Dogs on tour in the Lake District: what to do when you’re done with walking
Windermere Lake Cruises
The best way to see the largest lake in England is undoubtedly on a cruise with Windermere Lake Cruises. This mighty body of water is only 1.5km wide, but it extends 17 kilometres from north to south, and from the water you'll get glorious views of the surrounding fells. The cruises leave from one of several piers around the lake, from Ambleside in the north to Fell Foot and Lakeside in the south, which joins with the Lakeside and Haverthwaite heritage railway.
Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway
If you prefer rails to trails, head to the coast of the Lake District National Park and see the foothills of the fells by train. The Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway was first built in 1873 for transporting iron ore from the hills to the mainline railway. It was also used as a passenger line, but it closed down entirely in 1960. Today, it is revived with heritage Pullman carriages and nostalgic steam locomotives, and is a wonderful dog-friendly day out.
National Trust’s Steam Yacht Gondola
Steam powered the Lake District’s various endeavours for centuries and while it’s been revived on the rails, there are few opportunities to experience it on the water. On the western shores of Coniston Water, though, you’ll find the National Trust’s truly magnificent Steam Yacht Gondola, a restored Victorian boat powered by the magic of steam. You’ll get brilliant views of the Coniston fells, and a commentary from the onboard experts.
Muncaster Castle Gardens
Muncaster Castle is a spectacular sight at any time of year, but it’s especially wonderful in May when the grounds are ablaze with impressive floral displays – John Ruskin once described it as the “gateway to paradise”. There are 77 acres to wander through here, and there’s a dog-friendly tearoom by the Hawk and Owl Centre. Dogs can’t join you inside the birds of prey centre, but you can watch the afternoon flight display on the meadow nearby.
Brantwood
The Lake District has attracted artists, writers and poets for centuries: Beatrix Potter, William Wordsworth, and most famously, Alfred Wainwright are among the many. On the shores of Coniston Water, though, is Brantwood, where famed writer and art critic John Ruskin once lived, and now his delightful home is open to the public.
Dogs can’t join you inside, but they’re allowed in the gardens and the Terrace Kitchen for a spot of lunch. Take it in turns to look after the dog outside so you can browse the homely interiors, then wander through the handsome 250-acre estate on woodland trails and through planted gardens.
Windermere Canoe Kayak
Adventurous dogs with a penchant for swimming will love a day out on the water with Winderemere Canoe Kayak. Whether you hire a canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard, exploring Windermere Lake under your own steam is a thrilling experience. Be sure to get a life jacket for your dog, and only take them along if you know they’re a confident swimmer.
Lowther Castle
There’s a fascinating story behind the hollow walls that make up Lowther Castle – one of extreme wealth, frivolity and shameful ruin. The castle, which was once a spectacular residence and has now fallen into disrepair, leaving it open to the elements and engulfed by nature. A spellbinding sight in any weather, a wander through its halls can be eerie on an overcast day. Bring a picnic or dine at the dog-friendly café onsite, and then head for a wander on the lovely trails throughout the wider estate.