For a fun filled and active weekend break, there are few holiday destinations to compete compared with the Lake District. Book a good quality holiday cottage for your long weekend break and use it as a base to return to at night after doing all the exciting outdoor activities that Cumbria has on its doorstep.

Canoeing on Lake Windermere

We all know about the lakes and hear how wonderful the views of Lake Windermere are if staying nearby. Did you know that there are boating and activity centres all around the lake?

Take the family canoeing, rowing or sailing a yacht. There are bicycles to hire, including the new electric bikes that take the hard work out of hills. Riding a bicycle along Cumbrian country roads is a perfect pace for taking in the beautiful landscapes. The Eskdale Valley is a peaceful and very green place for a cycling holiday surrounded by rocky hills and sheep farms.

There are traffic free cycle paths around many Lakeland towns and villages including Grasmere. Stop and take a rest from cycling or walking to take tea and scones at one of several eateries in Grasmere. The garden centre has a cafe that sells a very good cream tea with enormous scones.

Ride the steam gondola on Lake Coniston

All of the lakes offer something to do whether it is sailing a steam gondola on Coniston, hiring a motor boat or simply going for a paddle. Arrive early at Coniston to take advantage of the few free parking spaces otherwise park at the school in the village and walk over to the lake.

Esthwaite Fishery is really good for an afternoon fishing for trout

There is fly and coarse fishing on many of the lakes.  Try Esthwaite Trout Fishery for a fishing package that includes a boat, fishing equipment and tuition. It offers good value for families.

Take the children for a paddle in one of the clear bubbling streams that runs through the Wrynose Pass. Kids can have great fun in the shallow water.

Try Go Ape in Grizedale Forest, Cumbria, during your weekend break

The Go Ape aerial challenges test anyone over the age of ten brave enough to try them. Children love trying the challenges and often fare better than adults. Find this in Grizedale Forest, also mountain biking and orienteering.

Where in the Lake District would you like to find a holiday cottage or log cabin?

Perhaps pony trekking is your scene? Take to the saddle and ride sedately through woodland and countryside. The Lake District is stunning – an amazing outdoor recreational area for children and adults alike. Rent a country cottage or log cabin in the Lake District and come and have a healthy active holiday.