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

Should you visit Lake District National Park or Killarney?

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 Killarney. 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 beautiful, spectacular, and relaxing national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food and hiking.

Killarney

Killarney is a peaceful, charming, and local town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Lake District National Park and Killarney: 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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Killarney than Lake District National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Killarney is better known for its museums, nightlife, and small town charm, while Lake District National Park is more popular for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is well known for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Killarney is well known for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive. Also, Killarney is famous for Killarney National Park.

How is Lake District National Park different from Killarney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lake District National Park
Killarney

Killarney 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 Killarney. In addition to the area's natural beauty, you should also check out Muckross House Gardens, Muckross Abbey, and Ross Castle.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Lake District National Park
Killarney

Lake District National Park is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Lake District National Park makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Killarney has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find great local fish and chips shops as well as locally caught seafood and regional produce. There are cafes and other independent restaurants that provide a local taste of the area.

Is Lake District National Park or Killarney Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Killarney

Killarney 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 Killarney. You can hang out with the locals at one of the bars or Irish pubs in town.

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

Is Lake District National Park or Killarney Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Killarney

Lake District National Park is terrific for its hiking experiences. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Around Lake District National Park visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Many visitors go to Killarney for the hiking trails. You'll find many great hiking trails both in and around Killarney National Park. The town is also the starting and ending point for the 200 km Kerry Way walking trail. Other hikes worth checking out in the area include the Knockreer Circular Walk, Muckross Lake Loop Walk, and Old Kenmare Road Walk.


Is Lake District National Park or Killarney Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Killarney

Both Lake District National Park and Killarney are very good family-friendly destinations.

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.

Killarney is a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has many outdoor activities. You can explore Killarney National Park by horseback or head out on bikes. You can also take a boat ride or there's Kennedys Pet Farm for animal lovers.

Is Lake District National Park or Killarney Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Killarney

Lake District National Park and Killarney both very good 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 Killarney frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Killarney National Park. You can also go kayaking, biking, horseback riding or relax at The Angsana Spa.

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

Lake District National Park
Killarney

Lake District National Park is terrific for backpackers. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lake District National Park is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Killarney. You'll find a surprising number of interesting hostels in the area so you shouldn't have trouble finding a place to stay or meeting fellow backpackers.


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

Lake District National Park
Killarney

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Lake District National Park and Killarney.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Killarney. There's a shuttle bus that travels between some of the tourist attractions.

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

Lake District National Park
Killarney

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

Killarney is not a very walkable town. While there are many great hikes in the area, you'll need a car to access most of them.

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 Killarney Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Lake District National Park or Killarney?

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

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

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

One day in Lake District National Park or Killarney?

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 food and museums when visiting the local destination of Killarney. 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 Killarney?

You'll find food around the relaxing 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 Killarney 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 Killarney?

You'll find food around the relaxing 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 peaceful destination of Killarney 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 Killarney?

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.

Killarney, 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 Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Killarney 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 Killarney is £143. 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 Killarney in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Killarney £87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Killarney £174
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Killarney

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


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: Killarney Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Killarney £17

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 Killarney

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Killarney:

  • Killarney - Shannon Airport | Private Transfer & Car Service: $348
  • Kerry Airport Transfers: Killarney to Kerry Airport: $53
  • Cork Airport Private Transfer: Killarney to Cork Airport: $282

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

Prices for flights to both Killarney 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
    Killarney £39

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Killarney

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Killarney.

  • Killarney Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Beer & Pizza: $76
  • Killarney Food Tour: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Killarney £16

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 Killarney

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

  • 1 Hour Guided Carriage Tour in Killarney National Park: $38
  • 1 hour Lake Cruise on Killarney's Largest Lake: $16
  • Boat Only Ticket (Walk the Gap of Dunloe): $35
  • Bus & Boat Tour: $63
  • Bus, Boat & Jaunting Cart Tour (Jaunting Cart Paid Separately) : $63
  • Cruise Tour on Kenmare Bay: $27
  • Dingle Peninsula and Slea Head Day Tour: $39
  • From Portmagee & Skellig Ring Full-Day Tour: $75
  • Full-Day Ring of Kerry Tour from Killarney: $35
  • Full-Day Tour of the Dingle Peninsula, Slea Head, and Inch Beach: $65
  • Gap of Dunloe & Lakes of Killlarney Boat Tour: $59
  • Gap of Dunloe Day Tour and Boat Ride from Killarney: $44

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    Killarney £11

Sample the Local Flavors in Killarney

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Killarney:

  • Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Visit: $75


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



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

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 Killarney in the Summer?

Both Killarney and Lake District National Park during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lake District National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Killarney because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lake District National Park is around the same temperature as Killarney. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lake District National Park in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Killarney averages at about 15°C (59°F).

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

Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in July than Killarney. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Killarney 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) 
    Killarney 15°C (59°F)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lake District National Park and Killarney. The autumn months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Killarney this time of year.

In October, Lake District National Park is generally cooler than Killarney. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 10°C (49°F), and Killarney fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

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

Killarney 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 Killarney. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Killarney 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) 
    Killarney 12°C (53°F)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Killarney. The cuisine are the main draw to Lake District National Park this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Killarney for the museums and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Lake District National Park in the winter. Lake District National Park is much colder than Killarney in the winter. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Killarney fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

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

It's quite rainy in Killarney. 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 Killarney. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Killarney 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) 
    Killarney 7°C (44°F)

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

Both Killarney and Lake District National Park are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Killarney in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Lake District National Park is cooler than Killarney. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lake District National Park in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Killarney averages at about 9°C (48°F).

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

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


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

Typical Weather for Killarney and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Killarney
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)