Shanna

Greetings all. A friend and I are traveling to London to the Chelsea Flower Show and hope to spend a few days before (mid-May) in the Lake District (Cumbria) as well. Is anyone familiar with how fast hotels fill up at that time of year? My friend tends to be a wing-it kind of gal, but I know about the mobs that can descend on scenic beauty. I'd like to get rooms as soon as necessary, but post war if possible. We're also considering staying in Richmond as a central point and driving to the lakes and to York. Any advice on that possibility - or any suggestions about the area - is most appreciated.

Snoopy

Things can fill up pretty quickly when the weather starts to warm up, particularly on the weekend . . . so, if you have a choice, try to visit Mon-Fri and you'll have a little more luck winging it.<BR><BR>Having said that, it will likely still be fairly cool in the Lakes in Mid-May. Find something that looks nice (on the web, for example) book it for 3 or 4 nights and then change it once you get there if you find something more to your liking on arrival and you've had a chance to explore.<BR><BR>For what it's worth . . . I like the Wateredge in Ambleside, Cedar Manor, just outside Windermere, and the Sun in Coniston.

Rick

Had no trouble driving into Keswick (sp?) and finding a very nice B&amp;B in late June of 01. It was a weekday though.

Maggie

We stayed here and loved it! A lot for the money! http://www.fayrergarden.com/<BR><BR>You shouldn't have to much of a problem at that time.

ET

Another personal opinion, try Sharrow Bay located near Penrith. A wonderful place to stay with truly outstanding food.

Shanna

Thanks all for input. I'm trying to get a flight into Manchester and then drive to Richmond and stay there, doing day trps to the lakes and York. I appreciate your responses.