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Top Five Places to Explore in Cumbria
Cumbria is one of the most scenic and diverse counties in the UK. From the dramatic peaks of the Lake District to quiet coastal towns and historic cities, it’s a place that draws in both visitors and new residents.
If you’re thinking of moving to Cumbria or just exploring the area, here are five standout places you shouldn’t miss.
- The Lake District National Park
The Lake District is the most famous part of Cumbria, and is one of the most beautiful places in the UK.
With 16 major lakes, numerous fells and miles of walking trails, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the perfect location for outdoor adventurers. And for those who prefer a gentler walk, Windermere and Ullswater offer stunning views for all abilities.
For a day trip or weekend getaway, towns like Ambleside, Windermere and Keswick offer a choice of shops, restaurants and must-see museums, along with easy access to pretty walking trails and picturesque lake views.
- Carlisle
Carlisle is Cumbria’s only city and is full of history, culture and local character. The city has played an important role in British history, and is home to the iconic Carlisle Castle, a 900-year-old fortress that has witnessed its fair share of conflict and change.
Carlisle also has great shopping, dining and entertainment options, including The Lanes Shopping Centre, The Sands Centre for shows and concerts, and plenty of local pubs and restaurants. Plus, it's well-connected by rail and road, making it an ideal base for commuters or those who want city life with access to green space.
- The Eden Valley
The Eden Valley is one of the quieter parts of Cumbria and ideal for anyone looking for countryside living. The River Eden runs through this peaceful area and offers scenic walking trails, opportunities for cycling and quiet fishing spots, making it the ideal place for those looking to unwind.
It’s also home to market towns like Penrith, Appleby-in-Westmorland and Kirkby Stephen, where you’ll find local produce, traditional tea rooms and farmers’ markets. With fewer tourists than the central Lakes, it’s a great place to enjoy Cumbria’s natural beauty at a slower pace.
- The Western Lake District
For those who love the idea of combining coastal views with mountainous backdrops, the Western Lakes and Coast offers a quieter, yet equally beautiful experience. This area of Cumbria is ideal for those who crave outdoor adventures but prefer to avoid the more crowded spots of the central Lake District.
Along the coast, you’ll find villages like St Bees, the starting point of the famous Coast to Coast Walk, with a long sandy beach and a lighthouse walk popular with locals. The area also includes towns like Egremont, Cleator Moor and Gosforth, which are ideal for those who want to live near both mountains and sea.
- The Cumbrian Coast
Looking for things to do in Cumbria that suit the whole family? A visit to the coastline provides the chance to experience a different side of the county. From sandy beaches to rocky shores, the coast offers quieter days out, fishing spots and scenic walks.
Barrow-in-Furness is one of the larger towns in the south of the county, with historic shipbuilding links and new investment in energy and industry. Kirkby-in-Furness is a smaller town nearby, known for its peaceful pace of life, views over the Duddon Estuary and access to walks, including part of the Cumbria Coastal Way. For more reasons to explore Kirkby-in-Furness, read out latest blog post here.
Houses for sale in Cumbria
With so much to see and do, Cumbria is the perfect place to start your next chapter.
Ready to make the move? Explore our latest properties for sale in Cumbria here and find the right home for your next move.