Best attractions and places to see around Distington, a village in Cumbria, England, include a mix of local historical sites and access to the natural beauty of the West Cumbrian region. The area provides opportunities to explore fells, lakes, and cultural attractions. Distington serves as a gateway to the broader Lake District, offering diverse outdoor activities and points of interest.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
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The cairn is over the fence which has barbed wire topping it, but the actual spot height is on the opposite side to the cairn.
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A small cairn with the best view being the one looking down to lake Loweswater
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The large cairn offers shelter from the wind when needed
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The highest point of the Loweswater Fells and a great place for some peace and quiet.
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The area around Distington is rich in natural beauty, offering several fells and a stunning lake. You can experience the "world class picture postcard views" from Blake Fell Summit, which is the highest of the Loweswater Fells. Another popular spot is Ennerdale Water, known for its secluded location and clear waters, offering a sense of solitude. Other fells like Crag Fell Summit and Grike Summit Cairn also provide rewarding views, especially over Ennerdale Water.
Yes, Distington itself has local historical sites such as the Church of the Holy Spirit, an Old Milestone, and the War Memorial. You can also find the fragmentary remains of Hayes Castle, a manor house fortified in 1322. In the wider area, cultural attractions include The Rum Story and The Beacon in Whitehaven, and Wordsworth House and Garden in Cockermouth.
Distington is a great base for outdoor activities, particularly hiking and fell walking. Many fells like Blake Fell, Crag Fell, and Grike are popular for their trails and views. For more structured activities, you can find various routes for hiking, running, and road cycling. Explore options like easy hikes, running trails, and road cycling routes in the area.
Yes, there are several easy walks and circular routes available. For instance, Fellbarrow Summit is often hiked with its neighbour Low Fell as a circular route from Thackthwaite. You can also find a variety of easy hikes around Distington, including coastal paths and loops from nearby towns like Whitehaven and Workington.
The Lake District region, including areas near Distington, offers beauty year-round. While summer provides the warmest weather for outdoor activities, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter can be beautiful for fell walking, especially with snow, but requires appropriate gear and caution. Ennerdale Water, for example, offers a sense of solitude at any time of year.
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning views and the sense of escape offered by the natural landscapes. Many highlight the "world class picture postcard views" from fells like Blake Fell Summit. The clear waters and secluded nature of Ennerdale Water are also frequently praised for providing a tranquil experience.
Beyond the natural beauty, the wider area offers several family-friendly attractions. These include the Lake District Coast Aquarium in Maryport, Monkey Madhouse (an indoor soft play area) in Workington, and the scenic Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway. For adventurous families, Go Ape Whinlatter and Honister Slate Mine Adventures offer outdoor fun.
Many of the outdoor areas and fells around Distington are dog-friendly. For example, Blake Fell Summit is noted as "Great for dog walking." When exploring natural areas, always ensure your dog is under control, especially near livestock, and follow the Countryside Code. Specific indoor attractions may have their own policies, so it's best to check in advance.
While not strictly 'hidden,' Ennerdale Water is often described as a place to "escape from the world" due to its secluded location, offering a more tranquil experience compared to other busier Lake District lakes. Its remote nature means fewer people, allowing for a real sense of solitude.
Distington serves as a convenient gateway to the broader Lake District National Park. While Distington itself is a village outside the park boundary, its proximity means that iconic features like Ennerdale Water, and fells such as Grike, Crag Fell, and Blake Fell, are easily accessible. The park is home to England's highest mountain, Scafell Pike, and deepest lake, Wastwater, all within reach for day trips.
Yes, Distington is close to the Cumbrian coast. St Bees Beach, a popular outdoor attraction, is located approximately 4 miles away. The coastal areas also offer various walking and running routes, providing views of the Irish Sea.
The terrain around Distington varies. For fell walking, you can expect a mix of grassy paths, rocky sections, and potentially boggy ground, especially on higher fells like Blake Fell or Crag Fell. Lower-level walks and coastal paths tend to be easier, often on well-maintained trails or tarmac. Always wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for changing conditions, especially in the fells.


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