Animal Adventures in the Lake District

Probably the most famous animal in the Lake District is Peter Rabbit! This much-loved character is synonymous with this beautiful area but there are many real-life animal experiences to explore when you book a cottage from The Coppermines.

People often visit the Lake District for its amazing views and sites of historic interest. But there’s also plenty to see in the region if you like exotic beasts and want to be inspired by creatures from all around the world. From mystical wolves and imperial birds of prey to the odd alpaca and humorous hornbill, scratch beneath the surface of the Lake District and there’s a whole world of adventure.

One of the best places to make your base in the Lake District is in and around the Coniston area, nestled away here in the heart of the lakes with spectacular views you can also easily access many of the animal experiences which are only a short drive away. Here we look at some of the surprising wildlife locations in the Lake District you might want to visit when staying in one of our Lake District Cottages. 

The Predator Experience – Created in 2009, The Predator Experience has since featured on TV programmes such as BBC’s Countryfile. The sleepy village of Ayside, only a short drive from the Coniston area, may seem quiet but it’s home to this amazing wildlife experiment that is entirely devoted to predators such as wolves and birds of prey.

It’s not for casual visitors who are just passing by and you need to book to enjoy everything that’s on offer. The team at The Predator Experience allow you to get up close with the wolves and there are even classes to learn how to get the hang of falconry. There are several walks held throughout the year where you can take in the amazing countryside and learn about all sorts of birds of prey along the way.

Black Horses Cartmel – Cartmel is one of the most romantic and picturesque villages in the Lake District, if you are looking for a romantic experience then a carriage ride around this beautiful village is a must. The team at Black Horses breed spectacular Friesian Horses and offer carriage rides around the village along with experience days and photoshoots with these magnificent horses.

Fell Pony Treks – If you are looking for a pony trekking adventure, then this company operates near Newby Bridge, and offers both traditional pony trekking days and overnight wild camping experience for those who really want some adventure!

A Little Further Away

These Wildlife Experiences are a little further away from Coniston but still worth a visit if you have animal lovers in your family, so pack a picnic and make a day of it before returning to your comfortable Coppermines Cottage.

Lakeland Wildlife Oasis – The Wildlife Oasis boasts some 100 different species from all around the world and is certainly worth a day of exploration. One of the lesser-known zoos in the UK, it’s located in Milnthorpe and has proved popular with visitors and locals alike. 

There’s been a zoo here since the early 1990s. It may be small, covering just 3 acres, but there are plenty of exotic animals to see and find something out about, including lemurs, dik-dik’s, hornbills, snow leopards, meerkats and wallabies. Smaller creatures are also catered for and you’ll find a colourful butterfly house as well as a slightly scarier place for big spiders.

Alpacally Ever After – If beasts with large teeth or sharp talons aren’t your thing, you may want to pay a visit to Alpacally Ever After. The climate and landscape of the Lake District make this the perfect home for alpacas and llamas. In the heart of Keswick and surrounded by amazing countryside, this is a fun day out that will keep everyone entertained as you find out more about these quirky creatures.

You can walk with the alpacas, take them for a hike and find out how they are making an impact in the local area. With brilliant places like The Lingholm Estate to explore, this is a fun day out for all the family.

Whether you just want to explore the home of Peter Rabbit by hiking through the Lake District Countryside or you want to get up close and personal with some of the animal that also make Lakeland their home a Coppermines Cottage is the perfect base from which to enjoy your Lake District holiday.