Dog-friendly days out in Cumbria

Keswick

Whinlatter Forest

★ 4.8 (3,003)

Explore scenic woodland trails and exciting play zones at this family-friendly forest park near Braithwaite, complete with dining facilities, picnic spots and full accessibility features.

Carlisle

Carlisle Castle

★ 4.4 (4,777)

Step into 900 years of dramatic border history at this impressive medieval fortress, complete with dungeons, towers and an on-site restaurant for family refreshments.

Brampton

Talkin Tarn Country Park

★ 4.6 (2,232)

This sprawling 165-acre lakeside retreat near Brampton offers families ancient woodlands and peaceful meadows to explore, with wheelchair access, an onsite restaurant and scenic walking trails around its stunning glacial waters.

Saint Bees

St Bees Beach

★ 4.7 (1,037)

This award-winning Cumbrian seaside spot features exciting play equipment including a pirate galleon, climbing web, zip wires and assault course to keep active youngsters entertained all day long.

Kendal

Curious About Kendal

★ 4.7 (752)

Explore the heart of this historic market town through an engaging visitor experience in Kendal's centre, complete with onsite dining to refuel during your family adventure.

Ulverston

Ford Park

★ 4.6 (757)

This 9-acre adventure playground near Ulverston delights young visitors with zip wires and climbing frames, plus an onsite café and full accessibility including baby changing rooms.

Ambleside

Wray Castle

★ 4.7 (634)

Let little ones explore turrets and towers at this Lake District castle where they can play dress-up, hunt for treasure and enjoy spectacular views from the top.

Keswick

Derwentwater

★ 4.7 (565)

Discover stunning lakeside scenery at this iconic Lake District gem, perfect for family walks and wildlife spotting. Wheelchair accessible with pram-friendly routes available.

Holmrook

Eskdale Mill

★ 4.8 (493)

Step back in time at this working water-powered corn mill nestled in the Lake District, where families can explore traditional milling machinery and watch grain being ground using centuries-old techniques.

Windermere

Bowness on Windermere Treasure Trail

★ 4.6 (637)

Solve clues around this lakeside town on a fun self-guided adventure that's perfect for families with pushchairs and four-legged friends, revealing hidden gems and local secrets along the way.

Ravenglass

Muncaster Castle

★ 4.6 (487)

This historic Cumbrian castle offers families sprawling grounds perfect for picnics, indoor play spaces, and year-round special events, plus wheelchair access and onsite dining options.

Ravenglass

Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway

★ 4.6 (487)

Journey through stunning Cumbrian landscapes aboard this charming narrow-gauge railway, travelling from the coast to the foothills of England's highest peaks with family-friendly facilities throughout.

Penrith

Lowther Castle & Gardens

★ 4.3 (564)

Explore this majestic ruined castle set within 130 acres of stunning gardens and woodland, perfect for family picnics, adventure play and discovering Cumbrian heritage.

Ulverston

Grizedale Forest

★ 4.6 (322)

Explore woodland trails and discover 40 art sculptures nestled among the trees, while soaking up spectacular fell views. Family facilities include a restaurant, picnic areas and full accessibility.

Carlisle

Bitts Park

★ 4.7 (254)

A green space perfect for family picnics with a playground for children, though facilities are limited. Snacks can be purchased on-site and parking is accessible from Dacre Road.

Keswick

King Kong Climbing Centre

★ 4.6 (223)

Scale new heights at this family-focused climbing venue in Threlkeld, complete with accessible facilities, onsite dining, and convenient parking—perfect for adventurous families of all abilities.

Stocksfield

Canny Crafty

★ 4.8 (176)

Let your little ones unleash their creativity at this Newcastle arts studio where families can enjoy ceramic painting and fun mess-free activities together. Wheelchair accessible with snacks available.

Coniston

Coniston Water

★ 3.6 (655)

This stunning Lake District gem offers families spectacular scenery and fascinating heritage to explore, with convenient parking though limited facilities on site.

Kendal

Critter Creek Adventure Golf

★ 4.8 (44)

Navigate around whimsical woodland obstacles at this themed mini-golf course based at Choices Health Club, perfect for family fun though some areas may prove tricky with pushchairs.

Ulverston

Fell Foot Park

★ 4.8 (37)

Nestled at Windermere's southern shore, this lakeside haven features expansive lawns, woodland trails and excellent facilities including a restaurant, making it perfect for family days out.

Penrith

Lazonby Swimming Pool

★ 4.3 (38)

Take a refreshing dip at this charming village lido where families can pack their own picnic for a budget-friendly outdoor swimming adventure in the Eden Valley countryside.

Ambleside

White Platts Recreation Ground

★ 4.8 (4)

This Ambleside recreation ground features a 9-hole mini golf course perfect for family fun, with full facilities including accessible toilets, baby changing rooms, nearby parking and snacks available on-site.

Cockermouth

Buttermere Valley

Discover dramatic Cumbrian landscapes with cascading falls and scenic trails in this stunning valley, offering accessible facilities though some paths aren't suitable for pushchairs.

Kirkby Stephen

Pennine Bridleway National Trail

This scenic long-distance route through the Pennines offers families an adventurous bridleway experience ideal for horse riding, cycling and walking amid stunning Cumbrian countryside.