Subtropical Swimming Paradise

The Subtropical Swimming Paradise near Penrith is exactly what it sounds like - an indoor tropical pool complex that feels properly out of place in the Lake District fells. You get proper palm trees, warm water, and slides that'll keep kids entertained for hours. There's a wave machine, lazy river, and various pools at different temperatures, so even if you're not keen on the slides, there's somewhere to laze about.

It's the sort of thing that works brilliantly on a rainy day when the mountains are shrouded in cloud. Best for families with young children, really - teenagers might find it a bit tame after thirty minutes. Adults who just want to float about with a book won't complain, though the screaming from the slides does make that tricky.

Without knowing exact opening hours or admission prices, I'd suggest ringing ahead before you trek in from Crossfells Campsite or Howdy Glamping - both excellent bases just a couple of miles away. Allow at least two to three hours if you've got kids who want to try everything. The beauty of staying at any of these nearby parks is you can slot this in as a half-day activity without committing the whole holiday to indoor swimming. Come midweek in term time if you want to avoid the school parties.