Seven places to explore in Cumbria and the Lake District

The region welcomes visitors to soak in its rich cultural, artistic, and natural beauty by exploring the historic houses, manicured gardens, regal castles, informative museums, and vibrant cultural attractions.

There are lots of places to explore (Image: Windermere Lake Cruises)

Here are seven places for you to visit.

Brantwood

Take a step back in time in Brantwood, Coniston, the erstwhile abode of Victorian polymath John Ruskin.

Now, transformed into a museum, it showcases Ruskin's life and work, from his art and philosophy to his geological fascinations and social reforms.

Youngsters can test their knowledge with quizzes while older family members gaze at the fine paintings and personal treasures which belonged to Ruskin.

Dalemain Historic Mansion and Gardens

Dalemain Historic Mansion and Gardens, Penrith (Image: Submitted)

Dalemain Historic Mansion and Gardens, on the fringes of the Eastern Fells, captivates globetrotters with its charm.

Home to an extensive collection of artefacts, ceramics, and art, Dalemain also organises the world-famous Marmalade Festival and the Cumbria Classic and Motorsport Show.

The house has been owned by the Hasell-McCosh family since 1679.

Beatrice Hasell-McCosh said: “Dalemain is a family home, full of humour and great human energy, reflecting those who live here and the identity of the estate as a working farm.

“The award winning garden sees people consistently returning seasonally to witness the changes and developments of this historic and peaceful setting."

Holker Hall and Gardens

Holker Hall and Gardens, Cark, promises an enriching experience with its grand architecture, sprawling grounds and stirring surroundings.

It's a feast of colour and fragrance in summer when the homegrown flowers are in full bloom.

The fruits and vegetables grown by the hall's diligent gardeners make their way into Holker's mouth-watering culinary offerings.

Hutton-in-the-Forest

Hutton-in-the-Forest (Image: Submitted)

Exploring Hutton-in-the-Forest in Penrith is a jaunt through architectural and decorative evolution spread over 400 years.

Whether summoning the mediaeval vibes in the Stone Hall or conjuring up Victorian reveries in the ornate drawing room, every step in Hutton is a step back in time.

It is described by house administrator Pamela Davidson as a hidden gem.

She said: “This beautiful historic house is home to Lord and Lady Inglewood and has belonged to the family since 1605.

"We all know that Cumbria is famous for its breath-taking scenery, stunning lakes, amazing culture and history but it’s the people that make the biggest difference."

Levens Hall & Gardens

Levens Hall & Gardens, Kendal, is home to the oldest topiary gardens in the world and is at the heart of a buzzing 9,500-acre agricultural estate.

While children revel in outdoor amusements, such as the playground and Willow Labyrinth, adults can delve into the house's evolution captured in a room-by-room quiz.

Mirehouse & Gardens

Mirehouse & Gardens, a family-run historic house, welcomes you with its lakeshore, gardens, and woodland playgrounds.

Youngsters can be entertained with owl hunts and history quizzes, as well as the four woodland play areas. Adults can enjoy the walled bee garden, terraced poetry walk, the heather maze, or tranquil lakeside strolls along Bassenthwaite Lake.

Windermere Lake Cruises

Windermere Lake Cruises (Image: Windermere Lake Cruises)

A ever-popular tourist attraction, Windermere Lake Cruises sees people make the most of daily scenic cruises of England's largest lake. Visitors can even hire an electric self-drive boat or traditional row boat to explore the lake at their own pace.