Over the years we have made use of our English Heritage membership across the country. Whether we're on holiday in Northumberland or checking out places in our Lake District back yard, English Heritage is a great option for family days out.

Read on to discover some of our favourite English Heritage days out in the Lake District and Cumbria. These are listed in alphabetical order for ease!

N.B. While these days out are all free for English Heritage members, if you do not have a membership some will require you to pay an entry fee.

For more child-friendly days out in the Lake District and Cumbria, check out the following blog posts:

What is English Heritage?

English Heritage is a registered charity that cares for and maintains historic sites and buildings. They manage over 400 sites across England, and offer tours and experiences.

How do I start my English Heritage membership?

All you need to do is head to the English Heritage website and choose your membership. There are four options when it comes to setting up an English Heritage membership:

Family from £6 per month
Joint from £8.25 per month
Individual from £3.50 per month
Senior from £5.50 per month

Once you start your membership you will receive a membership card, and a sticker for your car that ensures you can park for free in English Heritage car parks.

Did you know…? On average you only need to use your membership four to six times for it to pay itself off.

Top child-friendly English Heritage days out in the Lake District

Birdoswald Roman Fort

Children and adults of all ages can enjoy Birdoswald Roman Fort. From creating a model of the wall inside beyond the gift shop, to hunting for the spy in the fort, there are plenty of activities on site for everyone. Don't forget to check the website for upcoming events, too!

N.B. The car park for Birdoswald is a short walk downhill from the fort. Parking costs £4 for non-members.

For more details, including non-member ticket prices and to book your visit, check out Birdoswald Roman Fort on the English Heritage website and read my review of our visit to Birdoswald in 2022.

Bonus: Hadrian's Wall and Banks East Turret

Visiting Birdoswald? You have a grand opportunity to explore in the local area and discover more local Roman history. Walk along the longest continuous stretch of Hadrians Wall and explore the best preserved turret in the western sector.

Brougham Castle

Just 2 miles south-east of Penrith is the site of Brougham Castle. Founded by Robert I de Vieuxpont in the 13th-century, this site has been used as a keep, Roman fort, and military base during the Wars of Scottish Independence. It's a great place to explore as a family, including the 76 stpes to the top of the keep!

N.B. Brougham Castle does not have its own onsite parking, but you can park on the road opposite the castle entrance.

For more details, including non-member ticket prices and to book your visit, check out Brougham Castle on the English Heritage website and read my review of our visit to Brougham Castle in 2022.

Brough Castle

Standing on the site of an old Roman Fort, Brough Castle commands a prime spot in Stainmore Pass on route to the Pennines. Why not visit to explore the ruins, play in the park, and try some local, homemade ice cream at the Tea Room.

N.B. You don't need a membership to visit Brough Castle for free.

For more details, check out Brough Castle on the English Heritage website.

Carlisle Castle

This 900 year old, English Heritage castle is a lovely day out for all the family. It is not all fully accessible, but there are ground level areas to explore.

N.B. Carlisle Castle does not have its own onsite parking, so you will need to park in one of the local car parks and pay and display.

For more details, including non-member ticket prices and to book your visit, check out Carlisle Castle on the English Heritage website.

Castlerigg Stone Circle

Walk the 4.5 mile circular, or drive up and park in the layby outside this amazing landmark… either way Castlerigg Stone Circle is a lovely family day out. We’ve enjoyed hot summer days, bright autumn sunsets, and more here, and highly recommend a visit.

N.B. You don't need a membership to visit Castlerigg for free.

For more details, check out Castlerigg Stone Circle on the English Heritage website.

Hardknott Roman Fort

Feeling brave? If your car is up to the 33% gradient and narrow road, Hardknott Roman Fort is a fabulous family day out with spectacular views and plenty of space to explore. Don't forget to take a picnic, you won't find a café or gift shop here!

N.B. You don't need a membership to visit Hardknott Roman Fort for free.

For more details, check out Hardknott Roman Fort on the English Heritage website and read my review of our visit to Hardknott Roman Fort in 2021.

Lanercost Priory

Having survived (at least in part) its somewhat troubled history, this Augustinian Priory is a lovely place to explore as a family. The 13th-century church still survives to its full height, and the rest of the monastery is well preserved and perfect for games of hide and seek and picnics on the grounds.

N.B. Parking at the Priory itself is extremely limited, but you can park at the team rooms just around the corner.

For more details, including non-member ticket prices and to book your visit, check out Lanercost Priory on the English Heritage website and read my review of our visit to Lanercost Priory in 2022.

Bonus: Lanercost Bridge

Straddling the River Irthing, The Old Bridge was constructed by four local masons in the 1700s. In the 1960s it was relieved of vehicular traffic, and now it is the perfect spot for lovely family photos and heading out onto the public footpath routes.

Penrith Castle

An easy walk from local Penrith parking and the train station, this is a great option for an easy family day out. Enjoy exploring the ruins, walking in the moat, have fun in the park, or even wander to the local shops. There are plenty of options here.

N.B. You don't need a membership to visit Penrith Castle for free.

For more details, check out Penrith Castle on the English Heritage website.

Shap Abbey

The 15th century tower and other ruined remains of Shap Abbey stand ready to be explored just a short drive from the M6 nestled in the Eden Valley close to the River Lowther. Plus if you fancy making a day of it, there are plenty of local walks and other places to visit in Penrith and other local spots.

N.B. You don't need a membership to visit Shap Abbey for free, but a £2 parking charge applies for non-members.

For more details, check out Shap Abbey on the English Heritage website.

The Lake District and Cumbria is full of rich history, and has some amazing sites to explore and enjoy. I hope this post helps you to find the perfect family-friendly spots to head out and enjoy your time in this fabulous area.

For more posts about our family adventures, from UK staycations to days out for kids visit my Travel blog. If you have any questions about places to visit in the Lake District, feel free to ask in the comments section below.

Child-friendly English Heritage Days Out in the Lake District