Linthwaite travel guide
Linthwaite is a peaceful village in the Lake District, surrounded by lakes, hills and scenic views. This guide explains what to see, how to get there and UK eTA requirements.
Linthwaite is a small, charming village located in the heart of the Lake District, one of the United Kingdom’s most beautiful natural regions. Surrounded by lakes, green hills and panoramic trails, it is an ideal starting point for exploring Windermere, Kendal and the national park’s iconic viewpoints. This travel guide covers everything you need to know before visiting: how to reach the area, the best time to go, what to see and do, and whether you must apply for the UK eTA before travelling. A simple, practical overview to help plan your trip with confidence.
Key Takeaways — Linthwaite & Lake District Travel
- Linthwaite is a peaceful village in the Lake District National Park.
- Ideal location to explore Windermere, Kendal and nearby scenic spots.
- Perfect for hiking, lakeside walks and panoramic viewpoints.
- Accessible by train (Windermere/Kendal) or car from major cities.
- A UK eTA may be required if you are not British and are travelling from abroad.
- Check UK eTA price and apply online before travelling.
Linthwaite is a small and peaceful village located in the heart of the Lake District National Park, one of the most scenic and visited natural regions in the United Kingdom. Known for its rolling hills, lakes, and typical English countryside charm, the area offers a relaxing environment perfect for travellers seeking nature, calm, and authentic rural landscapes. Its central position makes it an ideal base to explore iconic nearby towns such as Windermere and Kendal.
Linthwaite lies on the eastern side of the national park, close to the famous Windermere Lake. The village benefits from a privileged position between wooded hills, panoramic viewpoints, and walking paths accessible to all levels.
Key geographical highlights include:
The surrounding landscape is typical of northern England: stone walls, sheep-dotted fields, and green valleys shaped by centuries of pastoral tradition.
The Lake District is considered one of the UK’s most iconic destinations thanks to its mix of natural beauty, atmospheric villages, and outdoor activities. Linthwaite benefits from all these elements while keeping a quieter and more authentic feel compared to more crowded areas.
Travellers are attracted to the region because of:
Whether you love hiking, photography, cycling, or simply relaxing in a peaceful rural environment, Linthwaite offers a perfect balance.
Linthwaite is known for its charming mix of:
The atmosphere is calm and welcoming, giving visitors a real taste of English countryside life. Even during peak season, the village remains quieter than major tourist hubs.
The Lake District National Park is a paradise for nature lovers. From Linthwaite, you can quickly access some of the region’s most impressive lakes, scenic walks, and viewpoints.
Whether you’re planning short strolls or full-day hikes, the area has something for every level.
Several lakes are easily accessible from the village. Each one offers its own charm and activities:
Windermere is the closest, making it the ideal starting point for first-time visitors.
Linthwaite is located near some of the most scenic trails in the Lake District:
Each trail reveals a different side of the region: lakes, hills, woods, and traditional stone walls.
Around Linthwaite, you can enjoy many outdoor activities depending on your interests:
The region is designed for slow travel: take your time, explore at your own pace, and enjoy nature.
One of the best aspects of staying near Linthwaite is its proximity to charming towns and villages, each offering unique attractions, shops, viewpoints, and cultural stops.
Windermere is the most popular town near Linthwaite and a must-see for first-time visitors.
Highlights include:
Its accessibility, variety of activities, and lively atmosphere make it the central hub of the region.
Kendal offers a different vibe: more cultural, more historical, and slightly less touristic than Windermere.
In Kendal you can enjoy:
It’s an excellent stop for travellers seeking culture beyond nature.
Several smaller villages offer great walks, viewpoints, and authentic rural charm:
Each village gives a different feel of the Lake District, making short day trips around Linthwaite extremely rewarding.
Linthwaite and the Lake District can be visited all year long, but the experience changes significantly depending on the season. Each period offers a different atmosphere, from warm summer evenings to silent winter mornings. Knowing what to expect will help you plan your trip according to your preferences, activities and travel style.
Summer is the most popular season for visiting Linthwaite and the surrounding Lake District. Days are long, temperatures are mild, and outdoor activities are at their best.
What you can expect in summer:
It is the perfect time for outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore viewpoints, enjoy boat trips or simply relax in the countryside.
Spring and autumn are often considered the best moments to visit Linthwaite. The landscapes change dramatically, creating colourful scenery and a peaceful atmosphere.
What makes these seasons special:
These months are perfect for travellers seeking tranquillity, photography opportunities and a more local feel.
Winter brings a completely different atmosphere to Linthwaite. The landscapes become misty, peaceful and sometimes snowy, creating a magical backdrop for slow travel.
Expect:
Winter is ideal for travellers who want a relaxing escape and don’t mind cooler weather.
Reaching Linthwaite is easy thanks to its central location in the Lake District National Park. Whether you arrive by plane, train or car, you’ll find convenient options from major UK cities.
Most international visitors land in:
From these cities, several connections are available:
Manchester is the closest major airport, making it an excellent gateway for short stays.
Train travel is one of the easiest ways to reach the area. The two nearest stations are:
From either station, taxis and buses can take you to the village in just a few minutes.
Benefits of travelling by train:
Driving gives you the greatest flexibility to explore smaller villages and scenic spots.
What to know:
A car makes it easier to move between Windermere, Kendal, Grasmere, Hawkshead and other highlights.
If you are not British and you are travelling to the United Kingdom from abroad, you may need to apply for the UK eTA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) before your trip. This new entry requirement concerns many foreign visitors, depending on nationality and travel plans.
The UK eTA is a digital travel authorisation required for certain nationalities. It is linked electronically to your passport and is checked during boarding and arrival.
Key features:
π For more details on how to submit your application, you can consult our guide: Apply for the UK eTA.
You may need a UK eTA if:
This applies to travellers who wish to visit Linthwaite, London, Manchester or any other UK destination.
π If you want to know how much the authorisation costs, check our detailed page on the UK eTA fees.
Application requirements include:
Processing times:
The eTA gives you flexibility for future trips to the Lake District or anywhere in the UK.
To make the most of your stay, keep these practical tips in mind. The Lake District is easy to navigate, but weather, transport and planning can improve your experience.
Accommodation types available in the region include:
Staying near Linthwaite gives you quick access to lakes, trails and scenic viewpoints.
Depending on your travel style:
The region is well organised for travellers without a car.
Here are quick recommendations:
These simple tips will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Find out if your question has been answered in the list below
The best time to visit Linthwaite is between late spring and early autumn, when temperatures are mild and landscapes are at their most vibrant. Summer offers longer days and plenty of outdoor activities, while spring and autumn provide quieter trails and beautiful colours. Winter is peaceful but colder with shorter daylight hours.
Travelling between Lake District villages is easy thanks to a network of buses connecting Windermere, Kendal and surrounding areas. Many routes run throughout the day, especially in peak season. Car hire offers full flexibility for remote spots, while cycling and walking paths link several scenic areas. For short distances, taxis and local shuttles are available.
A UK eTA may be required if you are not British and are travelling from abroad. It depends on your nationality and whether you benefit from visa-free entry. The eTA is applied for online and linked to your passport. To learn more about eligibility and the procedure, you can read our guide on applying for the UK eTA.
A stay of three to five days is ideal for discovering Linthwaite and the Lake District. This allows time to enjoy scenic walks, explore Windermere and Kendal, and visit nearby villages. Shorter trips are possible, but longer stays offer a more relaxed pace and the chance to experience multiple lakes, trails and viewpoints across the region.