Top tips for staying cool in the Lake District this summer
Feeling the heat? If you’re lucky enough to be in the Lake District National Park during a heatwave then you are in the right place. The Lakes is full of natural and fun ways to lose heat whilst gaining wonderful memories, to cool down while really living it up. Check out our top tips for not just enduring the heat but thoroughly enjoying it too.
1. Take a dip in the lake
It’s what the Lake District is famous for after all! As well as the main lakes, waters and meres there are also countless jewel-like mountain tarns just awaiting discovery. Whether it’s a spot of wild-swimming, a cautious paddle or a playful splash it’s one of the best and most fun ways of staying cool on a hot summer’s day. Coniston Water enjoys excellent shore access on both its east and west sides and makes for a great destination for a ‘lake day’. Wastwater also makes for a dramatic and spectacular paddle, plus as the deepest lake in England offers a refreshing cooldown like no other! Mountain tarns such as Easedale near Grasmere make for an adventurous and, after the hike up, much needed cooling wild-swim. Lying in the clear, mountain water surrounded by crags and peaks is an experience you’ll never forget! Check out our wild swimming blog for tips on the best spots and staying safe in the water.
2. Take to the hills
Stifling heat in the valley makes way for refreshing coolness the higher you venue. Our mountain cottages give you the opportunity to stay and play in the mountains. Open a window and feel that gorgeous mountain breeze drift in. One of our favourite tricks to cool down is to stand in front of the small open mine entrance across our bridge over Church Beck behind our waterwheel. Cold air rushes out from deep inside the mountain – it really is nature’s aircon – give it a try!
3. Seek the shade
Luckily there is plenty of shade to be found in the Lake District, from wooded lakeside beaches like those around Coniston Water to dense forests such as Grizedale and shaded river gorges which snake their way through the lush Lakeland valleys. During the strongest sunshine of the day you can retreat to your own Lake District cottage. Many of our cottages are stone-built, with thick walls which naturally act as a shield from the heat. Be sure to keep your cottage’s fridge well-stocked with cold drinks. Maybe find a shaded spot outside such as you’ll find in the woodland gardens at No.6 The Forge or Thwaite Cottage and relax with an ice-cold beverage – bliss!
4. Find the River
Unlike standing water in lakes and tarns which soak up warmth from the sun, the water in Lake District rivers often comes from deep inside our fells and mountains. As such it can be crystal clear and absolutely ice-cold. As always care is needed in and around the water and rivers should never be entered after periods of heavy rain. But rivers such as Church Beck, which tumbles down Coppermines Valley, and the spectacular River Duddon, while often treacherous in winter in summer become refreshing oases of coolness. Find a pool and go for plunge – we guarantee you won’t be hot for long!
5. Hit the beach!
Didn’t know there were beaches in the Lake District? Then be prepared to be surprised! Cumbria has a long and stunning coastline of mile upon mile of mostly empty beaches with breath-taking mountainous backdrops. And the cooling sea breezes are guaranteed to bring relief from the summer heat. Bring a towel, bring a picnic and relax on the glorious golden sands. Check out our best beaches blog for more info.
