Things to do
Welcome to the glorious Lake District, a place made for adventure-seekers!
Lose yourself in our outdoor playground, on epic hikes to lofty peaks, or peaceful swims in calm waters. There are countless places to explore, by foot, bike or boat - Ambleside is the ideal base for activities. Rothay Manor is just a 10-minute walk from the head of Lake Windermere, the perfect place for water-lovers: from wild-swimming, to paddle-boarding, wake-boarding, sailing, or even just a peaceful Lake Cruise taking in the entire length of England's largest lake.
There are many other smaller lakes and tarns within hiking distance of Rothay Manor, and plenty of off-the-beaten-track gems which are the perfect place for a dip throughout the year.
For those new to lake life there are some excellent wild swimming guides and watersports instructors to help give you confidence and show you the best places to explore, and we can help arrange this for you.
The Lake District is a hikers paradise. Footpaths meander up ghylls, through pastures, on wild fells, and in ancient woodland. There are serious challenges to be had on the classic horseshoe walks (such as the Fairfield horseshoe which over-looks Ambleside), or gentler strolls on lake shores (the coffin route around Rydal offers a perfect example of this). We have plenty of walks from the doorstep and can even send you off with a packed lunch for you to enjoy on a beach or mountain-side.
This wonderful National Park is not just an arcadia for walkers, it's also a mecca for all types of cycling, from gravel and mountain to road. There are mountain passes to discover (with some killer gradients), absolutely glorious gravel and some of the best natural-terrain mountain-biking in the UK. Bikes can easily be hired, if you don't have your own, from local bike shops, and there are some wonderful expert guides that we can introduce you to.
Whatever experience you seek you will find it on the doorstep of Rothay Manor: adventure awaits, go find it!
Places to go
Windermere Jetty Museum - Sharing stories of the people and boats connected to Windermere. Come rain or shine the museum offers space to enjoy magnificent lake views from inside the galleries, the dog-friendly lakeshore cafe, meadow or aboard a heritage boat.
Armitt Museum – Founded by poets, artists and writers the The Armitt Musuem is one of Britain’s rarest small museum, and currently hosts a Beatrix Potter exhibition.
Wordsworth Museum – Discover the life of William Wordsworth at the home where he wrote his greatest poetry, and where you can still find the family’s belongings. In the museum you will find a huge collection of manuscripts, painting and artefacts.
Blackwell - Discover the world of Arts & Crafts in this Grade I listed historic house. In the rooms you will see beautiful furniture and objects by leading designers and makers from the Movement, alongside modern-day artists. A cosy tea room and craft and design shop complete the experience.
Hill top – Beatrix Potter’s former home is situated near Hawkshead, and is just as she left it! It houses many events throughout the year, and is a great attraction for young and old.
Townend – A 400 year-old farmhouse bought to life. Step back in time to discover how a regular Cumbrian family lived over the centuries.