Save for your stay in the South Lakes
The Lake District is full of world-famous sights, but some of the best experiences come from good local knowledge. Here in the South Lakes, we’re lucky to have so many wonderful places to visit right on our doorstep – from scenic walks and cosy pubs to stunning swim spots and family-friendly stops. We’ve gathered 36 of our favourite places to visit in the South Lakes to help you make the most of this beautiful side of the Lakes.
Eat and Drink:
From cosy pubs to fine-dining favourites, these are some of the best places to visit in the South Lakes when you’re hungry or in need of a post-walk pint.
- The Cavendish – A 450 year old coaching in transformed into one of Cartmel’s best pubs. The grub is top notch and you won’t find a more complete Gin list. Sit outside in the beer garden if the weather is good, next to the River Eea.
- The Farmers Arms – Old pub, come pottery studio, come cafe revived by Grizedale Arts and the local community. Check out their ‘what’s on’ for activities and make sure you try the egg and chips. *Drool*
- Levens Hall – A privately owned house & gardens with the world’s oldest topiary. If that doesn’t get you there, the cafe, bakery and ice cream should.
- Heft High Newton – A local for Pheasant Lodge and one we hit often. A Michelin starred restaurant at the back and old pub at the front,which hosts foodie pop ups throughout the year – like Charred Pizza.
- L’Enclume – Fine dining at its best — but be sure to book in advance. This three Michelin-starred restaurant, situated on the river in Cartmel, is the brainchild of Simon Rogan, showcasing his innovative approach to seasonal, locally sourced cuisine. Expect works of art for your dinner!
- Rogan & Co – Another from Simon Rogan – contemporary and inventive, where you’ll continue to see his sustainable and seasonal approach to food and drink.
- The Hare and Hounds – A 17th-century coaching inn where hearty pub classics meet modern dishes, all served in the most welcoming and cosy atmosphere. (News just in – soon to be closing, so check for updates!)
- Harry’s Bar – A little gem, found at the heart of Yew Tree Barn which is a reclamation yard, antiques and interiors shop and gift shop. Harry’s has a fresh, seasonal menu as well as great coffee and cake selection.
- Unsworth Yard – If you can go to one place, this has it all. Pizza, cocktails, ale, a world famous cheese shop and live music. Always the best, easy going atmosphere.
- Oscars – Part of Unsworth’s yard but deserves a mention for the stunning restaurant with views of Cartmel priory and stand out Tapas selection.
- The Jetty Museum – Quite possibly the café with the best views in the Lake District — hearty lunches and classic café favourites served right on the shore of Lake Windermere
- Wraysholme Creamery – A picturesque farm, just south of Cartmel selling their own Ice cream. Lovely picnic tables to sit outside with views of the area.
- The Swan at Newby Bridge – An idyllic location next to the River Leven, with tables beside the water, a pizza van, huge drinks selection and a decent menu inside.
- Arnside Chip Shop – You can’t visit the north without a good chippy – so here is our choice. Perfect coastal chips you can eat on the beach, before the seagulls get them.
- Lakeside Hotel – Old English hotel on the shore of Lake Windermere. Seating outside to watch the boats and paddleboarders. A quirky cocktail van sits outside and food that is truly top-notch.
House & Gardens:
If you love a wander and a touch of history, these South Lakes attractions are perfect for a peaceful day out surrounded by beautiful scenery.
- Levens Hall House and Gardens – Home to the world’s oldest topiary and if you thought you didn’t like topiary – you will. The most amazing spectacle and the house has some interesting history too, dating back to 1350.
- Holker Hall and Gardens – A grand Cumbrian mansion, owned by the Cavendish family, set among magical gardens. Throughout the year they host a variety of events, from the famous Chilli Festival and traditional Egg Rolling to the festive Christmas Fair and more.
- Blackwell Arts and Craft House – A house with views over Windermere, each room lovingly designed in Arts and Craft style of the late 19th century, which celebrates handcrafted quality and timeless design.
- Brantwood – A historic house on the shore of Coniston that has become a vibrant centre for the arts. You can explore the house, wander the gardens, and enjoy the estate’s scenic trails and lakeside views.
Castles in the South Lakes:
Discover fascinating local landmarks and places to visit in the South Lakes that bring the area’s past to life.
- Sizergh Castle – Enjoy a full day out here because you’ll be spoilt for choice whatever age. The new Wild Trail takes you on a fun forest walk with things to climb, swing on crawl, through and jump across. Then you can explore the beautiful gardens and house.
- Wray Castle – One to visit by boat if you can to add to the adventure, as it’s nestled on the shore of Lake Windermere. Part of the National Trust, so there are always plenty of activities in the school holidays and huge grounds to lose yourself in. Sadly the Castle is currently closed for restoration.
- Kendal Castle – A gorgeous spot with views of Kendal. Perfect for kids with big imaginations – let them run around the castle ruins and play hide and seek in the walls.
- Muncaster Castle – A castle on the coast – so a little more west but so much to see and do. Head to the weaponry and have a go at axe throwing or archery. You won’t want to miss the birds of prey, who will soar within inches of your head in the beautiful castle grounds.
Short Walks:
Whether you’re after a route with a view or a quick countryside stroll, these South Lakes walks are easy, scenic, and full of local charm.
- Hoad Monument – A circular route up to the Sir John Barrow Monument, starting at Ford Park in Ulverston. Check this one out for great views of the area. 30 minutes to the top.
- High Dam – Popular if you love to add in a wild swim with your walk. Starting on the west side of Lake Windermere. Steep to begin with but you’ll soon reach the water where you can decide if you want to extend your walk or simple sit and enjoy. 30 minutes up to High Dam.
- The Swan to Lakeside – Part of the West Windermere Way, an accessible walk with newly paved paths, which take you alongside the Steam Train and the River Leven – ending up by Lake Windermere. 30 minutes to Lakeside.
- Cartmel to Holker Hall – Visit the beautiful Hall and Gardens by heading through the racecourse and following the route through the old woodland. It’ll take about an hour, there is one steepish hill but you’ll be rewarded with views of Morecambe Bay at the top.
- Hampsfell Hospice – A scenic walk from Grange over sands which wins you both bay views and hill views, looking out across the Cartmel Valley. It will take about an hour to reach the hospice at the top.
- Red Nab to Wray Castle – Get there early for a parking spot at Red Nab, then wander along the West Coast of Lake Windermere until you reach the Castle. About an hour from car park to castle.
- Grange Promenade – A quiet little town on the coast with a peaceful promenade where you can check out the Old Lido (soon to be refurnished) and stop for ice cream along the way.
- Gummers How – One for the views stretching out across the Lake District – on a clear day! A fairly steep climb but only 40 minutes to the top.
Wild Swims in the South Lakes:
If you’re planning a dip, these are some of my go-to places to visit in the South Lakes for cold-water swimming.
- Coniston East Coast – This is an absolute favourite for my family, as we can easily park up alongside the lake and find a beach for ourselves. In summer the farmers sometimes let out their fields too. You should be able to spy Coniston Old Man across the water.
- Blea Tarn – Absolutely breathtaking and I’ve never seen it look anything else. Blea tarn has the most epic mountain backdrop. Enjoy the cold dip with your car close by as parking is just across the road.
- Loughrigg Tarn – A quiant tarn at the top of Lake Windermere. No watersports allowed, so leave your paddle boards behind but gorgeous for a refreshing dip.
- High Dam – Cool down after the walk up. There are lots of spots around the tarn, so find one all to yourself.
- Water Yeat – More of a walk (40 minutes to the water) but that’s how you get a place all to yourself. It’s all relatively flat though, so not too strenuous and worth it for such peace.
And there you have it – 36 incredible spots that make the South Lake District so special! We love sharing our favourite places with guests, and this list is just a taste of what’s waiting for you here. Stay with us at The Pheasant Lodge, and you’ll have all these adventures right on your doorstep
Head here to book or enquire about our luxury holiday home.
Look forward to hearing from you. Hannah x