Family-Friendly Things to Do in the Lake District
If you’re planning a family break and wondering about things to do with kids in the Lake District during the school holidays, you’ll be spoilt for choice. The region is packed with lakes, forests, gentle walks, boat trips and hands-on attractions that suit all ages. While travel times can be slower and the weather unpredictable, the Lake District delivers with a strong mix of outdoor adventures and indoor activities – keeping kids entertained and parents sane whatever the forecast.
1. Lake & Boat Adventures
No visit is complete without a boat trip: Windermere, Ullswater, Derwentwater and Coniston all offer ferries, steamers and rowing boats. Kids love spotting wildlife and throwing bread to the ducks, while parents get a break from steering the car on those narrow, winding lanes. Combine a boat trip with lakeside walks for the perfect family-friendly Lake District day out.
2. Ravenglass & Eskdale Steam Railway
A favourite for train-loving kids, this narrow-gauge railway runs along the scenic west coast. At the terminus, you can watch the engine being turned on the turntable, enjoy a cafe ice cream, or just marvel at the old-school trains. It’s a relaxed family activity that’s especially fun for preschoolers and primary-age kids.
© Lake District Gov, © Day Out With The Kids, © National Trust
3. Lake District Wildlife Park, Bassenthwaite
The Beatrix Potter attractions in Bowness and Windermere are perfect for kids who love Peter Rabbit and friends. Wray Castle and Allan Bank are National Trust properties with themed trails, paddling in Windermere in warm weather, and craft activities. A good mix of educational and outdoor family fun in the Lake District.
4. Beatrix Potter Museum & Wray Castle
The Beatrix Potter attractions in Bowness and Windermere are perfect for kids who love Peter Rabbit and friends. Wray Castle and Allan Bank are National Trust properties with themed trails, paddling in Windermere in warm weather, and craft activities. A good mix of educational and outdoor family fun in the Lake District.
© worldofbeartrixpotter.com, © Tripadvisor
5. Brockhole Visitor Centre & Adventure Playground
A lakeside adventure for all ages. Outdoor activities include mini-golf, climbing, a high ropes course, and plenty of picnic spots. It’s a little pricey for parking, but the variety of things to do makes it worth it. You can even combine it with a boat trip to avoid driving.
6. The Puzzling Place & Kong Climbing Centre, Keswick
Indoor fun that keeps kids busy when the weather turns. The Puzzling Place has optical illusions and brain-teasers, while Kong features a climbing wall, tunnels and bridges – perfect for expending energy safely. Both are highly rated Lake District family activities.
© Kong Adventure, © UK Museums
7. Pencil Museum, Keswick
Rainy-day? No problem. The Pencil Museum in Keswick is surprisingly entertaining – kids can see how pencils are made and explore quirky exhibits. It’s compact enough for an hour or two and counts as an educational stop for those dull weather days.
8. Rheged Centre, Penrith
A multi-purpose family day out with soft play, a craft cafe, small cinema, and seasonal children’s activities. It’s easy to combine with other nearby attractions or walks, making it a versatile option if you’re planning a full-day family adventure.
© Christie Digital, © Tripadvisor
9. Village Playground Tour (with proper coffee stops)
- Todd Crag, Ambleside: A slightly challenging but rewarding hill with stunning Windermere views. Treats as motivation are highly recommended!
- Cat Bells Terrace, Derwentwater: Scenic, quiet, and manageable for younger walkers. Take the Keswick boat launch for a fun twist.
- Friars Crag & Castlehead, Keswick: Flat and easy, with a short hill for views – perfect for little legs.
- Buttermere: A classic, low-stress walk with lake views and plenty of opportunities to explore.
- Whinlatter Forest: Gruffalo-themed trails, forest play areas, and Go Ape activities for older kids.
10. Farms, Mazes & Animal Experiences
- Lakeland Maze Farm Park: Perfect for younger children, with mazes, play parks and trails.
- Threlkeld Mining Museum & Gem Panning: Kids love the train ride and trying their hand at panning.
- Lakes Distillery: Meet alpacas and explore the grounds – a unique Lake District experience for little explorers.
© Lakeland Maze Farm Park, © Threlkeld Quarry and Mining Museum, © The Lakes Distillery
Bonus: Easy National Trust Family Days Out
Many National Trust properties in the Lake District run family-friendly events at Easter and school holidays, including egg hunts, craft sessions, trails, and gardens to explore. Key favourites include Allan Bank, Tarn Hows, Sizergh, Acorn Bank, and Wordsworth House in Cockermouth. These spots mix short walks, play, and learning in a safe, scenic environment.
Our favourite family holiday homes in the Lake District
Want more inspiration for things to do with kids?
Checkout our other area guides below, perfect for family holidays in the UK.
