Holiday Cottages 4 U
A Travel Guide to Cumbria
Nestled in the north-western corner of England, Cumbria is the country`s second largest county and was originally formed from the old counties of Cumberland,
Westmoreland, parts of north Lancashire and parts of North Yorkshire. In spite of its size, however, Cumbria is a predominantly rural county and today traditional
industries and agriculture are as much a part of the Cumbrian economy and way of life as they have been for hundreds of years. Due to its stunning, undulating
landscape, wealth of natural treasures, places of historical interest and relaxed pace of life, Cumbria then continually proves itself to be a popular destination
for holiday makers.
As the home of the world famous Lake District National Park, it is hardly surprising that Cumbria is widely considered to be one of the
most naturally beautiful locations in the whole of England and it is for this very reason that countless visitors flock to the county every year. The Lake District
is a heaven for those who enjoy the great outdoors and particularly those who enjoy experiencing nature by strapping on their walking boots. The glorious mountains
and lakes provide the perfect setting for walkers of all interests and abilities and the many charming old pubs are a great place to rest your feet for an hour or so!
Cumbria and the Lake District also offer many other wonderful ways to enjoy the beautiful surroundings aside from walking. Fishing in the many beautiful
lakes (for example Windermere, Grasmere and Coniston among others) is a past time many visitors to the area enjoy, as is bird watching, horse riding and playing a
round or two of golf. For something a little more unusual, there`s also the option of llama trekking! On the other hand, for those who like to enjoy exploring the
great outdoors in a somewhat higher gear, Cumbria also offers a wealth of activities for thrill seekers, the likes of which include abseiling, caving, windsurfing,
water-skiing, canoeing, rock-climbing, paragliding, off-road driving, gorge-walking and scrambling!
As well as being a sight of breathtaking natural beauty, Cumbria also proudly boasts a rich and interesting cultural history. As many are aware, the Lake District
was home to William Wordsworth - one of the nation`s best loved poets - and so a visit to Dove cottage, which was his home between 1799 and 1808, is an ideal place
to absorb some of Cumbria`s literary heritage. Another great place of interest for literature lovers young and old is Hill Top, the charming little 17th century
house where Beatrix Potter wrote many of her famous children`s stories. Other great attractions that those visiting Cumbria frequently enjoy include Keswick Brewing
Company, Levens Hall and Gardens, Blackwell House, the Museum of Lakeland Life, the Lakes Aquarium, the Alpaca Centre, Cumberland Pencil Museum and Abbot Hall Art
Gallery.
There really is no bad time to stay in Cumbria cottages, as every season offers visitors
something different to enjoy. During the spring months the weather is generally temperate and this is the best time to see nature in full bloom. Summer months can
be very warm, whilst autumn is breathtakingly beautiful with many shades of red and gold. Through the winter the air is fresh and crisp and the mountains always look
their best when covered in snow! Travel to Cumbria is rather straight forward, as the county is easily accessible by both car and coach (via the M6). Notably Cumbria
also has an excellent rail network and can be reached from any part of the UK.