3 Days Lake District Explorer Tour from Manchester
What your day looks like
The Lake District is where you see the top ten tallest mountains in England. It’s where you discover the deepest lake in the country. And it’s where you can visit 1,779 listed buildings and 16,510 archeological sites. For a place that’s famous for its poetry and quaint cottages, it certainly boasts some of England’s biggest and most brilliant destinations. On this trip, you take the train from Manchester and head straight there. You learn about the poetry of Wordsworth, admire the serene views over Lake Windermere and Derwent Water, and wander through market towns collecting stories and photos as you go. Join this tour and experience the best of the Lake District.
The experience, in brief
- Explore the ancient ruins of Penrith Castle
- Take as many photographs as you can at ‘England’s most beautiful lake’, Ullswater
- Relax in the market town of Keswick
- Stare in wonder at the views on an optional boat trip, Lake Windermere
- Wander around the cozy village of Hawkshead
- Enjoy the peace of the Wordsworth Memorial Daffodil Garden
- Learn about the slate mines at the Honister Mountain Pass
Your day, step by step
Manchester
Sightseeing at Lake District National Park. 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.
Manchester
Sightseeing at Kirkstone Pass. 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.
Manchester
Sightseeing at Ullswater Lake. 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.
Manchester
Sightseeing. 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.
Keswick
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.
Keswick
Sightseeing at Castlerigg stone circle. 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.
Hawkshead
Sightseeing at Dove Cottage. 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.
Manchester
Boating. 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. Then you will enjoy boat cruise on the lake, a truly wonderful way to take in the sights.
Manchester
Sightseeing. That afternoon you continue to explore this wonderful region, including a stop at Langdale Boulders where you might spot some prehistoric rock art.
Keswick
After a stop in the cosy village of Hawkshead, you return to Keswick in the early evening.
Keswick
Sightseeing. Last day of the trip, but don’t despair. There’s still plenty of adventure to be had today. You journey along winding lanes, past the shores of Crummock Water and Buttermere, and towards the Honister Mountain Pass.
Keswick
Sightseeing at Honister 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.
Keswick
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.
Kendal
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.
What to know before booking
Included
Transportation by a 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach Air conditioning as standard The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide 45-minute islands cruise on Lake Windermere
Not Included
Entry fees to visitor attractions unless specified Food and drinks unless specified Tips
What to Bring
Pack your waterproof clothing and walking shoes
Restrictions
To maintain the integrity of the tour and ensure that all our customers have the best possible experience, we cap bookings from any one party at 8 passengers. For groups larger than 8, please submit an inquiry for a private tour.
Meeting & Pickup
Check-in closes at 09:45 (tour departs at 10:00) - Coach Parking Bays, Store Street, Manchester, M1 2WD.
Languages Offered
[object Object]
Planning Notes
Minimum age: 5 Hotel pickup offered: No Confirmation: Automatic