A more appropriate name for the Lake District would be “the mountain district” thanks to the fantastic array of walking routes the area has to offer, it has been claimed.

Ian Hawkins, domestic market manager at Tourism Cumbria, stated that while Lake Windermere is the most famous part of the landscape, the hills and mountains provide ample walking and hiking opportunities for those who enjoy walking more than sailing.

Mr Hawkins said that he himself spends little time on the water and prefers instead to explore the myriad of walking routes, adding that they are what make the region such a special place to visit.

“It’s about getting out, mountain biking, hill walking, ghyll scrambling and those kind of things. That’s the Lake District for me, it’s about the walking, hiking and outdoor activities,” he stated.

More than eight million people enjoy the Lake District’s walking routes each year, according to the Lake District National Park Authority.