Things to Do in Lake District in September
September weather, activities, events & insider tips
September Weather in Lake District
Is September Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect hiking weather - cool mornings at 22°C (72°F) before 9am, ideal for tackling the 563m (1,847 ft) Old Man of Coniston without the summer heat
- Autumn colors begin appearing on lower fells by late September, creating stunning photography opportunities without peak season crowds
- Lakes are still warm from summer (18-20°C/64-68°F) making wild swimming comfortable, but tourist boats have reduced schedules meaning quieter waters
- Shoulder season pricing - accommodation rates drop 25-40% compared to August, with availability opening up at premium properties
Considerations
- Afternoon showers arrive suddenly 60% of days, typically lasting 30-45 minutes between 2-5pm, disrupting outdoor plans
- Daylight reduces to 12.5 hours by month-end (sunrise 7:15am, sunset 7:45pm), limiting evening outdoor activities
- Mountain weather becomes unpredictable above 400m (1,312 ft) - conditions can change from clear to fog-bound within 20 minutes
Best Activities in September
Lake District Fell Walking Routes
September's cool mornings and stable weather windows make it ideal for tackling major peaks. Start ascents by 8am to avoid afternoon showers and take advantage of crisp visibility. The changing light creates dramatic conditions for ridge walks, and you'll encounter 70% fewer hikers than summer months.
Windermere Lake Cruises
September offers the perfect balance of warm water temperatures and reduced crowds. Morning cruises (9-11am) provide glass-like water conditions before afternoon breezes. The changing autumn light creates spectacular reflections, and wildlife is more active in cooler temperatures.
Traditional Pub Walking Tours
September's cooler evenings make pub-to-pub walking routes comfortable, and many establishments restart their autumn menus featuring local lamb and game. The shorter daylight means earlier pub sessions, perfect for experiencing authentic fell-walking culture with locals.
Photography Workshops
September's changing light conditions, early autumn colors, and dramatic weather create perfect conditions for landscape photography. The 70% humidity adds atmospheric mist to valleys, and the variable weather produces spectacular cloud formations over the fells.
Heritage Railway Journeys
The Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway and other heritage lines offer warm, dry touring options perfect for September's variable weather. Clear autumn air provides stunning fell views from carriages, and the cooler weather makes the authentic steam experience more comfortable.
Wild Swimming Experiences
September offers the year's best wild swimming conditions - lakes retain summer warmth (18-20°C/64-68°F) while air temperatures are comfortable for getting in and out. Reduced tourist numbers mean access to popular tarns and becks without crowds.
September Events & Festivals
Westmorland County Show
The region's premier agricultural show featuring traditional fell racing, sheep dog trials, and local food producers. Authentic Cumbrian culture with none of the touristy elements found at summer events.
Grasmere Sports
Traditional Lakeland sports including fell running, Cumberland wrestling, and hound trailing. Dating back to 1852, this event showcases authentic fell culture in Wordsworth's village.