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

Should you visit Snowdonia National Park or Lake District National Park?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Snowdonia National Park and Lake District National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park is a stunning, natural, and scenic national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a enjoyable, unique, and beautiful national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food and hiking.

Snowdonia National Park and Lake District National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
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 Snowdonia National Park or Lake District National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Snowdonia National Park. Although Snowdonia National Park and Lake District National Park are both popular with visitors, Snowdonia National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Snowdonia National Park is more popular for its skiing and beaches, while Lake District National Park is known for its food. Lake District National Park is more touristy than Snowdonia National Park and is popular for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Snowdonia National Park is popular for its beautiful mountain landscape. It is also home to Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon).

How is Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Lake District National Park Better for Skiing?

Snowdonia National Park
Lake District National Park

Snowdonia National Park is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Lake District National Park is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Snowdonia National Park for snow skiing. The mountains in the area are a bit rugged and coastal, making them not ideal for skiing. But if the weather's right and you are up for the steep terrain, there may be opportunities to ski at times between the months of November and April.

Lake District National Park is not a skiing destination.


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

Snowdonia National Park
Lake District National Park

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

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.

Snowdonia National Park is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a variety of restaurants in the area that serve up local Welsh flavors. You'll build up your appetite hiking and then head into town to enjoy a quick bite at a cafe or a nice meal at a 5 star hotel.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Lake District National Park Better for Beaches?

Snowdonia National Park
Lake District National Park

Snowdonia National Park is a good destination for the beach. However, Lake District National Park is not a beach destination.

Snowdonia National Park offers a nice beach destination. The white sandy beaches offer spectacular views of the mountains. There are holiday cottages near the beaches that make it a nice vacation spot between the months of September and April. Several of the best beaches in the area include Porthdinllaen, Porth O'er, Llanbedrog, and Harlech Beach.

Lake District National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Lake District National Park Better for Hiking?

Snowdonia National Park
Lake District National Park

You'll find first-rate hiking in both Snowdonia National Park and Lake District National Park.

Many people visit Snowdonia National Park specifically for its hiking. There are approximately 1,500 miles of walking paths and hiking trails in the area. You can hike to waterfalls, along beaches, or to the top of Mt. Snowden. Aber Falls is a popular trail or you could explore lakes and try to see wild ponies along the Llyn Idwal Trail. For a particularly strenuous and adventurous trail, head to Glyder Fawr or The Snowdon Horseshoe Circular Walk.

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.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Lake District National Park Better for Families?

Snowdonia National Park
Lake District National Park

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Snowdonia National Park or Lake District National Park.

Snowdonia National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. Kids will enjoy exploring the outdoors. You can also check out Conwy Castle or wander the medieval walls around Conwy. If you're interested in taking a walk, you wander along Newborough Beach or head to the top of Mount Snowdon and enjoy the beautiful outdoor scenery. Llechwedd Slate Caverns is also particularly fun for kids.

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.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Lake District National Park Better for Couples?

Snowdonia National Park
Lake District National Park

Snowdonia National Park is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Lake District National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Snowdonia National Park is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Explore the beautiful outdoor scenery by taking one of the many hikes in the park. There are many diverse walking routes or you can head to the top of Mt. Snowden. There are also waterfalls and castles that couples can explore.

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

Snowdonia National Park
Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Snowdonia National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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 and backpackers visit Snowdonia National Park. Camping and hiking is the best way to experience this park. You can explore the stunning natural beauty without spending a fortune on a hotel.


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

Snowdonia National Park
Lake District National Park

Snowdonia National Park is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in options for its public transit.

Snowdonia National Park has some public transit options. During the peak season you can travel to some areas by bus. Sherpa’r Wyddfa bus operates in part of the park. Train options include The Cambrian and Conwy Valley train lines as well as the Welsh Highland Railway and the Ffestiniog Railway.

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 Snowdonia National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Lake District National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Snowdonia National Park or Lake District National Park?

Both Snowdonia National Park and Lake District National Park have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Snowdonia National Park has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Snowdonia National Park than Lake District National Park. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Snowdonia National Park than Lake District National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia 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 Lake District National Park.


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

One day in Snowdonia National Park or Lake District National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the natural destination of Snowdonia National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in 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 national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find food around the unique national park of Lake District National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Snowdonia National Park or Lake District National Park?

Many people visit Snowdonia National Park 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 popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


Five days in Snowdonia National Park or Lake District National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the rugged destination of Snowdonia National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Lake District National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Most people head to the area for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

A week in Snowdonia National Park or Lake District National Park?

Snowdonia National Park, a popular national park, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week is often enough time to do most activities. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake District National Park. Most people head to the area for the hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


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


Which place is cheaper, Lake District National Park or Snowdonia National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Snowdonia National Park is £75, 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 Snowdonia National Park and Lake District National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Snowdonia National Park £29
    Lake District National Park £39
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Snowdonia National Park £58
    Lake District National Park £78
Compare Hotels in Snowdonia National Park and Lake District National Park

Looking for a hotel in Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park


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.
    Snowdonia National Park £46
    Lake District National Park £33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Snowdonia National Park

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Snowdonia National Park:

  • Private Transfer from Caernarfon to Manchester Airport (MAN): $250

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: $43

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

Prices for flights to both Lake District National Park and Snowdonia 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
    Snowdonia National Park £19
    Lake District National Park £21

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Snowdonia National Park £18
    Lake District National Park £20

Tours and Activities in Snowdonia National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Snowdonia National Park are as follows:

  • 2 Hours Historical Tour of Caernarfon: $33
  • Anglesey Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • Snowdon Kayak Adventure on Llyn Padarn: $56

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:

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Snowdonia National Park £4.86
    Lake District National Park £4.64


When comparing the travel costs between Snowdonia National Park and Lake District National Park, we can see that Lake District National Park is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Snowdonia National Park Expensive? and Is Lake District National Park Expensive?.



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

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 Snowdonia National Park or Lake District National Park in the Summer?

Both Lake District National Park and Snowdonia National Park during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Snowdonia National Park in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Lake District National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Snowdonia National Park is around the same temperature as Lake District National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Snowdonia National Park in July average around 15°C (60°F), and Lake District National Park averages at about 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Snowdonia National Park. In the summer, Snowdonia National Park often gets more sunshine than Lake District National Park. Snowdonia National Park gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake District National Park receives 159 hours of full sun.

Snowdonia National Park usually gets less rain in July than Lake District National Park. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Snowdonia National Park and Lake District National Park. Most visitors come to Snowdonia National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Snowdonia National Park usually receives more sunshine than Lake District National Park during autumn. Snowdonia National Park gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Lake District National Park receives 69 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Lake District National Park receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Snowdonia National Park usually receives less rain than Lake District National Park. Snowdonia National Park gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Snowdonia National Park 12°C (53°F) 
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Snowdonia National Park as well as Lake District National Park. The winter months attract visitors to Snowdonia National Park because of the skiing and the cuisine. Additionally, the cuisine are the main draw to Lake District National Park this time of year.

It's quite cold in Lake District National Park in the winter. Snowdonia National Park is much warmer than Lake District National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Snowdonia National Park averages around 5°C (42°F) in January, and Lake District National Park fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Snowdonia National Park often gets more sunshine than Lake District National Park. Snowdonia National Park gets 63 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake District National Park receives 40 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Lake District National Park. Snowdonia National Park usually gets less rain in January than Lake District National Park. Snowdonia National Park gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Snowdonia National Park 5°C (42°F) 
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F)

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

Both Lake District National Park and Snowdonia National Park are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Snowdonia National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Snowdonia National Park is a little warmer than Lake District National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Snowdonia National Park in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Lake District National Park averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Snowdonia National Park usually receives more sunshine than Lake District National Park during spring. Snowdonia National Park gets 179 hours of sunny skies, while Lake District National Park receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Snowdonia National Park usually receives less rain than Lake District National Park. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Snowdonia National Park 8°C (47°F) 
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F)

Typical Weather for Lake District National Park and Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park Lake District National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (42°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 52 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Jul 15°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Aug 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 101 mm (4 in) 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)