You leave manic Manchester behind and head straight for the lovely Lake District. Your first stop of the day is at Bowness that sits on the shores of Windermere. You have time here to take a leisurely cruise upon the lake or wander around the town and admire the sublime views of the landscapes. You travel around the southern tip of Windermere and towards Coniston Water. You enjoy the views of this body of water before arriving in the picturesque conservation village of Hawkshead. This is where the poet William Wordsworth attended Grammar School. After exploring the cosy village, you take the narrow country lanes north towards Grasmere, a place Wordsworth 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 tranquillity of the Wordsworth Daffodil Garden by the River Rothy. We then take in spectacular views of Ullswater Lake as we head along country roads to its southern shores before returning to Manchester in the early evening.

This tour gives you a day in the Lake District National Park from Manchester. It’s an ideal way to see amazing landscapes associated with this stunning National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Leaving Manchester three times a week, the tour heads North via the M6 Motorway, and in approximately two hours, you will arrive in the beautiful Lake District.   Visit the medieval village of Hawkshead, famous for its connection with Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth. Explore its many delightful features — there are plenty of photo opportunities as William Wordsworth's old Grammar School is located here, along with St Michael and All Angels Church which overlooks the village. You will also have time to explore and get something to eat; see the cobbled alleys, shops, cafes, galleries, and many more attractions. You will travel past incredible scenery in the Lake District, stopping for photographs at the most beautiful spots as you meander through the central Lakes. Spend time in the Langdale valley and take in views of the Langdale Pikes. As your Lake District tour comes to an end, you will then continue your journey back to Manchester.

You will start the Lake District tour at the medieval village of Hawkshead, famous for its connection with Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth. You will have time here to explore the cobbled alleys and get something to eat, from shops to cafe's, galleries and so much more. It's a beautiful village and a highlight of the tour. William Wordsworth's old Grammar School can also be found here, along with St Michael and All Angels Church which overlooks the village of Hawkshead. Enjoy the scenic views of the Lake District. Make your way back to Coniston, famous for its links with Arthur Ransome, John Ruskin and the Bluebird Water Speed record. Take in the stunning scenery and look out for Brantwood, the former home of social reformer and art critic John Ruskin. As your Lake District tour comes to an end, you will then continue your journey back to Liverpool.

Surround yourself with the scenery that inspired Beatrix Potter's enchanting tales during a half-day tour of the Lake District National Park. Visit the author's home and explore the medieval Hawkshead and the scenic Tarn Hows. Start by making your way to Hill Top, the 17th-century home that Beatrix Potter used as an artistic retreat. Stroll through the charming garden, home to various flowers and which featured in several of her little stories. ~Please note, Hill Top House is closed on Fridays out of the UK school holidays and from November-February. In this case you will visit the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction in Bowness, here you will discover more of the authors life and about the characters she created. After exploring Miss Potter’s extraordinary house, continue to the medieval village of Hawkshead, and get some time to explore the fascinating village. Drive through the renowned beauty spot of Tarn Hows. Conclude with a lake cruise offering unrivaled views of the mountains.

Head to London Euston station to enjoy a relaxing train journey to Oxenholme in the spectacular Lake District National Park. On arrival at Oxenholme you will be met by a local guide, who will take you on your tour of the Lake District. This tour is the ideal way to explore the best of the Lake District, which is famous for its Beatrix Potter and Wordsworth connections.  Enter the National Park and travel north alongside Lake Windermere to the medieval village of Hawkshead. Explore this fascinating village where Wordsworth went to school. Continue on towards the renowned beauty spot of Tarn Hows for a photo stop before driving through Yewdale, passing Yew Tree Tarn, used in the film Miss Potter. Next journey into the famous mountainous valleys of the Langdales, which have been carved by glaciers to form spectacular u-shaped valleys. Arriving at the lakeside village of Waterhead you will join a lake cruise on England’s largest lake, Windermere, and sit back and enjoy the views of the Lakeland Fells (local word for mountains). Arriving at Bowness Bay, enjoy a cream tea at the Lindeth Howe Country House Hotel, once owned by Beatrix Potter. You will then be taken back to Oxenholme Station for the train back to London.

Day 1 Depart Edinburgh and head south through the Scottish Borders. Take in the gorgeous rolling expanses of the Galloway Hills and Southern Uplands as you travel to the first stop of the day, the Victorian spa town of Moffat. From Moffat you’ll continue south over the border into England and head to the historic Cumbrian market town of Penrith. Enjoy lunch and explore the imposing ruins of Penrith Castle. After lunch you'll enter the Lake District National Park and travel along the northern shores of Ullswater. Often described as England’s most beautiful lake, it’s here you’ll enjoy a forest walk and see the mighty Aira Force Waterfall. Continue towards Keswick, stopping outside the town to visit the mysterious Castlerigg Standing Stones, thought to have been built over 5,000 years ago and once a hub of ancient pagan rituals. Head into the lively market town of Keswick where you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation, with free time to explore the charming town. Note that in July and early August your accommodation may be in Windermere. Day 2 After breakfast, you take in views of Ullswater Lake as we head along country roads to its southern shores. You continue further south and travel over the narrow and winding Kirkstone Pass towards the lovely Lake Windermere. Here you have the option to take a leisurely cruise on the Lake or eat lunch while enjoying sublime views of the surrounding scenery. After lunch you travel around the southern tip of Windermere and on towards Coniston Water. Your next stop is the picturesque conservation village of Hawkshead, where the poet William Wordsworth attended Grammar School. After exploring the cosy village, you take the narrow country lanes north towards Grasmere, which Wordsworth 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 tranquillity of the Wordsworth Daffodil Garden by the River Rothy. In the late afternoon, you return to Keswick. Day 3 You’ll be picked up at your accommodation and head to the Whinlatter Forest Park and over the Whinlatter Pass into the most dramatic landscapes that the Lake District has to offer. The drive takes you along winding lanes, through the rural village of High Lorton, past the shores of Crummock Water and Buttermere and toward the Honister Mountain Pass. Stopping in the mountains, you’ll have the opportunity to visit old slate workings, where a small number of Cumbrians continue to make their living. After refreshments, the drive continues through the forests of Borrowdale, passing Derwent Water, where there will be free time for lunch and shopping. After lunch, you’ll begin the return journey, heading toward Penrith and north to the border. After crossing into Scotland you’ll stop in the town of Biggar, a royal burgh since 1415. From there it’s a leisurely drive through the rolling border hills back to Edinburgh.

Day 1: Leaving Manchester, we drive north into Lake District National Park and head to one of the most popular towns in the Lake District, Ambleside, hugged by some of England’s finest scenery. Here you’ll have time to explore and grab a bite to eat. We then drive to Kirkstone Pass for some photos. This is the Lake District’s highest pass that is open to motor traffic, and you’ll just love the views. Next up we journey along the shores of Ullswater. This lake is often described as England’s most beautiful lake, and it’s here we give you the chance to take a forest walk and see the mighty Aira Force waterfall. The final stop of the day is another incredible view as we take you to Friar’s Crag, an amazing promontory that overlooks the lake of Derwentwater. You have a short journey into the lively market town of Keswick where you’re dropped off at your accommodation and free to explore the charming town. Day 2: Your first stop of the day really is one of wonder. The mysterious Castlerigg standing stones were thought to have been built over 5,000 years ago and were once a lively hub of ancient pagan rituals. After exploring the past, you take the narrow country lanes towards Grasmere, which Wordsworth 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 tranquillity of the Wordsworth Daffodil Garden by the River Rothy. Time for lunch in Bowness-on-Windermere, a town sitting snuggly alongside Lake Windermere. This area is filled with adorable villages and surrounded by beautiful scenery. Enjoy a boat cruise on the lake, a truly wonderful way to take in the sights. That afternoon you continue to explore this wonderful region, including a stop at Langdale Boulders where you might spot some prehistoric rock art. After a stop in the cosy village of Hawkshead, you return to Keswick in the early evening. Day 3: There’s still plenty of adventure to be had today. We pick you up from your accommodation and head for Moss Force Waterfall. The views will take your breath away. You journey along winding lanes, past the shores of Crummock Water and Buttermere, and towards the Honister Mountain Pass.Stopping amongst the mountains you have the opportunity to see old slate workings, where a small number of Cumbrians continue to make their living. Next up is something that will stop you in your tracks. The enormous Bowder Stone fell 200 metres from the Bowder Crag more than 10,000 years ago. The stone is an estimated 2,000 tonnes, around 9 metres high and 15 metres in diameter. Imagine the sound it would have made upon impact. You head back into Keswick for a nice bite to eat before heading to the lovely shores of Ullswater for a walk. Your last big stop of the day is in the market town of Kendal. Here you have time to explore and enjoy the cobbled streets and heritage to be found. From here you return to Manchester.

Spend 5 glorious days exploring the very best of northern England on this exciting multi-day tour. Discover the beautiful East Lothian coastline and the amazing Alnwick Castle, spend some time in the city of York, and explore nature in the North Yorkshire Moors National Park and the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Visit the mysterious Castlerigg standing stones, travel to the shores of Ullswater,, said to be England's most beautiful lake and much more along the way. Day 1 Your tour starts with a beautiful drive down the magnificent East Lothian coastline as you travel towards the walled border town of Berwick Upon Tweed. After stopping to admire the fortifications, continue to Alnwick Castle, whose magnificent interior and gardens have appeared in many films and television programs. Leaving Alnwick behind, travel towards the City of York on the Great North Road, and arrive in York in the late afternoon. [Overnight in York.] Day 2 This leisurely day gives you the flexibility to spend time exploring the medieval heart of York, a city whose rich history goes back to the time of the Romans, Vikings, and the Normans before traveling to the North Sea coast of Yorkshire. Your journey begins in the late morning when you head for the magnificent North Yorkshire Moors National Park. Lunch will be in Whitby, a bustling fishing port and the inspiration for the fertile imagination of author Bram Stoker. After lunch and free time in Whitby, travel to the fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay*, a perfectly preserved conservation village of winding lanes and narrow alleys before returning to York. [Overnight in York. * The mini coach cannot access the main village because of local restrictions. The coach will drop you at the top of the village and you must walk down (and back up!) a steep hill to reach the old village center. Day 3 Head west in the morning into the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Established in 1954, the Yorkshire Dales National Park has outstanding scenery, a range of wildlife habitats, and rich cultural heritage. Continuing West, your route takes us through the Northern Dales, a beautiful area of natural beauty that is the center of the Dales cattle trade. Throughout the day, you will have the opportunity to taste the flavors of Yorkshire when you visit the town of Masham, home to two of Yorkshire's best-known breweries, and the cheese-making center in historic Hawes. The final leg of the journey takes you high up into the remote hill of the Yorkshire Dales before descending into the lively market town of Keswick, where you will be dropped off at your accommodation and are then free to explore this charming town. [Overnight in Keswick.] [**During July this tour may stay in Windermere instead.] Day 4 After breakfast, head a short distance out of town to the mysterious Castlerigg standing stones, thought by many to have been built over 5,000 years ago. Then travel on to the shores of Ullswater, described as England’s most beautiful lake, for a forest walk to see the mighty Aira Force waterfall. Continuing south over the narrow and winding Kirkstone Pass, stop at Lake Windermere for a leisurely cruise on the lake or simply eat lunch while enjoying views of the mountains and lakes. After lunch, travel around the southern tip of Windermere and on towards Coniston Water, arriving at the picturesque conservation village of Hawkeshead. After exploring the village, take the narrow country lanes north towards Grasmere, and enjoy some free time to visit Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage or to enjoy the peace and tranquility of the Wordsworth Daffodil Garden by the River Rothy. Return to Keswick In the late afternoon. [Overnight in Keswick.] Day 5 Leaving the Lakes behind, start your climb towards Hartside Pass, at over 1900 feet above sea level, with the hills and mountains of Scotland and the English Lake District easily visible on a clear day. Follow the route of the old sheep drovers road between England and Scotland, stopping at Hadrian's Wall along the way, and crossing the border into Scotland and towards the town of Jedburgh for refreshments by the ruins of Jedburgh Abbey. The final stop of the tour is at the world-famous Scott’s view with stunning views over the River Tweed and the Cheviot hills that form the border between Scotland before continuing North to Edinburgh.

Embark on an awe-inspiring road trip through the picturesque Lake District, exploring its breathtaking beauty and captivating atmosphere. Delve into the literary heritage of Beatrix Potter, Wordsworth, and Coleridge, discovering the inspiration behind their timeless works at every turn. Find nearby Lake District campsites and motorhome stopovers. Get the best out of your break with our user-friendly, online guide that will make planning a breeze. Simply cherry-pick from the options provided ensuring you won’t miss a thing! Access this Lake District road trip on 2 devices (mobile, tablet or desktop) for 12 months to help with planning your break before you travel, as well as on your holiday. Lake District Itinerary • The suggested mapped route is a fully flexible route that begins at circles the best spot in the Lake District. As a linear route, this is around 120 miles • Expect hiking opportunities! The Lake District offers diverse trails, catering to all levels, from leisurely walks to demanding climbs. Explore favourites like Buttermere Round, Helvellyn Horseshoe, and Scafell Pike ascent. Perfect for hikers of every skill level! • Explore history: The Lake District boasts castles, abbeys, and museums. Include the World of Beatrix Potter in your itinerary for a delightful historical experience on your road trip! • Try water activities! Indulge in swimming, boating, and fishing across various lakes and rivers. Numerous water sports centres provide rentals and lessons. • Gain insights from our literary references, enhancing context and connections for a richer understanding. • Incorporate our suggestions for an enriching Lake District road trip experience! Destinations Guide: • Save hours using our inspiration and signposting to plan your perfect Lake District road trip driving route • The destination guides cover 20 destination locations and guides on essential places to visit in the Lake District • The destination guide includes over 75 attractions, experiences and activities to uncover your own England The Uncover More map includes: • 35+ Viewpoints • 45+ Places of interest • 20+ Hidden gems • 4 Wild swim spots The Overnight Stay map includes: • 40+ Campsites • 20+ Motorhome stops & almost wild spots • 65+ Hotels • 140+ B&Bs, guesthouses and lodges You will receive our activation details promptly, usually within a few hours. However, please allow up to 24 hours, especially during weekends and busy periods.