The Lake District is no stranger to water and nor is it adverse to it! In fact, water has played a massive part in shaping the scenery of the Lake District – and not just the lakes. Waterfalls carve through the landscape, providing breathtaking additions to it’s gorges and valleys. The gentle sloping hills have been formed thanks to thousands of years of attrition by rainfall. The lush green fields and forestland maintain their picturesque beauty thanks to a good watering every now and then. And even the crags in the rugged fells have been fashioned thanks to a torrent of rainfall over the many years they have existed.
And yet, despite some claims to the contrary, the Lake District as a whole receives the same number of rain days as the rest of the country. However, there are huge differences across the region when it comes to the intensity and indeed the amount of rain. And in all honesty, you cannot expect to take a trip to the Lake District without encountering a little bit of rainfall at some point. Call it Lake District Law, but water is a treasured thing in these parts, and going with it can help you discover a whole new side to the Lake District itself.
The trick is to see rainfall as less of a dampener on your day, and more of a great excuse to don the waterproofs and get out and about, or take the opportunity to explore some of the many indoor attractions the area provides. The water transforms the landscape – and it’s far from miserable. Waterfalls look even more spectacular, and there is something a little bit breathtaking about taking a trip on a lake when it’s belting it down outside.
For those seeking drier surroundings, trips to centres such as the Rheged centre can be a fantastic way to explore Lake District life, thanks to the huge array of activities and 3D films. Be warned though – on wet days, these centres become very popular, leaving you with a choice – to brave the weather, or brave the crowds?!
If you are keen to strike a compromise, why not try a steamboat journey, or take one of the area’s famous steam train journeys to view the landscape in dry surroundings. You’ll get to experience the rural views firsthand, without ever getting your hair wet.
But if you are feeling brave, aren’t adverse to the water and are planning to go out and about – remember your waterproofs and some decent footwear. This is always true if you are planning fell walking, where the weather can change suddenly and leave the unprepared feeling a little bit unprepared and foolish. The bracing conditions can make a trip even more memorable – and this doesn’t have to be for the wrong reasons. Being at one with nature is all great and good, but being at odds is a situation you can avoid – unlike that pesky rain.
Discovering the Lake District on a wet day needn’t be a washout. With plenty to do, regardless of your feelings towards the weather, you wont be disappointed by what the area has to offer – rain or shine.
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