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

Should you visit Lake District National Park or Glasgow?

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 Glasgow. 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 unique, beautiful, and spectacular national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the food and hiking.

Glasgow

Glasgow is a cultural, historic, and high energy city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

Lake District National Park and Glasgow: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Glasgow. Although Lake District National Park and Glasgow are popular destinations, Glasgow has more sights and attractions for tourists. Glasgow is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Lake District National Park attracts visitors for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is more touristy than Glasgow and is known for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Glasgow is famous for its rich culture, its beautiful Victorian and art nouveau architecture, and its large student population. It is also well known for Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

How is Lake District National Park different from Glasgow?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lake District National Park
Glasgow

Glasgow 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 Glasgow. The city is rich in culture and offers many fascinating sights including the Glasgow Cathedral, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and the Necropolis.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Lake District National Park
Glasgow

Lake District National Park is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Glasgow offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city's food scene continues to grow and innovate. You'll find plenty of seafood options as well as international cuisine and everything from fine dining to local cafes.

Is Lake District National Park or Glasgow Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Glasgow

Glasgow is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

People head to Glasgow just to party. The city has some of the best nightlife in the entire country. There are clubs, bars, techno warehouses and more. Some of the best clubs include Sub Club, The Berkeley Suite, and The Garage.

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

Is Lake District National Park or Glasgow Better for Music?

Lake District National Park
Glasgow

Glasgow is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Lake District National Park is not a live music destination.

Glasgow has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Known to some as "the city of music", you'll find a wide range of music venues, live shows, festivals, and even a great underground music scene.

Lake District National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Lake District National Park or Glasgow Better for its Old Town?

Lake District National Park
Glasgow

Glasgow is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.

Glasgow has an old town worth visiting. High Street is one of the oldest and most well known streets in the city.

Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Lake District National Park or Glasgow Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Glasgow

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

Known for its hiking, Lake District National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Glasgow is not a hiking destination.

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

Lake District National Park
Glasgow

Glasgow is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Glasgow has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has independent boutique shops as well as major brands. Head to the "Style Mile" for some of the best shopping. It's a district that offers pedestrian-friendly shopping and includes high end boutiques and independent markets. Also check out The Barras Market, Buchanan Street, and High Street.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Lake District National Park or Glasgow Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Glasgow

Lake District National Park is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lake District National Park. 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.

Glasgow is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has some family-friendly museums including the hands on The Burrell Collection, the Glasgow Science Center, and The Riverside Museum. If you have older kids who enjoy the water, there are some water activities in town. Check out Pinkston Watersports, Glasgow Wake Park or Outdoor Pursuits. There are also climbing gyms and skate parks.

Is Lake District National Park or Glasgow Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Glasgow

Lake District National Park is great for couples. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Lake District National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as 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.

Glasgow is a nice destination for couples. Couples can enjoy a museum or one of the parks around town. There are also river cruises and spas. For a more locally specific activity, check out the Bothwell Castle.

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

Lake District National Park
Glasgow

Lake District National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Lake District National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. 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.

Glasgow is a good national park to visit for backpackers. There are a good number of hostels around town as well as a good social scene, making this a decent option for backpackers.


Is Lake District National Park or Glasgow Better for Students?

Lake District National Park
Glasgow

Glasgow is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Lake District National Park is not popular with students.

Many students visit Glasgow. The city has the second largest student population in the UK, so you'll find plenty of students to hang out with.

Lake District National Park is not popular with students.

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

Lake District National Park
Glasgow

Glasgow is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in options for its public transit.

Glasgow offers a very effecient public transportation network. The subway is convenient in the city center, west end, and southside. There are also buses throughout the city.

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

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

Lake District National Park
Glasgow

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

Glasgow is a very walkable destination. The city center is generally walkable and can be explored on foot.

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 Glasgow Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Lake District National Park or Glasgow?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lake District National Park and Glasgow. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lake District National Park than in Glasgow. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lake District National Park, and 2-3 days is enough time in Glasgow.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Glasgow 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 Glasgow.


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

One day in Lake District National Park or Glasgow?

In Lake District National Park, you'll find food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Glasgow. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Lake District National Park or Glasgow?

In Lake District National Park, you'll find food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Many people visit Glasgow 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 Glasgow?

Lake District National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lake District National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The high energy destination of Glasgow offers nightlife and live music. 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 Glasgow?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake District National Park. In Lake District National Park, you'll find food. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Glasgow, a popular city, 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.


Which place is cheaper, Glasgow 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 Glasgow is £144. 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 Glasgow in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Glasgow £74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Glasgow £148
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Glasgow

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


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: Glasgow Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Glasgow £27

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 Glasgow

Also for Glasgow, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Roundtrip Transfer Glasgow Airport(GLA) to Glenshee Ski Resort: $207
  • Private Transfer: Glasgow to Glasgow International Airport (GLA): $68
  • Private Round Trip Transfer from Edinburgh Airport to Glasgow : $82
  • Private 1-Way/Roundtrip Transfer to Glasgow Airport: $172
  • Easy Bus Transfer Between Airport and City Center: $12
  • Arrivals Airport Transfer to City Accommodations: $55
  • Glasgow to Stirling Luxury Car Transfer: $203
  • Glasgow to Inverness Direct transfer: $781
  • Glasgow to Gleneagles Luxury Car Transfer: $241
  • Glasgow to Aberdeen Int Airport (ABZ)-Departure Private Transfer: $120
  • Glasgow hotels to Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK) - Departure Private Transfer: $39
  • Glasgow city to Glasgow Airport -Luxury Transfer Chauffeured : $108

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

Prices for flights to both Glasgow 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
    Glasgow £45

Typical Food Prices in Glasgow

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Glasgow:


  • Dessert at Farmer's Market
    £1.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Glasgow

For Glasgow, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Glasgow Walking Food Tour with EatWalk Tours: $146

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Glasgow £22

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:

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Glasgow

For Glasgow, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Luss Highland Games Entrance Fee (for 2)
    £12
  • Two Bike Rental
    £34

Tours and Activities in Glasgow

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Glasgow.

  • 1.5hr Glasgow Necropolis Tour: The City of the Dead: $144
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour of Glasgow: $209
  • 2-Day Highlands and Loch Ness Tour from Glasgow: $260
  • 3 Hours Private City Glasgow Walking Tour: $272
  • 3-Hour Private Glasgow Essentials Tour: $284
  • Celtic Park Tour & Dine Package: $53
  • City Sightseeing Glasgow Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $23
  • Discover Glasgow's Finest - Private Walking Tour: $512
  • Eilean Donan, Loch Ness & Glenfinnan - 2 Day Tour from Glasgow: $152
  • Executive Scottish Lowlands Tour: $1,124
  • From Glasgow, Edinburgh: Outlander Private Tour: $1,031
  • From 3-Day Isle of Skye, Highlands & Loch Ness Tour: $262

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    Glasgow £15

Typical Alcohol Prices in Glasgow

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Glasgow:


  • Bottle of Wine
    £12
  • Ciders at Kilted Skirlie
    £3.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Glasgow

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

  • Clydeside Distillery Tour and Whisky Tasting: $23
  • Tennent’s Brewery Guided Tour and Free Pint: $24
  • Glengoyne Distillery Tour with Whisky & Chocolate: $37
  • Glasgow Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44
  • Sample Fine & Rare Whiskies at Glengoyne Distillery: $62
  • Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond Walk & Whisky Distillery Tour from Glasgow : $70
  • The Malt Master Experience at Glengoyne Distillery: $112
  • Scottish Whisky Distillery Tour: $186
  • Guided Electric Bike Tour with a Distillery Visit: $187
  • Pints & Past: Glasgow Pub Tour: $456


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



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

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lake District National Park and Glasgow. Many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Glasgow for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

Lake District National Park usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Glasgow during summer. Lake District National Park gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Glasgow receives 159 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lake District National Park usually receives around the same amount of rain as Glasgow. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Glasgow receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Glasgow. Most visitors come to Lake District National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Glasgow because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Lake District National Park is around the same temperature as Glasgow. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lake District National Park in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Glasgow averages at about 10°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Lake District National Park often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Glasgow. Lake District National Park gets 69 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Glasgow receives 69 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Glasgow. Lake District National Park receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lake District National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Glasgow. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Glasgow receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

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

Both Glasgow and Lake District National Park are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Glasgow this time of year.

It's quite cold in Glasgow in the winter. The weather in Lake District National Park can be very cold. In January, Lake District National Park is generally around the same temperature as Glasgow. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 3°C (38°F), and Glasgow fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Glasgow during winter. Lake District National Park gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Glasgow receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Glasgow. It's quite rainy in Lake District National Park. In January, Lake District National Park usually receives around the same amount of rain as Glasgow. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Glasgow receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

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

Both Glasgow and Lake District National Park during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Lake District National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Glasgow for the activities around the city.

Lake District National Park is around the same temperature as Glasgow in the spring. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Glasgow fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the spring, Lake District National Park often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Glasgow. Lake District National Park gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Glasgow receives 134 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Glasgow. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Glasgow receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Glasgow and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Glasgow
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)