Family Fun
Days Out
Family Fun in Allerdale
Whether you’re bringing the little ones for their first Allerdale adventure or want to reward the teenagers after weeks of home schooling, a family break to West Cumbria is a great idea.
You’re going to want to let off some steam after weeks of lockdown and you need a safe space to do it. Whinlatter Forest Park, between Cockermouth and Keswick, is a fabulous place to start. There are mountain bike routes for all abilities, easy marked paths through the trees, and Gruffalo statues for you to find. You can even download an app and go wildlife spotting.
Whinlatter Forest Part, Near Keswick
Community Garden, Silloth Green
Or perhaps you fancy a trip to the beach? Miles of sand to run on, rockpools to dip into, beachcombing to be done, and maybe an ice cream at the end of it. Head for the stretch of coastline around Allonby to find some lovely spots to unfold the deckchairs and put up that windbreak. You’re in the Solway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty there too so expect wildlife galore.
While you’re on the coast, you could get out the bikes and discover the long cycle path that runs all the way north from Maryport. In the months to come, it will even stretch as far as Silloth. You’re separated from the traffic and there’s plenty of room to stay away from other visitors.
Those teenagers might be looking for something with a little more adrenaline involved, in which case head up to Honister where you can brave the via ferrata and infinity bridge. You could swing through the trees of Whinlatter, put their balancing to the test with paddleboarding or kayaking on Derwentwater, or enjoy a trip in a rowing boat.
While you’re in the heart of the Lakes, a paddle or a swim could be in order. The shallow beaches of Crummock Water or Bassenthwaite Lake are ideal. They’re also a great place for a picnic – and a family stone skimming contest!
Try one of the great activities at Honister Slate Mine
The Lake District Coast Aquarium, Maryport
Some of our family venues are opening slowly and safely now too, like the Lake District Coast Aquarium at Maryport, the Lake District Wildlife Park near Bassenthwaite and the cruisers on Derwentwater.
We have some really family-friendly walks too. Discover the spooky tunnel at Buttermere, pretend you’re the king and queen of Allerdale at Castle Crag, or take a run through the trees at Dodd Wood or on and around Silloth Green.
Eat
Booking in advance is a must as our pubs and restaurants get back to some semblance of normality – particularly when you have hungry children in tow! We have loads of venues offering family-friendly meals, whether you’re looking for a light bite for lunch or a big plateful at the end of a busy day. Some of the national chains have hotels here, or you can try our independent family-run businesses who are used to catering for appetites of all sizes. Our biggest town of Workington is a good bet if you want food fast.
The Fairydust Emporium, Silloth
The Golden Lion Hotel, Maryport
Stay
One of the holiday parks around Silloth could be an ideal base for a family trip. You’re so close to the coast, there are easily accessible shops and facilities, and you’ll have self-catering accommodation so you can please yourselves on when you eat and sleep. If you’d prefer a break from homecooking, try one of Allerdale’s great hotels or guest houses. You’ll find loads within walking distance of the town centres in Cockermouth, Keswick and Workington in particular.
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