Lake District National Park

The Lake District National Park is home to some of England’s most impressive landscapes. The largest National Park in England and Wales, it is home to England’s highest mountain – Scafell Pike, and 12 of its largest lakes including the deepest at Wastwater and the longest at Windemere.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Lake District has a rich blend of cultural heritage and natural wonders, making it a popular tourist destination for mountain climbing, sightseeing, water sports and hiking.

Key information

Designation: 9 May 1951

Habitats: Mountains, valleys, lakes, woodland

Common wildlife: Roe deer, birds of prey such as the buzzard, the osprey and the peregrine, waders including redshank, oystercatcher and curlew

Star spots: Red squirrels, badgers, otters

Notable towns and cultural sights: Keswick, The Beatrix Potter Gallery

Notable nature sights: Wastwater, Lake Windemere

Popular activities for visitors: Water sports, boating, hiking, hill climbing, stargazing

Highest peak: Scafell Pike at 978 metres (3210 feet)

Annual visitor numbers: 15.73 million in 2021

Threats: Water pollution, climate change, over tourism