Expert: Iain Reynolds - 4/11/2005

Question
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Followup To
Question - Wow...now that is service...thanks for your prompt response!  In follow-up, we are going to be at the lake district June 5 and 6 or June 10 and 11...does that change your opinion for Bowness?

Again, many thanks.

Joy
Hi Iain,

We are a family  of four and wondering if you could advise on reasonably priced accomodations that allow for two night stay in the lake  district and where the best area is to be located for a short stay.

Thank you in advance for your input.

Joy
Answer -
You don't tell me when your coming to Cumbria.  However, Bowness (Nr Windermere) is the most popular place to visit because of it being on the lake.  It's very busy and in my opinion over priced because of that.  My suggestion for a two-day visit would be to stay in or around the town of Keswick in the northern end of the Lake District.  It is an old market town that still retains its charm without being to over priced.  Locally there is plenty to do with Ambleside, Cockermouth, Borrowdale and Skidaw all within 15 minutes away.  Keswick is also on the side of Derwent Water (known locally as Keswick Lake) which is very pretty.  You can hire boats or take the boat to the top end of the lake and walk back.  (About 4 miles in total)

Have a look at this link for your B&B or Hotel.  They get booked up pretty quick, so do call in advance.

Hope you have a good break and the weather is kind to you.

If I can help any more just email.

http://www.lake-district-links.co.uk


Answer
Yep it slightly changes because the children will still be in school and therefore will be slightly quieter.  It will still remain more expensive than Keswick.  Bowness is the best for lake based activities, however if you require fell (mountain) walking then I would stick with Keswick (pronounced Kes-ick).  Keswick offers good shopping, two lakes, Derwent Water and Bassenthwaite Lake (the only true lake as all the others are waters or meres).  It also surrounded by high mountains on all sides whereas Bowness is geared up for watersports (10 mph restriction on the water) and lower fell walking.

June is a lovely month to visit as the lower fells are in full bloom and looking very lush whilst the upper fells are still cool and ideal for a good walk.  

Hope this helps

Iain