Cumbria Outdoor Pursuits & Nature

GO APE Grizedale Forest Park - Cumbria
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GO APE Grizedale Forest Park - Cumbria
If you like the idea of an amazing high wire forest tree top course then Go Ape could be just your thing. We have Tarzan swings, rope bridges, ladders, tunnels and zip lines suspended up to 40 feet high in the tree tops. Go Ape is an award-winning confidence course with branches throughout the UK.  The Go Ape course will appeal to...
Ambleside Climbing Wall
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Ambleside Climbing Wall
Ambleside Climbing Wall is the perfect family option. With our experienced and fully qualified instructors we will take you through the basics of climbing and bouldering whilst guaranteeing that the kids get loads of goes on the walls and the parents can maybe even learn a few skills on the way. Ambleside Climbing Wall offers Taster Sessions...
Grizedale Forest
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Grizedale Forest
Tucked between Lake Windermere and Coniston Water, Grizedale Forest offers a range of options to enjoy the fresh air and the outstanding views across the fells. The forest information centre is a good place to start your visit: you can pick up a walking or biking trail map and get help planning your family adventure! There are waymarked walking...
Brockhole Lake District Visitors Centre
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Brockhole Lake District Visitors Centre
Brockhole Lake District Visitors' Centre on the shores of Windermere has loads to do outdoors and indoors with a 30 acre site of shoreline, woodland and meadow to explore with trails available to buy to help motivate the kids. When the beautiful surroundings have exhausted you, there is also an adventure playground for 5 to 14 year olds packed...
Ten Lakes Spectacular Tour from Windermere
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Ten Lakes Spectacular Tour from Windermere
Experience Britain's unrivalled natural beauty in the Lake District What's included 8-hour round trip tour Transport in a 16-seater minibus Onboard commentary in English 45-minute lake cruise (if unavailable, an alternative extra is included)     Delve into England's wild countryside on this narrated tour of the Lake...

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Dove Cottage and Wordsworth Museum - Grasmere
It was in this little cottage, at times ‘crammed edge full’ with people, in the heart of the remote Lake District, that William Wordsworth wrote some of the greatest poetry in the English language and Dorothy kept her famous 'Grasmere Journal', now on display in the Museum. William came across his first Grasmere home by chance as he...
Climb 365
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Climb 365
Climb365 is based in the English Lake District. It offers a wide range of land based rock climbing and mountaineering activities. Climb365 caters for all levels of ability from the complete novice trying rock climbing or scrambling for the first time, to the experienced mountaineer wanting to learn to lead in winter. We have taken out children...
The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction - Windermere
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The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction - Windermere
The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction in the heart of the Lake District brings all 23 of the author’s tales to life where visitors meet all the characters including Jemima Puddle-Duck, Mrs Tiggy-Winkle, the Flopsy Bunnies and, of course, Peter Rabbit. The Attraction is a magical place where place, where visitors can glimpse scenes from the...
Lanehead Outdoor Education Centre
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Lanehead Outdoor Education Centre
•  Group accommodation •  Watersports & mountaineering •  Caving & mountain biking •  Disabled access •  Recently refurbished •  En suite facilities 
Lakeland Climbing Centre
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Lakeland Climbing Centre
Award winning Lakeland Climbing Centre boasting the tallest wall in the country at 25m, Kendal CrazyClimb and Europe's first indoor Via Ferrata. We have been providing quality indoor climbing and instruction for over 15 years for both expert climbers and beginners. Superb facilities including Creamery Cafe with free wifi, Kendal Wall ...
Destination Cumbria - Kendal
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Destination Cumbria - Kendal
The one place to go for all your Adventure Activities in the Lake District. With all sorts of adventures available from Gorge Scrambling to Rock Climbing, Abseiling to Canoeing, Raft Building to Water Walkers, Mountain Bikes or Mountain Boards. We have it all for all shapes and sizes. Now that the kids are heading back to school,our outdoor...
Kendal Via Ferrata
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Kendal Via Ferrata
The award winning Lakeland Climbing Centre is one of the countryâs largest indoor aerial adventure centres, offering fun climbing and aerial activities for all the family from 5 years old to adults. The premier Climbing Centre incorporates Kendal Wall, Kendal CrazyClimb and Skyline Indoor Aerial Adventure together with superb on site...
Station Inn
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Station Inn
Originally a farm house which dates from the turn of the century, this charming pub and restaurant also boasts accommodation of a high standard. We have 4 deluxe double bedrooms and 3 deluxe family bedrooms. All are en suite, decorated to a high standard and have tea/coffee making facilities, t.v. and hairdryers. All rooms are non smoking and we...
The Gateway Inn
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The Gateway Inn
Welcome to the Gateway Inn The location of “The Gateway Inn” provides a stunning setting as “the gateway to the lakes”. Its position at the roundabout on the A591 outside Kendal makes it the perfect base for exploring the beautiful and amazing places the Lake District has to offer. There is a wealth of enjoyable golf...
Windermere Lake Cruises
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Windermere Lake Cruises
Welcome to Windermere Lake Cruises - the most popular attraction in Cumbria. Windermere is England's largest lake, in the heart of the Lake District. We offer cruises from 45 minutes to 3 hours - or you can even spend all day on and around the lake with our fantastic 'Freedom of the Lake'
Fell Foot Park
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Fell Foot Park
Situated at the very southern tip of Lake Windermere, Fell Foot is a great, family friendly location to play, explore and relax. Sweeping lawns offer plenty of space for games, picnics and gentle walks, while easy lake access makes the park perfect for paddling, swimming and boating. Rowing boats are available to hire (from April to October)...
Lake District Wildlife Park - Keswick
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Lake District Wildlife Park - Keswick
Fun and Informative Demonstrations Handling of the animals is actively encouraged at Trotters World of Animals, especially during our audience participation events held throughout the day.   Wander around our beautiful 24 acre parkland and see over 100 species. The magical Bird of Prey flying displays have been a regular feature since the...
Keswick Climbing Wall
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Keswick Climbing Wall
Keswick Climbing Wall wishes to extend it support to everyone who’s home or business has been affected by the dreadful floods that hit us in December. Thankfully, the Wall was not affected and the damage at Newlands is minor compared to what some people in Keswick experienced.  Keswick and Cumbria will bounce back, with resolute...
Threlkeld Quarry and Mining Museum
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Threlkeld Quarry and Mining Museum
The highlight at Threlkeld Quarry and Mining Museum is naturally the underground element, but if the kids aren't too keen on descending then unlike the iceberg there's still plenty to get on with above the surface here! The trip down into the reconstructed lead and coper mine feels very adventurous whilst in fact being completely safe: kids get...
Mirehouse
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Mirehouse
Mirehouse, near Keswick, is a family run historic house attraction open to visitors to enjoy its strong literary connections, live piano music and children's activities. The gardens stretch from Dodd Wood to Bassenthwaite Lake and include woodland playgrounds, a heather maze, a rhododendron tunnel and poetry walk for children and grown ups...
Keswick Climbing Wall and Activity Centre
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Keswick Climbing Wall and Activity Centre
Based in the heart of the Lake District, Keswick Climbing Wall is more than just a climbing centre. We run outdoor activities in Cumbria and the Lake District of all types; from biking to ghyll scrambling, canoeing to raft building, and of course climbing and abseiling. Whether you are part of a group, family or individual we tailor our...
GO APE Whinlatter Forest Park - Cumbria
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GO APE Whinlatter Forest Park - Cumbria
If you like the idea of an amazing high wire forest tree top course then Go Ape could be just your thing. We have Tarzan swings, rope bridges, ladders, tunnels and zip lines suspended up to 40 feet high in the tree tops. Go Ape is an award-winning confidence course with branches throughout the UK.  The Go Ape course will appeal to...
Whinlatter Mountain Forest
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Whinlatter Mountain Forest
Whinlatter, England's only true Mountain Forest, is home to stunning views, fantastic walks, exhilarating mountain biking, rare wildlife and adventure play. Admission: Free!   Opening Times: 365 days a year! Visitor centre and shop 10 to 5pm (10am to 4pm from end October to Easter). Siskins Cafe 10 to 5pm (10am to 4pm from end...
King Kong Climbing Centre
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King Kong Climbing Centre
King Kong Climbing Centre, situated in the heart of the British Lake District Keswick, opened its doors to the climbing world in October 2014. There is a wide range of activities that we are able to offer to keep even the most frequent user happy year round! The climbing area here consists of a multitude of angles from slabs to mega overhangs...
Honister Via Ferrata
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Honister Via Ferrata
Via Ferrata is Latin for ” Iron Way”. The original Via Ferrata`s were routes literally across The Alps that soldiers and partisans used to carry munitions and supplies to their Allies in “World War One and Two”. Using a series of metal cables, rungs, ladders and bridges to ascend and descend tremendous and precipitous...
Fell End Nature Reserve
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Fell End Nature Reserve
Fell End Nature Reserve is now open to both our guests and to the general public, complimenting the Arnside and Silverdale area of outstanding natural beauty. Among the protected wildlife spotted at the nature reserve are owls, marsh harrier, birds and deer, all of which have been spotted from the John Wilson Hide.
Leighton Moss RSPB
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Leighton Moss RSPB
Leighton Moss is the largest reedbed in north-west England, and home to some really special birds such as breeding bitterns, bearded tits and marsh harriers. You might see deer too, not to mention butterflies aplenty! Choose from a selection of trails and hides, most of which are suitable for wheelchairs, and get right to the heart of the...
Rookin House Activity Centre - Penrith
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Rookin House Activity Centre - Penrith
Rookin House is an established adventure venue and has been offering a wide variety of outdoor activities for over 20 years. Family owned and operated, Rookin House has a strong focus on both fun and safety. The centre is just 4 miles from Ullswater, and 8 miles from both Keswick and Penrith and easily accessible from the A66. All of the...
Aira Force
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Aira Force
A tranquil haven of towering peaks, serene waters and undulating hills Ullswater valley is truly breathtaking, with its beautiful lake nestled amongst towering fells. The epic scenery and relative underdevelopment compared to other areas of the Lake District gives Ullswater a secluded and tranquil feel. Aira Force, a tumbling waterfall...
Brougham Castle
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Brougham Castle
 In a picturesque setting beside the crossing of the River Eamont in Cumbria, Brougham Castle was founded in the early 13th century. This great keep largely survives, amid many later buildings - including the unusual double gatehouse and impressive 'Tower of League'. Both a formidable barrier against Scots invaders and a prestigious...
Mayburgh Henge
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Mayburgh Henge
Mayburgh is a large and impressive Neolithic henge. Its banks stand up to three metres high, constructed of pebbles collected from the nearby river. Near the centre is a single standing stone. Old drawings suggest that it was one of a group here, with two more pairs standing at either entrance, but they have since been removed. Read more about...
Holker Hall and Gardens
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Holker Hall and Gardens
Holker Hall is the home of Lord and Lady Cavendish who welcome visitors of all ages to one of the best-loved stately homes in Britain. Magnificently situated only a short distance from Grange-over-Sands and the expanse of Morecambe Bay, Holker Hall is set in exceptionally beautiful countryside with gardens that merge into Parkland framed by the...
Lakeland Miniature Village
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Lakeland Miniature Village
Over 100 buildings made from local Coniston slate. Houses, farms and barns create the Lakeland landscape. There are water features throughout the miniature village. The Oriental Building, which is our gift shop, overlooks the Oriental Garden.
Eden Wall at Penrith Leisure Centre
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Eden Wall at Penrith Leisure Centre
With a 25m swimming pool and a learner pool, fitness gym, fitness classes, six court sports hall, indoor bowling, climbing wall, conference and events facilities, swimming lessons, soft play, children's parties and Cafe @ Leisure, there is something for everyone at Penrith Leisure Centre. New for 2015 is Jungle Jack's Adventure Soft Play; all...
Ford Park
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Ford Park
The natural playground, surround by grassy mounds, has an exciting 30m Zip Wire, climbing stilts, swings and much more. Free guides to the Nature Trail, Tree Trail and entry-level Orienteering Route are available from the Coach House Cafe. They will guide you through the woodland and wilder parts of the park and onto the delightful mature gardens...
Hardknott Roman Fort
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Hardknott Roman Fort
This remote and dramatically-sited fort was founded under Hadrian's rule in the 2nd century. Well-marked remains include the headquarters building, commandant's house and bath house. The site of the parade ground survives beside the fort, and the road which Hardknott guarded can be traced for some distance as an earthwork. Read more about the...
Muncaster Castle and Gardens
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Muncaster Castle and Gardens
Muncaster Castle, home to the Pennington family for 800 years, is a genuine treasure trove of art and antiques. Its Great Hall, Octagonal Library and elegant Dining Room are all windows on a grand past. But Muncaster's wild history reveals a flipside to life in a stately home. The castle evolved from the Pele Tower, built to repel marauding...
Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway
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Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway
Join us as we journey for seven miles from the delightful coastal village of Ravenglass through two glorious valleys to the foot of England’s highest mountains.
Appleby Under 18s Climbing Facility
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Appleby Under 18s Climbing Facility
Climbing is a fun, exciting, sociable and adventurous activity that most kids take to really quickly! All equipment and training is provided and parents are welcome to join in! They also offer NICAS levels 1 and 2, which are a perfect way of being introduced to climbing indoors elsewhere (booking required) once you've got the hang of the basics!...
The Kellbank Hotel
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The Kellbank Hotel
The Kellbank is an old coaching inn situated in the charming village of Gosforth, we offer a choice of excellent B&B rooms, quality food and beer (including great real ales!) which can be served in our bar, restaurant or function room. We also offer first rate fenced off childrens play area out side - swings, play house rocking horse, big...
Greenlands Farm Village
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Greenlands Farm Village
Couples, friends and families can have a wonderful day out with us (whatever the Cumbrian weather brings!) On our open farm you can pat storybook farm animals, ride a horse and trap, pedal (size permitting!) a mini tractor, lark about in a hay strewn play barn and picnic by the paddocks. In our artisan village, you can meet talented crafts...
The Scarborough Spa Express
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The Scarborough Spa Express
What better way to enjoy North Yorkshire’s beautiful countryside, visit the historic city of York or the seaside town of Scarborough, than by traveling aboard a vintage steam hauled train? Calling on route at Normanton, Wakefield, Woodlesford (Leeds) and Castleford. Travel by steam in traditional carriages across Yorkshires beautiful...
Leighton Hall
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Leighton Hall
Our beautiful historic home is a genuinely stunning location for exclusive and luxurious wedding ceremonies, memorable corporate events and fully hosted group activities for schools and local societies. Attractive gardens, amazing rolling parkland and, of course, the spectacularly impressive hall itself, make it great for family visits as well as...
Wordsworth House and Garden
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Wordsworth House and Garden
Wordsworth House and Garden Main Street Cockermouth Cumbria CA13 9RX Telephone: 01900 820884
Cockermouth Sports Centre
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Cockermouth Sports Centre
Cockermouth Leisure Centre and pool is a small but busy facility offering a range of activities for all ages and abilities. Facilities include a 25 metre pool, sports hall, fitness suite, spinning studio, activity studio, climbing wall and meeting rooms to hire. The facility is run by CLL. In November the newly refurbished cardio area and...
The Fat Lamb Hotel
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The Fat Lamb Hotel
About the country inn and restaurant The Fat Lamb Hotel has a long history of offering accommodation to travellers stretching back some 350 years, from its days as a Coaching Inn on the road from Sedbergh to Kirkby Stephen. Today the Hotel combines both modern amenities with good old fashioned hospitality, offering bed and breakfast or half...
Pennine Bridleway National Trail
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Pennine Bridleway National Trail
The Pennine Bridleway offers horse riders, cyclists and walkers the opportunity to explore 205 miles of the Pennines' ancient packhorse routes, drovers roads and newly created bridleways.  Admission: Free to visit.    Opening Times:  Public space, always open.
Climbing at Park Leisure Centre
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Climbing at Park Leisure Centre
They have an excellent climbing wall and boulder wall in their sports hall. You are welcome to come and use it as long as you bring your own equipment and sign their proficient user form. The prices for individual use are for a 45minute session. Booking is not always essential. For proficient climbers only, age matters less than competency, and...
Happy Mount Park - Morecambe
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Happy Mount Park - Morecambe
Happy Mount Park in Morecambe was originally created in the 1920s and has developed into a wonderful, modern, family friendly area with activities for all ages. During the summer, the resort park is brought to life with brass band concerts by many of the area`s finest musicians. Happy Mount Park is proud of its reputation as being a traditional...
The Dock Museum
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The Dock Museum
A striking modern building on a scenic channelside site with free admission Built in a historic nineteenth century dock, the museum is home to a wealth of objects on the social and industrial history of the Furness area.  Barrow-in-Furness was a small farming village rapidly transformed into a bustling industrial town within a few decades. ...
St Bees Beach
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St Bees Beach
The beach is gently sloping and generally free from dangerous currents. However, as always, caution should be exercised when in the water, particularly with off-shore winds. The beach is a magnificent shingle with dozens of varieties of rock sloping down to good red sand, and extends southwards for about a mile or so. The sandy areas are...
White Scar Cave
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White Scar Cave
The cave’s history is a long one. It began with the laying down of limestone deposits, which millions of years later were hollowed out by the action of water. Much later still, in 1923, the cave entered human history with its discovery by Christopher Long. Opening Times (weather permitting)     Spring &...
Ingleton Waterfalls Trail
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Ingleton Waterfalls Trail
The famous Ingleton Waterfalls Trail in Yorkshire offers some of the most spectacular waterfall and woodland scenery in the North of England. The trail follows a well-defined footpath which runs as close to the edge of the two rivers as possible to provide spectacular views of the waterfalls. The path includes a large number of steps...
Williamson Park
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Williamson Park
Come and visit Williamson Park’s Butterfly House and Mini Beast Cave and meet all sorts of exciting creepy crawlies, birds and animals. Explore the park and its hidden pathways leading to mosaics, follies and a sundial. Play in the children's playground or picnic on the wide expanses of grass. Visit the Ashton Memorial which often hosts art...
The Sands Centre
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The Sands Centre
This exciting and fun, very popular sport takes place on our magnificent state of the art climbing wall. Their fully qualified climbing coach (Pete Gunn) runs the sessions. Each course is close to capacity so please call to book your place. Admission: Currently closed for climbing. Other options and performances are pay and play....
Bitts Park
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Bitts Park
It has a fantastic children's adventure playground with sturdy modern equipment suited to 3 to 10 year olds, plus a Pirate Ship sand play area! There are some young kiddie rides around but they really are for the smalls. You can also find a Putting Green, pretty good Crazy Golf course, a mini maze and both open air and under cover tennis courts! ...
Robin Wood Activity Centre Ltd
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Robin Wood Activity Centre Ltd
Welcome to Robinwood for adventure holidays, school activity holidays & outdoor jobs uk     Archery     Canoeing     Caving     Climbing and Abseiling     Low Ropes Course     Stream Walk     Night Line     Obstacle...
South Tynedale Railway
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South Tynedale Railway
The South Tynedale Railway operates steam and diesel hauled passenger trains along a two foot narrow gauge line which travels through the scenic South Tyne Valley between Alston in Cumbria and Kirkhaugh in Northumberland, a journey of 2¼ miles in length.
Ingleborough Cave
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Ingleborough Cave
Until 1837 the secrets of Ingleborough Cave were hidden behind large natural calcite dams behind which water had ponded, submerging much of the passage beyond. These were broken down following a flood, to reveal a wonderland of sculpted passages and beautiful cave formations which have been delighting our visitors ever since.
Cobble Hey Farm and Gardens - Preston
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Cobble Hey Farm and Gardens - Preston
In just eight years, this working farm has become the setting for a beautiful country garden. What was once an area for grazing sheep is now bursting with colour and life. This large, tranquil garden contains a wide range of natural environments including a cottage garden, woodland, ponds and streams, rockeries and lawns. Sit on the patio and...
Walby Farm Park - Carlisle
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Walby Farm Park - Carlisle
Fun for all the family come rain or shine! Walby Farm Park, just 4 miles from Carlisle and the M6 motorway (J44), is a great day out for the whole family. Exciting outdoor play areas, lots of animal friends, including many rare breeds and Cumbria’s biggest indoor play area, there really is something for everyone! Families, schools, groups...
Beach and Marine Gardens
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Beach and Marine Gardens
The Borough of Wyre lies in the north west of the Red Rose County of Lancashire, nestled between the Fylde Coast in the west and the wilds of the Forest of Bowland, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, in the east.
Talkin Tarn Country Park
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Talkin Tarn Country Park
Talkin Tarn Country Park lies nine miles east of Carlisle and two mile south of Brampton on the B6413 Castle Carrock road. There is a 65 acre lake set amid 120 acres of farmland and woodland. The tarn is an ideal place for active recreation or a quiet stroll through the mature woodlands.   The tarn is glacial in origin, being formed about...
Aysgarth Falls
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Aysgarth Falls
Perfectly situated to visit the superb waterfalls on the River Ure, the National Park Centre can also point you in the direction of other lovely walks in the area taking in the surrounding woods or heading up to the lovely villages of Carperby or Aysgarth. Next to the Centre is the Coppice Café which serves a great selection of drinks and...
High Force Waterfall
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High Force Waterfall
Discover the force of nature at High Force, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in England, located at Forest-in-Teesdale, Co. Durham. Raby Castle is situated 20 miles further east at Staindrop.
Here you will find a combined list of outdoor play and pursuits and anything related to the great outdoors in Cumbria, catering for you, your child, and your family. This could include hiking, climbing, camping, canoeing, pot holing, mountain biking and other out activities, or simply a stroll around the countryside or in a nearby park. We provide information on outdoor pursuits by county, city or by activity which could be outdoor play areas and anything related to outside play like rope bridges, climbing frames and active hobbies in Cumbria.