Lucy Caille | Thu, Nov 8th, 2018
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So just a couple of weeks ago over half term I waved my Goddaughter and family off on a GlamperRV adventure to the Lakes, arming them with plenty of top tips on what to do and where to stay on the premise that they would return with reviews, photos and feedback.
This was their first ever GlamperRV or to be honest any campervan experience so once they were over marvelling at GlamperRV’s luxurious and spacious interior they were eager to pay attention to the familiarisation tour before hitting the road. I think the first thing they were pleasantly surprised by was just how quick and easy driving up to the Lakes was, with the automatic gearbox and cruise control, Bluetooth stereo playing their favourite tunes and of course plenty of WiFi for my Goddaughter and her brother!
Their first stop was Coniston which is superbly located for exploring the region by foot or bike and I recommended that they stay at Lake Pier Cottage – a unique property situated on the shore of Coniston Water with views of the lake and mountains. Being a bit of a petrol head I thought my friends would appreciate the link with Donald Campbell as this was the site from which he used to launch Bluebird. In fact the Bluebird Café is just a short walk away and was reviewed very favourably – ‘it does fantastic cakes and particularly popular were the hot chocolate brownies’.
The highlight of their trip was climbing the Old Man of Coniston, which was amazing (they were also spoilt with perfect conditions). There are a few different routes up so you can make a really good walk out of it , creating a loop starting from the car park up the lane from Coniston town. You will then have breath-taking views as you work your way up one side and come down around the other.
Another great find was Path to Adventure, an extremely professional husband and wife team who spent the best part of a day teaching the family the skills of rock climbing and abseiling. This was hugely enjoyed by the children and for those looking for a little more adventure than the local Go Ape Junior definitely ticked the box.
Another great find for yet more adventure was Grizedale Forest and the stunning mountain bike trails ranging from the black trails for seriously experienced riders to the adorable Mushroom Trail for younger children. If you fancy trying out a new bike then a wide range are available for hire including electric mountain bikes which means you get to whizz up the hills in no time and maximise the time spent on the exhilarating downhills.
If you are looking to stay in the area and feel like being spoilt with someone cooking you dinner then the Drunken Duck Inn comes highly recommended. If you call ahead to book your table and speak nicely they should also let you park overnight (they did to my friends who loved the place!)
If however you prefer the facilities of a campsite then the Low Wray camping, nestled on the western shoreline of Lake Windermere also comes recommended. It occupies one of the finest locations in the Lake District, with access to the shores of Lake Windermere and Wray Castle for plenty of water based adventures.
From Lake Windermere take the Kirstone Pass up to Ullswater – this is when you will be pleased you went for an A class motorhome hire as with its huge windscreen you will really enjoy this stunning route. There is a working farm, Gillside Farm with a campsite on edge of Glenridding next to Ullswater and at the foot of Helvellyn creating yet another fantastic overnight spot complete with plenty of incredible walks.
Carry on further west to Keswick, which has one of the most stunning situations of any of the Lakeland towns and the tranquillity of Derwent Water. According to local motorhomers the Great Wood National Trust car park is a fantastic location for a spot of wild camping. Whilst busy with walkers during the day after 6pm everyone goes and you may well have the place to yourselves.
The Lake District is a really superb year round destination with plenty of activities, great eating spots and stunning scenery. Enjoy it during the winter when the peaks are covered in snow or the range of water sports on offer over the summer months. With Google Maps estimating a little over four hours from our Buckinghamsire HQ to Coniston what’s to stop you heading off for an activity filled weekend! Between now and Christmas we have some availability and great prices so do get in touch if you fancy a taste of the Lakes!
