The Breathtaking English Lakes Rick Steves Recommends If You Want To Avoid Tourist Crowds

Tucked away from the tourist traps of London, the Lake District National Park in England's northwestern region, stands out as one of the U.K.'s most cherished national treasures. Spanning roughly 912 square miles across the county of Cumbria — and featuring 16 major lakes nestled among dramatic valleys — the Lake District (as it's commonly referred to) actually earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 2017 ... and with good reason.

And while the region typically draws in millions of visitors each year to its pristine waters, historic villages brimming with cozy pubs, and landscapes that inspired the likes of poets William Wordsworth and most recently, Taylor Swift, some areas still remain refreshingly peaceful — just ask Rick Steves. As one of America's most trusted travel experts, Steves has spent decades exploring Europe's hidden gems and sharing authentic experiences with travelers.

Better yet, when it comes to the Lake District, Steves has one specific insider tip that could transform your visit. In his blog, the author explains: "The district's southern lakes are handier to London and more promoted, but I like to focus on the northern lakes — Ullswater, Buttermere, and Derwentwater — which are every bit as scenic, with nowhere near the crowds." These three lakes, while less frequented than their southern counterparts like Windermere, offer equally stunning views and a more serene experience for visitors seeking to escape the tourist trail.

Roughly 25 miles apart or a 50-minute drive through the valley, Ullswater and Buttermere stand out for their quiet and natural charm. For starters, Ullswater — the country's second-largest lake (coming in at 7.5 miles long) and one of the most mesmerizing lakes in the world — stretches like a ribbon between rolling hills and craggy peaks. In terms of exploring the water, there are two options available beyond swimming: hopping aboard one of the Ullswater steamers or working those arm muscles by navigating your own kayak. Alternatively, for travelers who prefer to stick to dry land, there's the well-known Ullswater Way: a challenging 20-mile walking path that circles the entire lake. The hike allows you to explore at your own pace — with plenty of quiet spots to pause and soak in views of Helvellyn mountain.

On the other hand, Buttermere offers a more intimate experience. Despite its modest size — roughly 0.35 square miles — Buttermere delivers some of the district's most dramatic mountain scenery. With a flat 4.5-mile path circling its shores through woodland and open fields, this trail ranks among the most accessible in the Lake District. Reflecting the surrounding peaks like a mirror — which make for the perfect photo opportunity, especially during calm mornings — the views stretch dramatically from Melbreak to Fleetwith Pike and Haystacks. Plus, with accessible footpaths that accommodate both wheelchairs and strollers, everyone's welcome to enjoy some well-deserved time off in nature. As for the real highlight, you're more likely to run into herds of sheep than other visitors — which makes it ideal for travelers hoping to soak up some authentic Lake District tranquility.

Derwentwater proves that you don't need to venture too far from civilization to find some peace and quiet. Stretching across 3 miles of clear water — and dotted with small wooded islands that create a landscape worthy of a postcard — this northern gem offers natural beauty in abundance. And although its proximity to Keswick — a bustling town known for its charming shops and markets — makes it easily accessible to most, Derwentwater manages to maintain a peaceful atmosphere that sets it apart from the region's busier and more touristed lakes.

Looking to soak up some of your surroundings? Derwentwater offers a relatively flat, 10-mile path that circles the shore — although you can easily break this into smaller sections depending on your schedule and energy level. To avoid crowds, head to the parts of the shore farther away from any major landmarks, including Catbells and Surprise View in the south and Friar's Crag in the north. You'll find plenty of secluded bays and woodland walks where you can disappear from the world. Along with that, launch services also operate on the lake, allowing you to hop on and off at various landing stages if you plan on going boating, kayaking, or canoeing.

As a bonus, don't miss a stop by Friar's Crag. Located just a short walk from Keswick's town center, Friar's Crag boasts one of the Lake District's most stunning viewpoints, which becomes particularly magical during misty mornings when the lake appears shrouded in mystery.