The Lake District

Arrive Windermere

There is so much to see and do around Windermere that you’ll be spoiled for choice. Make your way to Lake Windermere itself and discover the beauty of the surroundings from the shore or on the water. There are numerous walks to choose from though on your first day; we recommend a low-level lakeside stroll, which would still give you time to relax on a classic Windermere cruise. This is a fantastic way to appreciate the mountain scenery, beautiful shoreline and lovely bays. Another great option is a visit to Hill Top, Beatrix Potter’s historic farmhouse, and combine that with a walk to one of her favourite places, Moss Eccles Tarn. This is where she spent much of her time painting and inventing stories for Peter Rabbit and her other characters. She left the house to the National Trust with strict instructions on keeping the house exactly as it was when she stayed there. You don’t need to be a child to be captivated by the world she created.

Free Day to Explore

It’s unlikely you’ll have managed to fit in as much as you wanted yesterday, so today you could continue to explore the immediate area or venture a bit further afield. There are so many wonderful walks such as the High Sweden Bridge circular trail, featuring an ancient and picturesque old packhorse bridge, or the short but sweet waterfall walk to Stockghyll Force. This afternoon continue further north to Grasmere to visit Dove Cottage and museum where William Wordsworth lived for 8 years as well as his grave in the churchyard of St Oswald’s. Explore the village shops and make sure to stop at Sarah Nelson’s Grasmere Gingerbread shop to pick up some of this special treat before returning to your accommodation this evening.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Guided Hiking

Your experienced hiking guide will meet you this morning for the first of two days hiking together. There are endless options to choose from, and you’ll enjoy a hike in the southern part of the Lakes before heading further north tomorrow. Depending on your experience and preference, one great option could be the Fairfield Horseshoe, a high level fell walk. This is a classic Lake District mountain hike, with spectacular views, long winding ridges and even a short scramble. Have a relaxed evening before an earlier start tomorrow.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Guided Hiking - Helvellyn and Striding Edge

An early start this morning sees you leave Windermere and head north and further into the heart of the Lakes to the high mountains that are our goal for today. There are many fantastic hikes in the Lakes but few would disagree that Helvellyn, the area’s third highest mountain, and the dramatic sweeping ridge of Striding Edge, are one of the very best. At just over one and a half kilometres/just under a mile long, walking and scrambling on this exposed, rocky crest is a truly memorable and exhilarating experience and, with the experience of your expert guide, one which can be enjoyed by those attempting a first time ridge walk. If you’d prefer something a bit more relaxed there are plenty of other options for a fantastic day in the Lakeland fells and your experienced guide will be able to advise on how to get the very best out of the day. Whatever you choose, you’ll be sure to enjoy relaxing in your new accommodation tonight in the northern lakes.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Free Day to Explore

Today is a free day to explore this area of the Lake District. There are countless fantastic things to see and do. One option is to take the wonderful Ullswater Steamer to Howtown and then walk back to Glenridding, stopping on the way for a cream tea. Or head north towards Derwent Water where you can spend the day with alpacas. Head out for a hilltop or forest walk with these amazing animals where you’ll learn about their care as well as have a chance to lead them on the walk and feed them; it’s a wonderful experience. This afternoon, enjoy the wonderful cafe, shop and grounds of the Lingholm Estate. The walled kitchen garden here was the original inspiration for Mr McGregor’s garden in Beatrix Potter’s early books.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Explore and Depart

After a relaxed breakfast this morning, spend time exploring the lovely old market town of Keswick, beautifully situated between the peaceful Derwent Water and Skiddaw, the mountain which dominates this part of the northern lakes. While you’re in the area you could visit Castlerigg stone circle, dating back to the Neolithic period, or the quirky but brilliant Derwent Pencil Museum, home to the world’s first ever pencil. After lunch, head for home or extend your trip by adding one or more of the additional activities on offer. You may also want to link this trip with one of our other Self-Drive Collection itineraries for a longer adventure.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Guided Hiking

Join our expert hiking guide for another day exploring this incredible area on foot. One option is England’s most famous mountain, Scafell Pike, at 977m (3,205ft) above sea level. The 360-degree views from the top are stunning, and it is a very special feeling to be standing on top of England’s highest peak.

Guided Cycling

The winding roads through jaw-dropping scenery or the quiet forests of the Lakes are both perfect for exploration by bike. Along with your expert guide you can choose from road cycling, trail riding or mountain biking with the route tailored to your ability and experience.

Spa Day

Spend the day in total relaxation at one of the Lake District’s premier spas. Enjoy saunas, hot tubs and pools as well as relaxing treatments. Treat yourself to dinner tonight at the Michelin-starred Gilpin restaurant.

Honister Slate Mine

For those looking for more adventure, drive up Honister Pass, one of the highest and steepest mountain passes in the Lake District, and visit the Honister Slate Mine. Here you can go deep underground and, using a series of rope bridge crossings and steel ladders, explore a secret world of hidden passages and magnificent caverns. Above ground try out the thrilling Via Ferrata or infinity bridge.