me even more excited about my family adventure to the Lakes and very thankful that it’s such a short trip away from the ferry port.With muddy wellies, bikes, prams, dogs and probably a whole extra suitcase stuffed with souvenirs, it’s the ideal destination to travel to by ferry.Have you been to the Lake District? What else should I do when I’m there? Let me know in the comments.//cdn.bannerflow.com/bf-placements/5b3a294f64e9fe5ccc04e704?responsive=on&nid=1&targeturl=