Half Day: Six Lakes Spectacular

Departing daily from Windermere, Bowness, and Ambleside, this half-day tour showcases the beauty of the northern Lake District. You’ll visit six stunning lakes, including Windermere, Ullswater, and Grasmere, while enjoying panoramic views and rich history. The tour begins with a drive over the famous Kirkstone Pass, the highest road in the district, offering breathtaking views. You’ll pass through the scenic Troutbeck Valley, once home to Beatrix Potter, and continue north to Brotherswater and Ullswater, where William Wordsworth found inspiration for his poetry. Next, explore the ancient Castlerigg Stone Circle, set against the backdrop of majestic fells. The journey continues along the peaceful Thirlmere reservoir, surrounded by towering peaks like Helvellyn. A stop in Grasmere, home to Wordsworth’s grave and the famous Grasmere Gingerbread shop, provides a charming end to the tour. After exploring this historic village, you’ll return to Windermere via the picturesque villages of Rydal and Ambleside. With stunning scenery and captivating stories from your Driver/Guide, this tour offers a perfect snapshot of the Lake District’s beauty and history.

Lake District Half-Day Tour: Scenic Lakes & Historic Villages This half-day tour departs daily from Windermere, Bowness, and Ambleside, offering a perfect way to experience the beauty of the northern Lake District. Designed for those short on time, the tour takes you to six of the area’s most picturesque lakes: Windermere, Brotherswater, Ullswater, Thirlmere, Grasmere, and Rydal Water. After leaving Windermere, you’ll ascend the famous Kirkstone Pass, the highest road in the Lake District. At 1,489 feet, this scenic route offers breathtaking views over Windermere and Morecambe Bay. As you travel through the picturesque Troutbeck Valley, once home to Beatrix Potter and her Herdwick Sheep, you’ll pass an old coaching inn perched near the summit with panoramic vistas of the surrounding fells. Continuing north, you’ll encounter the peaceful beauty of Brotherswater and Ullswater, two of the district's most iconic lakes. Ullswater, the second largest lake in the region, is often regarded as one of England’s most beautiful spots. It was here that William Wordsworth found inspiration for his famous poem Daffodils. Along the way, your Driver/Guide will share fascinating stories about the area’s history and literary heritage. Next, you’ll visit the ancient Castlerigg Stone Circle, one of Britain’s most awe-inspiring prehistoric sites. With its panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, it offers a perfect photo opportunity while connecting you to the area’s deep historical roots. The journey continues along the shores of Thirlmere, a serene reservoir nestled between towering peaks like Helvellyn and Dollywagon Pike. This area is rich in natural beauty, making it an ideal stop for taking in the peaceful surroundings. Your final destination is Grasmere, one of the Lake District’s most charming villages. Here, you can visit the grave of William Wordsworth at St. Oswald's Church and explore the famous Grasmere Gingerbread shop, where you can sample the sweet treat created in 1854 by Sarah Nelson. Grasmere’s enchanting atmosphere, with its ancient buildings and scenic location, makes it a true highlight of the tour. After departing Grasmere, you’ll travel back through the picturesque villages of Rydal and Ambleside, completing your Lake District journey with more stunning views of the area’s scenic landscapes. Throughout the tour, our expert Driver/Guide will provide interesting insights and stories, ensuring you leave with a deeper understanding and appreciation of this beautiful national park. The tour concludes back in Windermere, where your adventure began.