LAKE DISTRICT FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER // Roundup - fave family friendly businesses in the Lakes.

I’ll have to start by saying there are LOADS more places that I love in the Lakes, but I had to narrow it down to ten! I’ll also be covering other businesses, charities, commissions and nature things to do in other posts - these are just my top family-friendly businesses!

1.CRAFTY BAA

If you follow me on Instagram, you’ll see that Crafty Baa is a fave spot to go every time we go to the Lakes. Whilst a bar may not seem like one of the top family friendly places to go, Marnie loves going as much as we do!

It is a quirky little bar in the centre of Windermere (and there is one in Keswick too!), packed full of eclectic decor, a cosy fire, heated outdoor seating, and hundreds of different beers. There’s always a good vibe and we always have the best time there. When you buy your drinks, they’ll give you a little bar snack - great for keeping little ones happy for a few minutes! We love to use it as time to chat, play games and enjoy each other’s company whilst unwinding with a local beer (mine’s a schooner of Crafty Pale!). It’s the perfect spot to start our time there as a marker to relax!

2. LA’AL RATTY

The Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway absolutely had to make this list - as a la’al Cumbrian myself, I spent many happy times here growing up. I even had the little backpack for playgroup. This charming little steam train ride will be a hit with every member of the family! It is a stunning seven mile journey from Ravenglass, across the estuary, through the hills to Dalegarth.

There’s plenty to keep everyone entertained for the day too. Whether you’re a railway enthusiast or not, there’s the museum to visit. There are also places to eat and drink including the Ratty Arms - complete with train seating - a gift shop, playgrounds and picnic areas. All the info you’ll need is on the website (linked above). Also nearby is Muncaster Castle which is another must visit!

3. THE WILD BOAR

The Wild Boar is one of the Lake District’s oldest hotels - and is a gorgeous spot to spend a few hours.

They do an alternative afternoon tea picnic which you can enjoy on the extensive grounds on a sunny day (or indoors when the weather isn’t so great!). A great way to take in the Cumbrian countryside and have space for the kids to play freely.

There is the Hawk Walk falconry experience - a woodland walk through the grounds and an opportunity to meet the beautiful birds by beckoning them yourself! 

For older kids and adults, the Wild Boar also offers clay pigeon shooting, archery and axe throwing!

4. REBECCA BLAIR BABY SHOP

This charming little shop in the centre of Windermere is a great place to have a mooch if you have little ones - or know any little ones to buy for. The collections in-store are beautiful and you’ll be guaranteed to find many lovely things you’ll want to buy!

Marnie picked out her new sunnies in there last time we visited. It’s the perfect spot for a baby shower or newborn gift too - plus they’re super helpful with suggesting gift ideas. 

5. ZEFERELLI’S 

Zeferelli’s is a great spot in the centre of Ambleside - there’s the pizzeria, cafe, jazz bar and cinema. We’ve spent happy family evenings there with the jazz band playing, enjoying delicious food. The independent cinema shows both current films as well as emerging talents. There’s an early bird deal which includes a pasta or pizza and a reserved cinema seat - perfect for dinner and movie evening with the kids!

It’s also a great cafe spot for if you’re having a mooch around Ambleside. Keep an eye out for their special events too!

6. GREAT NORTH PIE COMPANY

Only five minutes’ walk from Zeferelli’s is the Great North Pie Company’s cafe. If you’re in Manchester, you’ll know GNPC from Alty market! Or you may have seen them with a stall at festivals and/or markets. I discovered them years ago at Festival No6 - and it was hands down the best pie I’d ever had. 

Their cafe in Ambleside serves up the delicious pies and also has a bottle bar to serve matching beers! They also hold events there so if you’re in the area for a special occasion, it’s worth considering this lovely space!

7. RHEGED

Rheged is a great spot to enjoy some time - especially when the weather isn’t looking great. There’s a gallery, cafe, cinema, shops, workspace and a lovely soft play. The play area is very aesthetic and has a separate section for under 5s. There’s also a craft space for some décopatch crafting! The shops are lovely - there’s plenty for both kids and adults too.

8. GRASMERE GINGERBREAD SHOP

This is a little gem - and always a must when we’re in the area. Super tasty and unique gingerbread in the cute, historic shop. Read a little about the history and feel like you’re stepping back in time as you enter the tiny premises. They also sell lots of other goods like fudge, jams, ice cream, candles and other goodies. Time to stock up on goodies!

9. LOW WOOD BAY

This hotel is a great option to stay at - or visit whilst you’re in the Lake District. If you’re a guest then you can make use of the indoor swimming pool - a great way to keep the kids entertained for a couple of hours. The Blue Smoke on the Bay restaurant is lovely for a meal and has gorgeous views over the lake. Across the road from the hotel, there is a water sports centre where you can rent paddleboards and kayaks from too. 

If you’re visiting without kids, definitely make use of the stunning spa with an infinity pool overlooking the lake. Bliss!

10. HOMEGROUND

A favourite cafe of mine whilst in the Lakes, Homeground is a super popular spot in Windermere. Be warned, there is usually a little queue outside - but this just shows how popular it is! It is worth the short wait. Great coffee, lovely treats and delicious food make this a great option for brunch or a cosy coffee stop.

It is also one of the businesses you’ll get a voucher for if you book my Everyday Adventures in the Lakes offer. Click here for all the details!

If you’d love a family shoot in the Lake District this summer, just click the below button to enquire!