Think of the English Lake District and you’ll probably think of rolling hills, beautiful shorelines, and stunning hill walks. While the Lake District’s scenery is amazing, it’s just one of many qualities that this beautiful part of the country has to offer.
Did you know that the Lake District is also home to England’s tallest mountain? Or that it was once a hotspot for quirky children’s authors and famous poets? Or that its only home to one lake, despite its name?
Read on to discover five interesting, unusual, and surprising facts about England’s top travel destination, courtesy of the UK travel experts at Pure Leisure.
1. It’s home to hundreds of hill walking trails
The Lake District is known around the UK – and throughout the world – for its wide range of incredible walking trails. From light trails for beginners to advanced walks for experts, the Lake District has hundreds of walking trails for visitors to conquer.
Some walks are suitable for families – the quick 20-minute stroll up Orrest Head, for example – while others are suitable only for experts. Feeling confident? Try the 978-metre walk up Scafell Pike – England’s tallest mountain.
2. It contains England’s tallest mountain
You heard right – the Lake District is home to England’s tallest mountain. Scafell Pike reaches 978 metres above sea level, making it the tallest peak in Britain not located in Wales or Scotland.
From the mountain’s summit, you’ll be able to see the Isle of Man, as well as many of the Lake District’s most famous walking trails. The mountain is a challenging climb that’s not for beginners – leave it unconquered unless you’re a confident climber.
3. It was once home to poets and children’s authors
William Wordsworth, one of the UK’s most well known poets, was a local resident of the Lake District. Known for his love of the region’s waterfalls, he produced some of his most widely appreciated works in front of the stunning Aira Force waterfall.
One of Britain’s most celebrated children’s authors was also a local. Beatrix Potter’s famous characters, including Peter Rabbit and Mrs Tiggy-Winkle, were thought up from her home in the Lake District.
4. It hosts almost 15 million travellers every year
The Lake District might not be as easy to visit as London or Cornwall, but that hasn’t stopped tens of millions of people from making the famous area part of their holiday itineraries.
Almost 15 million people visit the Lake District every year, making it the UK’s most popular tourism destination. Tourism, and associated spending, is believed to add an astounding £994 million to the region’s economy each and every year.
5. Despite its name, it’s only home to one lake
It might be called the Lake District, but it’s only home to one lake. Bassenthwaite is the Lake District’s only true lake – all of the others, from Windermere to Ullswater, are considered ‘meres’ or ‘waters’.
While it might sound confusing, it’s easy to understand why it’s known as the Lake District. The Mere District or Water District doesn’t quite have the same sound to it.
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