Exploring the Cumbria region by car is really the best way to go, especially during the summer. If you arrive by air (through Manchester, 90 minutes away, or Glasgow, two hours away), get a car from the airport and drive to the Lake District, located off the M6 motorway. Be prepared for narrow, mountainous roads. Also, parking is limited and can be very hard to find during peak tourist season. The buses that connect Ambleside, Windermere, Keswick and various other villages may be a better idea.

As the region is very picturesque, you may want to hike or bike around the mountains and do some sailing or rowing in the lakes if this is possible. There are several shops that sell or rent sports equipment. The Murthwaite Green Trekking Centre on Main Street in Millom (tel: +44 (0) 1229 770876) rents out horses and holds guided rides. The Kendal Mountaineering Club, Castle Street, Kendal, will be happy to help you if you need some help getting started on rock climbing. Farrell Sports on High Street in Cleator Moor sells a variety of sports equipment that may be useful for your trip.

Ferries are also available on many of the lakes; this is a scenic and relaxing way to see the area. Boat tour tickets can be bought in most of the lakeside towns in the area. On Lake Windermere, the largest of the lakes, there is a ferry that can take up to 16 cars at once across the water.