The Lake District

Like everywhere else in England, sheep abound in the Lake District

We had time for one quick final trip in the UK- and we chose the Lake District.  We weren't disappointed.

The Lake District (known as simply "the Lakes" for residents) is a national park in northeast England teeming with mountains (or smaller 'fells'), lakes (duh), sheep, and all the associated activities that come with an area of outstanding natural beauty.  We stayed in Keswick- in the central portion of the park- and from there toured the immediate surrounds.  Our time was limited, but at a high level, we did the following.

30-mile driving tour

Starting in Keswick, we drove clockwise in a 30-mile loop through Borrowdale, Buttermere, and Whinlatter Pass.  It took the better part of the morning, as we drove by a slate quarry, hiked amongst the bluebells and sheep, and enjoyed the rugged beauty of the area.

Castlerigg Stone Circle
Older than Stonehenge but much less popular, this ancient stone circle is set on a small plateau surrounded by fells, mountains, and sheep.  A great way to spend a relaxing hour.

Keswick Hike & Derwent Water
Not surprisingly, Keswick has dozens of signed walkways.  We took a 2.5-mile hike with the kids to a nice overlook and down to Derwent Water (the lake).

Askrigg Hike
Just north of Keswick, some of us took an early-morning hike up a local fell- Askrigg.  The weather muted the impressive views- but it was still fun.

Beatrix Potter Museum
On our drive home, we headed east through Windermere, then on to the Beatrix Potter Museum, which celebrates the local author's Peter Rabbit series by re-creating famous scenes from each of her 23 works.

Conclusion
We wish we had done the Lake District multiple times during our UK tour.  It was close, beautiful, and relaxing.