The Lake District has long been a popular hiking and hostelling destination, but these days it is attracting a far more diverse array of visitors including young couples and families. More and more visitors are taking advantage of self-catering and boutique hotel accommodation set in the stunning scenery and abundant wildlife that are totally unique in Britain.

This unique guide is a valuable source of local information, to help visitors get the most out of the Lake District in the time you have; be it a two-week holiday, short break or long weekend. Throughout the book, local people give their recommendations on where to find the pie and mash, bike ride or secret path to a spectacular view, uncovering the Best of Britain. This guide includes practical information on a range of accommodation, the best places to eat, local festivals, events and activities as well as informing readers about the history, geology and culture of the area, with a 'local heroes' section of famous residents past and present. Details are especially given about the history of the lakes themselves, helping people discover their formation. Informative maps are found throughout the book, including walking and climbing routes and children's activities in the area.

The book focuses on what makes this part of the north of England so special: with its own dialects and distinctive sports such as hound trailing, fell running, and Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling, the Lake District is an intriguing and beautiful holiday destination.

The author, Lesley Anne Rose, has lived on the edge of the National Park for many years, and now lives in Lancaster just a short drive from the Lakes. She is an experienced guidebook writer who has written for Fodor's, Rough Guides and Frommers.