A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lake District National Park vs. Dingle for Hiking, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Lake District National Park or Dingle?

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 Dingle. 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 relaxing, enjoyable, and unique national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food and hiking.

Dingle

Dingle is a natural, scenic, and rustic peninsula. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches.

Lake District National Park and Dingle: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dingle. Although Lake District National Park and Dingle are popular destinations, Dingle has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dingle is very popular for its museums, nightlife, and beaches, while Lake District National Park attracts visitors for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is famous for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Dingle is famous for its traditional pubs, stunning coastline, and rugged cliffs. It is also well known for The Gallarus Oratory.

How is Lake District National Park different from Dingle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Dingle 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 Dingle?

Lake District National Park
Dingle

Dingle is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Dingle specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people visit for the natural beauty, but there are a couple of landmarks in the area including the Eask Tower, Gallarus Oratory, and the Blasket Centre.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Lake District National Park
Dingle

Lake District National Park is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dingle is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Lake District National Park is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dingle. You'll find great seafood throughout the peninsula. There's also traditional Irish food available including Irish stew or cabbage and bacon.

Is Lake District National Park or Dingle Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Dingle

Dingle is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Dingle. The area's not known for its nightlife but you can visit The Hillgrove, which is the peninsula's only nightclub. It's in a hotel and there is weekly entertainment.

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

Is Lake District National Park or Dingle Better for Beaches?

Lake District National Park
Dingle

Dingle is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Lake District National Park is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Dingle for it's beautiful beaches. It's not hard to find a quiet beach with scenic views and a serene setting. Some of the best beaches in the area include Coumeenole, Brandon Bay, and Ventry.

Lake District National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Lake District National Park or Dingle Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Dingle

Lake District National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. Also, Dingle is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Lake District National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Many visitors go to Dingle for the hiking trails. There are a variety of walking paths and hiking trails that take you through the coastal setting, rolling mountains, and remote nature. Some of the best trails in the area include the long distance hiking trail the Dingle Way, Mount Brandon, and Glenteenassig Forest Park.

Is Lake District National Park or Dingle Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Dingle

Lake District National Park is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dingle is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Lake District National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Dingle offers lots of family activities. There are coastal walks and beaches that are perfect for kids. You can also visit the Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, do a dolphin tour, or enjoy some watersports. Horseback riding and Sandy Feet Farm are both fun as well.

Is Lake District National Park or Dingle Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Dingle

Lake District National Park and Dingle both superb 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 Dingle frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Boat rides, sunset walks, and natural beauty all make this a fun place to explore with your significant other.


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

Lake District National Park
Dingle

Lake District National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Dingle is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lake District National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. 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.

Dingle is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a good number of hostels on the peninsula and there are interesting music festivals and other events that make this a good backpacker destination.

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

Lake District National Park
Dingle

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Lake District National Park and Dingle.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Dingle. Bus Eireann offers buses daily to Tralee and then there are connections to other destinations.

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

Lake District National Park
Dingle

Dingle is a decent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

Dingle is generally not a very walkable peninsula. If you have enough time, there are countless walking trails throughout the peninsula.

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 Dingle Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Lake District National Park or Dingle?

In either Lake District National Park or Dingle, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lake District National Park than Dingle because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lake District National Park, and 2-5 days is enough time in Dingle.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lake District National Park than Dingle 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 Lake District National Park.


  • How many days in Lake District National Park or Dingle? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lake District National Park 3-7 
    Dingle 2-5

One day in Lake District National Park or Dingle?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Lake District National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the serene destination of Dingle. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This peninsula offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Lake District National Park or Dingle?

Lake District National Park is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many people visit Dingle for a weekend. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Dingle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake District National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the scenic destination of Dingle. It's also a great beach destination, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Many people spend five days here. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Lake District National Park or Dingle?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the unique destination of Lake District National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Dingle, a popular peninsula, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 10-Day Tours in Ireland, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Dingle or Lake District National Park?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Lake District National Park is £81, while the average daily cost in Dingle is £103. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Lake District National Park and Dingle in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Dingle £58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Dingle £116
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Dingle

Looking for a hotel in Lake District National Park or Dingle? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Lake District National Park


Hotels in Dingle


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Dingle Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Dingle £15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lake District National Park

Also for Lake District National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lake District Ski Club to Manchester Airport - Departure Transfer: $44
  • Lake District Ski Club to Newcastle Airport - Departure Transfer: $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dingle

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dingle:

  • Dingle To Kerry Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer: $185

Is it cheaper to fly into Lake District National Park or Dingle?

Prices for flights to both Dingle and Lake District National Park change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Lake District National Park £21
    Dingle £35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Dingle £8.14

Tours and Activities in Lake District National Park

For Lake District National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Guided Canoeing Experience on Coniston Water - Half Day: $89
  • Ghyll Scrambling Water Adventure in the Lake District: $89
  • 3-Hours Via Ferrata Experience in Keswick: $140

Tours and Activities in Dingle

Here are a few actual costs in Dingle for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 2-hour Guided Mini Eco Tour at Dingle, Ireland: $49
  • 3 Hour Slea Head Drive Tour - Personal Chauffeur Guided Tour: $283
  • Blasket Eco Tour.: $82
  • Blasket Island Sea Life Rib Tour,: $93
  • Boat Tour of Dingle Peninsula: $14
  • Dingle Bay Cliff Tour: $21
  • Dingle Boat Tours Wildlife RIB Adventure: $87
  • Dingle Dolphin Blasket Adventures: $84
  • Dingle Peninsula Guided Walking Tour: $174
  • Dingle Peninsula Virtual Tour: $16
  • Dingle Peninsula and Slea Head Drive Group Tour: $76
  • Dingle Tasting Tour: $109

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    Dingle £13


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lake District National Park and Dingle, we can see that Dingle 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 Dingle would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dingle 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 Dingle Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Lake District National Park or Dingle?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Dingle in the Summer?

Both Dingle and Lake District National Park during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lake District National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dingle for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Lake District National Park is around the same temperature as Dingle in the summer. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Dingle fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In the summer, Lake District National Park often gets more sunshine than Dingle. Lake District National Park gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dingle receives 140 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in July than Dingle. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Dingle 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Dingle in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lake District National Park and Dingle. Many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Dingle in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Lake District National Park is cooler than Dingle. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lake District National Park in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Dingle averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Dingle during autumn. Lake District National Park gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Dingle receives 79 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Dingle receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lake District National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Lake District National Park usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dingle. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F) 
    Dingle 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Dingle in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Dingle. Many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Dingle for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Lake District National Park can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Lake District National Park is generally much colder than Dingle. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 3°C (38°F), and Dingle fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Dingle. Lake District National Park gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dingle receives 44 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Dingle. Lake District National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lake District National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Dingle. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F) 
    Dingle 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Dingle in the Spring?

Both Dingle and Lake District National Park are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lake District National Park for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Dingle because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Lake District National Park is cooler than Dingle in the spring. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Dingle fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Dingle during spring. Lake District National Park gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Dingle receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lake District National Park usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dingle. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F) 
    Dingle 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Dingle and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Dingle
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in)