The Lake District and Cumbria are not just a great place to visit during the holidays. There is something for everyone, which means you can visit all year round

Keswick Keswick is one of the most successful of the Lake District’s tourist towns and it has been estimated that 98 per cent of the jobs locally rely directly or indirectly on the tourist trade. For those of you with a family dog, most attractions and accommodation in Keswick, are dog friendly.

Hawkshead Beatrix Potter, that iconic naturalist, illustrator and trail-blazer for women’s rights, is at the heart of the appeal of Hawkshead and surrounding attractions. Wray Castle that strange gothic folly built in 1847 by the Dawson family as a holiday retreat means the Hawkshead is not just a summer destination

Bowness and Windermere Bowness and Windermere may be separate places with different personalities but their proximity to each other means there are plenty of things for people to see and do here. It’s also a great location for a short break throughout the year.

Kendal Kendal calls itself the Gateway to the Lakes, but that sells the town woefully short. There is a wonderful mix of shops, no shortage or variety of places to eat and drink and plenty of things to see and do in Kendal.

Ambleside Ambleside is one of the most popular towns in the Lake District. The town stands at the head of Windermere and in the middle of some of England’s finest scenery but the town itself can be a rewarding adventure if you step off the busy main roads.

Ulverston Ulverton's claim to fame is being the birthplace of Stan Laurel, one half of one of the world’s most famous comedy duos in the 20th century, Many tourists from across the world stop to take a selfie of the statue depicting double act. For those in know, there are many other reasons to visit Ulverston.

Carlisle A historical city that has always a magnet for visitors throughout the ages. It’s easy to see why, with attractions such as the Castle, the Citadel, the Cathedral and part of Hadrian’s Wall.

Great British Life:

Staveley Located inbetween Kendal and Windermere, the village of Staveley has earned a growing reputation as a foodie destination in recent times. Take in beautiful scenery with Reston Scar overlooking the village and the Kentmere Valley just beyond.

Great British Life: Devil's BridgeDevil's Bridge (Image: Archant)

Kirkby Lonsdale Labelled as a Gateway to the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District, Kirkby Lonsdale sits close to the River Lune. It is a great base for those who love the great outdoors but also a great shopping destination for those who would like a little retail therapy.

Cockermouth Cockermouth is perfectly positioned to enjoy the best that the northern Lake District has to offer – it’s close enough to the Lake District’s beauty spots but just far enough away to avoid the crowds. There’s plenty to see and do in the town and stunning scenery to enjoy nearby, including Bassenthwaite – the only actual lake in the Lake District.