Cumbria On A Map
Introduction
Cumbria, located in the northwest of England, is a beautiful county that boasts an abundance of natural beauty, diverse culture, and rich history. Home to the Lake District National Park, Cumbria is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. However, there are also many other hidden gems that make it an ideal destination for all types of travelers.
Top Attractions
Cumbria offers a plethora of attractions that cater to all tastes and interests. The Lake District National Park is undoubtedly the top attraction, offering breathtaking scenery and a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports. Other must-visit attractions include the Hadrian’s Wall, the ruins of Furness Abbey, the historic Carlisle Castle, and the South Lakes Safari Zoo.
Hidden Gems
While the popular attractions are definitely worth a visit, Cumbria also has its share of hidden gems that are lesser-known but equally impressive. Some of these include the hidden waterfall of Colwith Force, the scenic coastal town of St. Bees, the picturesque village of Cartmel, and the quirky Laurel and Hardy Museum.
Food Scene
Cumbria is a food lover’s paradise, with an array of local delicacies that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Some of the must-try dishes include Cumberland sausage, sticky toffee pudding, and Grasmere gingerbread. The county is also home to numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, quaint cafes, and traditional pubs.
Budget-friendly Tips
Cumbria can be an expensive destination, but there are ways to explore it on a budget. One tip is to visit during the off-peak season when accommodation and activities are cheaper. Another is to opt for self-catering accommodations or hostels instead of hotels. Many attractions, such as the Lake District, are free to visit, and there are also plenty of budget-friendly food options available.
Outdoor Adventures
Cumbria is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with an abundance of activities to suit all levels of fitness and experience. Some of the popular outdoor adventures include hiking, cycling, rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking, and sailing. The Lake District National Park offers an endless array of outdoor activities, including fell walking, mountain biking, and wild swimming.
Historical Landmarks
Cumbria is steeped in history, and there are numerous historical landmarks that are worth a visit. Hadrian’s Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and dates back to Roman times. Carlisle Castle is another must-visit attraction, with a history dating back to the 11th century. Other notable historical landmarks include Furness Abbey, Muncaster Castle, and the Windermere Steamboat Museum.
Family-friendly Activities
Cumbria is an ideal destination for families, with a range of activities to keep both kids and adults entertained. The Lake District National Park offers a range of family-friendly activities, including pony trekking, boat trips, and wildlife spotting. Other family-friendly attractions include the South Lakes Safari Zoo, the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, and the Treetop Nets adventure park.
Off-the-beaten-path Experiences
Cumbria is full of surprises, and there are many off-the-beaten-path experiences that are well worth seeking out. Some of these include taking a dip in the natural hot springs at the Lingholm Estate, exploring the eerie ruins of Shap Abbey, and visiting the mystical Castlerigg Stone Circle.
Natural Wonders
Cumbria is renowned for its natural beauty, and there are many natural wonders that are sure to leave you spellbound. The Lake District National Park is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the UK, with its soaring peaks, tranquil lakes, and verdant valleys. Other natural wonders include the limestone pavements of Hutton Roof Crags, the ancient woodlands of Ennerdale Forest, and the dramatic coastline of St. Bees Head.
Vibrant Nightlife
Cumbria may be a rural county, but it has a surprisingly vibrant nightlife scene. The towns of Kendal and Keswick offer a range of bars, pubs, and nightclubs, while the Lake District is home to numerous live music venues and festivals throughout the year. For a more laid-back evening, head to one of the traditional pubs in the small villages and towns dotted throughout the county.
Local Markets
Cumbria is a foodie’s paradise, and there are numerous local markets that offer a range of delicious fresh produce. The weekly farmers’ markets in Keswick and Ulverston are particularly popular, with stalls selling everything from artisan cheeses to homemade jams and chutneys.
Beaches and Mountains
Cumbria is blessed with both stunning beaches and soaring mountains. The coastline around St. Bees is a particular highlight, with its rugged cliffs and sandy coves. The county is also home to England’s highest peak, Scafell Pike, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
Cultural Immersion
Cumbria has a rich cultural heritage, and there are many ways to immerse yourself in its traditions and customs. The county is home to numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the Kendal Mountain Festival, the Keswick Jazz Festival, and the Ulverston Lantern Festival. You can also explore the local history and culture through the many museums and galleries dotted throughout the county.
Art and Music Scene
Cumbria has a thriving art and music scene, with numerous galleries, studios, and music venues. The Rheged Centre in Penrith is a particular highlight, with its exhibitions of contemporary art and live music performances. Other notable venues include the Brewery Arts Centre in Kendal and the Keswick Theatre by the Lake.
Walking Tours
Cumbria is a walker’s paradise, and there are many walking tours available that cater to all levels of fitness and experience. The Lake District National Park offers a range of guided walks, including themed walks such as the Wordsworth Walk and the Beatrix Potter Walk. Other notable walking tours include the Hadrian’s Wall Path and the Cumbria Way.
Architectural Marvels
Cumbria has a rich architectural heritage, with numerous buildings and structures that showcase its history and culture. The Carlisle Cathedral is a particular highlight, with its stunning Gothic architecture and rich history dating back to the 12th century. Other notable architectural marvels include the Muncaster Castle, the Holker Hall, and the Blackwell Arts and Crafts House.
Historical Sites
Cumbria is steeped in history, and there are numerous historical sites that are worth a visit. The Hadrian’s Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and dates back to Roman times. Carlisle Castle is another must-visit attraction, with a history dating back to the 11th century. Other notable historical sites include Furness Abbey, Muncaster Castle, and the Windermere Steamboat Museum.
Biking Routes
Cumbria is a cyclist’s paradise, with an abundance of scenic routes that cater to all levels of fitness and experience. The Lake District National Park offers some of the most stunning cycling routes in the UK, including the challenging Hardknott Pass and the family-friendly Keswick Railway Path. Other notable cycling routes include the C2C (Coast to Coast) route and the Hadrian’s Wall Cycleway.
Wellness Retreats
Cumbria is an ideal destination for a wellness retreat, with numerous spas and wellness centers dotted throughout the county. The Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa in Keswick is a particular highlight, with its luxurious treatments and stunning location overlooking Bassenthwaite Lake. Other notable wellness retreats include the Gilpin Hotel and Lake House in Windermere and the Langdale Estate in Ambleside.
Adventure Sports
Cumbria is a mecca for adventure sports enthusiasts, with an abundance of activities to get your adrenaline pumping. Some of the popular adventure sports include rock climbing, abseiling, canyoning, and via ferrata. The Lake District National Park also offers a range of adventure sports, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and wild swimming.