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

Should you visit Lake District National Park or Dover?

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 Dover. 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 enjoyable, unique, and beautiful national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food and hiking.

Dover

Dover is a stunning, natural, and breathtaking town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Lake District National Park and Dover: 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
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dover. Although Lake District National Park and Dover are popular destinations, Dover has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dover is very popular for its museums and nightlife, while Lake District National Park attracts visitors for its food and hiking. Lake District National Park is more touristy than Dover and is popular for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Dover is famous for the famous White Cliffs of Dover as well as the ferry connection to mainland Europe. It is also well known for The White Cliffs of Dover.

The White Cliffs of Dover
The White Cliffs of Dover

How is Lake District National Park different from Dover?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lake District National Park
Dover

Dover is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Dover. Aside from the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, there is the Dover Castle, the South Foreland Lighthouse, and the Grand Shaft.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Lake District National Park
Dover

Lake District National Park is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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 Dover. The town has a growing food scene that includes waterfront restaurants and local dishes. Find a restaurant with a view to make sure you take full advantage of the setting.

Is Lake District National Park or Dover Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Dover

Dover 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 Dover. The nightlife has a relaxed atmosphere with wine bars and microbreweries.

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

Is Lake District National Park or Dover Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Dover

Lake District National Park is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Many people visit Lake District National Park specifically for its hiking. 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 explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Dover. There are many beautiful countryside walks that take you through the rolling hills and along the iconic white cliffs. Some of the best hikes in the area include The England Coast Path, The North Downs Way Saxon Shore Way.


Is Lake District National Park or Dover Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Dover

Lake District National Park is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Dover is a family-friendly national park. There are a few kid-friendly museums like the Dover Transport Museum and the Dover Castle. Also make sure you check out the South Foreland Lighthouse.

Is Lake District National Park or Dover Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Dover

Lake District National Park and Dover both high quality 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 Dover frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic sight and perfect for a romantic trip away. Also make sure you check out St. Margaret's Bay Beach and the Kearsney Abbey Gardens.

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

Lake District National Park
Dover

Lake District National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Dover. You'll find several nice hostels to choose from in the town.


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

Lake District National Park
Dover

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

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

Public transit is generally limited in Dover. There are public buses through the district.

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

Lake District National Park
Dover

Dover is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

Dover is a somewhat walkable town. You can wander around the countryside, but prepare for rolling hills and great views.

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 Dover Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Lake District National Park or Dover?

It's fun to spend time in either Lake District National Park or Dover. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lake District National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lake District National Park, and 2-4 days is enough time in Dover.

Families should spend more time in Lake District National Park than Dover. 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 Dover than Lake District National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Dover 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 Dover 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 Dover? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lake District National Park 3-7 
    Dover 2-4

One day in Lake District National Park or Dover?

In Lake District National Park, many people enjoy the food that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the natural destination of Dover. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


A weekend in Lake District National Park or Dover?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake District National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many people visit Dover 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 Dover?

Lake District National Park is a fun place to experience. In Lake District National Park, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

The breathtaking destination of Dover offers food and museums. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Dover?

In Lake District National Park, many people enjoy the food that this spectacular destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Dover, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Dover 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 Dover is £124. 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 Dover in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Dover £62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Dover £124
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Dover

Looking for a hotel in Lake District National Park or Dover? 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 Dover


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: Dover Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Dover £39

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dover

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dover:

  • Private transfer from Dover to London hotel or airport: $210
  • Private Transfers from Heathrow Airport to Dover Cruise Port: $147
  • Private Transfer from Dover Port to London Gatwick Airport (LGW): $55
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London City Hotels: $98
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London Airport (LHR): $66
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to Gatwick City Hotels: $55
  • Dover to Heathrow and London Direct Shared Transfer: $131
  • One-Way Taxi Transfer from Dover Seaport to London: $252

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

Prices for flights to both Dover 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
    Dover £38

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

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 Dover

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Dover are as follows:

  • Canterbury Landmarks Private Walking Tour: $218
  • Canterbury Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide: $276
  • Canterbury Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Canterbury's World Heritage Sites Guided Walking Tour: $229
  • Christmas Tales in Canterbury – Private Walking Tour: $217
  • Dover & White Cliffs Tour; Canterbury, Coastal Towns & Castles: $210
  • Dover Castle Admission Ticket: $29
  • Dover Cruise Ship to Leeds Castle via Canterbury, Villages & back: $177
  • Dover Shore Excursion:Post-Cruise Tour to London via Canterbury and Leeds Castle: $172
  • From Dover Cruise Ship; Grand Tour of White Cliffs Country & back: $108
  • From London: Dover Castle and White Cliffs Tour by Car: $1,083
  • Literary & Cultural Heritage: Canterbury Private Walking Tour: $218

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    Dover £7.71

Sample the Local Flavors in Dover

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Dover:

  • Full Day Wine Tour in Sussex and Kent: $176


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



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

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 Dover in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Dover. Many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Dover in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Lake District National Park is cooler than Dover in the summer. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Dover fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Dover. In the summer, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Dover. Lake District National Park gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dover receives 212 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in July than Dover. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Dover receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Dover 17°C (63°F)

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

Both Dover and Lake District National Park are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Dover for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Lake District National Park is cooler than Dover. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lake District National Park in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Dover averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Dover during autumn. Lake District National Park gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Dover receives 119 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Lake District National Park. In October, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Dover. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Dover receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F) 
    Dover 12°C (54°F)

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

Both Dover and Lake District National Park during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lake District National Park for the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Dover because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Dover can be very cold. Lake District National Park can be very cold during winter. In January, Lake District National Park is generally cooler than Dover. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 3°C (38°F), and Dover fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Dover. Lake District National Park gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dover receives 57 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lake District National Park. Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in January than Dover. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Dover receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F) 
    Dover 4°C (40°F)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lake District National Park and Dover. The spring months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Dover this time of year.

Lake District National Park is cooler than Dover in the spring. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Dover fluctuates around 9°C (47°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Dover during spring. Lake District National Park gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Dover receives 162 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Dover. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dover receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F) 
    Dover 9°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Dover and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Dover
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 4°C (40°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 5°C (40°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 6°C (44°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (47°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 12°C (53°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)