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VISITING the Lake District provides a timely reminder of the natural beauty and charm our country has to offer.
Preserved by the National Trust, the region boasts England’s highest peaks, deepest lakes and some very vibrant communities, but it’s not just we Brits who are in awe of this picturesque wonder.
Last year, the Lake District was awarded World Heritage status, meaning it joins iconic global landmarks such as the Grand Canyon, Taj Mahal and Machu DRESSED TO THRILL: James Picchu. So, in spite of the inclement weather, this Cumbrian gem draws visitors from around the world keen to absorb chocolate box country villages, engage in a range of outdoor pursuits and soak up the cultural heritage.
My partner and I booked a three-night weekend guided walking break with HF Holidays who operate a hotel in Derwentwater, a stone’s throw from Keswick and the ideal launchpad to enjoy the wider area.
Taking advantage of the region’s bounty, we departed London Euston for Penrith, in the heart of the North Lakes.
Our hotel was right on the shores of so-called Queen of the Lakes, Derwentwater, surrounded by the picture postcard valleys of Buttermere and Borrowdale and the lofty hills of Cat Bells, Skiddaw and Walla Crag.
After a warm greeting from one of the volunteer guides we unloaded our bags in a bright modern double room complete with flat-screen TV, deep bath (essential post walk) and emergency tins of Kendall Mint Cake.
Founded in 1913 by Thomas Arthur Leonard, HF Holidays (Holiday Fellowship) originally offered breaks away from their toil for mill workers.
More than 100 years later, the non-profit organisation is going from strength to strength, giving a range of guided walking and activity holidays at their 19 country houses, all located in areas of outstanding natural beauty or national parks across the country and overseas.
You encounter a real mix of people on these holidays ranging from experienced walkers, adventurous couples, retirees