I had read that the coastal area near the Lake District was also worth visiting, so today we went via the coastal road to the next lake drive. But the lakes make stiff competition, and while the small harbours along the coast have some merit, the very ordinary towns did not hold us for long.
 

 
As we came to the lakes from the west, we travelled from Whitehaven over the Honister Pass to Keswick. I love the way the scenery changes over these drives as we move from low to high land and back again. There were obviously lots of walkers in the hills, as every possible parking spot was filled with cars (not that are many parking spots). Wherever we have been in the UK, we have seen so many walkers. And so many outdoors shops. It seems half the country escapes to the hills on a fine day. Or even a not so fine day. And I can imagine how good it would feel to get outdoors after the long winter.

By lunch time we were near Buttermere, and stopped at The Bridge Hotel for lunch. Sunday roasts at pubs are all the go here, so that's what we had - pork loin and apple sauce.. It was a relaxing break in our drive, and afterwards we continued to the pass. At the top of the pass was a slate mine - from the look of the hills it was obvious that there is plenty around. And then we went downhill, on a road with a steep incline. Down and down, until we reached Keswick on Derwent Water. It is another busy holiday town, and it was busy with visitors. 

The towns in the Lake District are all very touristy, busy, and have shops and cafes galore. But there is no denying that the scenery is lovely and that the opportunities for amazing walks are here by the bucket load.
 
 
 
We had some lovely days here, and on the way home today we diverted so we could see some remains of Hadrian's Wall near Brampton. We have read and seen so much about the history of this that it was good to see these ruins.

Tomorrow we cross our figure eight in the middle as we head to the east coast and Yorkshire. Our time here is running out fast.