3 Day – Lake District Explorer

Say farewell to Manchester as you embark on an adventure to England’s Lake District. Today, you’ll be surrounded by some of the country’s finest scenery as you make your way north towards the Lake District National Park. Its highest mountain is Scafell Pike, and its deepest lake is the vast, slumbering Wastwater. As you drive, ancient woodlands hide red deer and even redder squirrels, while ospreys glide overhead hunting for their next meal. Lakes shimmer in the distance, and you’ll quickly realize why it’s known as a poets’ paradise, inspiring the likes of William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter.

Mid-Morning: Lunch in Ambleside

On the northern end of the famous Lake Windermere lies the quiet town of Ambleside, hugged by some of the district’s most postcard-perfect scenery. The town’s roots lie in the medieval woolen trade, but today it’s a paradise for nature and food lovers – ideal for your lunch stop. Take some time to wander and take in the sights before grabbing a bite to eat at one of the many cafes and restaurants.

Afternoon: Kirkstone Pass, Aira Force & Derwent Water

Continue deeper into the national park, taking a road known to be a challenging drive through Kirkstone Pass – but luckily for you, all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the views. You’ll continue along the shores of Ullswater, often described as England’s most beautiful lake. Here, you’ll get the chance to take a forest walk and see the mighty Aira Force waterfall. The view at your final stop of the day gives the others a run for their money, as you’re taken to an amazing promontory overlooking Derwentwater known as Friar’s Crag. You’ll truly understand the meaning of peace and tranquility here.

Early Evening: Free Evening in Keswick

Then, take one final short journey to the lively market town of Keswick, your overnight accommodation for this tour. The beauty of this area has long been admired, and while Keswick’s recorded history only stems back to the Middle Ages, there’s evidence to suggest people have lived in the area since prehistoric times. Now it’s your turn to explore.

Accommodation

Your overnight accommodation will be in Keswick. Please note, accommodation is not included in the price of your tour but is available to add to your booking.

Above view of Keswick in the Lake District with Skiddaw mountain in the background, Cumbria, UK

Your first stop of the day is truly one of wonder: the mysterious Castlerigg Stone Circle. Thought to have been built over 5,000 years ago, it was once a lively hub of ancient pagan rituals. After exploring the past, you’ll take the narrow country lanes towards the village of Grasmere, which Wordsworth famously described as ‘the loveliest spot that man hath found’. There’s free time to visit Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage, taste the legendary gingerbread, or enjoy the peace and tranquility of the Wordsworth Daffodil Garden by the River Rothy.

Mid-Morning: Lunch in Bowness-on-Windermere

Now it’s time for a bite to eat as you head to the lovely town of Bowness-on-Windermere, nestled along the sparkling Lake Windermere. This area is filled with charming villages and surrounded by beautiful scenery. One wonderful way to take in the sights is by jumping aboard an optional boat cruise on the lake. Or, if you prefer, you can simply wander and find somewhere to fill your belly, perhaps in one of the cozy pubs for a traditional English meal.

Afternoon: Langdale Boulders & Hawkshead Village

In the afternoon, you’ll continue to explore this wonderful region, including a stop at Langdale Boulders where you might spot some prehistoric rock art. You’ll then carry on to the cozy village of Hawkshead. Surrounded by beautiful countryside, this charming town is dotted with whitewashed houses, cobblestone streets, courtyards, and squares. It boasts as much interesting history as it does beauty, having once been an important wool market in medieval times and the place where William Wordsworth was educated.

Early Evening: Free Evening in Keswick

You’ll return to Keswick in the early evening, giving you more time to spend in this quaint town. The name of this town is said to mean “the farm where cheese is made” in Old English… dinner plans sorted?

Accommodation

Your overnight accommodation will be in Keswick. Please note, accommodation is not included in the price of your tour but is available to add to your booking.

Lake District at sunrise

It’s the last day of your trip, but there’s still plenty of adventure to be had! Our first stop will stop you in your tracks: the enormous Bowder Stone. This striking boulder fell 200 meters from Bowder Crag over 10,000 years ago and weighs an estimated 2,000 tonnes. Imagine the sound it must have made! We then take the steep and winding route of Honister Mountain Pass, stopping for photos of this dramatic region. Amongst the mountains, you’ll have the opportunity to see old slate workings, where a small number of Cumbrians continue to make their living.

Mid-Morning: Buttermere, Crummock Water & Keswick Lunch

We carry on along winding lanes, passing the shores of Crummock Water and the tranquil Buttermere, as we make our way back to Keswick for lunch. This is also a great time to explore some of the town’s other features which may have been closed at night – such as the Keswick Mining Museum or the Derwent Pencil Museum.

Afternoon: Ullswater Walk & Kendal

With stomachs full, we head to the lovely shores of Ullswater. This glacial lake is the second largest in the region by both area and volume, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and gentle rolling hills. Your last big stop of the day is in the market town of Kendal, nicknamed ‘Auld Grey Town’ due to the distinctive limestone used in many of its buildings. Here, you’ll have time to explore the cobbled streets and interweaving alleyways, discovering its rich heritage, including Kendal Castle, a medieval fortification built back in the 13th century.

Early Evening: Return to Manchester

We’ve left the Lake District behind now, but you’re taking incredible memories with you. Stories to tell your friends, photos to share with family, all worth treasuring until your next adventure. As we coast along the rolling beauty of the English countryside towards the vibrant urbanity of Manchester, you’ll have those memories (and perhaps a few souvenirs) to keep you in good company.

Honister Pass in the Lake District