A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Lake District National Park vs. Cambridge for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Lake District National Park or Cambridge?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lake District National Park and Cambridge. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a spectacular, relaxing, and enjoyable national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food and hiking.

Cambridge

Cambridge is a scholarly, charming, and historic university town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lake District National Park and Cambridge: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lake District National Park or Cambridge?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cambridge than Lake District National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cambridge is better known for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Lake District National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is well known for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Cambridge is well known for its iconic university and the many colleges associated with it. Also, Cambridge is famous for King's College and the King's College Chapel.

How is Lake District National Park different from Cambridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cambridge and Lake District National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lake District National Park or Cambridge?

Cambridge is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Cambridge. The history is rich and impressive in this university town. There are countless museums and architectural sights that you should check out. High on the list are the Cambridge University buildings, The Fitzwilliam Museum, the Bridge of Sighs, The Round Church, and many more.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Lake District National Park or Cambridge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Lake District National Park and Cambridge both to be excellent destinations.

Lake District National Park has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a long history of culinary arts in the region and you'll enjoy locally sourced ingredients at many restaurants. There are also a number of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Cambridge makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find college pubs, local eateries, and fine dining, all in one charming town. Enjoy afternoon tea or fish chips at one of the many local restaurants around town.

Is Lake District National Park or Cambridge Better for Nightlife?

Cambridge is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Cambridge. The nightlife scene is centered around the student culture and you'll find many university pubs, some lively clubs, theaters, and wine bars around town. Whether you're looking for a chill night with friends or a more wild experience, there are options in Cambridge.

Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Lake District National Park or Cambridge Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, Cambridge is not a hiking destination.

Lake District National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There's a huge selection of hikes to choose from in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country and you can spend days exploring. Some of the favorite hikes in the area include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Catbells.

Cambridge is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lake District National Park or Cambridge?

Cambridge is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Cambridge. The town offers independent boutique shops, local brands, and a 7 day a week market. The three main shopping areas in town are The Grafton, Lion Yard and Grand Arcade.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lake District National Park or Cambridge Better for Families?

Lake District National Park is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Lake District National Park is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy getting out in nature as much as the adults do. They can stretch their legs and run around, or you can check out some of the family-friendly activities in the area. Popular options include the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, the World of Beatrix Potter, Wray Castle, and the adventure park Brockhole on Windermere. There's also Lakes Aquarium, Lake District Wildlife Park, and Lake District Coast Aquarium for animal lovers.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cambridge. Kids will enjoy following the Treasure Trail, or climbing to the top of the Great St Mary’s Tower. Punting is another iconic experience. On a rainy day, head to the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences, the Museum of Zoology, or the Cambridge Science Centre.

Is Lake District National Park or Cambridge Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park and Cambridge both excellent destinations for a couple.

Lake District National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. One of the most impressive national parks in the country, couples will enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring this stunning setting. Whether you're watching the sunset from a mountaintop or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the water, this park is a perfect place to relax.

Couples visit Cambridge frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The quaint town is fun to explore as a couple. Try your hand at punting or take a tour of one of the colleges. You can also enjoy a picnic in the botanical gardens or have tea at the Orchard Tea Garden.

Is Lake District National Park or Cambridge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lake District National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Lake District National Park. There are plenty of camping options throughout the park with a range of hookup facilities to meet everyone's needs. Waterfront campsites are also available.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Cambridge. With a handful of hostels and a vibrant student population, the town makes for a fun stop on your backpacking trip.

Is Lake District National Park or Cambridge Better for Students?

Cambridge is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Lake District National Park is not popular with students.

Cambridge is a very popular place to visit for students. The town is home to more than 25,000 students who come from 140 different countries. This is one of the most iconic university towns in the world, and there's really no better place for students to visit or reside.

Lake District National Park is not popular with students.

Is Lake District National Park or Cambridge Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cambridge is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in options for its public transit.

Cambridge has some public transit options. There is a regional bus service that operates through town.

Public transit is generally limited in Lake District National Park. There are shuttlebuses in parts of the park.

Is Lake District National Park or Cambridge a more walkable city?

Cambridge is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Cambridge. Walking is the best way to explore the town.

Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Lake District National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Cambridge Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cambridge or Lake District National Park?

How long in Lake District National Park or Cambridge?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lake District National Park or Cambridge to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lake District National Park than Cambridge because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lake District National Park, and 1-2 days is enough time in Cambridge.

Families should spend more time in Lake District National Park than Cambridge. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lake District National Park, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Cambridge than Lake District National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cambridge that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cambridge than Lake District National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Cambridge.

One day in Lake District National Park or Cambridge?

You'll find food around the national park of Lake District National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Cambridge. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This university town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Lake District National Park or Cambridge?

You'll find food around the spectacular destination of Lake District National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many people visit Cambridge for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Lake District National Park or Cambridge?

You'll find food around the unique national park of Lake District National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this national park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.

The beautiful destination of Cambridge offers shopping and museums. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Lake District National Park or Cambridge?

Lake District National Park is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lake District National Park, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Cambridge, a popular university town, is full of activities for travelers. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lake District National Park and Cambridge, we can see that Cambridge is more expensive. And not only is Lake District National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lake District National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lake District National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Cambridge would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cambridge than you might in Lake District National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lake District National Park Expensive? and Is Cambridge Expensive?.