Autumn 2020

In some respects summer 2020 was a success in the Lake District with plenty of visitors enjoying the area once the initial Covid-19 lockdown was relaxed. Despite the weather doing its normal thing of deteriorating through the summer after such a nice spring. Plus travel restrictions preventing the normal influx of international visitors which meant the proportion of English visitors was significantly higher than normal.

Wrynose Pass autumn

Into autumn 2020 and the virus remains a real threat so although most attractions and hospitality venues are open they all have their own procedures and it is always wise to check websites for specific details at this time. Normally the main tourist season ends after the October school holidays with many attractions and venues scaling right back but this year many might try and extend it given the spring was lost to the virus.

 

Little Langdale

Autumn is always a nice time to be in the Lake District. Although it can still be busy, the main crowds dissipate after summer holidays and the area seems more peaceful and accessible. One big attraction is always the autumn colours, a fantastic display of golden, yellow, red, purple and brown foliage which is particularly impressive across the central Lakes with many attractive woodland areas. A drive is a great way to see this spectacle and many drives described in this website include woodland areas along the way but it’s always worth parking up and taking a walk to fully appreciate it.

Dodd Wood & Bassenthwaite

You might also fancy a bus or boat ride for an even better view. Open top buses are still running and, for example, the 599 from Bowness to Grasmere provides no end of fabulous scenery. All the 4 big lakes (Windermere, Ullswater, Coniston Water and Derwent Water) have regular boat trips which again provide wonderful views of autumn colours and surrounding mountains. Of course it always looks better in the sunshine but in case of inclement weather there are still plenty of indoor attractions open across the area as well.

Whatever else happens the glorious scenery will always be here and it is a good time to explore the area before the weather takes a turn for winter and whilst there is still some warmth in the sunshine. Happy exploring!