Guide To Cumbria

About Cumbria & The Lake District

Cumbria is home to the world-famous Lake District National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and literary heritage. From bustling towns like Kendal, Windermere, and Keswick, to peaceful villages surrounded by fells and lakes, the region offers something for everyone.

For business travellers, Cumbria also provides strong links to the energy, construction, and tourism sectors, with major projects and employers across Barrow-in-Furness, Carlisle, and Penrith. With excellent rail and road connections to Manchester, Lancaster, and Newcastle, it’s as practical as it is picturesque.

Guestz serviced accommodation across Cumbria provides the perfect mix of flexibility and comfort, ideal for both short stays and longer assignments.

Whether you are looking for outdoor adventure, cultural heritage, or simply relaxation, Cumbria and The Lake District have something for everyone. Here are some of the things you can do in this beautiful area:

* Explore the 16 major lakes and numerous smaller water bodies that give the Lake District its name. You can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, or just admiring the views. Some of the most well-known lakes are Windermere, Ullswater, Derwentwater and Coniston Water.

* Hike, bike, or climb the fells (mountains) that offer spectacular panoramas and diverse wildlife. There are over 200 fells in the Lake District, ranging from gentle hills to challenging peaks. Some of the most famous ones are Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, Skiddaw and Great Gable.

* Visit the charming towns and villages that dot the countryside, each with its own character and history. You can find cosy pubs, quaint shops, local museums, and historic buildings. Some of the most popular places are Keswick, Ambleside, Grasmere and Bowness-on-Windermere.

* Discover the rich cultural heritage of Cumbria and The Lake District, which has inspired generations of writers, artists and musicians. You can visit the homes and museums of famous figures, such as Dove Cottage (Wordsworth), Hill Top (Potter), and Brantwood (Ruskin). You can also enjoy festivals, concerts, theatres and galleries throughout the year.

* Experience the other attractions that Cumbria has to offer beyond the Lake District, such as the Eden Valley, the North Pennines, the Furness Peninsula, and a small part of the Yorkshire Dales. You can also explore the Roman legacy of Hadrian's Wall, which runs along the northern border of Cumbria.

Local Attractions

From mountain peaks to lakeside strolls, Cumbria and the Lake District are packed with iconic attractions and peaceful escapes:

Levens Hall & Gardens – A Magnificent 13th Century Mansion – More Info

Dalmain House & Gardens – Impressive 12th Century Hall – More Info

Mere Mountains – Activity Centre & Team Building – More Info

Lake Windermere – The largest natural lake in England, perfect for boat trips, walks, and water sports.

Keswick & Derwentwater – A lively market town surrounded by stunning scenery and outdoor adventure.

Ambleside – A charming town at the heart of the Lakes, known for its shops, cafés, and lake views.

Grasmere – Famed for its connection to poet William Wordsworth and its delicious Grasmere Gingerbread.

Scafell Pike – England’s highest mountain and a must for hiking enthusiasts.

Kendal – A vibrant Cumbrian town with a blend of culture, shops, and history — and the gateway to the South Lakes.

Hadrian’s Wall – Explore Roman ruins and ancient fortifications along the northern edge of Cumbria.

Where to Eat & Drink

Cumbria’s food scene is world-renowned, featuring everything from Michelin-starred fine dining to cosy country pubs and lakeside cafés.

Local favourites include:

• L’Enclume (Cartmel) – A two-Michelin-starred restaurant showcasing innovative seasonal dishes.

• The Old Stamp House (Ambleside) – Michelin-starred dining inspired by local produce and Cumbrian heritage.

• The Drunken Duck Inn (Ambleside) – A beloved gastropub offering hearty food and local ales.

• Francine’s (Windermere) – A relaxed bistro with a focus on fresh seafood and Cumbrian ingredients.

• The Punch Bowl Inn (Crosthwaite) – A country inn blending fine dining with warm hospitality.

For more casual dining, you’ll find plenty of delis, tearooms, and independent eateries across the region.

Nightlife & Entertainment

Cumbria’s nightlife is relaxed and community-driven, with cosy pubs, local breweries, and occasional live music venues adding to its charm:

• The Beer Hall at Hawkshead Brewery (Staveley) – A must-visit for craft beer lovers.

• The Brewery Arts Centre (Kendal) – A hub for live music, theatre, and film.

• The Royal Oak (Keswick) – A classic Lakeland pub with great food and friendly locals.

• Lake Road Tap (Ambleside) – A vibrant spot for casual drinks and local brews.

For a livelier evening, Kendal and Carlisle offer a great selection of restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues.

Business & Corporate Connections

While best known for its natural beauty, Cumbria also has a strong and diverse economy. Key industries include nuclear energy, manufacturing, tourism, and logistics, with major employers such as Sellafield Ltd, BAE Systems, and James Cropper PLC operating across the region.

Guestz serviced apartments are ideal for professionals working on long-term projects in or around Cumbria, offering a comfortable alternative to hotels with the space and flexibility needed for extended stays.

Our properties provide easy access to key business areas such as Barrow-in-Furness, Carlisle, Penrith, Workington, and Whitehaven, while remaining close to the natural attractions that make the region so special.