Cold and dark, with the sun setting before 4pm, it certainly does not sound like an idyllic retreat. Snow-capped mountains, log fires and great food, however, do sound a lot more appealing, all of which can be expected by visitors to the area in December.
It is important to remember that the Lake District is not just a destination for walkers and climbers. While it is unsafe for most people to indulge in these pursuits during the winter months, there are so many other activities to take part in that a visit is worthwhile.
Visiting Keswick
Keswick, in the North Lake District, plays host to a number of year-round attractions, many of which can be enjoyed by all the family. For real-ale enthusiasts, a visit to the Keswick Brewing Company costs a mere £6 per person and includes a chance to sample the variety of beers brewed there. A short drive away, Cockermouth is home to the Jennings Brewery, where visitors are once again able to take a tour and sample some of the ales on offer.
Anyone with an interest in the past will be enthralled by the Neolithic Castlerigg Stone Circle. This circle is of unknown origin or use, although it is believed to be between 4,000-5,000 years old. Entrance is free, and the atmosphere is undeniably eerie, particularly on an overcast or misty day. Visitors would be well advised to wrap up warm, though, as the plateau on which the circle is situated is completely exposed to the elements. Taking the family for a walk around the circle will not only provide a exceptional views of the surrounding area, but great fun while speculating what really did go on there all those years ago.
Honister Slate Mine is the last working slate mine in England, and an experience visitors to the North Lakes should not miss. Entrance to the Visitors’ Centre is free, while a family ticket (two adults and two children) for a tour of the mine is only £27.50. The journey to the mine is an adventure in itself, travelling over Honister Pass, one of the highest passes in Cumbria, which is 1167 feet high at its summit!
Great food in the Lake District
Back in Keswick itself, there are a number of great places to eat, to get a pint of one of the delicious locally brewed ales and to warm up next to one of their log fires. The Bank Tavern never fails to delight, with the Lamb Jennings (an enormous lamb shank, cooked in Jennings ale and served with potatoes and vegetables) a firm favourite of many visitors, and Cumberland Ale always on tap.
Anyone thinking of paying a visit to the Lake District during the winter months should not be deterred. These are just a selection of the many attractions and activities that take place all year round, and there is bound to be something to appeal to every family.
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