Things to Do in the Lakes this Summer

Six Things to do in the Lakes this summer that will make your visit unforgettable.

Summer in The Lake District is such as magical time – golden sunsets and warmer days with so much to see and do. Take a look at our guide below for all the inspiration. From those who love adventures to walking up fells, from foodies to creative arts lovers and everything in between – there is something for everyone to enjoy in this gorgeous part of the world.

Finding the perfect place to stay

The most important part of any getaway? Finding somewhere everyone will love to stay.

At Underscar, we offer luxury 1, 2 and 3-bedroom self-catering properties, each with spacious living areas and complimentary access to our on-site spa and gym.

Perfect for couples, families and groups of friends, our 5-star accommodation offers breathtaking views, beautiful gardens to explore and plenty of space for everyone to relax and make lasting memories. It is the perfect basecamp for every adventure and is a true home-away-from home!

On the Water

Here in the Lake District, adventure runs deep. Adrenaline-filled days on the water bring you back to the root of life — fresh air in your lungs, shared laughter with family and friends, and that unbeatable feeling of being truly alive. Planning on wild swimming this summer?  Even in the warmer months, safety comes first. Make sure you read the guide below before taking the plunge and stay safe while enjoying the Lake District.

With Keswick Adventures, you can master paddleboarding, kayaking and raft-building on Derwent Water, or dive straight into white water tubing, ghyll scrambling, hydrospeeding and canyoning, some of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in the Lake District.

On land, Rookin House near Ullswater offers unforgettable horse riding experiences, where you can explore open countryside and woodland trails together. It’s perfect for families and friends wanting to make lasting memories. They also offer fishing on their well-stocked Rainbow Trout pond and you might even catch your supper.

For a slower but equally special experience, a cruise with Keswick Launch Company across Derwentwater showcases breathtaking views of Skiddaw and the iconic Catbells.And the best part? From the private balcony of our Catbells property at Underscar, you can see the summit of Catbells itself,  the very peak you may have conquered that day. Return, relax, and look out over the view with a well-earned sense of achievement.

Adventure by day, reflection by evening – the perfect Lake District escape.

Explore National Trust Properties

The Lake District isn’t just about dramatic landscapes, it is rich with history, culture and extraordinary National Trust treasures waiting to be explored. Step into the world of Beatrix Potter at Hill Top, where her stories were born. Wander through rooms just as she left them, including the fascinating Treasure Room and lose yourself in the cottage garden, a riot of colour and fragrance in summer, brimming with the very scenes that inspired her beloved tales.

In nearby Grasmere, Allan Bank offers something wonderfully unexpected. Once home to William Wordsworth and Hardwicke Rawnsley, this quirky house blends creativity and heritage, with informal art spaces and a vast indoor mural wall that invites imagination. Outside, 19th-century wooded pleasure gardens provide cool shade on warm days, while sweeping lawns overlook the lake, deckchairs and traditional games set the scene for relaxed summer afternoons with a view you won’t forget.

Places to eat in The Lake District

This spring, discover a new way to experience the flavours of the Lake District at The Secret Table the ultimate foodie adventure held at The Bistro at Underscar.

As the season bursts into bloom, so too do the menus, celebrating the very best Lake District ingredients, with every dish telling a story of passion, heritage and place. It’s a unique dining experience where provenance meets creativity, and no two evenings are ever the same.

Our spring dining series has officially begun, welcoming an inspiring line-up of chefs including Peter Sidwell, Nina Matsunaga, Jack Bond, George Cherian, Jon Fell, Alex Beard and Martin Frickel.

Enjoy summer a little differently this year- long evenings, fresh flavours and unforgettable company around The Secret Table. Take a look.

If you fancy something a little more casual, these are two places you need to visit this summer. Pici Pasta Bar in Keswick is serving authentic Tuscan pasta, but it’s only open during the summer, so don’t miss out. Or, if you’re looking to try something different, head to Bagherera, the Lake District’s only restaurant dedicated to authentic South Indian cuisine. Newly opened, now’s your chance to be one of the first to experience it.

Theatre Season

The Theatre by the Lake, on the shores of Derwent Water in Keswick, offers a vibrant 2026 Summer programme of drama, comedy and uplifting plays Highlights include the incredible Calendar Girls The Musical (6th August – 5th September), the uplifting play Every Brilliant Thing (12th August to 5th September). For those who love the production side of things, why not book an exclusive behind the scenes tour of the Theatre to see exactly what goes on behind the curtain! Enjoy Season Saver discounts and accessible performances. After exploring Underscar’s trails, unwind with world-class theatre just a short drive away.

Hiking

The Lake District’s fells beckon hikers with trails for all, from gentle strolls to epic ascents, right on Underscar’s doorstep- something truly special! Summit Skiddaw for breathtaking views over Keswick or wander Catbells’ friendly paths, gazing at Derwentwater’s shimmering expanse. Spotting red squirrels darting through ancient woodlands or ospreys soaring above makes hiking one of the essential things to do in the Lakes. After a day’s adventure, relax in a bubbling spa pool at our onsite spa or soak in fell views from your private balcony.

Discover more wonderful trails in our Northern Lake District walking guide.

Plan Your Visit Today

We hope our Lake District summer highlights have sparked your curiosity. If the idea of exploring this magical region calls to you, Underscar offers a collection of 5-star luxury self-catered cottages in the heart of the Northern Lakes. Each cottage boasts a private terrace with breathtaking views across Derwent Water to the fells beyond, the perfect spot to watch the sun set on a warm summer evening.

After a day of adventure, relax in our on-site spa, swim in the pool, or keep active in the gym.