The Lake District was one of the first areas to be designated a National Park in 1951.

The area is rich in many natural features. There is a unique geology that forms the varied features of fell and dale and creates the dramatic landscape. Within the Lakes there are extensive stretches of dry stone wall and many buildings are made of local stone, also to be found are extensive areas of semi-natural broadleaf woodland and coniferous woodland, the majority of which is owned by Forest Enterprise; not to mention that within the National Park there are over a hundred Sites of Special Scientific Interest and four National Nature Reserves, demonstrating the areas rich natural flora and fauna.

For the walking enthusiast there are more than a hundred fells over 600metres and 3500km of public Rights of Way. Others may be interested in searching out the evidence of many different industries, both past and present, and the interesting historical and educational features to be found locally.

Patterdale is located within easy reach of all the Lake District's key features and provides an ideal opportunity to experience this unique natural area. Within the immediate area there are many tourist attractions, including: The Ullswater Steamers, the Rheged Discovery Centre, the waterfalls at Aira Force not to mention that some of the finest walking in the Lakes starts at the back door. If you are new to the area and would like more information about what is here and what you can do please contact the centre.