Denis, and roger l,
to avoid crowds and traffic in the lakes stay away from Keswick and Derwent water, Ulswater and Windermeer,turn left at Jnc 36 M6 and keep going, try the west coast of the lakes anywhere from Barrow in furness to Silloth,
The western meers and waters :- Enerdale water, Lowes water, Buttermeer and Crummock water are beautiful, there are lots of wonderful walks, and some nice caravan sites including CC site Dockwray Meadow, there are lots of things to see to many to list.
You can`t say we`ve done the lakes by staying on Derwent water, where did you go Reghed, Carlisle, Penrith. That is only a small part, the west side is undiscovered by most come up the M6, and remains a jewel, but if you want to go to midge heaven,SO BE IT. I`ll stay here and enjoy it myself.
sorry if I`ve bored you
Tony A.