Rothay Manor hotel
Things to do in the Lake District
Welcome to the glorious Lake District! Whether you’re here for a relaxing break to take in the beautiful scenery at your
leisure, visit famous sites, and discover little villages and hamlets, or looking for something more adventurous, the region has it all.
From great hiking spots and scenic walks to off-road driving, paddleboarding and wild swimming, the Lakes offers plenty to do and explore.
Our ideally located boutique hotel, Rothay Manor Hotel will serve as the perfect base for your stay in the area, offering luxurious yet relaxed accommodation, including accessible and dog-friendly options, as well as rooms and suites with terraces, private courtyard gardens, and hot tubs or Jacuzzis.
While our British restaurant, Rowan awaits all wandered in the Lakes to rest with a hot drink, a hearty lunch, an elegant dinner or a sophisticated afternoon as a treat after a long day of discovering all the adventures the Lake District National Park provides to visitors.
See our top activity recommendations below, or take a look through our Experiences Guide
locals Guide
Your key to unlocking the charm of Ambleside and its surroundings.
Handpicked recommendations for shops and cafés, and a curated list of must-see sites and museums. Our Locals Guide will help you explore the Lake District and discover its hidden gems no matter if you’re staying with us or just visiting our hotel for a day.
Walking in the Lakes
Our favourite way to explore the Lakes is on foot. This Walking Guide shares some of our favourite routes and best walking trails from a gentle amble with sightseeing, to bigger hikes if you’re feeling more adventurous (the walk to Grasmere is worth it for the gingerbread alone)..
guided hikes
The Lake District National Park offers some of the best hiking in the world, with scenery that has inspired some of the greatest artists and poets. It is also home to wild, and remote landscapes, and a myriad of paths and trails. This can be a little daunting to the unseasoned adventurer, so why not take the pressure off and hire a guide to lead you on your journey? Then, all you need to do, is take in the wonderful views without having your head stuck in a map!
Ambleside Adventures offers both group and private guided hikes and walks showing you some of the best routes that the Lake District has to offer, from the classic horseshoe rounds such as Fairfield to the exposed ridges of Striding Edge. Private Guided Walks are provided by Ambleside Adventure.
off road driving
For something a little out of the ordinary join Kankku for the ultimate off-road driving experience in the Lake District. Whether you are a complete beginner or experienced at off-road driving let Kankku take you off the beaten track to discover some of the lesser-known parts of the Lakes as part of a truly unique outdoor activity in the area.
Off road 4 x 4 4WD driving in Windermere, Ambleside and the Lake District with Kankku.
GRAYTHWAITE ADVENTURE
Set within the 5,000 acres of the Graythwaite Estate — from woodland trails to the shores of Lake Windermere — Graythwaite Adventure offers a range of unforgettable outdoor experiences. From 4×4 off-road driving and clay pigeon shooting to archery, axe throwing, bushcraft and seasonal RIB tours, there’s something for every kind of adventurer.
All experiences are completely private, so it’s just you and the people you care about — no crowds, no pressure, and no need to rush — allowing you to enjoy quality time together in a truly special setting.
Wild swimming
Immerse yourself in some of the UK’s most beautiful bodies of water- learn how to safely acclimatise mind and body to the cold temperatures, or for seasoned swimmers join a guided swim. Wild swimming in the Lake District is a truly unique experience with stunning scenery all around you.
Swim The Lakes offer courses and adventure swims throughout the year.
e-bike safari
What better way to see more of the beautiful Lake District than to travel by bike? Not only do E-Bike Safaris deliver comfortable bikes directly to the door, but they also provide carefully chosen routes for you to follow.
Each bike is provided with a set of panniers which enables shopping on route, taking additional clothing and the option of taking your own packed lunches. A phone mount on each bike provides for easy navigation along the scenic country lanes and trails.
mountain goat tours
Established in 1972, Mountain Goat Tours offer private and group tours around the Lake District.
You will be collected from Rothay Manor Hotel and transported to the best local sites, from the half day ‘Beatrix Potter’ tour where you will discover the scenery and landscapes that inspired the author, through to the full day ‘ten lakes spectacular’.