This is England’s largest National Park, home to 12 of our largest lakes as well as Scafell Pike, at more than 3,000 feet the highest point in the country. There’s nowhere else in England to match the dramatic scenery here, where barren mountains descend to picturesque valleys where pretty towns nestle. It’s no wonder that so many of our finest poets and writers, among them Wordsworth, Shelley, Colerdige and even Beatrix Potter, found their inspiration here. The Lake District is a favourite with walkers and hill climbers, as well as people who like messing about in boats. Don’t miss a trip on one of the old steamers that ply the lakes, while towns like Windermere, Ambleside and Keswick are a joy to explore.