Lake District, North West Endland - travel review

After spending just a few days visiting the Lake District it is easy to see why the serene atmosphere and lush vegetation of the area attracts artists, poets, walkers, cyclists, photographers and romantics from all over the world.

As the name suggests, the Lake District has many beautiful lakes, which are not only pleasant to look at but are good for water sports and boat cruises. The quaint villages that dot the countryside add to the area's charm.

It was my first visit to the area and as well as the magnificent setting I was also told about the wet weather too.

And while the weather did prove notoriously unpredictable, even in July, the showers and racing clouds only emphasised the grandeur of the magnificent scenery.

Along with my wife and two sons, who are four years and five months old respectively, we stayed at Holgates Silverdale Holiday Park on the Lancashire-Cumbria border.

Situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty amid over 100 acres of woodland and countryside, the park overlooks the sweeping vista of Morecambe Bay.

The centre of Silverdale is only a short walk away, and Arnside is just under two miles away. And if you fancy venturing further afield, Holgates is within an hour’s drive of the Lakes, the Yorkshire Dales and the Forest of Bowland.

The site provides an ideal base for people staying in their touring caravan or tent, planning a break in one of its holiday homes to hire or quirky camping pods.

Whatever the weather there is plenty to do – stroll along the coast, find a spot for a picnic, enjoy a swim in the pool or relax in the sauna.

Children are safe to roam or let off steam in the games room and soft play area as well as the two outdoor adventure playgrounds. A small shop supplies most things you’ll need during your stay, but there’s no need to cook – the restaurant and bar serve meals and snacks all day, which we took full advantage of.

The restaurant offers a wide selection of food, including burgers, steaks and pizzas as well as a range of specials and takeaway options.

We stayed in the top of the range Swift Chamonix static caravan and it can only be described as a home from home with its chic two bedrooms, two bathrooms and even a walk in wardrobe.

There was a stunning open plan kitchen and living room with a cosy fire, flat screen TV and private veranda.

The only complaint made about the caravan came from my eldest son who asked me why there wasn't a bath!

On the first day of our-three night trip we visited the picturesque town of Bowness, which is clearly a magnet for visitors from around the world because of its location on the banks of Lake Windermere.

The town is also home to The World of Beatrix Potter, which proved a big hit with my four-year-old son.

Here you learn how the Lake District’s natural beauty and abundant wildlife inspired the author to write her world-renowned tales.

Interactive exhibits tell the story of Potter's writing and her importance to Lakeland conservation.

Another highlight of our trip was on the third day when we decided purchase a return ticket which featured a steam train journey from Haverthwaite to Lakeside and a Windermere lake cruise to Bowness.

The cruise around the south of Lake Windermere enabled us to enjoy fantastic views across the wooded shoreline and distant Lakeland fells.

The Lake District has so many attractions it’s easy to spend your time in a whirlwind of activity roaming those craggy peaks and fells.

But if you just want to pause a while, gather your senses and relax amongst the beautiful scenery the region provides, then this could be the perfect location for you for a day out or short stay.