Holidays in Lake District

The m6 motorway, which slices through the North West region from the West Midlands to the Scottish borders, brings an ever growing stream from the south to enjoy it's beauty. The road up Langdale from Ambleside, passing through Elterwater and Langdale villages, is one of the classic roads of the Lake District tour, culminating in the impressive view of the Langdale pikes accross Blea Tarn. The main peaks - Pike o'stickle, Harrison Stickle, Loft Crag and Peveey Ark- are all above 2000 feet (600m) but in their solitude, they seem much higher. This view of Derwentwater emphasizes one of the great charms of the Lake District.

Derwent Water is claimed by many to be the most beautiful of the lakes in England. For this lake, three miles long and one mile wide, is surrounded by rich scenery, a wonderful blending of crag, green fell and wooded slopes with an imposing background of mountains. Two of the major islands are the, now National Trust property owned, Lord's Island, and the St. Herberts Islands, where a a disciple of St. Cuberth lived in the seventh century.

By car there are two main entrances to the heart of the Lake district: south from Kendal to Windermere (M6 J36), and north from Penrith to Keswick (M6 J40/A66). Expect fairly heavy traffic around both areas during Summer months especially July to September when the schools are on holiday. The Lake District is at its nicest when you walk alongside the hills, just at the border of the farmland and the moors, the view changes from moment to moment, and you encounter all kind of plants, animals, streams, stone walls. If you are insistent to climb the hills, as a start, I recommend, the Old Man of Coniston near Coniston in the south, or Catbells near Keswick in the north. They have nice views and can be reached easily. The real work is done at Scafell Pike, the highest hill in the lake district and the horseshoe range north of it, and the two ridges that run north south; Helvellyn, and High Street.

But really, if you like wide views, and a bit of peace and quiet, I would go to the Yorkshire Dales, Derbyshire Peaks, or Cheviot Hills.