Perfect Spots for Solo Outdoor Workouts & Meditation
Whether you live here or are just on holiday, the Lakes can be a bit manic at times. One of the most simple pleasures is strolling out to a hidden spot for a bit of time to yourself to stretch, think, and take it all in. Here’s our essential list of secret spots to set up for a bit of yoga, meditation, a workout, or just a sit-down to be with your own thoughts! Early mornings are your friend, if you can wrench yourself out of bed early enough then you’ll discover that many of the busier spots are very peaceful, and you may even catch yourself a beautiful sunrise!
1. Crummock Water
Down a meandering path through ancient woodland, past the babbling River Cocker, is the shore of Crummock Water. One of the most peaceful, dramatic locations in Lakeland. The perfect spot to admire the abundant wildflowers, breath in the pure air, or dip your feet in the crisp waters…
2. Dorothy Farrer’s Wood, Staveley
This place is full of wildlife, so allow yourself to be still and silent and heighten your senses to the sounds, sights, smells, tastes, and feel of this immersive woodland. And why not pop into More Bakery on your way back for a delicious brownie?!
3. Fleswick Bay, St Bee’s
Away from the madding crowd - the caves of Fleswick Bay have a history of rum smuggling, but don’t let that put you off! The little sister of the main St Bee’s beach is a hidden beauty, and worth the venture up across the headland. Rarely frequented and tucked rawly into the sandstone rock, this beach gets the full face of all the elements of the Irish Sea. Close your eyes and breathe in the sea air… but watch out for the tide!
4. West Brotherswater Shore
Having driven over the winding ancient road of the Kirkstone Pass, you may well need a moment to yourself to calm down! The Western shore of Brotherswater provides impressive views, sheltered beaches, and a cooling body of beautiful freshwater to sizzle off in after a run or a workout. One of the quieter lakes, as most people carry on past this small gem in favour of the mighty Ullswater a mile or two further along the road…
5. Aira Beck, Dockray
Upstream from the popular, towering Aira Force is a simply beautiful stretch of river that trips along quite calmly around stepping stones and islets. Wander south a mile from the charming hamlet of Dockray and find a quiet corner of the river to rest a while, read a book, eat a picnic, or simply stare at the mesmerising clean water whirling onwards towards that famous waterfall downstream!
6. River Derwent @ Grange
As I’m writing this blog post, I realise I might be accused of being rather biased towards water-based locations, these spots all seem to be next to rivers and lakes! The power of water to calm us and ground us is a universal one though, I’m sure. The River Derwent is no different, and the shingle shores on the meandering river’s edge at Grange near Keswick provide the perfect spot to pop out the yoga mat for a Sun Salutation! (We live in hope of a sunny day or two!)
7. Peel Island, Coniston East
This final location requires a little effort to get to, with the help of a boat, SUP, kayak, or perhaps even a little wild swimming!? Once you are there though, on Peel Island (or Wildcat Islands as it is famously known in the Swallows and Amazons books), it is incredibly peaceful and relaxing. Get there early for a truly magical sunrise!
