Over the years we have made use of our National Trust membership across England and Scotland. Whether we're on holiday or checking out places in our Lake District back yard, there are a number of fantastic National Trust sites that make perfect family days out.

Read on to discover some of our favourite National Trust 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 National Trust 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 National Trust?

The National Trust is a charity founded in 1895 that protects over 500 historic places and green spaces in the UK. Thanks to the support of 5.37 million members, 10,000 staff, and thousands of volunteers, the National Trust can create and restore wildlife habitats, all the while campaigning on rural and conservation issues.

Did you know…? The National Trust is now the biggest conservation charity in Europe!

How do I start my National Trust membership?

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

Family from £8.25 per month
Joint from £12.60 per month
Individual from £3.80 per month
Lifetime from £1640

Once you start your membership you will receive a membership card, and a sticker for your car. For free parking, simply scan your membership card QR code at the pay and display machines.

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

Acorn Bank

From herb gardens and orchards to stunning woodland walks and a partially restored water mill, Acorn Bank is somewhere we have visited a number of times. It is not fully accessible, so bear that in mind when planning your day. That being said it is a fabulous day out for all the family - thought it is especially beautiful in Spring!

For more details, including non-member ticket prices and to book your visit, check out Acorn Bank on the National Trust website and read my review of our visit to Acorn Bank in 2022.

Aira Force

Named from Norse meaning the waterfall on the river by the gravel bank, Aira Force is a beautiful 65-foot waterfall close to Ullswater. The 1.3 mile circular walk is ideal for children. If you want a bit more of a challenge why not try the 3.7 mile Gowbarrow Fell and Aira Force hike?

N.B. You don't need a membership to visit Aira Force for free, however non-members will have to pay for parking.

For more details, check out Aira Force on the National Trust website and read my review of our visit to Aira Force in 2022.

Bowder Stone

A short walk just 450m each way, Bowder Stone is a super easy trip out for even the youngest members of the family. If you fancy heading out a little further, you can wander down and cross the road (take care as corners are blind and cars are fast) to walk along the River Derwent.

N.B. You don't need a membership to visit Bowder Stone for free, however non-members will have to pay for parking.

Fell Foot

This park is the perfect family day out with walks along the Windermere lakeshore, play areas, picnic benches, and more. If the weather is not on your side for a picnic, the Boathouse Café is a cosy little spot to grab a bit and a drink.

N.B. You don't need a membership to visit Fell Foot for free, however non-members will have to pay for parking.

For more details check out Fell Foot on the National Trust website.

Friar's Crag

We love Derwentwater and the easy 1.6 mile there and back walk to Friar's Crag is an ideal choice. The accessible route gives stunning views, access directly to the lakeshore, and of course the famous bench over looking the lake and lakeland fells beyond.

N.B. You don't need a membership to visit Fell Foot for free. Please note that everyone (even members) will need to pay for parking at Lakeside Car Park.

For more details check out Friar’s Crag on the National Trust website.

Tarn Hows

The 2 mile accessible walk at Tarn Hows makes a perfect family-friendly day out in the heart of the Lake District. The walk features a firm gravel path, making it easily accessible for wheelchairs, pushchairs, and more. Plus you can bring your dogs too!

N.B. You don't need a membership to visit Tarn Hows for free, however non-members will have to pay for parking.

For more details check out Tarn Hows on the National Trust website.

Bonus: Coniston Water circular

Just a 10 minute drive down the road from Tarn Hows is Coniston Water. Famous for Donald Campbell's Water speed record attempts, Coniston is a great place to enjoy a bonus day out with your family. You can enjoy time on the shingle lakeshore, or walk from the Boathouse to Torver Jetty, a 4.3 mile round trip suitable for most.

Want a bit more information? Check out my review of our visit to Tarn Hows and Coniston in 2022.

Wray Castle

PLEASE NOTE: The castle is currently closed for refurbishment. The grounds, facilities, and café are still open.

Wray Castle will always be in my top 5 days out with children in the Lake District. It hosts one of our favourite play trails, as well as easy waymarked walks through woodland and the castle grounds, and of course the Gothic medieval castle itself.

N.B. Parking costs £5 for non-members, but you can park all day, making it well worth the price.

For more details check out Wray Castle on the National Trust website and read my review of our visit to Wray Castle in 2021.

Bonus: Brockhole and Waterhead

A short walk downhill from Wray Castle you will find Windermere, one of the most famous lakes in the Lake District. If you fancy a trip across the lake, you can take the Green Cruise from Wray pier. There are 14 departures and arrivals, so bear sure to check the times so you don’t miss your ride back to Wray Castle if that is where you parked your car! If you decide to take a trip on Windermere there are two stops:

Head to Brockhole for more lakeshore walks, a fantastic adventure playground, and so much more.
Jump off at Waterhead and take the 0.6 mile walk to Ambleside Roman Fort or visit the National Trust's stunning Stagshaw Gardens.

The Lake District and Cumbria has no shortage of stunning green spaces and amazing historical sites to explore and enjoy. I hope this post helps you to find some fantastic spots to add to your itinerary so you too can reap the benefits of this incredible 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.