Book excerpt: The Rough Guide to the Lake District, features comprehensive reviews of the finest places to stay and eat for every budget, based on personal inspection by a long-time Lakes expert. Whether you're looking for a walker's hostel or boutique hotel, café or gastro-pub, farmhouse B&B or country-house hotel, this guide has the lowdown on all the best deals. There's detailed information on the best way to get around by public transport, while special features on the great outdoors focus on local walks, classic hikes, mountain climbs, lake cruises and family adventures. Whether you're on a walking holiday or family break you can discover all the facts you need - from current opening times to festival dates. There's also background information on the history, culture, nature and wildlife of the English Lakes, and plenty of special features - from the history of rock-climbing or a rundown of music festivals to the fascinating lives of the locals. Make the most of your time with The Rough Guide to the Lake District. Now available in PDF format.