Lake District Family Photography Locations
The Lake District is one of the most beautiful places in the world to photograph a family. Fells, forests, shorelines, valleys. Wherever you go, the landscape frames you.
As a family photographer based in Windermere, I've spent years exploring every corner of Cumbria with families just like yours. I know the spots that catch the light beautifully, the hidden corners that feel private even in peak season, and the accessible paths that work for toddlers, grandparents and excitable dogs alike.
Whether you're a local family or visiting the Lakes on holiday, this guide covers my favourite locations for a family photoshoot in the Lake District and why each one makes for truly special photographs.
Shores of an epic lake or peaceful tarn
Derwentwater, Coniston, Grasmere, Rydal, Buttermere, Ullswater, Windermere are the most photogenic scenes in the Lake District. They work beautifully around sunrise and sunset when the light dances across the water.
I know lots of lakeside locations that are easily accessible and offer a variety of scenic points along the lakeshore, making them ideal for families with children of all ages.
Langdale Valley
For families looking for dramatic landscapes, the Langdale Valley offers rugged scenery dominated by impressive pikes and craggy hilltops.
The valley's grandeur provides a dramatic contrast to the intimacy of a family photoshoot, adding an element of adventure to your family portraits.
Lake Windermere
Little legs that don't love walking? For families looking for an easy option for family photographs the jetties and fields on Windermere shoreline provide beautiful scenery without a lot of effort.
Epic Keswick fells
Looking for epic!
The northern lakes offer the most beautiful fell backgrounds and there are some great car parking options to limit the walking. Especially beautiful in autumn.
Staveley & Kendal Woodland
The peaceful woodlands on the edge of the Lake District are fabulous for family photographs, nothing too strenuous just plenty of natural landmarks for children to enjoy.
Staveley and the southern edge of the Lake District offer lovely woodland. Although I also know some lovely woodland spots in the central lakes around Grasmere.
Lake District Seasonal Flowers
Give me your dates and I'll let you know what's in season here in the Lake District.
From pink blossom, to fields of bluebells, golden grass and red autumn woodland.
Rydal and Grasmere
Loved by poets for a reason, the accessible fells around Rydal and Grasmere make for stunning family photographs.
Older kids will enjoy turning this into an adventure with a walk to Rydal caves.
A hidden waterfall, Ambleside
Perfect for bright summer days, the family can explore easy accessible streams that lead to a waterfall on the edge of Ambleside.
With alternative waterfalls in the northern lakes.
