Cumbria is one of the most sparsely populated regions in the UK but is also one of the most popular places to visit for a holiday or a long weekend break. Often better known as the Lake District, Cumbria has much more to offer than simply waterside scenery and walking tours. A diverse county dotted with quaint villages and lovely market towns, Cumbria has so much to enjoy that many people return every year and always discover something new. The Lake District National Park has sixteen lakes with the county's longest river, The Eden flowing through the park right up to the Solway Firth. A haven for ramblers, cyclists and anyone who loves outdoor pursuits, there is also a wonderful choice of accommodation.
Staying in a bed and breakfast room or suite, many of which are pet friendly, gives you the opportunity to sample eating out at one of the plentiful restaurants where freshly cooked produce makes every meal a special one. Cumberland Whirl is a local speciality sausage that is highly recommended. In the village shops there are culinary delights to buy such as Grasmere gingerbread or the famous Kendal mint cake. Friendly pubs also serve an excellent range of locally brewed beers.
If you choose to go self catering you can still enjoy delicious gourmet meals without hard work. Just order from Montgomery's Fresh Delivery Service. Based close to Windermere, Montgomery's takes the stress out of catering with freshly cooked food delivered to your door anywhere in Cumbria and beyond.
A large part of Cumbria is covered with hills and woodlands. This makes it a must for visitors who love to be close to nature. There are many caravan parks and glamping sites available in the county. Modern caravans offer a home from home feel with plenty of space and comfort. Glamping is nothing like the old days of camping. You get a real bed and all the amenities you need including modern bathroom facilities, flat screen TVs and, if you want to stay in touch with family and friends, you can also get Wi-Fi.
There is a myriad of choice when it comes to days out in Cumbria. Graythwaite Adventure, near to Windermere, provides the opportunity for exciting and adventurous activities. Choose from 4 X 4 off-roading, canoeing, paddle boards, clay pigeon shoots and many more. It doesn't matter whether you have any experience as the friendly qualified instructors are there to provide expert tuition.
Cumbria has an array of unusual landmarks including the 16th century Slater's Bridge where you can paddle in the waters of the River Brathay. Another rare sight is the 450 million year old Bowder Stone, a 200 ton chunk of lava which teeters at an exceedingly odd angle. There is a set of wooden steps so you can climb to the top.
In the West, Cumbria has stunning coastal scenery over the Irish Sea, the Solway Firth and Morecambe Bay. To the East are the beautiful Pennines and to the North of Windermere can see more of the 16 stunning lakes and villages. Ambleside, Conistan Water and Grasmere, the home of the poet and writer William Wordsworth are all beautiful places to visit. When you take a holiday in Cumbria there are stunning landscapes, exciting activities, fine dining and friendly locals who are proud to live there and who are longing to share their beautiful county.