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

Should you visit Outer Hebrides or Lake District National Park?

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 Outer Hebrides and Lake District National Park. 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.

Outer Hebrides

Outer Hebrides is a natural, tranquil, and serene archipelago. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a spectacular, relaxing, and enjoyable national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food and hiking.

Outer Hebrides and Lake District National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Outer Hebrides than Lake District National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Outer Hebrides is better known for its beaches, while Lake District National Park is more popular for its impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is more touristy than Outer Hebrides and is known for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Outer Hebrides is well known for its scenic beauty, fresh seafood, and distilleries. Also, Outer Hebrides is famous for Barra.

How is Outer Hebrides different from Lake District National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lake District National Park and Outer Hebrides. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Outer Hebrides
Lake District National Park

Dining out at restaurants in both Outer Hebrides and Lake District National Park can be an enjoyable experience.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Outer Hebrides. You'll find plenty of seafood, smokehouses, distilleries and crofting produce in the area. Most islands have independent restaurants as well as pubs and other local eateries to choose from.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Lake District National Park. 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 Outer Hebrides or Lake District National Park Better for Beaches?

Outer Hebrides
Lake District National Park

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

Many people visit Outer Hebrides for it's beautiful beaches. From white sand beaches to hidden coves, you'll enjoy a completely serene beach experience on these islands. You can get lost in the nature and soak up the surprisingly blue waters at any of the remote beaches. Favorite beaches in the area include Vatersay Bay, Coilleag a’Phrionnsa, West Coast Beach, and Crabhadail.

Lake District National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Outer Hebrides or Lake District National Park Better for Hiking?

Outer Hebrides
Lake District National Park

Hiking trails can be found around both Outer Hebrides and Lake District National Park, and they are terrific.

Outer Hebrides is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The islands offer some of the area's best hiking. You'll pass by stunning beaches, see unique wildlife, and enjoy a remote and tranquil setting. Follow the Hebridean Way, which covers the full length of the archipelago. It spans 156 miles and goes through 10 islands with 2 ferry trips.

People visit Lake District National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There's a huge selection of hikes to choose from in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country and you can spend days exploring. Some of the favorite hikes in the area include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Catbells.

Is Outer Hebrides or Lake District National Park Better for Families?

Outer Hebrides
Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Outer Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Lake District National Park is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Outer Hebrides. The beautiful outdoor setting is great for kids and adults alike. There are beaches to explore as well as kid-friendly museums. You can also try your hand at digging for cockles or head out on the water to watch for dolphins.


Is Outer Hebrides or Lake District National Park Better for Couples?

Outer Hebrides
Lake District National Park

Outer Hebrides and Lake District National Park both excellent destinations for a couple.

Outer Hebrides makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Go island hopping and discover the countless beautiful beaches. You can take a boat trip or simply soak up the peaceful coastal setting.

Couples visit Lake District National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

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

Outer Hebrides
Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Outer Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Lake District National Park. 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 budget travelers visit Outer Hebrides. You'll need to take either a plane of ferry to reach the islands but once you're there you can camp and hike and soak up the tranquil setting.

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

Outer Hebrides
Lake District National Park

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Outer Hebrides. There are buses that run doing the day between Monday and Saturday. In Stornoway you may be able to find some evening buses as well.

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


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

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

How long in Outer Hebrides or Lake District National Park?

Both Outer Hebrides and Lake District National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Outer Hebrides than in Lake District National Park. Usually, 4-10 days is a good amount of time for Outer Hebrides, and 3-7 days is enough time in Lake District National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lake District National Park than Outer Hebrides 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 Outer Hebrides or Lake District National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Outer Hebrides 4-10 
    Lake District National Park 3-7

One day in Outer Hebrides or Lake District National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the remote destination of Outer Hebrides. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Lake District National Park, you'll find food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Outer Hebrides or Lake District National Park?

Many people visit Outer Hebrides for a weekend. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Lake District National Park is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Outer Hebrides or Lake District National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the stunning destination of Outer Hebrides. It's also a great beach destination, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Many people spend five days here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake District National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.


A week in Outer Hebrides or Lake District National Park?

Outer Hebrides, a popular archipelago, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for one week. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week is often enough time to do most activities. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Lake District National Park, you'll find food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to United Kingdom, and The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Lake District National Park or Outer Hebrides?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Outer Hebrides is £123, while the average daily cost in Lake District National Park is £81. 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 Outer Hebrides and Lake District National Park in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Outer Hebrides or Lake District National Park? 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 Outer Hebrides


Hotels in Lake District National Park


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Outer Hebrides £51
    Lake District National Park £33

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

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

Prices for flights to both Lake District National Park and Outer Hebrides 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
    Outer Hebrides £31
    Lake District National Park £21

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Outer Hebrides £20
    Lake District National Park £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:

  • 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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Outer Hebrides £6.36
    Lake District National Park £4.64


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



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

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 Outer Hebrides or Lake District National Park in the Summer?

Both Lake District National Park and Outer Hebrides are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Outer Hebrides because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lake District National Park this time of year.

In July, Outer Hebrides is generally cooler than Lake District National Park. Daily temperatures in Outer Hebrides average around 13°C (55°F), and Lake District National Park fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Outer Hebrides usually receives less sunshine than Lake District National Park during summer. Outer Hebrides gets 117 hours of sunny skies, while Lake District National Park receives 159 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Outer Hebrides usually receives less rain than Lake District National Park. Outer Hebrides gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Outer Hebrides 13°C (55°F) 
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F)

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

Both Lake District National Park and Outer Hebrides during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Outer Hebrides this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Outer Hebrides is around the same temperature as Lake District National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Outer Hebrides averages around 9°C (49°F) in October, and Lake District National Park fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Outer Hebrides often gets more sunshine than Lake District National Park. Outer Hebrides gets 83 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake District National Park receives 69 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Outer Hebrides. Outer Hebrides usually gets less rain in October than Lake District National Park. Outer Hebrides gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Outer Hebrides 9°C (49°F) 
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Outer Hebrides and Lake District National Park. Many travelers come to Outer Hebrides for the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the winter for the cuisine.

Lake District National Park can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Outer Hebrides. In the winter, Outer Hebrides is a little warmer than Lake District National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Outer Hebrides in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Lake District National Park averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Outer Hebrides usually receives less sunshine than Lake District National Park during winter. Outer Hebrides gets 33 hours of sunny skies, while Lake District National Park receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

Lake District National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. Outer Hebrides gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Outer Hebrides usually receives less rain than Lake District National Park. Outer Hebrides gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

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

The spring brings many poeple to Outer Hebrides as well as Lake District National Park. Many visitors come to Outer Hebrides in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Lake District National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Outer Hebrides is generally cooler than Lake District National Park. Daily temperatures in Outer Hebrides average around 7°C (44°F), and Lake District National Park fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the spring, Outer Hebrides often gets more sunshine than Lake District National Park. Outer Hebrides gets 149 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake District National Park receives 134 hours of full sun.

Outer Hebrides usually gets less rain in April than Lake District National Park. Outer Hebrides gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Outer Hebrides 7°C (44°F) 
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F)

Typical Weather for Lake District National Park and Outer Hebrides

Outer Hebrides Lake District National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 107 mm (4.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Jun 11°C (53°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Jul 13°C (55°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 126 mm (5 in) 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)