Hannah & Jack

Things to Do

The western Lake District is quieter, wilder and a little less polished than the central Lakes — which is exactly why we love it. If you're staying for the weekend, there's plenty to explore nearby without needing to spend hours in the car.

At Muncaster Castle

Muncaster Castle

https://www.muncaster.co.uk

One of the oldest inhabited castles in England, surrounded by woodland, mountains and views across the coast. The estate itself is worth exploring even outside the wedding celebrations.

Hawk & Owl Centre / Flying Displays

https://www.muncaster.co.uk/hawkowlcentre

Muncaster's famous birds of prey displays include owls, falcons, hawks and vultures flying against the backdrop of the castle gardens and fells. One of the most unique things to do in the area.

The Gardens

Muncaster's 77 acres of gardens are especially beautiful in spring, with woodland walks, rhododendrons and views out toward the mountains and coast. Ideal for a slower afternoon wandering around the estate.

Weapons Hall

https://www.muncaster.co.uk/theweaponshall

A slightly more chaotic option: axe throwing, archery, crossbows. Very on-brand for a medieval castle.

Around Ravenglass & Eskdale

La'al Ratty – Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway

https://ravenglass-railway.co.uk

A narrow-gauge steam railway running from Ravenglass through the Eskdale Valley. Beautiful scenery, very Lake District, and genuinely worth doing even as adults.

Stanley Ghyll Waterfall

https://lakedistrict.gov.uk/protect/nature/stanley-ghyll/

A dramatic waterfall hidden within woodland near Eskdale Green. A short and very scenic walk — especially good if you want classic Lake District scenery without committing to a full mountain hike.

Ravenglass Roman Bath House

https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/ravenglass-roman-bath-house/

The remains of one of the tallest surviving Roman structures in northern England, just outside Ravenglass. Locally nicknamed the "Roman Baths", the ruins are an easy and interesting stop if you're exploring the village and coastline.

Hardknott Roman Fort

https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/hardknott-roman-fort/

Perched high in the mountains above Eskdale at the top of Hardknott Pass are the remains of the Roman fort Mediobogdum, built during the reign of Emperor Hadrian. The combination of ancient ruins and dramatic mountain scenery makes it one of the most atmospheric spots in the Lake District.

Ravenglass Beach

A quiet coastal stretch perfect for sunset walks and a slower evening after exploring the mountains.

Hardknott Pass

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hardknott_Pass

One of the most famous mountain roads in Britain, with incredible views across Eskdale. Not for nervous drivers — but unforgettable if conditions are good.

Adventure Activities & Walking

Adventure Activities (Wasdale & Eskdale Only)

https://www.pathtoadventure.co.uk/outdoor-activities-lake-district

For anyone wanting a more adventurous Lake District weekend:

  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Paddleboarding
  • Ghyll scrambling
  • Climbing
  • Guided mountain walks

We'd recommend sticking to activities in the Wasdale and Eskdale areas, as crossing through the mountains to other parts of the Lakes can take longer than expected.

Scafell Pike

https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/lake-district/wasdale/climbing-scafell-pike

England's highest mountain is right on the doorstep. For the walkers, there are several nearby routes up Scafell Pike as well as countless other hikes and lower-level walks throughout Eskdale and Wasdale. Even if you don't fancy a summit attempt, the scenery alone is worth exploring.

Wastwater

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wast_Water

England's deepest lake and one of the most dramatic landscapes in the country (voted Britain's most scenic view!) Only around 25 minutes from Muncaster and absolutely worth the drive.

Local Pubs & Food

The Pennington Hotel

https://www.penningtonhotels.com/thepennington

Relaxed village hotel with excellent food, local ales and estuary views.

The Bower House Inn

https://www.bowerhouseinn.com

A cosy country inn near Eskdale Green with great food and a good beer garden in warmer weather.

Brook House Inn

https://www.brookhouseinn.co.uk

Traditional Lakeland pub atmosphere in the heart of Boot village.

The Boot Inn

http://www.thebooteskdale.co.uk/new/

A proper walkers' pub with open fires and one of the cosiest atmospheres in the area.

The Woolpack Inn

https://www.woolpack.co.uk

Historic inn in Eskdale with incredible mountain views and a great stop after a day outdoors.

Area photos via Wikimedia Commons, used under CC BY-SA / public domain — Martinvl, Peter Trimming, Mick Knapton, Lieven Smits, Thorneh. Full credits in the project repository.