Top 10 Lake District Gift Experiences for Christmas

Giving Lake District gift experiences for Christmas is a thoughtful way to celebrate your loved ones' interests, hobbies or dreams. It is also a meaningful, sustainable alternative to traditional presents. Why not make this Christmas about moments, not things? 

These gifts create lasting memories, fostering a deeper connection with the Lake District’s natural beauty and history. By choosing experiences over material items, you’re promoting conscious gifting, helping to protect this treasured region, and ensuring future generations can enjoy its charm. Experiences reduce waste and avoid the environmental impact of manufacturing, while directly supporting the preservation of local heritage, like the iconic Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway. 

Read on for our top gift ideas for presents that feel good to give — personal and thoughtful, supportive of Lake District heritage, and full of joy.

A cream tea in the Lake District is the perfect blend of indulgence and tradition, making it an ideal gift for anyone who loves a touch of elegance. For an extra special treat, pair a cream tea with a journey on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, combining timeless flavours with unforgettable views. It’s a simple yet thoughtful way to give a taste of the Lakes.

We offer cream tea options for different tastes and budgets. Try our 'Cream Tea and Steam' experience for a full line return steam railway journey and a cream tea at Dalegarth station café including a selection of sandwiches, and home-baked fruit scones with butter, jam, and clotted cream, served with tea or coffee. For an extra-special experience, why not gift a 'Cream Tea on the Move' in our Directors' Saloon 'Ruth'? This includes a return steam railway journey in an exclusive compartment, where a delicious afternoon tea on a tiered stand is served for you to enjoy as you travel up our heritage, narrow gauge line. 

We were delighted to see our 'Cream Tea on the Move' featured in a Best Afternoon Tea in the Lake District list here.

A cruise on Ullswater, often described as England’s most beautiful lake, is a gift experience that will create lasting memories. Gliding across the tranquil waters, your loved ones can take in breathtaking views of the surrounding fells and dramatic landscapes. With the option to add a touch of indulgence, such as a glass of Prosecco, this experience offers a perfect combination of relaxation and adventure!

Whether it’s a romantic treat or a peaceful escape for nature lovers, an Ullswater 'Steamers' cruise experience promises unforgettable memories. The historic vessels and serene atmosphere make this gift a special way to celebrate the Lake District’s timeless beauty. Perfect for Christmas, this scenic boat trip showcases panoramic views that any Lake District lover will adore.

For a truly memorable Christmas gift, consider a glamping getaway at Waterfoot Park, Pooley Bridge. Located within easy walking distance of Ullswater, this holiday park offers stays in glamping pods and contemporary cabins that blend outdoor adventure with modern comfort. Whether it’s a romantic retreat or a fun escape for families, glamping in the Lake District is a great way to experience the countryside.

These Lake District holiday parks provide perfect outdoor gift experiences, allowing recipients to stay in cosy accommodation while exploring this beautiful area.

If you are looking for romantic Lake District gift ideas, a stay at Waterbird Boathouse at Hill of Oaks Lodge and Caravan Park is surely hard to beat! Nestled right on the shores of Windermere, this beautifully designed boathouse offers a unique escape with stunning lake views and luxury amenities, making it perfect for couples seeking a peaceful getaway.

You can give the gift of choice with a monetary voucher for Hill of Oaks, which can be used towards a stay in Waterbird Boathouse or other self-catering and glamping options. It’s a flexible, thoughtful present that lets your loved ones pick their ideal Windermere gift experience and create precious memories in the heart of the Lake District.

For those who love unique dining experiences, the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway offers unforgettable culinary journeys. Start with the Pullman First Class Breakfast Experience for Two, where guests enjoy a delicious breakfast in the Turntable café at Ravenglass before boarding a luxury Pullman Observation Carriage for a return trip through scenic Eskdale.

For something even more exclusive, the ‘Ruth’ Directors' Saloon Picnic Experience provides a return steam journey in a private compartment in a luxury carriage, paired with a delicious picnic. It’s an elegant way to indulge while taking in breathtaking views - a truly memorable Lake District gift for foodies.

Lake District holiday parks and lodges experiences make an ideal gift for couples or families looking to unwind and reconnect with nature, in stunning woodland or countryside settings.

For a peaceful retreat, a stay at Newby Bridge Country Caravan Park offers the perfect Lake District escape. Nestled in ancient woodland near the southern tip of Windermere, this park features a selection of spacious lodges and contemporary cabins. Each accommodation is designed for comfort, providing a cosy haven after a day exploring the Lakes. Monetary gift vouchers start at £50 and can be put towards the recipient's choice of self-catering break.

For a truly exceptional Lake District gift experience, consider private carriage hire on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway. This exclusive offering allows guests to enjoy a journey through stunning Eskdale in the comfort and privacy of their own reserved carriage. Whether for a romantic day out, a special family gathering, or a unique celebration, this personalised experience provides unparalleled views and a touch of luxury. Choose from Directors' Saloon 'Ruth', Pullman Observation Carriage 'Joan' or First Class.

This steam railway experience is the perfect gift for those who appreciate heritage and want to create lasting memories in Lakeland.

For a flexible and thoughtful present, consider monetary vouchers that let your loved ones choose their own Lake District adventure. Why not choose Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway gift vouchers or Ullswater ‘Steamers’ gift vouchers, as both these options offer lots of possibilities? 

Railway gift vouchers start from just £5 and can be used against purchases of railway tickets, gift experiences, events, retail and café items. Ullswater ‘Steamers’ gift vouchers can be exchanged for cruise tickets, retail and café items. They start from £10.

For a truly distinctive Lake District gift experience, consider a stay in the Pullman Camping Coaches at the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway. These beautifully restored carriages offer a charming blend of vintage railway heritage and modern comfort. Each coach is set in a scenic location, allowing guests to step back in time while enjoying cosy self-catering accommodation.

Perfect for train enthusiasts and those seeking something out of the ordinary, these unique stays promise an unforgettable holiday in the Lakes. It’s a gift that combines history, adventure, and relaxation all in one.

Treat four-legged friends to an adventure with dog-friendly gifts from the Lake District! The Dog Rover Season Ticket for the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway allows dogs to travel in style through stunning landscapes alongside their owners. For water-loving pups, the Ullswater ‘Steamers’ Dog Rover Season Ticket offers a year of lake cruises, ensuring dog-friendly days out in the Lake District are both fun and memorable. 

As part of this paw-some package, each pup receives a stylish bandana, ensuring they look their best while exploring. Plus, £2 from every ticket sold supports local animal charities. It's the perfect way for dog owners to treat their loyal companions.

Finding the ideal present for people who love the Lake District is easier than ever with our selection of unique experiences and stays. These thoughtful gift ideas go beyond material goods, offering memorable adventures and indulgent treats that highlight the best things to do in the Lake District.

These experiences make wonderful Cumbria Christmas gift ideas, perfect for creating lasting memories and celebrating the spirit of the Lakes. Give more than just a gift — give an unforgettable Lake District experience this festive season!