Wastwater Alpaca Trekking

You'll find yourself walking alongside alpacas across the fells near Holmrook, which is properly different from your standard Lake District activity. Wastwater Alpaca Trekking sets you up with these surprisingly gentle animals for a guided walk through the landscape - they're calm to lead, won't suddenly bolt, and genuinely make good company over a couple of hours.

The trek works best for families with older kids and walkers who fancy something less strenuous than scrambling peaks. The alpacas add a playful element that keeps younger children engaged rather than moaning about sore legs. You're looking at a couple of hours on your feet, so proper boots are sensible, and the weather up here changes quickly enough that a waterproof isn't optional.

It's free or a modest fee depending on the operator - worth ringing ahead to confirm booking requirements and timings, as these things tend to run on demand rather than fixed schedules. Go when it's not raining sideways if you can, though the alpacas don't mind much either way.

Pair it with Fisherground Campsite just down the road - excellent spot for a week exploring the western lakes. The trek fits well alongside proper walking days in the Scafell range or leisurely days round Wastwater itself. You won't spend all day here, but it's the sort of thing that makes a good mid-week break in a park holiday, something to tell people about without taking the shine off bigger walks.