The Lake District Wildlife Park near Bassenthwaite offers a fantastic family day out, home to over 100 species of wild and domestic animals. Featuring engaging daily keeper talks, massive outdoor adventure playgrounds, and a cozy indoor soft play area, it stands as an essential stop for families exploring the northern Lake District.
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Tucked away in the scenic Tyne Valley, the historic towns of Corbridge and Hexham offer the perfect blend of Roman ruins and relaxing riverside escapes. Whether you are wandering through the boutique-lined streets of Corbridge with family or enjoying a slow-paced walk along the banks of the River Tyne with friends, this corner of Northumberland is a haven for explorers. From 17th-century bridges to vibrant parks with plenty of space for kids and dogs to roam, this post shares our discovery of these two local gems over a spring weekend.
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Explore the tranquil shores of Bassenthwaite Lake with this walk between Scarness Bay and Bowness Bay. This hidden Cumbrian treasure with flat, easy-access paths, stunning views of Skiddaw, and plenty of spots to swim in summer, is the perfect low-level adventure for families seeking a quiet slice of the Lake District.
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Discover the wild, ethereal beauty of Sandscale Haws National Trust Nature Reserve, a coastal hidden gem in the South Lake District where snow-capped peaks meet the Irish Sea. This winter family adventure offers a mix of frozen sands, mysterious shipwrecks and wild dunes. The reserve is also home to a quarter of the UK’s rare Natterjack toads and a tapestry of over 600 plant species offering a profound sense of peace.
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For those seeking a quiet winter escape in family with their dog, Charente, in Nouvelle-Aquitaine,France is a perfect destination. This region, between Bordeaux and Angoulême, is a hidden gem for slow-travel enthusiasts and families alike. From the historic 16th-century architecture of Chalais to the cobbled streets of Aubeterre-sur-Dronne the area is rich with heritage. It offers to winter visitors monolithic wonders, atmospheric riverside paths along the Tude, and peaceful nature walks.
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Discover the ideal winter escape for your family and your dog in the stunning Côtes-d’Armor, France. This region in the quiet northwest corner of Brittany is a true hidden gem. You’ll find extensive sandy beaches perfect for off-leash walks, charming small harbours, and dramatic pink cliffs meeting the turquoise water of the Atlantic. It offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, coastal relaxation, and the discovery of the delicious local French delicacies.
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A beautiful short walk up to Walla Crag summit in the Lake District National Park in England. This family and dog friendly walk is perfect to admire the view over Derwent water, Bassenthwaite lake and the summits of Cat Bells, Maiden Moor and High Spy. The ascent can be a bit strenuous for some walkers but the view from the top is well worth the effort. This walk goes down by Great Wood forest.
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A short circular walk through Uldale Plantation and Nannycatch Gate in Cleator, Cumbria. This hidden forest on the edge of the Lake District National Park, offers views of Dent, Flat Fell and coastal panoramas. The path includes rugged forest tracks through ancient pines and explores the secluded Nannycatch Valley, once a glacial drainage route. This little known walk is great for a Sunday morning stroll with the family and dogs.
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Looking for the best rainy day activity on the Cumbrian coast? The Lake District Coast Aquarium in Maryport is a fantastic family-friendly destination that keeps everyone dry while exploring the wonders of the Irish Sea. From the interactive shallows tanks to the immersive Wild Solway exhibits, it’s a brilliant way for children to discover local marine life.
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Our Lake District Escapades 