Lake District, England
The Lake District unfurls like a fine watercolor painting, with mountain peaks and vast bodies of water framed by dense forest and rolling green fields. And all this gorgeous scenery beckons you to explore with good friends.
For the best of all worlds, the area surrounding the pretty village of Lower Thurnham is a great place to start. Stroll the gardens at 17th-century Thurnham Hall or rent a boat to explore the Lancaster Canal, which runs through the village.
On and Off the Water
It’s a little less than 40 miles north to Windermere, England’s largest lake and a great spot for more adventures on the water. There are plenty of places to hire a kayak or rowboat, with a picnic lunch in tow. You can even take a Segway tour around the lake.
Brockhole on Windermere, a visitor center with everything from motorboats to paddleboards, is a must-visit. The variety is great if your group has different interests and abilities (a canoe race can be fun, if everyone’s up for it).
Back on dry land, the center also offers archery and clay shooting. Regroup (and argue over whose aim was best) with lunch by the lake at the cafe or indulge in a classic Cumbrian afternoon tea, complete with finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries at The Gaddum Kitchen. (Be sure to book in advance.)
The serious hikers in your party will relish the challenge of tackling Scafell Pike, the highest point in England at more than 3,200 feet. It’s just over 10 miles west from the top of Windermere (stop for a group selfie at Cathedral Cave, whose opening stands nearly 40 feet high). It’s not an easy climb — you’ll need decent walking boots and plenty of stamina — but the views from the top are priceless (as are the memories).
Vegas, U.K.-Style
If your group is also craving urban adventures, you’re in the right place. Blackpool, a coastal resort sometimes called Britain’s Vegas on Sea, is about 60 miles away. From the end of August to January, you can walk the 6-mile promenade to see the town’s famous Illuminations, an annual lights festival going since 1879. At South Pier (open from February to December), amp up the fun factor with thrill rides, breaking for fairground fare from candyfloss (cotton candy) to traditional fish and chips.
