fbpx

Our guide to visiting the Lake District

Possibly England’s most celebrated region of natural beauty, the Lake District is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes of towering peaks and graceful lakes which have inspired artists and poets alike.

Tucked away in a remote corner of England in the northern county of Cumbria, the Lake District, or just “the lakes” as it is known, is one of the country’s most treasured National Parks and is an area whose natural landscapes are actively protected and conserved by the National Trust. The countryside is truly awe-inspiring, home to England’s tallest peak at Scafell Pike and no fewer than sixteen of the country’s largest lakes, all within a an area just 30 miles across.

The scenery is wild and unspoilt ranging from towering peaks to tranquil lakes and including renowned fells such as The Old Man of Coniston and Langdale Pike each criss-crossed with the familiar dry-stone walls typical of the region remaining from the traditional farming techniques. The landscapes have inspired works of artists and authors alike from masterpieces by Constable and Turner to Wordsworth’s most famous works and the countryside tales of children’s author Beatrix Potter. Today the region is enjoyed by ramblers and hikers, keen photographers, budding artists and poets or those simply looking to take relaxing drives through the scenic fells. Along the shores of the lakes you have the opportunity to take boat rides on the peaceful waters in individual rowing boats, modern cruisers or perhaps a traditional steamer boat.

Tucked in to the valleys and on the shores of the lakes are dozens of quaint and picturesque Lakeland towns and villages waiting to be explored including Bowness on Windermere, Grasmere, Hawkshead and Keswick. The villages are scattered with unique craft and gift shops, coffee shops and inns which are alive with a buzz of activity throughout the summer months. There are ample cultural spots to enjoy including sites dedicated to Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter such as their former homes at Dove Cottage, Hilltop and Rydall Mount which have been preserved and today house interesting exhibitions and collections of memorabilia from their lives and works.

Be inspired by English countryside at its most dramatic with a visit to the Lake District.

Related Guides

Relevant Tours

  Classic Favourites  
England Tours of Oxford

A Great Britain driving tour - experience all that is great about Britain on the ultimate tour of England, Scotland and Wales. See it all, from the thriving capital cities of London, Edinburgh and Cardiff to the remote Scottish Highlands, tranquil Lake District and spectacular Snowdonia National Park. Along the way you’ll experience diverse cultures and histories and see world-famous landmarks including Stonehenge, the Roman Baths, Cardiff Castle, the Cotswolds, Hadrian’s Wall, Loch Ness and Edinburgh Castle.

Tour of York England

A Private Tour of Britain - Indulge your senses in the history, heritage and landscapes of Britain. Relax as in the company of an experienced private driver who’ll share their local knowledge and insight as they guide you through the countryside of England, Scotland and Wales. Enjoy quality and characterful accommodations each night and a wealth of included sightseeing each day including a unique local experience in the heart of the Cotswolds. For those seeking something a little special, the British Indulgence is a “must”.

England Tours - Lake District

English Pub Tour – Is there anything more quintessentially English than a country pub or coaching inn? Our country pubs of England tour offers the opportunity to tour the scenic and historic destinations of this nations whilst overnighting in traditional pubs and inns sure to offer a warm welcome, homely feel and good “pub grub” food and drink.  Your journey will take you through the rolling fields of Cambridgeshire to York, over the Dales of Lake District to patchwork countryside of the Cotswolds.

Tours of England - Liverpool

The British Journey tour is a Britain driving tour that takes you on an expedition from the capital of Scotland to the capital of England touching upon Wales and enjoying a wealth of cultural highlights along the way. Explore Scotland’s “Highlands in miniature” and the historic city of Edinburgh before passing south through the inspiring landscapes of the Lake District, Cotswolds and Wye Valley to glorious historic cities including Chester, Cardiff, Stratford upon Avon and Bath. Your trip ends in the thriving metropolis of London.

  Classic Favourites  
Yorkshire Dales, England

Rail Tour of Britain – Travel by train on this rail adventure through Britain touching the highlights of England, Scotland and Wales. Visit the elegant historic cities of York, Bath and Chester and enjoy scenic rail journeys through the rolling hills of the English Lake District, the Scottish Lowlands and the Welsh border Marches. Your trip is rounded off with stays in no fewer than three capital cities in London, Edinburgh and Cardiff and includes selected day-tours to reach more rural sites such as the Cotswolds and Stonehenge.

Tours of London - Tower Bridge

A driving tour of England and Scotland - indulge in a unique trip taking in two of Britain’s most unique nations.  Your self-drive vacation will take you through the rural landscapes of England and Scotland before returning your vehicle in Edinburgh and returning to London by rail. The trip will take in the beautiful landscapes of the Cotswolds, Yorkshire, Lake District and Scottish Highlands not to mention a host of elegant cities including York, Glasgow, Edinburgh and London.

Tour of York England

A Britain Rail Tour – Experience the cities and landscapes of two great nations on this rail journey of discovery through England and Scotland.  Travelling from vibrant London in the South to romantic Edinburgh in the North and back again your itinerary will take you through the historic cities of Oxford, Glasgow and York. Along the way you’ll experience scenic rail-rides through the rolling British countryside and enjoy hand-picked day tours to reach the rural sites and villages of the Cotswolds, the Lake District and Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park.

England Tours of Oxford

A Rail Tour of England – Experience the highlights of England on this concise but attraction packed tour as you traverse the comprehensive English rail network. Enjoy overnight stays in some of England’s best-known heritage cities including Bath, Oxford and York to see iconic sites such as ancient Roman Baths, medieval university colleges and towering cathedrals.  You’ll also experience England’s quintessential countryside as included small-group tours take you in to the heart of the Cotswolds villages and Lake District National Park.

  Classic Favourites  
Tours England - York

An England driving tour - England Explorer is a comprehensive tour of this great nation taking you from the heart of England to its far-reaching corners including the beautiful Lake District and the coastlines of Cornwall. You’ll experience classic English countryside including the Cotswolds and Yorkshire Dales and a host of historic cities including York, Chester and Bath not to mention a couple of nights in the vibrant English capital city, London.

A Small Group Tour of England – Discover the rich history and rustic landscapes of England on this diverse journey from the far South West to England’s Northern territories. England’s Coastline and Countryside takes you from the golden bays and craggy cliffs of Cornwall through the quintessential villages of the Cotswolds to the rugged landscapes of Yorkshire and the Lake District. Along the way we’ll visit the elegant cities of Bath, Salisbury, Oxford and York and enjoy a host of local visits and experiences to truly immerse ourselves in England’s unique charm and heritage.

  Classic Favourites  
Britain Tours - Lake District

A Small Group Tour of England and Scotland – From the southernmost tip of the Cornish Peninsular to the remote wilderness of the Isle of Skye, enjoy an epic small-group journey through the diverse cultures and landscapes of England and Scotland. Discover the quaint fishing towns of Cornwall, the rolling hills and honey-coloured villages of the Cotswolds, the ruggedly beautiful landscapes of the English Lake District and Yorkshire Dales, and finally the barren moorlands of the Scottish Highlands. Along the way we’ll visit the heritage cities of Bath, Oxford, York, Chester, Inverness and Edinburgh, and experience regional food, drink and hospitality. South Coast to Skye is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the culture and panoramas of England and Scotland.

  Classic Favourites  
Tours of Britain Search

A small group tour of England and Wales – Enjoy an epic journey of discovery through the varied histories and landscapes of England and Wales. We’ll see many of Britain’s most beautiful natural landscapes from the golden coasts of Pembrokeshire and the mountains of Snowdonia in Wales to the rustic hills and vales of Yorkshire and the Lake District in England. Along the way we’ll sample traditional fare and enjoy a host of local visits including archetypal medieval fortresses, stately English manors, ancient cathedrals and historic steam train journeys; the ideal tour to discover the very essence of Britain.

Tours of Scotland - Glenfinnan Viaduct

A small group tour of Britain – Discover what makes Britain Great on this small group journey through the diverse cultures and landscapes of England, Scotland and Wales. This comprehensive itinerary takes you from the peaceful coasts and mountains of Wales, through rustic landscapes of rural England and north in to remote wilderness of the Scottish Highlands. We’ll see iconic landmarks and hidden gems, visit Britain’s quaint villages and heritage cities and enjoy a host of local experiences from steam train rides through the English countryside to whisky tasting in the Highlands.  In the company of your local guides, the Great British Journey is the ultimate way to explore Britain.

England Tours Salisbury

A small group tour of England – England’s Rustic Charm is a leisurely tour exploring the highlights of central and Northern England. Departing the elegant city of Bath you’ll enjoy a journey through the rolling hills and honey-coloured villages of the Cotswolds to the ruggedly beautiful landscapes of the English Lake District and Yorkshire Dales. Along the way we’ll visit the dreaming spires of Oxford, the Tudor streets of Stratford-upon-Avon and spend two nights in the medieval city of York. A leisurely journey that will leave you charmed by England’s unique heritage and rustic landscapes.

Britain Tours - Lake District

A Small Group Tour of England and Scotland – From the southernmost tip of the Cornish Peninsular to the remote wilderness of the Isle of Skye, enjoy an epic small-group journey through the diverse cultures and landscapes of England and Scotland. Discover the quaint fishing towns of Cornwall, the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, the rustic dales of Yorkshire and the barren moorlands of the Scottish Highlands. Along the way we’ll visit the heritage cities of Bath, York, Chester and Edinburgh and experience regional food, drink and hospitality. South Coast to Skye is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the culture and panoramas of England and Scotland.

A Small Group Tour of England – Discover the rich history and rustic landscapes of England on this diverse journey from the far South West to England’s Northern territories. England’s Coastline and Countryside takes you from the golden bays and craggy cliffs of Cornwall through the quintessential villages of the Cotswolds to the rugged landscapes of Yorkshire and the Lake District. Along the way we’ll visit the elegant cities of Bath, Oxford and York and enjoy a host of local visits and experiences to truly immerse ourselves in England’s unique charm and heritage.

Tour the North of England - Durham

A Northern England Driving Tour – enjoy a journey of contrasts from bustling cities to the rustic, rural charm of the English countryside. The northern counties of England offer guests a unique and truly traditional experience; having inspired poets, artists, novelists and musician’s alike, uncover the rugged beauty of the the Yorkshire Moors and Dales and the Lakes and Waterways of the English Lake District. Along the way also discover the Peak District, and some of England’s most renowned historic and cultural cities including York, Durham, Chester Liverpool and Manchester.

Castle Tours - Blenheim Palace

A Britain Castle Tour - Indulge in the history and heritage of England, Scotland and Wales by day and see its character reflected in your unique and distinguished accommodation each night on this deluxe tour of Britain. With your overnight accommodation in quality castle or manor house hotels, your tour will take you through the elegant cities of York, Bath, Oxford and Edinburgh as well as the natural beauty of the Cotswolds, the Yorkshire Moors, the Scottish Lowlands and the mountains of Snowdonia.

  Classic Favourites  
Tours of Britain Search

Classic Britain Driving Tour - a snapshot of the countryside and historic cities of England, Scotland and Wales. Enjoy the rolling hills and thatch villages of the Cotswolds to the towering mountains and fortresses of North Wales. Pass through the lakes and dales of the English Lake District and the rolling hills of the Scottish Lowlands and Yorkshire Dales. Historic cities to explore on route include Regency Bath, Medieval York, and the capital cities of Edinburgh and London.

  Classic Favourites  
Scotland Tours - Isle of Skye

A small group tour of England and Scotland – Beauty of Britain is an epic journey exploring the history, heritage and natural landscapes of England and Scotland. We’ll pass from the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, through the rustic landscapes of Yorkshire and the Lake District to the barren wilderness of the Scottish Highlands. Our journey is punctuated with visits to Britain’s heritage cities, including Oxford, York and Edinburgh, and we’ll enjoy a host of local experiences including countryside steam train rides, ancient castle visits, traditional afternoon tea and a whisky distillery tour. The true beauty of Britain is waiting to be discovered.

  Classic Favourites  
Chester, England

An England Rail Tour – Make use of England’s extensive and far-reaching rail network to explore the corners of this great nation.  From the capital city of London your journey will take you to England’s farthest reaches in on the Cornish Peninsula and the Lake District. Along the way you’ll visit a host of heritage cites including Plymouth, Bath, Oxford, Chester and York. You’ll take in scenic rail rides along the Cornish Coast and over the Yorkshire Dales and enjoy small-group day tours to reach those less accessible spots including Stonehenge, the Cotswolds and the dramatic scenery of the Lake District.

  Agent Choice for 2024  
England Tours Salisbury

A small group tour of England – England’s Rustic Charm is a leisurely tour exploring the highlights of central and Northern England. Departing the medieval university city of Oxford, you’ll enjoy a journey through the rolling hills and honey-coloured villages of the Cotswolds to the ruggedly beautiful landscapes of the English Lake District and Yorkshire Dales. Along the way we’ll experience the dreaming spires of Oxford, the Tudor streets of Chester and spend two nights in the charming city of York. A leisurely journey that will leave you charmed by England’s unique heritage and rustic landscapes.

Scotland Tours - Isle of Skye

A small group tour of England and Scotland – Beauty of Britain is an epic journey exploring the history, heritage and natural landscapes of England and Scotland. We’ll pass from the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, through the rustic landscapes Yorkshire and the Lake District to the barren wilderness of the Scottish Highlands. Our journey is punctuated with visits to Britain’s heritage cities such as Bath, Oxford, York and Edinburgh and we’ll enjoy a host of local experiences including countryside steam train rides, ancient castle visits, traditional afternoon tea and a whisky distillery tour. The true beauty of Britain is waiting to be discovered.

Rail Tours of England

A Northern England Rail Tour – Travel by train to explore the rustic landscapes and historic cities of the North of England. Your scenic rail journeys will take you over the Yorkshire Dales and through the rolling hills of Cheshire whilst overnight stays in Chester and York offer an insight into England’s medieval and Roman history. A true highlight will be a two night stay in Windermere with an included day-tour to explore the dramatic landscapes of the Lake District National Park.

Tours of England - Bath

A Castle Tour of England - Enjoy the history and grandeur of an ancient land on this tour of England. By day you'll explore castle ruins, opulent manor houses, historic sites, stunning landscapes and England’s cultural jewels such as Oxford, Stratford, Chester, York and Bath whilst by night you'll live like royalty as you experience historic and characterful castle hotels and country manor house accommodation!

  Classic Favourites  
Tours of Scotland - Glenfinnan Viaduct

A small group tour of Britain – discover what makes Britain Great on this small group journey through the diverse cultures and landscapes of England, Scotland and Wales. This comprehensive itinerary takes you from the peaceful coasts and mountains of Wales, through rustic landscapes of rural England and north in to remote wilderness of the Scottish Highlands. We’ll see iconic landmarks and hidden gems, visit Britain’s quaint villages and heritage cities and enjoy a host of local experiences from steam train rides through the English countryside to whisky tasting in the Highlands.  In the company of your local guides, the Great British Journey is the ultimate way to explore Britain.

  Classic Favourites  
Tours of Scotland - Edinburgh Arthurs Seat

A Great Britain Rail Tour - Make use of Britain's extensive rail network on this comprehensive rail tour through England, Scotland and Wales.  Your journey will take you from the bustling city of London over scenic rail routes to the remote Highlands of Scotland. You’ll experience Britain’s many cultural highlights along the way including the historic cities of Cardiff, Bath, York and Edinburgh. In selected destinations your trip is complemented with small-group day tours to ensure you reach those out-of-the-way highlights such as Stonehenge, the rustic scenery of the Lake District and Loch Ness.

Tours of Britain Search

A small group tour of England and Wales – Enjoy an epic journey of discovery through the varied histories and landscapes of England and Wales. We’ll see many of Britain’s most beautiful natural landscapes from the golden coasts of Pembrokeshire and the mountains of Snowdonia in Wales to the rustic hills and vales of Yorkshire and the Lake District in England. Along the way we’ll sample traditional fare and enjoy a host of local visits including archetypal medieval fortresses, stately English manors, ancient cathedrals and historic steam train journeys; the ideal tour to discover the very essence of Britain.

Contact us