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

Should you visit Windsor or Lake District National Park?

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

Should I visit Windsor or Lake District National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Windsor

Windsor is a royal, traditional, and touristy town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a relaxing, enjoyable, and unique national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food and hiking.

Windsor and Lake District National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
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 Windsor or Lake District National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Windsor. Although Windsor and Lake District National Park are both popular with visitors, Windsor has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Windsor is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and small town charm, while Lake District National Park is known for its food and hiking. Windsor is popular for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. It is also home to The Windsor Castle. Lake District National Park is popular for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Windsor or Lake District National Park?

Windsor
Lake District National Park

Windsor is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Windsor. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Windsor
Lake District National Park

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

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.

Windsor is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Is Windsor or Lake District National Park Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Lake District National Park

Windsor is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Windsor. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

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

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

Windsor
Lake District National Park

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

Windsor has an old town worth visiting. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

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


Is Windsor or Lake District National Park Better for Hiking?

Windsor
Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Windsor is not a hiking destination.

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.

Windsor is not a hiking destination.

Is Windsor or Lake District National Park Better for Families?

Windsor
Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Lake District National Park is a very kid-friendly 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.

Windsor offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

Is Windsor or Lake District National Park Better for Couples?

Windsor
Lake District National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Windsor and Lake District National Park make for a superb place to visit.

Couples visit Windsor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

Lake District National Park is a great town 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.


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

Windsor
Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Windsor
Lake District National Park

Windsor 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.

Windsor has some public transit options. There is a bus system around town.

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

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

Windsor
Lake District National Park

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

Windsor is a very walkable destination. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.


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

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

How long in Windsor or Lake District National Park?

Both Windsor 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 Lake District National Park than in Windsor. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Windsor, and 3-7 days is enough time in Lake District National Park.

Families should spend more time in Lake District National Park than Windsor. 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 Windsor than Lake District National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Windsor 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 Windsor 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 Windsor or Lake District National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Windsor 1-2 
    Lake District National Park 3-7

One day in Windsor or Lake District National Park?

Windsor is a small town with plenty to do. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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.

A weekend in Windsor or Lake District National Park?

Many people visit Windsor for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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.

Five days in Windsor or Lake District National Park?

Because Windsor is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.

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.


A week in Windsor or Lake District National Park?

Windsor, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Windsor is £150, 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 Windsor and Lake District National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Lake District National Park £39
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Lake District National Park £78
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Lake District National Park

Looking for a hotel in Windsor 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 Windsor


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.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Windsor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Lake District National Park £33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319
  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56

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 Windsor or Lake District National Park?

Prices for flights to both Lake District National Park and Windsor 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
    Windsor £39
    Lake District National Park £21
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Windsor:


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Windsor £26
    Lake District National Park £20

Tours and Activities in Windsor

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

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • 3 Hour Private Tour in Windsor Old Town and Castle: $191
  • From London: Half-Day Trip to Windsor with Castle Tickets: $111
  • From Southampton: Bath and Windsor Tour with London Drop-Off: $230
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • Private Tour Windsor, Eton & Hampton Court: $650
  • Private Windsor Town & Guided Castle Walking Tour: $350
  • Private Windsor Walking Tour: $146
  • Royal Windsor & Stonehenge Private Tour: $1,998
  • Royal Windsor Castle Tour Private including tickets: $362
  • Stonehenge and Windsor Castle Tour from London With Entry Tickets: $126

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
    Windsor £7.55
    Lake District National Park £4.64


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



When is the best time to visit Windsor 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 Windsor or Lake District National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Lake District National Park. Most visitors come to Windsor for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Windsor is a little warmer than Lake District National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Windsor in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Lake District National Park averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In the summer, Windsor often gets more sunshine than Lake District National Park. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake District National Park receives 159 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in July than Lake District National Park. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 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
    Windsor 18°C (64°F) 
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F)

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

Both Lake District National Park and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Windsor because of the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lake District National Park this time of year.

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

Windsor usually receives more sunshine than Lake District National Park during autumn. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Lake District National Park receives 69 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lake District National Park. In October, Windsor usually receives less rain than Lake District National Park. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 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
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F)

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

Both Lake District National Park and Windsor during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Windsor this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Lake District National Park. It's quite cold in Windsor in the winter. Windsor is a little warmer than Lake District National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Lake District National Park fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Windsor often gets more sunshine than Lake District National Park. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake District National Park receives 40 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Windsor usually gets less rain in January than Lake District National Park. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 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
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Lake District National Park. Many travelers come to Windsor for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the spring for the natural beauty.

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

Windsor usually receives more sunshine than Lake District National Park during spring. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Lake District National Park receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Windsor usually receives less rain than Lake District National Park. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 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
    Windsor 9°C (48°F) 
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F)

Typical Weather for Lake District National Park and Windsor

Windsor Lake District National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)