Lake District vs Peak District: Which one is better for my next vacation

Are you planning a trip to England and wondering if the Lake District or Peak District is the better holiday spot? In this guide we do a side by side comparison on everything you need to know including costs, attractions, safety, and much more. So here is a complete guide to the Lake District vs Peak District.

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Lake District vs Peak District: Some background

Before we delve into the Lake District vs Peak District debate, here is a little bit of background on both locations.

LAKE DISTRICT

The Lake District is the largest national park in the UK and a recognised area of outstanding beauty. There are 16 lakes, plus way more smaller pools. There are also 150 high peaks, including the highest mountain in England, Scafell Pike.

The Lake District is a popular tourist spot, and with its incredible landscape it isn’t hard to see why. Several writers and poets have been inspired here including William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter.

PEAK DISTRICT

The Peak District is another national park in England, and was actually the first designated national park in the country. It extends 1438km and covers five counties, Derbyshire, Cheshire, Staffordshire, Yorkshire and Greater Manchester. Because of this it is one of the more accessible national parks in the country.

Over 13 million people visit the Peak District every year. It’s famed for it’s sensational views, gritstone and limestone peaks, and rolling green farmland.

Lake District vs Peak District: which one is better for accommodation

One of the most important factors when deciding where to go on holiday is around accommodation. But in the battle of the Lake District vs Peak District which one has the better accommodation options.

LAKE DISTRICT

If you are wondering where to stay in the Lake District you will have a lot of great options. It’s a very popular tourist spot with a lot of different types of accommodation available. From camping to luxury hotels there is something here for everyone.

The best place to stay in our opinion is either Windermere or Keswick. Both towns have a lot to see and do and make a great base. Windermere is perfect if you are wanting to explore the south lakes, whilst Keswick is best for exploring the north.

PEAK DISTRICT

The Peak District also has some good accommodation options. Castleton is one of the most picturesque places in the Peak District. It’s a village so accommodation choices are limited, but it’s a great base if you are looking to do some walks, particularly Mam Tor.

The towns of Buxton and Bakewell, are also good options for accommodation. Or alternatively you can stay in one of the nearby cities like Manchester or Sheffield.

LAKE DISTRICT OR PEAK DISTRICT

Both the Lake District and Peak District have excellent accommodation options. If you want to stay specifically in the national parks themselves, the Lake District does have a few more options. That being said there are a number of really big cities and towns within an hours drive of the Peak District which means overall you do have some better accommodation options near the Peak District.

Lake District vs Peak District: which one is better for attractions

If you are wondering if the Lake District or Peak District is better for attractions here are some of the top things to do in each location.

LAKE DISTRICT

There is so much to see in the Lake District that it is hard to list absolutely everything. Here are some of the top places to see, and things to do in the Lake District.

For a more detailed post you can checkout our Lake District itinerary.

• Bowness-on-Windermere – one of the most popular lakes in the area. It’s perfect for boat tours, and some cosy pubs.
• Ambleside – located close to Bowness-on-Windermere is this quaint village for some gorgeous lakeside views.
• Rydal – this is a great area for hiking and searching for caves, and exploring the nearby Rydal Hall.
• Keswick – a beautiful market town in the northern part of the lakes.
• Ullswater – a popular spot for walkers and hikers.

PEAK DISTRICT

The Peak District also has a lot of beautiful spots and things to do. Here are some of the highlights.

For full details checkout our Peak District itinerary.

• Buxton – a great place to visit if you want to explore some caves.
• Castleton – easily accessible from Sheffield, this village is a beautiful place to explore. It’s also a good starting point if you want to do Mam Tor.
• Bakewell – obviously a good spot for Bakewell tarts!
• Luds Church – an easy and beautiful walk in the Peak District.
• Chatsworth House – a stately home close to Bakewell.

LAKE DISTRICT OR PEAK DISTRICT

Both destinations have a lot to see and do. The Lake District is a little bit more touristy, so there are more attractions. But you won’t be bored visiting either of these national parks.

Lake District vs Peak District: which one is better for hiking

The Lake District and Peak District are both excellent hiking spots. But which one is better.

LAKE DISTRICT

The Lake District has over 3,200 km of walking trail with everything from easy walks to tough climbs. It’s also home to England’s highest peak, Scafell Pike, so if you fancy a challenge this is the place for you.

PEAK DISTRICT

The Peak District also has some excellent hiking trails. The highest point is Kinder Scout, which I should add is only 26m over the minimum height required to classify it as a mountain. That being said you can do hard walks and easy walks in the Peak District. Whatever your fitness level you will find something to suit your ability.

LAKE DISTRICT OR PEAK DISTRICT

Despite the fact the Lake District is home to the largest peak in the UK, we actually prefer the Peak District when it comes to walks. You get some beautiful rolling hills and countryside, and there is so much choice when it comes to hikes.

Lake District vs Peak District: which one is prettier

Wondering if the Lake District or Peak District is the more picturesque option? Here we decide which one is more beautiful.

LAKE DISTRICT

The Lake District has been an inspiration to many famous British poets and writers. And you only need to spend a few minutes here to understand why. The landscape is dramatic, with rugged hills, serene lakes, and so much more.

PEAK DISTRICT

The Peaks are also incredibly beautiful. The landscape is varied with wooded areas, rugged hills, and lots of valleys and gorges to explore. There are also so many charming towns and villages that are perfect for walking around and getting lost in.

LAKE DISTRICT OR PEAK DISTRICT

It’s really difficult to say if the Lake District or the Peak District is the prettier option. They are both incredible places. If we really had to choose we would probably choose the Lake District, because the water adds a touch of additional beauty that the Peak District is lacking. But that is us really clutching at straws.

Lake District vs Peak District: which one is better for unique experiences

If you are wondering if the Lake District or Peak District is better for unique experiences here are our thoughts.

LAKE DISTRICT

What we love about the Lake District is that it is the perfect mix of nature, history, culture. When it comes to unique experiences, there are a number of really quirky museums that you can visit. One of the best though is the Derwent Pencil Museum. If that isn’t exciting enough there are a lot of natural caves you can explore in the Lake District.

PEAK DISTRICT

One of the cool things that makes the Peak District unique are the caves and caverns. It’s basically this magical underground world waiting to be explored.  The Speedwell Cavern is one of the more exciting though because you can go on a boat after walking 106 steps underground.

LAKE DISTRICT OR PEAK DISTRICT

The Peak District is our favourite when it comes to unique experiences. The caverns and underground caves are just amazing, and it feels like you are transported to another world.

Lake District vs Peak District: which one is easier to get to

Getting to a destination will obviously play a large part in your decision to visit. But is the Lake District or Peak District easier to get to?

LAKE DISTRICT

The Lake District is relatively easy to get to. Driving is the best option but I’m mindful that not everyone has that luxury.

If you are relying on public transport, the quickest way to get here is by train. You may need to change at Oxenholme, depending on where you are coming from, and where you are going. There are also some trains that go directly to Windermere.

The National Express is another option to get you to the Lake District, and these depart from a number of different cities and towns in the UK.

PEAK DISTRICT

The Peak District is also easy to get to if you are driving. That being said as mentioned in the beginning of this article is one of the most accessible national parks in the country. It’s surrounded by some big cities like Manchester and Sheffield, and from here you can easily hop on a train to get to some of the smaller towns in the area.

The National Express is another option for getting you to the Peak District. Buses depart from various cities across the UK.

LAKE DISTRICT OR PEAK DISTRICT

The Lake District and Peak District are both easily accessible by car. If you are relying on public transport though it is much easier to get to the Peak District as there are many big cities surrounding the area.

Lake District vs Peak District: which one is easier to get around

If you are wondering if the Lake District or Peak District is the easiest to get around here are our thoughts.

LAKE DISTRICT

If you are visiting the Lake District then the best way to get around is by car. This way you can visit the main attractions, and a few of the hidden gems too.

If you don’t have a car you can base yourself in one of the bigger spots like Windermere, and just explore the area. There is enough to do to pass the time for a good few days.

PEAK DISTRICT

You will also need a car to properly explore the Peak District. Some parts are accessible by train, particularly the bigger towns. Buses also run from places like Sheffield for example to certain parts of the Peak District.

LAKE DISTRICT OR PEAK DISTRICT

Honestly both the Lake District and Peak District are easier to navigate if you have a car. You can use public transport, but this isn’t always reliable. The routes can also be complicated and it can take a while to get from place to place.

Lake District vs Peak District: which one is better for food

If you are a foodie, this section is for you.

LAKE DISTRICT

If you are visiting the Lake District in our opinion it’s all about the comfort food. There are some great pubs serving your traditional British fare. But one of the regional specials is Cumberland Sausage. Have it with some mash potato and gravy and you have yourself some hearty comfort food.

Other treats include Kendal Mint Cake which is a sugary confectionary that is peppermint flavoured. It’s a popular snack for hikers looking for a bit of energy mid walk.

PEAK DISTRICT

The Peak District is also all about the comfort food. There are lots of cosy pubs serving all kinds of traditional foods.

One of our favourites though has to be Bakewell Tart. It’s basically shortcrust pastry, jam, frangipane and flaked almonds. Whilst it’s origin is disputed, it is certainly a dessert celebrated in this part of the world.

LAKE DISTRICT OR PEAK DISTRICT

The Lake District in our opinion is the better choice for foodies. But either way whether you are visiting the Lake District or Peak District you will definitely enjoy the comfort food and sweet treats.

Lake District vs Peak District: which one is better for nightlife

Planning a night out? In this section we decide if the Lake District or Peak District is the better option for nightlife.

LAKE DISTRICT

The Lake District isn’t really known for its nightlife. If you are wanting to have a night out you are best heading to some of the larger spots like Windermere and Keswick.

PEAK DISTRICT

The Peak District is known for its natural beauty and not its nightlife. Like the Lake District it is more focussed on pubs and cafe culture. If you do want a night out though places like Buxton will be your best bet.

LAKE DISTRICT OR PEAK DISTRICT

Being brutally honest both the Lake District and Peak District aren’t really great spots when it comes to nightlife. They are more spots to go for cosy pubs, as opposed to night clubs.

Lake District vs Peak District: which one is better for safety

Safety is of course an important factor to consider when visiting a new place. But is the Lake District or Peak District safer?

LAKE DISTRICT

The Lake District is a relatively safe part of the UK. In fact crime rates in Cumbria are a lot lower than other counties. One of the biggest safety issues is more to do with hiking and climbing. Make sure you have the appropriate gear, and check the weather forecast in advance.

PEAK DISTRICT

The Peak District is also generally safe. The towns and villages that make up the Peaks are pretty quiet, and you rarely have any issues. Again safety is more of an issue when it comes to hiking and open water swimming. Make sure you take care and don’t enter the water unless this is part of an event.

LAKE DISTRICT OR PEAK DISTRICT

Both the Lake District and Peak District are some of the safer parts of the UK. Tourists shouldn’t have any issues. Do take care when engaging in any outdoor activities, because no one wants to be carried down a hill on a stretcher do they? But seriously always have appropriate gear, check the weather, don’t swim in open water unless supervised, and take general safety precautions.

Lake District vs Peak District: which one is better for couples

If you are travelling as a couple you might be wondering if the Lake District or Peak District is the better option. Here are our thoughts.

LAKE DISTRICT

The Lake District is a great choice for a romantic couples break. You can rent a cabin by the Lake, or chill out in a quaint B&B in one of the towns or villages.

A lot of the lakes have boats you can rent which make for a romantic day. Especially when you aren’t the one rowing! There are also lots of walks you can do with some incredible views.

PEAK DISTRICT

The Peak District is also great for a romantic break. One of our favourite spots is Castleton which is a cute village perfect for a couples break. There are some great walks around here too including Mam Tor which is especially beautiful at sunrise.

LAKE DISTRICT OR PEAK DISTRICT

Both the Lake District and the Peak District are equally good for a couples break.

Lake District vs Peak District: which one is better for families

If you are travelling with kids this section is for you. Here we look at whether the Lake District or Peak District is the better option for family travel.

LAKE DISTRICT

The Lake District is the perfect spot for a family holiday. There are so many incredible walks you can go on, or even just chill out with a picnic.

In places like Windermere for example you have mini gold courses, museums, and even small boats you can rent for some family fun.

PEAK DISTRICT

The Peak District also has some fun outdoor family activities to enjoy. You have things like hiking, abseiling, and of course the famous caverns. Here is a handy guide to things to do in the Peak District with kids.

One of the best walks to do in the Peak District with kids is to the Chee Dale stepping stones. And you can read all about it in our post.

LAKE DISTRICT OR PEAK DISTRICT

Both locations are perfect for a family trip. If you want to do some fun outdoor activities in the water, or visit some museums head to the Lake District. If you want to see some cool caves and caverns head to the Peak District.

Lake District vs Peak District: which one is better for solo travel

Travelling solo? Here we decide if the Lake District or Peak District is the better option.

LAKE DISTRICT

Places like Windermere are perfect for solo travel because there is a lot to see and do. You can book onto tours or do some lovely walks around the area. If you are hiking do make sure that you inform someone where you are going and when you plan to be back.

PEAK DISTRICT

The Peak District is one of those places that is perfect for hiking and exploring towns and villages. If you are happy doing this solo then it is a great place to visit. Again make sure you let someone know where you are going and when you plan to be back.

LAKE DISTRICT OR PEAK DISTRICT

The Lake District has a little bit more to do for solo travellers including boat tours and much more. If you are travelling solo you are best off going somewhere popular with tourists as there will be more to do.

Lake District vs Peak District: which one is cheaper

Money is a big consideration when deciding where to visit. So is the Lake District or Peak District cheaper?

LAKE DISTRICT

The Lake District isn’t the most expensive part of the UK, but is marginally more expensive than the Peak District. This is more noticeable in tourist hotspots like Windermere where you might find higher prices for food and drink. In the smaller towns and villages though things will be cheaper than places like London or Manchester.

PEAK DISTRICT

The Peak District is a lot cheaper than places like Manchester and London. There are lots of small villages and towns, which are substantially cheaper for food and drink in comparison to the larger UK cities.

LAKE DISTRICT OR PEAK DISTRICT

It’s a hard one but the Lake District is probably marginally more expensive than the Peak District. Especially when you factor in tourist activities and food and drink. But in general both spots are cheaper than London.

Lake District vs Peak District: which one is better for activities

Wondering if the Lake District of Peak District has better activities? This section is for you.

LAKE DISTRICT

A lot of the activities that you can take part in at the Lake District revolve around water. You have steam boats you can ride to explore the lakes, You also have canoes, rowboats, kayaks and so much more.

PEAK DISTRICT

The Peak District is mostly known for it’s caves and caverns. They are the product of natural waterways and historical mining that took place in the area.

There are lots of activities you can take part in, where you can explore the caves on foot or by boat. There are also cable cars that you can ride, including the Heights of Abraham. And you can even try your hand at abseiling.

LAKE DISTRICT OR PEAK DISTRICT

Both the Lake District and the Peak District are great for activities. It just depends on what you want to do. If you want to embrace water sports, head to the Lake District. But if you want to explore some pretty cool underground caves head to the Peak District.

Lake District vs Peak District: which one is better for culture

If you are into culture you may be wondering if the Lake District or Peak District is the better choice.

LAKE DISTRICT

A lot of the cultural activities in the Lake District centre around the fact the area has inspired some the best writers in the UK. If you have ever read about the adventures of Peter Rabbit or Jemima Puddle-Duck you will love the Lakes. In fact Beatrix Potter wrote the books as she was inspired by her holidays in the area. You can even visit her former home, and visit the Beatrix Potter Gallery which is in Hawkshead.

William Wordsworth is another famous writer who once lived in the Lakes And you can visit his childhood home for some cultural appreciation.

PEAK DISTRICT

The Peak District is a little less cultural. There are some great galleries though including the Buxton Museum and Art Gallery. Here you can enjoy some art inspired by the area. You also have the heritage property of Chatsworth House that is well worth a visit.

LAKE DISTRICT OR PEAK DISTRICT

Considering the Lake District was such a source of inspiration for two of Britains best writers it’s the clear winner in the culture category.

Lake District vs Peak District: which one is less touristy

If you are trying to avoid the crowds you might be wondering if the Lake District or Peak District is the better option.

LAKE DISTRICT

The Lake District is an incredibly popular tourist destination. In the summer months especially you will find lots of tour groups, and holidaymakers trying to take advantage of the excellent weather. If you are visiting places like Windermere and Keswick these are especially touristy. But the good news is there are lots of quieter spots like Coniston, Buttermere, and Ullswater where you can avoid the crowds.

PEAK DISTRICT

The Peak District is also popular, but way less touristy. There are some really lovely spots likes Castleton, Dovedale, and Bakewell, that can get busy but are not commercialised like you would get in the Lake District.

LAKE DISTRICT OR PEAK DISTRICT

Whilst there are some spots in the Lake District that can be quieter, on the whole the Peak District is less touristy. If you want an authentic and local experience we recommend the Peak District.

Lake District vs Peak District: which one is better in summer

If you are planning to visit the Lake District or Peak District in the summer you might be wondering which is the better option.

LAKE DISTRICT

Summers in the Lake District bring in a lot of tourists. People from all over the world come to experience the mild weather and glistening lakes.

Temperatures average between 8°C and 20°C and it’s a great time of year for swimming, boating, and hiking.

PEAK DISTRICT

The Peak District is also popular in the summer months. Temperatures average between 10°C and 20°C. With the mild weather and creased chance of rain it’s perfect for hiking, and exploring the natural beauty of the area.

LAKE DISTRICT OR PEAK DISTRICT

Both the Lake District and Peak District, are beautiful in the summer months. They both do get busy, although the Peak District is a little quieter. That being said the Lake District is perfect for relaxing water activities.

Lake District vs Peak District: which one is better in winter

If winter is more your thing you might be wondering if the Lake District or Peak District is the better option.

LAKE DISTRICT

The Lake District does get pretty chilly in the winter months. Temperatures average between 0°C and 8°C. Some parts of the Lake District do get snow, but generally rain is pretty common at this time of year.

It might not be great for hiking or outdoor activities especially if you aren’t dressed appropriately. It also gets dark at around 4pm so the daylight hours are pretty short.

That being said it is a nice time of year to rent a cabin, or cosy up in a pub. The main tourist spots like Windermere are still open, and you can do boat tours. Just check the hours in advance to avoid missing out.

PEAK DISTRICT

The Peak District is similar when it comes to winter temperatures. They usually average between 1°C and 7°C. It’s also very rainy at this time of year.

Some of the roads and paths can be impassable at this time of year due to heavy fog and ice. Because of this you need to plan your trip and route in advance.

A lot of the main attractions like the caves are open, and it’s a nice time of year to explore some of the villages and towns without the crowds.

LAKE DISTRICT OR PEAK DISTRICT

There is a lot more to do in the Lake District, particularly in places like Windermere or Keswick in the winter months. The Peak District is a lot quieter which is good if you want to see the sights without the crowds, but some parts are difficult to drive in.

Lake District vs Peak District: which one is for me

Hopefully you have now made a decision as to which destination is for you in the battle of the Lake District vs Peak District. But here is a final recap.

LAKE DISTRICT

The Lake District is the perfect option for anyone who wants to explore the outdoors, go hiking, and enjoy some time on the water. It’s a great place to go if you want to relax too, particularly around Windermere.

PEAK DISTRICT

The Peak District is perfect for anyone who wants to really get out in nature. There are so many incredible walks and trails and it is far less touristy than the Lake District.

LAKE DISTRICT OR PEAK DISTRICT

Honestly you cannot go wrong if you choose the Lake District or the Peak District. Both areas are just beautiful, and give you this image of the England that the guidebooks gush about.

If you can only choose one though, we would say, go for the Lake District if you want more of a relaxing break, or if you are visiting with kids. There are so many fun activities to keep them entertained. The Lake District as a whole is more tourist friendly with activities like boat rides and mini golf courses to keep you entertained.

If you want to experience the outdoors and do a lot of hiking we recommend the Peak District. It’s a lot quieter than the Lakes, and way less commercial.

Hopefully this guide to the Lake District vs Peak District has helped you decide which one to visit on your next trip to England. Don’t forget you pin this article for later below.

Happy Travels!