In the words of Taylor Swift, “Those Windermere peaks look like the perfect place to die…” and they do, they really do. Charming and quaint yet somehow grand, The Lake District in the north of England really is where all the poets went to die. Known primarily for its scenic hikes, endearing small towns, connection to Peter Rabbit, and of course Grasmere Gingerbread, The Lake District is romanticized to complete accuracy. It’s like walking into the pages of your favorite fairytale. It's perfectly cinematic; a picturesque scene of the everyday nothings of nature. It's a taste of the simple life. A place to disappear. A place to reconnect. A place for your soul. There is a reason Taylor Swift has an entire song dedicated to it (The Lakes from Folklore), it's because it is one of the absolute best places to be inspired.

So, if you’re looking for a reflecting and mindful getaway or are just looking to get out of the hustle and bustle of London for a weekend, here are our recommendations! Also, stay tuned for photos at the end…

WHERE TO GO

There are four main towns in the Lake District and many more villages. From our experience, we encourage you to visit the following…

TOWN - Ambleside

One of the best bases for exploring the lake district, the Town of Ambleside is known for being very popular among walkers and climbers as the starting point for many hikes, including a popular three hour one to the village of Grasmere, and is filled with cute shops, restaurants and places to see live music. Picturesque and relaxed, it's the perfect place to grab a coffee, browse, and get some fresh air with a historical view.

VILLAGE - Grasmere

In the center of the Lake District, Grasmere has links with the Lake Poets and Peter Rabbit. William and Dorothy Wordsworth lived in Grasmere for 14 years and called it "the loveliest spot that man hath ever found." And, it truly is lovely. A charming mix of small locally owned businesses, cobblestone streets and lake views, Grasmere is an absolute must-see. It is a popular destination for many day hikes and has a very famous gingerbread shop, which is mentioned more, down below.

WHERE TO STAY

YHA AMBLESIDE HOSTEL

If you’re traveling on a budget, the YHA hostel in Ambleside is definitely a great pick. Often priced under 30 dollars a night, the relaxed accommodation is lakeside and overlooks the vista of Lake Windermere. Spend time going on a walk to take in the breathtaking sprawling landscape, roaming through the ruins of the Roman fort, or simply take some time to journal (with a view). The hostel has a restaurant + bar attached, is a prime location and has really friendly staff. If you go in the colder months, maybe even try taking a polar plunge into the lake, it's apparently quite refreshing + eye-opening.

WHAT TO VISIT

The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop

Tucked away in a corner of the small village of Grasmere, Grasmere Gingerbread is a tiny Lakeland shop that has been operating since the 1850s. Famous for its spicy-sweet, dense, and one-of-a-kind gingerbread, the quaint store is in a 1630s school and stocks not only gingerbread but also rum butter, fudge, and mint cake. They also sell great products like different homemade lip balms, rose lemonade, and the MOST delicious gingerbread flavored ice cream. There is always a line out the door, because of not only the store’s fame but just the sheer scrumptiousness of the items. It's perfectly sweet, and one of the most attractive old-fashioned shops we’ve seen.

The Lily Bar

Homely, warm, and bustling; the Lily Bar located in the town of Ambleside is the perfect spot for a low-key night out. A hub for great British dishes, cask ales, comedy and of course Live Music, this bar is our top pick for the area. Spend time singing along to your favorite classics and new hits, and vibe along with locals + tourists alike.