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Those staying in Lake District holiday cottages at present may wish be extra careful if they are planning going for walks in the area over the coming weeks.

Head of countryside services for the Lake District National Park Mark Eccles said that the recent flooding caused some bridges and pathways to be damaged, meaning repairs will need to be carried out in order to make them passable again.

"There are a huge number of routes open and the countryside can still be enjoyed," he stated, urging walkers to ensure they wear the right footwear and steer clear of any obvious damage.

He explained that so far, 892 paths have been assessed, with 21 being washed away completely.

"We are advising walkers to choose routes carefully," Mr Eccles remarked, adding that teams are currently out checking whether paths are passable and putting up warning notices if necessary.

According to figures from Cumbria Tourism, 8.3 million day visitors travel to the Lake District every year, with the majority coming by private motor vehicles.

Posted by Ben Webster

Keswick’s Cumberland Pencil Museum is removing its entry change in the run-up to Christmas, it has emerged.

Those staying in Lake District holiday cottages during December will be able to gain entry to the attraction – which is located in the grounds of the pencil factory – for free until December 19th, Keswick.org reports.

A ”12 days of Christmas” trail has been set up around the site in order to entertain younger visitors, while activities such as Christmas card and decoration making will be taking place on a daily basis.

Free parking will also be available, making it an ideal low-cost day out for those visiting the county.

Over 90,000 people pass through the museum”s doors every year in order to see attractions such as a 1950”s Morris J class delivery van, which is the only surviving vehicle of its type at the factory.

It also features a shop, where aspiring artists can pick up a range of materials, as well as books on the subject.

Posted by Toby Lawrence