With the summer weather upon us, we asked our readers to this week come up with ideas for a great day for all the family in North and West Cumbria.
With options for going abroad still limited, people are looking to make the most of their staycation time – so trips to local attractions across Cumbria have become a popular choice.
Many places have opened again fully, after gruelling lockdowns, with rules on social distancing in place.
Here in no particular order are your favourite places in Cumbria:
1 COASTAL WALK, WHITEHAVEN TO ST BEES
This wild and bracing stroll is recommended by reader Paul Ferguson.
He said: “I would definitely recommend a walk along the coastal path from Whitehaven to St Bees.
“I recently walked the path with my family including four-year-old boy.
“There is lots to see including former mines and nature in its natural habitat.”
2 MUNCASTER CASTLE, RAVENGLASS
Situated among the western fells of the Lake District, Muncaster Castle was recommended to us by Kara Smallman.
She said: “I would recommend Muncaster Castle as when we were there two weeks ago, there was lots of social distancing, hand sanitiser available, limited numbers etc.
“No access to the castle, but the gardens and owls are as beautiful as always.”
Gillian Hands added her comments: “The bird of prey display is amazing and you can watch herons being fed, huge gardens, interesting shrubs and the haunted castle.”
3 RAVENGLASS AND ESKDALE RAILWAY
Many people recommended this gorgeous little rail ride including Emma Louise.
Spanning seven miles in the west of the county, the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, known to many as La’al Ratty, is one of the oldest and longest narrow-gauge railways in England.
The journey takes 40 minutes each way from Ravenglass and passes seven intermediate request stops.
The main season usually runs from March until October.
The railway is urging people to book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment and they added that face coverings should be worn in enclosed and busy areas.
4 AIRA FORCE, NEAR LAKE ULLSWATER
The waterfall, located just off Lake Ullswater, has been an attraction for visitors for 300 years.
This day out was recommended by Nicky Booth.
The rainwater runs from the fells into Aira Beck and over in one 65ft leap over the fells.
For adventurous types there’s a network of trails which start from the Ullswater lake shore and head up to Gowbarrow summit, passing a number of picnic spots.
5 ALPACALY EVER AFTER, KESWICK
Fun for all the family is guaranteed at this award-winning alpaca and llama experience.
TripAdvisor has placed this as number one of best activities to do in the Lakes and is a sure win for anyone. Perfect for families and friends, you can take alpacas on walks and get to know the ‘woolly army’.
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