There's So Much To Do!
A world of adventure awaits you at the gateway to The Lakes...
Explore the Hills
The Lake District provides a beautiful backdrop for your adventures all year round.
Enjoy beautiful open spaces, stunning fells, mountains and spectacular scenery. Whether you are looking for a leisurely stroll, a mountainous challenge or a leisurely shopping trip, we can help you plan the perfect itinerary.
See The Lakes
The Lake District has more than sixteen lakes, numerous tarns plus a stretch of coastline. The Gateway is the perfect base to start your adventures from. We are 10 minutes from Lake Windermere and only 20 minutes from the beautiful coastlines of Grange-Over-Sands and Arnside.
Get on the Water
There is certainly no shortage of water based adventure in The Lakes! You can enjoy kayaking, windsurfing, paddle boarding, wild swimming and diving, all within a short driving distance! If you are looking for something more relaxing we recommend a cruise across Lake Windermere, glass of wine in hand or a romantic trip in your own hired boat.
Lessons in water-skiing, sailing, boat racing and raft building are also available.
Explore by Bike
We provide secure bike storage, so why not explore countless beautiful destinations on wheels?
Don't want to bring your own bike? That's no problem, you can hire a mountain, road or electric bike from one of the many local cycling centres. For more info on cycling routes see the link below.
Retail Therapy
The Lake District is home to many character-filled shopping areas and markets. Visit the ancient market towns of Kendal, Sedbergh, Kirkby Lonsdale, Windermere and Ambleside for a wide range of local produce and outdoor equipment.
Eat and Drink
The Lake District is home to a fantastic range of culinary delights. We have an international reputation for unique and distinctive food and drinks that are made locally. Enjoy our Gateway à la carte cuisine or menu du jour from the convenience of the hotel. You can also explore famous local produce including Kendal Mint Cake, Grasmere Gingerbread, Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding, Cumberland sausage, Hawkshead Relish and Farrer’s Tea and Coffee Merchants. We are situated directly opposite Plumgarths farm shop and not one, but two exceptional bakeries!
Events and Festivals
The Lake District is home to a great number of calendar events including: The Lakes Mountain Film Festival, Kendal Calling music festival, Ulverston's Dickensian Festival and The Lakes International Comic Art Festival. See the links below for more info.
www.kendalmountainfestival.com
Spas, Health and Wellbeing
There is nothing more relaxing and soothing than a spa experience during your stay. Explore luxury treatments, soothing thermal journeys and revitalizing spa days. Whether its for a massage, swim or champagne in a hot tub over looking the lake, we can guarantee to recommend a spa experience you will never forget.
Off-Road Driving Adventures
Discover the Lakes in an off-road 4x4 adventure! Our partners at Kankku will take great care of you as you explore The Lakes from a unique perspective. Explore historic trails and reach places you would never be able to by foot! For those feeling more adventurous, take the wheel and embark on your own self-drive Lakes Safari!
Sky Diving
Experience the unforgettable thrill of free falling from15,000 ft with the most stunning natural views!
We are located within easy reach of Sky Dive Northwest who provide experiences suitable for first time skydivers and more experienced pros. With only a few minutes training you can safely undertake a tandem jump with one of the instructors. This is one of our highest rated local activities and a real adrenaline rush!
Historic Places to See
The Gateway is perfectly positioned for short drives to local attractions, including Kendal Castle, Levens Hall, Abbot Hall and Sizergh Castle, Holker Hall, Wray Castle and many other heritage sites.
Museums and Attractions
There is plenty to keep the whole family entertained! Kids and adults can enjoy the Lakes Aquarium, Lakes Motor Museum, The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, Kendal Museum and multiple Lakeland Arts locations!
Steam train lovers can take a memorable trip on the Haverthwaite Railway.
Theatre and Cinema
We are lucky to be surrounded by a rich offering of arts! The Brewery Arts Centre, Heron Theatre and The Old Laundry Theatre host a range of high quality music, theatre, comedy and arts events throughout the year!
Balloon Adventures
Soar across the sky and take in the breathtaking views of famous lakes and mountains. An unforgettable experience!
Golfing
Windermere, Kendal and Carus Green Golf Clubs offer fantastic opportunities to tee off in beautiful natural surroundings. Beginners and pros are welcomed, with plenty of opportunity to celebrate wins in well stocked bars and restaurants.
Horseriding
The Gateway sits close to two fantastic equestrian centres. The knowledgeable teams at Lakeland Pony Trek and Witherslack Riding Centre will ensure you are well looked after, whether you are a complete beginner or advanced rider.
Lakeland Wildlife Oasis
Kids and adults alike will adore a wild day out at Lakeland Wildlife Oasis! Come face to face with over 100 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish and invertebrates. Get close enough to make friends with leopards, monkeys and meercats by booking a personal experience.
Climbing
Whether you are a complete novice or seasoned expert there are great climbing opportunities on our doorstep. We are a 10 minute drive from England's tallest indoor climbing wall at Kendal Climbing Wall and for those more experienced climbers there are great outdoor climbs at Chapel Head Scar.
South Lakes Play Centre Outside In
Outside In provides an excellent play experience for children whilst grown ups can relax and enjoy a cup of tea!
Outside-In Cumbria | Indoor Play Centre and Soft Play in Kendal (outsideincumbria.org.uk)
Lakeland Farm Visitor Centre
A great family day out to learn about Lakeland farming, past and present, offering activities in wool spinning and drystone walling and a wonderful farm cafe, farm shop and butchers.
Farm Shop, Butchers, Cafe & Farm Activities in the Lake District - Lakeland Farm Visitor Centre
Children's Chocolate Factory,
Hawkshead
Enjoy a unique and interactive family experience exploring the world of chocolate in The Lake District! Both adults and children can enjoy workshops all year round.
The Chocolate Factory Hawkshead – The Childrens Chocolate Experience – The Lake District
Lake District
White Water Rafting
Lake District White Water Rafting offers a unique experience in the English Lake District. Whether you are aged 8 or 88; they want everyone to experience adventure; from family days out, hen and stag parties, team building events, or for those who just want to experience some brilliant White Water Rafting UK Style!