Lake District | Snowy Walks and Chesters by the River

Over the last few days the Lake District has been turned into a magical Winter wonderland. The snow arrived on Saturday afternoon whilst I was at work, and with a day off yesterday my sister and I headed over to one of our favourite spots to explore the fairytale scenes the snow has brought with it.

Parking at Skelwith Bridge (parking is free), between Ambleside and Langdale, we wandered up towards Elterwater under a canopy of snow covered branches. Snow makes everything look so beautiful, this is a lovely little walk on any day but the gorgeous wintery weather makes it so much more special.

Familes, dogs, friends and children were all out in full force because let's be honest, the weather has been pretty pants and after last year's floods it's nice to see the Lake District looking like it should in Winter - blanketed in white and full of people. Cumbria is definitely open and absolutely not under water, contrary to what some might believe...right now, it's looking more lovely than ever.

We stopped to say hello to this not so little guy, before the cold and thought of freshly baked cakes got the better of us and we turned back to grab a cup of something hot and warm our bellies. A longer walking route would be to continue on and head to Elterwater before turning back. The route is flat and easily walkable, perfect for those who just fancy seeing some stunning Lakeland scenery, for children or runners who don't want anything too intense (guilty!).
 

A bit of a South Lakes institution, Chesters by the River is a family run café offering a good variety of savoury food as well as well as hot drinks and the most delicious cakes. I went for an almond milk flat white and a brownie, whilst Katherine had black coffee and a scone with jam & cream. Freshly baked daily, the cakes are huge and so yummy, they tend to offer gluten free options (my brownie was gluten free and delicious) as well as dairy free and occasionally vegan, but as they are baked daily, once they're gone, they're gone - so no guarantees on this.
 

Happily full, well warmed and well caffeinated, we ended up in Chesters' shop, lusting after copper lampshades and pretty stationary (still on the hunt for that perfect 2016 diary). Bundled up in scarves, hats, wellies and cosy coats we braved the cold once more, heading home to toast ourselves by the fire and hope for more snow.

If you're ever in the area and looking for the perfect lazy day with a little natural beauty and fresh air thrown in, it doesn't get much better.