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Lake District packing list

You may have heard folk talk about the Lake District experiencing all four seasons in one day. And they weren’t kidding.

The weather in the Lake District can be very unpredictable, even comical. One minute you’re wishing you hadn’t left your pac-a-mac on the bed in your hotel room while dancing your way through a summer rain storm, and the next you’re reaching for the factor 30.

Come prepared and make the most of Ullswater with our ‘what to pack’ list, curated by the team at The Lake who know it best. Think we’ve missed something? Get involved and share your essential must-pack items by commenting on the post below.

walking Lake District
  • Layer up
    Whatever time of year, layers are a must. Evenings can be cool, even in the summer months. You may feel a little chilly if you’re out on the water too without a trusty jumper. Don’t be shy with the woolly pullies during winter to keep warm.

  • Waterproof jacket
    Be prepared for the unpredictable nature of weather in the Lakes – it’s all part of its charm.

  • A sense of humour
    It will rain at some point, however briefly – we’re just going to say it out loud.

  • Walking boots
    You’ll be glad of the ankle support and grip on rocky paths when exploring the fells.

walking boots Lake District
  • Umbrella
    While the humble umbrella can be somewhat futile half way up a mountain, it’s also handy for a dash out to the car or around the local shops and cafés during a downpour. Umbrella’s for you to borrow can be found at the front door.

  • Wellies
    It can get a little boggy on some of the walking paths after heavy rain, especially in the valleys and woods. We have Joules wellies to borrow if your planning to fully explore. They are lined up at the front door. Just return them when you have finished.

Joules wellies
  • Binoculars
    Wrapped in blankets beneath the big oak trees in our gardens, lie back and gaze at the starry sky with a pair of binoculars.

  • A camera
    With awesome views every which way, don’t forget your camera and spare batteries – you won’t want to miss capturing memories that will last.

  • A sense of adventure
    See the lake from a whole new perspective and learn a new watersport. Whether stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking or learning to sail, full kit is available to keep you snug and safe.

  • Chargers
    While winding down and switching off from emails and notifications is often top of the list for relaxing time off, you’re bound to want to share some pictures and videos of your time here. Our mobile app is also key to getting everything you need during your stay so make sure you have everything you need to recharge your devices.

the blog what to pack
  • Swimming kit
    There’s no better way to wake up in the morning than with a swim. You’ll need your own slippers or flip-flops to walk to the pool when it opens, but you can wrap up in one of our fluffy white robes and just head down. Either in the 20 metre pool in Swim Club, or in the refreshing (and sometimes bracing) waters of Ullswater.

  • Wetsuits
    Wetsuits are available from the Sheep Shed, here you will also find our changing rooms.

  • Flip flops and children’s robes
    We are committed to reducing single-use plastic items. Bringing your own slippers or flip flops for Swim Club and activities at the Sheep Shed will bring us one step closer to achieving that.

wild swimming ullswater
dry robe


A healthy appetite
Another Place is all about spoiling yourself a little – we’ll make it easy to do so in The Living Space and Rampsbeck Restaurant at The Lake.

Books, magazines and children’s toys
Most parents know the critical importance of that favourite story or toy being at hand at the right moment, so be sure to pack a good selection. Access to the Kids’ Zone playrooms is available between supervised sessions.

another place paper planes and caramel waffle Emma hart


Start packing for your next stay at The Lake. Book online.