The Lake District Escape
Experience the natural splendor of England's most beautiful national park
Tour Overview
Escape to the Lake District, a region of glacial lakes, mountains and villages that has inspired poets and artists for centuries. This 3-day tour immerses you in the nature and atmosphere of England's largest national park.
Discover the shimmering waters of Lake Windermere, England's longest lake, and explore the charming Victorian town of Ambleside with its traditional stone cottages and independent shops. Journey through the dramatic Borrowdale Valley, often called one of England's most beautiful valleys, where ancient woodlands meet towering peaks.
Experience the literary heritage of the region in Grasmere, home to the famous poet William Wordsworth, and savor the world-renowned Grasmere gingerbread. Cruise across pristine lakes, hike gentle trails with breathtaking views, and breathe in the fresh mountain air as you traverse winding country roads through some of Britain's most spectacular scenery.
The Lake District offers more than just stunning vistas – it's a place where you can truly disconnect from the hustle of modern life. Whether you're gazing at mirror-like reflections on calm waters, watching the play of light across distant fells, or enjoying afternoon tea in a cozy lakeside café, every moment promises peace and natural beauty.
Perfect for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone seeking rejuvenation in spectacular surroundings, this tour combines comfortable accommodation, expert local guidance, and carefully selected experiences that showcase the very best of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Join us for an unforgettable journey into the heart of England's most beloved landscape.
Quick Facts
- Duration: 3 Days
- Price: £500 per person
- Group Size: Maximum 10 people
- Transport: Comfortable coach
- Meals: Daily breakfast & lake cruise
- Language: English
Tour Highlights
Detailed Itinerary
Morning: Begin your Lake District adventure arriving in Windermere, where you'll board a scenic lake cruise departing from Bowness Pier. Glide across the crystal-clear waters of England's longest lake, taking in magnificent views of wooded islands, elegant Victorian villas, and the towering Lakeland fells rising in the distance. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the lake's formation, its literary connections, and the wildlife that calls this place home.
Afternoon: Journey to the picturesque town of Ambleside, nestled at the head of Lake Windermere. Explore the charming streets lined with traditional Lakeland stone buildings, browse unique craft shops and local galleries, and visit the famous Bridge House, a tiny building perched above Stock Ghyll. Enjoy free time to discover hidden cafés, sample Kendal Mint Cake, or simply relax by the beck watching the tumbling waterfalls.
Evening: Check into your comfortable lakeside accommodation with views across the water. Enjoy a traditional Cumbrian dinner featuring local lamb or fresh fish from the lakes (dinner included). As evening falls, take a gentle stroll along the lakeshore to watch the sunset paint the mountains in shades of pink and gold.
Morning: After breakfast, travel north to Keswick, a vibrant market town beautifully situated between Derwentwater and the towering peaks of Skiddaw. Explore the bustling market square, visit the fascinating Pencil Museum to learn about Keswick's unique industrial heritage, and admire St. Kentigern's Church with its ancient ties to Celtic Christianity. Browse the town's excellent outdoor shops or relax in one of the many traditional tea rooms.
Afternoon: Journey into the magnificent Borrowdale Valley, often described as one of the most beautiful valleys in England. Stop at the Bowder Stone, a massive balanced rock weighing nearly 2,000 tons, and climb the wooden ladder to stand on top. Continue through ancient oak woodlands and past crystal-clear streams to reach the tiny hamlet of Rosthwaite. Enjoy an optional gentle walk through the valley, surrounded by dramatic crags and peaceful pastures dotted with Herdwick sheep.
Evening: Return to your accommodation via the spectacular Honister Pass, with photo stops at dramatic viewpoints. Free evening to relax or explore more of the local area. Optional group dinner at a traditional country pub (additional cost).
Morning: Visit enchanting Grasmere, the jewel of the Lakes and home to the great poet William Wordsworth. Explore Dove Cottage, Wordsworth's humble home where he penned some of his most famous works, and wander through the beautiful cottage garden that inspired his poetry. Visit St. Oswald's Church where Wordsworth is buried, and don't miss the opportunity to taste the famous Grasmere gingerbread, made to a secret recipe since 1854.
Afternoon: Take a final scenic walk around Grasmere Lake, following in Wordsworth's footsteps through meadows of daffodils in spring or beneath golden autumn leaves. Your guide will recite relevant poetry and share insights into how this landscape influenced the Romantic movement. Climb to a viewpoint for a last panoramic vista of the lakes and fells before beginning your journey home, with photo stops at the most spectacular viewpoints.
Evening: Conclude your Lake District escape with hearts full of memories and cameras full of spectacular landscapes. Departure from Windermere or optional extension to explore more of Cumbria independently (additional accommodation can be arranged with advance notice).
Image Gallery
What's Included
Included
- 2 nights lakeside accommodation (comfortable guesthouse/hotel)
- Daily full English breakfast
- Lake Windermere cruise excursion
- All transportation in comfortable coach
- Expert local guide throughout the tour
- Entry to Wordsworth's Dove Cottage and Museum
- One dinner featuring local Cumbrian cuisine
Not Included
- Transportation to/from the Lake District
- Lunch meals (many cafés and pubs en route)
- Additional dinners not specified in itinerary
- Personal hiking equipment (available to rent locally)
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
Booking Information
Important Notes
- Tours operate from April to October with weekly departures
- Minimum group size is 4 people; maximum is 10 people
- Moderate fitness level required for gentle walks (optional)
- Weather can change quickly; waterproof clothing essential
- Good walking shoes or boots strongly recommended
- Single room supplement available for £100
- Meeting point: Windermere Railway Station at 10:00 AM
Cancellation Policy
- More than 30 days before departure: Full refund minus £50 administration fee
- 15-30 days before departure: 50% refund
- 7-14 days before departure: 25% refund
- Less than 7 days before departure: No refund
- We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance
- Tours may be adjusted due to weather conditions for safety
Ready to Escape to the Lakes?
Discover England's most beautiful landscape on this unforgettable 3-day adventure. Book your lakeside retreat today!