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Lake District Full-Day Tour: Explore 10 Lakes, See Beautiful Scenery & Enjoy a Lake Cruise
5.0
139 Ratings
Cumbria
Experience the best full-day tour of the Lake District, exploring 10 lakes, enjoying a lake cruise, and soaking up the breathtaking scenery. Join us for a stress-free, informative, and unforgettable adventure!
Duration:
8 hours
Cancellation:
1 day
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Highlights
- Lake Windermere - England’s largest and most frequented lake, Lake Windermere, is a sight you can’t miss. Named after a Norse hero, Windermere has been a major attraction for nearly 300 years. Its rocky inlets, secluded bays, grassy banks, and wooded heights, along with the northern skyline marked by volcanic peaks and the southern shore dense with broadleaf trees, embody the quintessential Lake District. Listen to your guide to learn about its creation, Roman history, arctic fish inhabitants, boating tales, and the local legend of the “boggle” that halted the ferry at night.
- Brothers Water - This small lake might have once been part of the larger Ullswater lake further down the valley, known for its dramatic scenery. The path along the western shore dips under ancient oak woodland, but it’s the poignant story of two brothers that gives this lake its romantic name.
- Ullswater Lake - Stretching nearly eight miles, Ullswater is the second longest lake, with a serpentine shape overlooked by towering fells, including the challenging Helvellyn. Its shores are dotted with oak, birch, and hazel woods, representing pre-plantation Lakeland scenery. William Wordsworth called Ullswater “the happiest combination of beauty and grandeur,” and you can see for yourself on a one-hour boat cruise along the lake.
- Derwentwater - South of Keswick, Derwentwater shimmers and sparkles, dotted with islands and surrounded by craggy fells. Known as “the Queen” of the English Lakes, a drive along its shoreline offers views of Cat Bells and the dramatic Jaws of Borrowdale. You’ll hear stories of hermits, hedgehogs, squirrels, and mock sea battles, all part of the lake’s rich history and folklore.
- Buttermere Lake - Named “the lake by the dairy pastures,” Buttermere is surrounded by breathtaking scenery and impressive mountains. Early tourists called it “the quintessence of natural beauty,” and you’ll see why, even in the rain.
- Crummock Water - Once connected to Buttermere, Crummock Water is now separated by a narrow strip of meadowland. It’s almost twice as long and half as deep as Buttermere, with fewer visitors and a more tranquil atmosphere. The name, derived from the Celtic language, means crooked or bent lake. Stop here to soak up the atmosphere, enjoy the views, and take photos.
- Bassenthwaite Lake - From Surprise View, you can see Bassenthwaite sparkling in the distance. Later, you’ll get closer for a photo stop with impressive views of the lake and its surroundings. This northernmost lake in the National Park is home to a rich variety of plants and animals, including ospreys and the rare vendace fish.
- Thirlmere - Traveling south along Thirlmere’s tree-fringed shores, you’ll hear the sad tale of the villages of Armboth and Wythburn, now submerged. The story involves wealth, industry, and the might of Manchester, which disrupted the rural lifestyle in the 19th century. Thirlmere is backed by Helvellyn and is a place of legend with tales of hauntings and spectral black dogs.
- Lake Grasmere - Nestled in the Vale of Grasmere, this lake is closely associated with poet William Wordsworth. He, his sister Dorothy, and brother John spent lazy days here swimming, fishing, and picnicking. Today, you can still see people wild swimming and rowing boats on the lake.
- Rydal Water - This reedy little lake offers great views from the road and is especially beautiful on a summer morning or a frosty winter day. Smaller than its neighbor, it was a favorite of the Wordsworth family. Driving along the shore, you’ll pass Wordsworth’s seat, his favorite spot to gaze upon the lake. Rydal Water, originally called “Rothaymere,” is home to wildfowl, gulls, red squirrels, and Herdwick sheep.
- Surprise View - Perched high on an oak-lined cliff, Surprise View offers one of the best panoramic views in the Lake District, including Derwent Water, the Skiddaw mountain range, Borrowdale Valley, Keswick, Bassenthwaite Lake, the Solway, and even Scotland on a clear day.
- Ashness Bridge - A steep climb up a single-track road leads to Ashness Bridge, one of the most photographed locations in the Lake District. The bridge offers views of Derwentwater and the peaks of Skiddaw.
- Moss Force Waterfall - This accessible waterfall is just 200m from the roadside. In dry weather, it’s a trickle, but after rain, it’s an impressive sight. Located on the crest of Newlands Hause, the views down the valley are incredible.
- Castlerigg Stone Circle - Set on a hill with a panoramic view of mountains, Castlerigg Stone Circle consists of 48 stones placed over 5000 years ago. Its purpose remains a mystery, but the setting is dramatic.
- Kirkstone Pass - The highest road in the Lake District, Kirkstone Pass offers spectacular mountain scenery. At the top, near the old Kirkstone Pass Inn, you can admire panoramic views, including Windermere Lake and Morecambe Bay on a clear day.
- Blencathra [Saddleback] - Dominating the road to Keswick, Blencathra, or Saddleback, is a mountain with six separate fell tops. It features a distinctive ridge known as Sharp Edge, offering one of the most famous scrambles in the area.
- Skiddaw - The fourth highest mountain in the Lakes, Skiddaw was a popular destination for early tourists. It has its own legends and stories, including those of poets, picnics, and wartime antics.
- Helvellyn - The third highest peak in the Lake District, Helvellyn is popular with experienced walkers. The classic ridge route along Striding Edge is challenging, with dizzying drops. Wordsworth’s favorite mountain, it inspired his poem “Fidelity.”
- Honister Slate Mine - At the top of Honister Pass, you can see the road winding down and adventurers on the Via Ferrata or the Infinity Bridge. The views are breathtaking.
- Bridge House - This tiny cottage in Ambleside has a long history and is one of the most photographed buildings in the Lakes. It straddles the Stock Ghyll brook.
- Whinlatter Forest - England’s only true mountain forest, Whinlatter Forest is home to red squirrels, ospreys, roe deer, badgers, foxes, and buzzards. The forest park offers great views of Bassenthwaite and the surrounding hills.
- Wordsworth Grasmere - Dove Cottage, where William Wordsworth lived, is a must-see for poetry lovers. The tiny whitewashed house is rich in history.
- The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop - A stop at this shop is a must for its delicious gingerbread, rum butter, and other ginger-themed goodies. The aroma of freshly baked gingerbread fills the air.
- Borrowdale - At the southern end of Derwentwater, the “Jaws of Borrowdale” offers a unique, almost otherworldly atmosphere. The valley is lush and heavily wooded, with tall trees, high crags, and dense ferns.
- Newlands Valley - Once a busy mining community, Newlands Valley is now a gentle, green landscape. Beatrix Potter used it as inspiration for her children’s book “The Tale of Mrs. Tiggywinkle.”
- Ambleside - Known as “the hub of the wheel of beauty,” Ambleside is a bustling town with Victorian slate buildings and a rich history. It was a popular destination for early tourists.
- Grasmere - This archetypal Lake District village is surrounded by mighty fells and has a serene, English country churchyard. William Wordsworth lived here for over a decade and is buried in the churchyard.
- Rydal - This tiny hamlet is packed with history, including the home of William Wordsworth and the church where he was warden.
- Windermere - One of the pick-up locations for the tour, Windermere village is a product of the Victorian railway. It remains a transport hub with many original villas and guest houses.
- Oxenholme - Another pick-up location, Oxenholme is a convenient meeting point for day tours. The station has a car park and a shop selling local products.
- Bowness-on-Windermere - A bustling village with a rich history, Bowness offers boating opportunities and narrow streets dating back over 300 years.
- Troutbeck - This tiny village is known for its traditional Lakeland buildings and the National Trust property, Townend. The countryside becomes more remote as you head higher into the mountains.
- Patterdale - A small village at the south end of Ullswater, Patterdale is known for its walking trails and the saint’s church with locally made tapestries.
- Ullswater - The second longest lake, Ullswater is known for its beauty and grandeur. A one-hour boat cruise offers stunning views of the fells.
- Glenridding - Once a busy mining valley, Glenridding is now a bustling village with shops, cafes, and classy hotels. A famous scientist once described it as “magnificently beautiful.”
- Keswick - The northern tourist capital of the Lakes, Keswick has a rich history of mining and tourism. It was a popular destination for early tourists, including Wordsworth and Coleridge.
- Rosthwaite - A typical Lakeland village, Rosthwaite is known for its traditional features and the annual “Borrowdale Fell Race.”
- Braithwaite - Nestled at the foot of Whinlatter Pass, Braithwaite is surrounded by some of the best walking country in the Lake District. The area offers magnificent views.
- Ullswater Steamers - Enjoy a boat cruise on Ullswater to relax and see the stunning fells as the boat cruises the full length of the lake.
What's Included
- Intimate small-group tour with a maximum of 7 guests
- Air-conditioned, WiFi-equipped minivans with mobile charging
- Frequent stops for photos, refreshments, and comfort
- Knowledgeable guides sharing insights in English
- Scenic 1-hour Ullswater Lake cruise
- Central pick-up and drop-off locations
- All itineraries include entrance fees
What's Not Included
- Lunch
Additional Information
Experience the best one-day nature tour. This trip is a carefree, simple method to explore much of the Lake District in a single day, without feeling hurried. Throughout the day, there’s ample time to appreciate the views and even wade in a lake if you’re courageous enough. It’s a fantastic opportunity to get a comprehensive understanding of the Lake District, its traditions, history, and, of course, its breathtaking surroundings.
If you visit the lakes, viewing it from a boat is recommended, hence a lake cruise is included exclusively for this tour.
You’ll be exposed to a wide range of experiences, observe grand landscapes, taste gingerbread, and receive interesting facts, statistics, and captivating tales from our affable, well-informed guides and drivers who are familiar with the region.
You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned mini-van equipped with Wi-Fi and phone chargers, as one of only 6-7 passengers, creating an inviting atmosphere for enquiries and discussion (should you desire). There are numerous stops for snapshots and to breathe fresh air. It’s a wonderful excursion that we’re eager to share with you.
- The time of pickup from Oxenholme train station is timed to meet the first train heading towards Glasgow from London Euston on Mondays to Saturdays
- The English Lake District weather can change quickly, even in the summer months. Please bring a waterproof coat with a hood in case of rain or windy weather
- As there is a little walking involved on the tour, some uphill and on uneven or wet terrain, please wear suitable, comfortable shoes
- Children under the age of 5 can travel on this tour but we do not recommend it
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- All passengers, including children of any age, must have a seat purchased for them
- We will collect you from the departure point linked to your chosen option. Please do not change to a different departure point without informing us in advance as we don’t automatically go to every departure point. If we don’t know you have changed your departure point we may not pick you up for the tour!
Location
Windermere
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
5.0
(139 Ratings)
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487kennethl
Jul 20, 2024
Amazing Full-Day Tour of the Lake District - Amazing scenery complimented by knowledgeable tour director, especially the geologic history of the region. Frequent stops to leave the van to experience the various sites within this unique region of the world. Our guide and driver were first rate and very friendly discussions were held during our trips to various sites of interest. Tour included a trip on one of the largest lakes in the Lake District. Overall, a unique experience not to be missed.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Punitha_s
Jul 1, 2024
Our guide, Tim, was... - Our guide, Tim, was incredibly cool and impressively knowledgeable about the local history and sites. He shared many fascinating stories about the places we visited and his past journeys, making the tour both educational and entertaining. The small group of five created a warm and cozy atmosphere, allowing for a more personalized and enjoyable experience. Tim's passion for the area and his engaging storytelling truly enhanced the trip.
Review provided by Viator
Cynthiawt2496le
Jun 29, 2024
Excellent Scenic Tour of the Lakes District - The tour was a great introduction to the Lakes District! Our guide, Tim, was a wonderful source of scientifically-rooted information. I loved hearing the geologic history of the area, along with the history of each stop (including some of the regional challenges). Tim was kind enough to accommodate my mother’s slightly lessened mobility due to a recent injury. The sites were absolutely beautiful, and the area certainly showcased its diverse and changing weather.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Harjita2022
Jun 24, 2024
Great way to see the lakes. - We enjoyed our tour on Sun 16th June 2024 with our guide Tim. He arrived promptly and the minibus was comfortable and had access to USB charging points. Tim is a fountain of knowledge on the lakes history, people and sheep! accompanied with funny stories. Tim’s expert driving around the narrow roads made it look easy. The small group made for a more personable experience. The viewpoints and scenery were amazing and the cruise on Ullswater was a wonderful bonus. The day was relaxed and not rushed, a great way to see the area and we thoroughly recommend the tour and company. Thanks Tim for a great day.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Robertrr7039vi
Jun 10, 2024
An excellent tour of the Lake District - Collected promptly at pickup point and headed off via a series of very scenic roads before arriving at Ullswater for our lake cruise. The weather was starting to change and clouds and showers moved in. Tim, our guide, quickly re-arranged our tour so that we would have a greater chance of seeing some of the highlights later in the day when the weather should be better. For an excellent preview of the Lake District we recommend this tour.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Sergio_s
Jun 8, 2024
Fun tour of the Lake District's lakes and surrounding mountains! - Our tour guide Tim, was punctual, considerate and very knowledgeable. His van was very comfortable and he provided USB-C cable charging capability for Android plus adapters for the Apple iPhone. He made our all-day tour go by quickly as he provided us with a great deal of information about the people and places in the Lake District. The stops along the way offered more than ample opportunities for a rest/stretch/lunch break. He also entertained us with his several observations and anecdotes about the area, the people and the sheep,
which we all really enjoyed! We had much fun & highly recommend this tour. So if it's at all possible, ask for TIM!
Review provided by Viator
Lisa
Jun 2, 2024
Thorough Lake District Tour - My daughter and I had a great day with tour guide Gillian and driver Sandra on our tour of the lakes. This was our second tour with them and we saw so many places we never would have known to visit if they hadn’t shown us. The stops and lake cruise both were perfect.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Arunava_c
May 26, 2024
An awesome day spent at Lake District - It was an awesome experience! Our guide and driver were both very friendly and experienced and they made sure that we don't miss out any of the places to be seen ! The van was very comfortable and being a small group, each and everyone was taken care of properly !
Review provided by Viator
Xiaoyiz2014
May 25, 2024
The best Lake District guided tour ever! - Gillian and Sandra are absolutely fantastic. Their tour and tailored itinerary showed us all the unique bits of the Lake District that we would not be able to see otherwise. Thanks to them, we have had a truly wonderful trip. Highly recommended!!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Natasha_s
May 11, 2024
Lovely tour - Good guide and driver. Great trip. However really was quite expensive. No lunch included. You are paying for transport and information from the tour guide. There is a hop on hop off bus around the Lake District so you may want to compare options.
Review provided by Viator
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