Discover Cumbria’s Hidden Gems This Summer
Author: Jayne Cunliffe
When people think of the Lake District, they often picture busy tourist hotspots and crowded lakes. But if you’re looking for a more peaceful escape, the Northern Lake District and Solway Coast offer everything you love about Cumbria—without the queues.
From beautiful beaches and scenic walks to wildlife, historic towns and family attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the summer months.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or spending the season in your own holiday home, here’s our guide to making the most of summer.
Enjoy the Solway Coast Beaches
Just a few minutes from North Lakes Country Park lies the stunning Solway Coast, one of Cumbria’s best-kept secrets.
Allonby Beach
Stretching for miles with spectacular views across the Solway Firth to Scotland, Allonby Beach is perfect for:
Long coastal walks
Rock pooling
Beach picnics
Watching unforgettable sunsets
The village also offers cafés, an ice cream shop and traditional seaside charm.
Silloth Green & Promenade
Silloth has one of the widest green spaces on the Cumbrian coast, making it ideal for families.
Crazy golf
Children’s play parks
Ice cream by the sea
Beautiful coastal walks
Independent cafés and restaurants
On a clear day, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views across the Solway to the Scottish hills.
Explore the Northern Lake District
Escape the crowds and discover peaceful lakes and fells.
Bassenthwaite Lake
A paradise for nature lovers.
Activities include:
Bird watching
Photography
Fishing
Watersports
Keep your eyes open for ospreys, which return every summer to nest in the area.
Derwentwater & Keswick
Boat trips
Lakeside walks
Independent shops
Outdoor cafés
Weekly markets
Hire a rowing boat or simply relax with an ice cream while taking in one of England’s most beautiful views.
Visit Watchtree Nature Reserve
Perfect for walkers, cyclists and wildlife enthusiasts.
Miles of traffic-free cycling
Walking trails
Wildlife hides
Family activities
Accessible routes
Summer brings butterflies, dragonflies and an abundance of birdlife.
Meet the Belted Galloway Cattle at Mowbray Banks
One of the area’s most photographed sights.
These iconic black-and-white cattle graze the coastal nature reserve throughout the summer and help protect this important landscape.
Bring your camera—you’ll almost certainly leave with some memorable photos.
Walk the Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site
History lovers can explore one of Britain’s greatest Roman landmarks.
Birdoswald Roman Fort
Milecastles
Roman museums
Scenic walking routes
It’s a fantastic day out that combines history with spectacular countryside.
Explore Charming Market Towns
Cockermouth
Birthplace of William Wordsworth.
Independent shops
Local cafés
Historic streets
Artisan food
Brewery tours nearby
Maryport
Perfect for a family day out.
The harbour
Maritime history
Local shops
Aquarium
Roman heritage attractions
Discover Local Wildlife
Summer is one of the best times to enjoy Cumbria’s incredible wildlife.
Look out for:
Ospreys
Red squirrels
Curlews
Lapwings
Belted Galloway cattle
Butterflies
Dragonflies
The quieter northern area provides excellent opportunities for wildlife photography.
Enjoy Fantastic Walking Routes
Whether you’re looking for gentle strolls or challenging hikes, there’s a walk for everyone.
Popular choices include:
Rannerdale Knotts
Binsey Fell
Many routes finish at welcoming country pubs serving delicious local food.
Relax at North Lakes Country Park
After a day exploring, there’s nothing better than returning to your own peaceful retreat.
North Lakes Country Park is perfectly located between the Northern Lake District and the Solway Coast, giving holiday home owners easy access to some of Cumbria’s most beautiful scenery.
Owners enjoy:
Peaceful owner-only surroundings
Fishing and watersports lake
Dog-friendly environment
Spacious countryside setting
Easy access to beaches, lakes and walking routes
Open all year for holidays
Whether you’re enjoying your morning coffee on the decking or watching the sunset after a day of adventure, it’s the perfect place to unwind.
Start Making Summer Memories
The Northern Lake District and Solway Coast offer everything you need for an unforgettable summer—beautiful scenery, peaceful beaches, wildlife, outdoor adventures and charming towns.
If you’ve ever dreamed of owning your own holiday home in Cumbria, there’s no better time to start.
Visit North Lakes Country Park and discover why so many owners return throughout the year to enjoy the very best of Cumbrian life.
