The benefits of outdoor sports are varied; from offering mental clarity, to improving social skills and helping with insomnia. On the whole, outdoor sports give us a measurable wellbeing boost – so if you haven’t tried any, take this as your sign.
5 outdoor sports to try in the Lake District in 2025
Many people that stay with us end up trying things they’ve never done before during their visit, and the Lake District has to be one of the best places to give an outdoor sport a go! We’re helping you to get started by sharing some of our favourite options.
Trail running
Running has become extremely popular over the last 12 months, and it’s even served as a means of bringing brand new communities together – for example, run clubs have sprung up all across the country and in Cumbria, too. While many runners are often limited to pounding the pavements, heading off road offers a whole new challenge; and this is where trail running steps in to provide a whole new experience.
Trail running involves running along rugged outdoor trails and taking on mountainous terrains. You’ll find lots of variety in trail running paths, some will have challenging descents and ascents, and others will be more beginner friendly. On a trail run, you’re constantly surrounded by nature, whereas road running often means taking the same route around your neighbourhood.
This type of activity certainly requires a little more concentration than conventional running, given the landscape that you’ll be moving through. With this in mind, while it will put your legs through their paces, it’s also an upper body workout as you’ll rely on your arms a lot for balance.
There’s no shortage of trail running paths in the Lake District, and you’ll find something to suit every experience level. Loughrigg Fell (12.5km) and the Buttermere circular (7.4km) routes are both moderately challenging paths, whereas the Fairfield Horseshoe via Stone Arthur trail will require significantly more endurance.
Having the right kit is a final prerequisite for any trail running plans, as your usual road race trainers likely won’t cut it. Look for specific trail running shoes, as they tend to come with more durability and grip.
Mountain biking
Keen for an adrenaline rush? Mountain biking could be a great starting point, and you can build up the intensity as you progress with this one. There are countless mountain biking trails in the Lakes, and forest areas offer some of the most exhilarating experiences on two wheels.
With this one, the main factor to think about is sourcing the right equipment – i.e., the bike you’ll use. For a safe, fun experience, you’ll need a purpose-designed bike, and there’s plenty of choice available on this front. In the Lakes, you’ll also find places where you can hire a mountain bike, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own. If you need any guidance here, don’t hesitate to ask us ahead of your stay and we’ll point you in the right direction.
There’s a few main types of mountain biking that you can explore, including:
Cross country mountain biking – taking on relatively level terrains, this is an ideal starting point for beginners.
Enduro/all-mountain biking – cycling through diverse terrain and taking on steep descents, you’ll need some experience on the bike before trying this one.
Downhill biking – as the name suggests, this type of mountain biking involves riding a purpose-built bike down descent-heavy routes.
Mountain biking can be a difficult sport to get to grips with, but the more you experience, the more accustomed and confident you will feel. It’s a great way to see more of the Lake District scenery, too!
Open water/wild swimming
There’s one outdoor sport that is being celebrated for the impact that it has on mental wellbeing, and it’s open water swimming. Also referred to as wild swimming, this type of activity has been shown to increase sleep quality, improve happiness, boost immunity and manage long-term physical and mental health conditions; so it’s no surprise that it has become extremely popular in the past few years.
While you can swim in most of the lakes and tarns in the Lake District, there are a few out of bounds areas including Haweswater Resevoir, Ennerdale Water, Thirlmere Resevoir and Kentmere Resevoir.
As a general rule, it’s always recommended to swim a route that follows the shoreline, keeping you out of the path of any motor or sailing boats. Pack a bright swimming hat, and consider the weather when choosing exactly what you’ll wear. Enjoying a wild swim is possible during the winter months, but you’ll want to invest in a neoprene wetsuit to feel comfortable in chilly water. Even the summer months can be deceptive, and tarns are much likelier to be noticeably colder than lakes so bear this in mind. Having a tow float with you is another safety essential, and it’ll be handy if you’re new to the sport too.
Hiking
This one sounds obvious when we’re talking about the Lake District, but it’s also extremely accessible and completely free! Hiking has to be one of the most popular activities amongst the visitors that we welcome into our lodges, cabins, and shepherd’s hut, and many of them come with a list of Wainwright’s that they’d like to tick off. There are 214 recognised Wainwright peaks in the Lake District, and they vary in height so there’s a starting point for all abilities.
Many of the paths are easy to follow and clearly marked out, so you’re likely to reach the peak with no difficulties. Of course, some of the fells are more challenging than others, and there are instances where a little bit of scrambling may be required. When you plan ahead, you can ensure that the walk you’re going to take on is suitable for your group. We’ve also shared some of our top family friendly walks in the Lake District, pointing out some of the routes that even little legs can manage.
All you need is a sturdy pair of hiking shoes, some layers, and a sweet treat to enjoy at the peak.
Rock climbing
A final option for the thrill seekers amongst us has to be rock climbing – and there’s one way to experience this in the Lake District that stands out to us. The Via Ferrata Xtreme experience at Honister Crag is one for the daredevils, taking those brave enough over 2000 feet into the sky and over the summit of Fleetwith Pike. The full route involves a mixture of climbing and scrambling, and all equipment is provided (including safety essentials).
Want to start a bit smaller? There’s many more ways to try your hand at rock climbing in the Lakes, whether you choose your own route or if you’d rather have the assurance of a guided experience. If you do opt to go it alone, check the weather conditions ahead of your plans and make sure you are wearing the right equipment (climbing shoes are a must). One of the most famous climbing routes in the Lakes is Napes Needle, Wasdale, though a level of climbing experience is advisable if you’re starting here.
Enjoy outdoor sports in the Lake District in 2025
Resolving to spend more time outdoors in 2025? Give yourself an extra incentive and combine this intention with one of these outdoor sports – we promise that it’ll give you the boost that you need to commit to your resolution!
Sample a sport that matches your sense of adventure in the Lake District, and book your next stay with us online now.
