Red Mires

Red Mires is a proper little lake tucked into the Cumbrian landscape, and it's the sort of place where you'll actually see water that looks alive rather than just a postcard version of itself. The lake sits in moorland terrain, giving it that raw, unmanicured feel you don't always find in the Lake District's more famous spots. It's genuinely quiet here - you won't fight crowds, which is refreshing when you've just come from somewhere like Windermere.

The main appeal is the walk around it. It's not taxing, more of a gentle circuit that lets you take in the water from different angles without needing proper hiking boots or a packed lunch. If you're staying at Kendal Camping and Caravanning Club Site just a few miles south, this makes an excellent morning or late-afternoon excursion that doesn't demand a full day's commitment.

Families with younger kids might find it worthwhile for the straightforward walking and the chance to spot water birds, though there's not much in the way of facilities or dramatic scenery to hold attention for hours. It's more the sort of place for people who enjoy being outdoors without needing entertainment engineered for them. Photographers might appreciate it too - the moorland backdrop and light on the water can be quite good depending on the time of day.

The real value here is as a break from busier Cumbrian attractions. Pair it with time at other local spots and it fills a gap nicely. Don't expect signposting or visitor infrastructure, just a decent bit of water and space to think.