5 Lake District Hidden Gems

Walking with Wolves

A journey that takes you through the beautiful Lake District landscape, alongside the wolf-hybrid duo, Maska and Kajika – voted BBC Countryfile’s No.1 best magic moment. The predator experience is a magical, one-hour walk led by keen environmentalists Daniel and Dee Ashman. You’ll start your experience by getting acquainted with your new companions, as the wolves sniff, lick, and nuzzle your hand for the first time. Following your initiation, Maska and Kajika are then walked along to a nearby field, where you’ll be able to observe their behaviour in a natural and safe environment.

Watch them run wild through the pine forest at Graythwaite as they bound and play throughout the trees. An unforgettable experience perhaps only surpassed by the moment you first hear the wolves howl. A truly unique and magical interaction with one of wildlife’s most misunderstood creatures.

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Holker Labyrinth

A mystical delight in the heart of the Gardens at Holker Hall. The 24 acres of woodland and formal garden display unparalleled gardening worthy of its many awards and are certainly worthy of a visit all year round. The labyrinth is incorporated into the wildflower meadow, acting as a link between the formal gardens at Holker, the parkland and the natural landscape beyond.

Emerging from the midst’s of ancient history, from early mythology to the present day, Labyrinths have been used in a myriad of different ways. From dance traditions to magic, and everything in between. Built from slate from Holker Estates Burlington quarry, the twelve slate monoliths echo the Cumbrian tradition of stone circles.

The site is peaceful; neither too exposed nor enclosed. Set against a backdrop of the gardens and ancient parkland trees, you’ll enjoy views of the lake hills, and in winter, glimpses of the bay. A peaceful place for reflection, that sparks interest and curiosity for all its visitors.

Lowther Castle & Gardens

Let your imagination run wild as you explore the grounds. Journey through the ruins, the gardens and woodland, and you’ll find plenty of food for the imagination. Get an insight into the history of this wondrous and mystical place by uncovering ‘the story of Lowther’ exhibition. And learn more about the Lowther family who occupied the Castle since 1150.

A miniature replica of the castle itself – ‘The Lost Castle’ is filled with a maze of turrets, zip wires, walkways and slides. A place to lose yourself in a whizz of excitement and fun. The most magical aspect of the lost castle is that it is set high above the ground, within the tree canopy, fitting seamlessly within the natural world around it. Lost deep in the woods, you really do feel it is an imagined place.

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Wastwater, Seascale

The view across the waters of Wastwater and up to Wasdale Head holds the title as Britain’s Favourite View, beating off competition from the likes of Bamburgh Castle in Northumberland and The Mountains of Mourne in Co Down, Northern Ireland.

There is much that makes Wastwater Britain’s favourite and most awe-inspiring view. Wastwater lies in the most remote and untouched part of the Lake District and looks exactly as it did centuries ago. The Lake is touched on all sides by ominous mountains, including England’s largest, Scafell Pike and Great Gable. On the south eastern flank of Wastwater are screes that rise 2000 ft from the lake, these are snow-capped in winter and give an ‘otherworldly’ look to this view.

Although it is only 3 miles in length, Wastwater is England’s deepest lake and whilst it sits alongside England’s tallest peak, it reaches below sea level meaning it has little oxygen and plant life. This gives rise to a spectacular dark water sat against the rugged mountain backdrop. A view like this is not easily forgotten and certainly one to talk about back at home.

Grasmere Gingerbread

Quite simply the best gingerbread in the world! Tens of thousands of people visit the Grasmere shop every year to indulge in some delicious Gingerbread, and to learn about its fascinating history that stretches back over three centuries. The unique, spicy-sweet delight was invented in 1854 by Victorian cook Sarah Nelson, who built a reputation that spread quickly to food lovers around the world.

Today, third-generation owners Joanne and Andrew Hunter run the business and continue to fill the air with the wonderful aroma of freshly baked gingerbread which greets you as you enter.

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