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

Should you visit Lake District National Park or Kinsale?

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 Kinsale. 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food and hiking.

Kinsale

Kinsale is a charming, quaint, and picturesque seaside town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Lake District National Park and Kinsale: 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
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kinsale. Although Lake District National Park and Kinsale are both popular with visitors, Kinsale has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kinsale is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Lake District National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is popular for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Kinsale is popular for its colorful houses, excellent restaurants, and beautiful seaside walks. It is also home to Charles Fort.

How is Lake District National Park different from Kinsale?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lake District National Park
Kinsale

Kinsale 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 Kinsale. In addition to the colorful old town, you can check out Charles Fort, James Fort, and Old Head Signal Tower. The town is filled with history and many unique landmarks that are worth exploring.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Lake District National Park
Kinsale

Kinsale is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Lake District National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Kinsale, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. For such a small town, it really has an impressive food scene and many people consider it to be the culinary capital of Ireland. The food scene includes Michelin starred restaurants and local cafes.

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.

Is Lake District National Park or Kinsale Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Kinsale

Kinsale 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 Kinsale. It's a small town that's not known for its nightlife scene. There are a couple of traditional Irish pubs in town.

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

Is Lake District National Park or Kinsale Better for Beaches?

Lake District National Park
Kinsale

Kinsale is a decent place to visit for the beach. However, Lake District National Park is not a beach destination.

The beach in Kinsale is worth checking out. You'll find a number of beaches within about 20 minutes of town. The closest is Kinsale Beach, which is about 3 kilometers from the center of town. For a more peaceful setting, head out of town and check out Sandycove Beach, Garrylucas Blue Flag Beach, and Coolmain Beach.

Lake District National Park is not a beach destination.


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

Lake District National Park
Kinsale

Kinsale is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Kinsale. The old town is filled with brightly colored houses, and it offers a unique setting that's different from many of Europe's more standard old towns.

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

Is Lake District National Park or Kinsale Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Kinsale

Lake District National Park is an amazing national park to visit for hiking. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Kinsale offers some nice hiking trails. There are many seaside walks just outside of town.

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

Lake District National Park
Kinsale

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

Kinsale has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of shops around town that highlight Irish designers and local brands.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Lake District National Park or Kinsale Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Kinsale

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Lake District National Park is very family-friendly. 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.

Kinsale is a family-friendly place to visit. If your kids need a break from the tourist circuit, there are a couple of playgrounds and outdoor centers around town. There's also one hour pony treks available at the Kinsale Equestrian Centre.

Is Lake District National Park or Kinsale Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Kinsale

Lake District National Park is great for its romantic activities. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for couples.

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.

Kinsale is a good national park for couples to visit. From coastal walks to quaint streets, there are many picturesque places that a couple can explore. The town also has an impressive restaurant scene where couples can enjoy a great meal.

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

Lake District National Park
Kinsale

Lake District National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Lake District National Park is extremely popular 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Kinsale. There are a couple of hostels around town where you can meet other backpackers.


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

Lake District National Park
Kinsale

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Lake District National Park and Kinsale.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Kinsale. The town has buses that pass through.

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

Lake District National Park
Kinsale

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

Kinsale is a somewhat walkable seaside town. The town itself is relatively compact and walkable. There are also many seaside walks just outside of town.

Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

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

How long in Lake District National Park or Kinsale?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Lake District National Park or Kinsale? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lake District National Park 3-7 
    Kinsale 1-2

One day in Lake District National Park or Kinsale?

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.

Kinsale is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This seaside town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


A weekend in Lake District National Park or Kinsale?

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 Kinsale for a weekend. Visiting the old town is also a must. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Kinsale?

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.

Because Kinsale is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Kinsale?

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.

Kinsale, a popular seaside town, is full of activities for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Tours for Seniors to Ireland, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Dublin.


Which place is cheaper, Kinsale 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 Kinsale is £111. 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 Kinsale in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Kinsale £63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Kinsale £126
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Kinsale

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


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: Kinsale Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Kinsale £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: $43
  • Lake District Ski Club to Newcastle Airport - Departure Transfer: $33

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

Prices for flights to both Kinsale 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
    Kinsale £39

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Kinsale £4.29

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: $139
  • Ghyll Scrambling Water Adventure in the Lake District: $89
  • Guided Canoeing Experience on Coniston Water - Half Day: $89

Tours and Activities in Kinsale

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

  • Cobh Evening Ghost Tour: $43
  • Titanic Trail Guided Walking Tour Cobh: $21
  • Visit 16 Sites Key Historical Sites And Experience Cobh Rebel Tours: $27

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Kinsale

Also in Kinsale, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • (Small Group) Shore Tour from Cork: Blarney Castle & Jameson Distillery: $147


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



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

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 Kinsale in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lake District National Park and Kinsale. 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 Kinsale because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lake District National Park is generally around the same temperature as Kinsale. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 15°C (59°F), and Kinsale fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Kinsale during summer. Lake District National Park gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Kinsale receives 178 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Kinsale. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Kinsale 16°C (60°F)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Kinsale. The autumn months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kinsale this time of year.

Lake District National Park is cooler than Kinsale in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Kinsale fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Kinsale. Lake District National Park gets 69 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kinsale receives 90 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in October than Kinsale. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F) 
    Kinsale 11°C (52°F)

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

Both Kinsale and Lake District National Park are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The cuisine are the main draw to Lake District National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kinsale for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Lake District National Park in the winter. In the winter, Lake District National Park is much colder than Kinsale. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lake District National Park in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Kinsale averages at about 6°C (43°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Kinsale during winter. Lake District National Park gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Kinsale receives 60 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kinsale. It's quite rainy in Lake District National Park. In January, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Kinsale. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F) 
    Kinsale 6°C (43°F)

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

Both Kinsale and Lake District National Park during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Kinsale in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Lake District National Park is generally cooler than Kinsale. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 7°C (45°F), and Kinsale fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Kinsale. Lake District National Park gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kinsale receives 157 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in April than Kinsale. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Kinsale and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Kinsale
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 6°C (43°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 6°C (43°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 7°C (45°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 101 mm (4 in)