George Lake's father was General Gerard Lake who became Viscount Lake of Delhi and Laswary and Aston Clint after his service in India. George Lake served with his father as his aide-de-camp and military secretary from 1798 to 1803 in both Ireland and India. As a Major in the 94th Regiment of Foot he was seriously wounded at the Battle of Laswaree, whilst ensuring his father remounted after General Lake had his horse shot from under him.