Best Family Attractions In Cumbria
Looking for the best family attractions in Cumbria?
You’re spoiled for choice.
From lakes and forests to rescued alpacas, historic railways and unforgettable family adventures, Cumbria is packed with experiences that children love and adults genuinely enjoy too.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend break or a longer family holiday, these are five attractions we think every family should experience.
1. Walk Alpacas At Alpacaly Ever After
Some attractions are fun.
Others become the highlight of the entire holiday.
Alpacaly Ever After is Tripadvisor’s highest-rated attraction in the Cumbria and gives families the chance to meet, walk and learn about rescued alpacas and llamas. Every animal has its own personality and story.
Families can choose from three unique experiences.
Walk Alpacas At Lingholm Estate
Located on the shores of Derwentwater, this experience combines friendly alpacas with some of the most beautiful scenery in Britain.
The views across the lake towards Catbells are unforgettable. If you would like to know more click here and watch this little video..
Trek With Alpacas & Llamas Through Whinlatter Forest
For families looking for a bigger adventure, our llama treks explore the forest trails of Whinlatter Forest.
Children love getting to know the llamas while parents enjoy discovering a quieter side of the Lake District.
Meet The Alpacas At Basecamp North Lakes
Located on the A66 between Keswick and Penrith, Basecamp North Lakes is home to members of the woolly army.
Families can meet rescued alpacas and llamas, explore the wetlands, wander the forest trails and enjoy the award-winning farm shop and cafe.
If the weather turns wet, Basecamp is also a fantastic place to spend a few hours while still enjoying a family day out.
Every booking helps support the rescue and rehoming work of Alpacaly Ever After.
2. Ride The Ravenglass And Eskdale Railway
Known locally as La’al Ratty, this miniature railway has been delighting families for generations.
The journey takes passengers through some of Cumbria’s most beautiful countryside, travelling from the coast at Ravenglass into the heart of Eskdale.
Children love the steam engines.
Parents love the scenery.
It’s one of those attractions that feels just as magical today as it did decades ago.
3. Explore Whinlatter Forest
Whinlatter is England’s only true mountain forest.
Families can enjoy walking trails, wildlife spotting, cycling routes and spectacular views across the northern Lake District.
There are routes suitable for all ages and abilities.
It’s the perfect place to burn off some energy while exploring the outdoors.
Many visitors combine Whinlatter with a llama trek to create a full day of adventure.
4. Sail Across Ullswater On The Ullswater Steamers
Few family attractions in Cumbria offer views quite like this.
The historic Ullswater Steamers have been carrying passengers across the lake for more than 160 years and remain one of the most iconic experiences in the region.
Families can travel between Pooley Bridge, Glenridding and Howtown while enjoying spectacular mountain scenery, wildlife and lakeside landscapes.
Many visitors combine a steamer trip with a walk along the shoreline or a visit to nearby Aira Force waterfall.
Children love travelling on a real heritage boat.
Parents love the chance to slow down and take in one of England’s most beautiful lakes.
5. Discover The Derwent Pencil Museum
Not every attraction involves mountains and muddy boots.
The Derwent Pencil Museum tells the fascinating story behind one of Cumbria’s most famous inventions.
Families can learn how pencils are made, discover the history of graphite mining in the Lake District and see the world’s largest coloured pencil.
It’s educational, interactive and ideal for rainy days.
Why These Are The Best Family Attractions In Cumbria
What makes Cumbria special is the variety. One day you can walk with alpacas.
The next you can ride a steam railway, explore a mountain forest, cruise across Ullswater or discover the history behind the world’s most famous pencils.
Few places in Britain offer so many family attractions within such a small area.
That’s why families return year after year.
Planning Your Family Holiday In Cumbria
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay, Cumbria offers everything from campsites and cottages to luxury lakeside lodges.
For visitors exploring the northern Lake District, we highly recommend Lingholm Estate and Basecamp Lakeside Lodges.
Lingholm Estate offers beautiful accommodation on the shores of Derwentwater, while Basecamp Lakeside Lodges provide a peaceful base with easy access to Keswick, Ullswater, Whinlatter Forest and many of Cumbria’s best family attractions.
The hardest part is deciding what to do first.
