Days out with Kids in Cumbria

The National Cycle Network is 5000 miles of safe, signed, attractive cycle routes, open and mapped in June 2000. It is made up of traffic-free sections and traffic-calmed road and minor roads, running right through urban centres and reaching all parts of the UK.

Sustrans is the charity co-ordinating the project and will continue to work with local authorities to expand the Network to a target of 10,000 miles by 2005.

For more information on the National Cycle Network and Sustrans and a copy of their free catalogue of maps, information sheets and technical publications please call the number above or visit their website.

E-Mail: info@nationalcyclenetwork.org.uk

The Dock Museum takes you on a historical tour of Barrow and the developments that have occurred in the town since the 19th century. Before its progression to shipbuilding, the town was the biggest iron and steel producer in the world.The museum charts the changing face of the town with an audio-visual presentation in addition to the many exhibits.

For a great day out for the whole family visit the Windermere Steamboats & Museum situated on the shores of beautiful Lake Windermere.

Windermere Steamboats & Museum offers:

• A unique and historic collection of Steam and Motor Boats
• Steam Launch Trips
• Shop and Refreshments
• "Swallows and Amazons" Exhibition
• "Model Boats: You Too Can Do It!" Exhibition

There are many events held throughout the year including Steamboat, Model Boat, and Classic Motor Boat Rallies all held annually. Up to date information on other special events can be found on our website or from the Museum's Office.

Web: www.steamboat.co.uk

Muncaster Castle, home to the Pennington family for 800 years, is a genuine treasure trove of art and antiques. Its Great Hall, Octagonal Library and elegant Dining Room are all windows on a grand past. But Muncaster's wild history reveals a flipside to life in a stately home. The castle evolved from the Pele Tower, built to repel marauding Scots. Those who stay here say it is haunted by ghosts, including the legendary Tom Fool. Visit the Tapestry Room if you dare.

The wild setting of ancient woods and soaring mountains also provides opportunities to explore the designated paths and walks.

Web: www.muncaster.co.uk

They pride themselves in being one of the best places to see some of the varied marine life of the Irish Sea. Although they don’t keep any mammals like seals or otters, they have a huge variety of fish and invertebrates (starfish, lobsters, etc) in 45 carefully themed and informative displays. A great day out.

Web: www.lakedistrict-coastaquarium.co.uk

Leven Hall offers the finest Elizabethan rooms including the dining room with its embossed Cordova leather wall-coverings, and many elegant bedrooms. Throughout the house there are beautiful paintings, family memorabilia (connections with both the 1st Duke of Wellington and Nelson) and the earliest English Patchwork (1708).

The Topiary Gardens at Levens are world-famous in their own right, and are a must for any visitor to the English Lake District.

Web: www.levenshall.co.uk

Lakes Aquarium is situated on the shores of Lake Windermere featuring freshwater and marine life and an underwater otter tunnel and stingrays.

Kids days out in the Lake District in Cumbria

Web: www.lakesaquarium.co.uk/

UKClimbing.com offers a comprehensive list of local climbing centres throughout the UK.

Web: www.ukclimbing.com/databases/listings/clubs.html