Tales of the Lake District: A Self-Guided Drive Around Windermere

Windermere , United Kingdom

Tales of the Lake District: A Self-Guided Drive Around Windermere

Active

(14 reviews)

3h - 5h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Soak up the splendour of England’s largest lake, Windermere, on a scenic self-guided audio tour of the Lake District.

• Find out how Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth are connected to the area and take it some of its famous sites
• Hear from producer Martin Wilson, the owner and producer of Lake District Drives
• Do it all in 3 hour or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish
• Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it
• Use the virtual tour option at home

Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code.

The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just tap start. The app has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.

Available options

Tales of the Lake District: A Self-Guided Drive Around Windermere

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English

VoiceMap app for Android and iOS

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Starting near Bowness Bay, you’ll make an anticlockwise loop around Lake Windermere and hear tales of the area.

Soak up the splendour of England’s largest lake, Windermere, on a scenic self-guided driving tour of the Lake District.

The tour passes by Rayrigg Meadow. You'll hear about it while you drive, taking in the beautiful country scenery.

The tour passes by Brockhole on Windermere. You'll hear about it while you drive, taking in the beautiful country scenery.

The tour passes by Waterhead. You'll hear about it while you drive, taking in the beautiful country scenery.

Stop 6 Pass by

I’ll also guide you on an additional loop where you’ll have the opportunity to visit Coniston Village and Coniston Water, the third largest of the lakes.

Stop 7 Pass by

On this tour you can look forward to beholding the beauty spot of Tarn Hows, and discovering the human impacts on this famous vista.

Stop 8 Pass by

The tour passes by Wray Castle. You'll hear about it while you drive, taking in the beautiful country scenery.

On this tour you can look forward to discovering the quaint historic village of Hawkshead with its William Wordsworth connections.

Stop 10 Pass by

The tour passes by beautiful Tarn Hows and historic Hawkshead, too. You’ll discover how many of these places inspired Beatrix Potter, the famous children’s author, and we’ll also learn about her many other talents, beyond writing.

On this tour you can look forward to enjoying peaceful Esthwaite Water and its fabulous wildlife.

The tour passes by Stott Park Bobbin Mill. You'll hear about it while you drive, taking in the beautiful country scenery.

The tour passes byFell Foot Park. You'll hear about it while you drive, taking in the beautiful country scenery.

On this tour, you can look forward to seeing wooden bobbins being made at Stott Park Bobbin Mill, and learning about their crucial role in the historic Lancashire textile industry.

What's not included

Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route

Smartphone and headphones

Transportation

Food and drink

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.2

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.1

9 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
───
Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. VoiceMap has sent you an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
───
Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
2. Create an account
3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
4. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
───
• You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
• This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
• When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
• Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
───
For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Windermere

Windermere is the largest natural lake in England, renowned for its stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and charming lakeside villages. It's a haven for nature lovers, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in the heart of the Lake District National Park.

Top Attractions

Lake Windermere

Lake Windermere is the largest natural lake in England, offering stunning landscapes, water activities, and scenic cruises. It's a hub for outdoor adventures and relaxation.

Nature Half day to full day Free to explore, cruises and activities vary in price

Beatrix Potter's Hill Top

Hill Top is the charming 17th-century home of the famous children's author Beatrix Potter. The house and gardens offer a glimpse into her life and the inspiration for her beloved stories.

Historical 2-3 hours £15-£20 for adults, discounts for children and families

Windermere Steamboat Museum

This museum showcases the rich maritime history of Lake Windermere, with a collection of historic steamboats, engines, and artifacts. It's a fascinating look at the lake's past.

Museum 1-2 hours £8-£10 for adults, discounts for children and families

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cumberland Sausage

A traditional sausage made from minced pork, seasoned with pepper and other spices, and formed into a distinctive twisted shape. It's often served with mashed potatoes and gravy.

Main Course Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or those with pork allergies

Grasmere Gingerbread

A traditional gingerbread made with spices, honey, and treacle, originating from the village of Grasmere. It's a sweet, spicy treat often enjoyed with tea or coffee.

Dessert Contains gluten, not suitable for those with gluten allergies

Kendal Mint Cake

A popular confectionery made from sugar, glucose, water, and peppermint oil. It's a sweet, minty treat often enjoyed by hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Snack Contains sugar, not suitable for those with sugar allergies or diabetes

Popular Activities

Hiking Boating Water sports Cycling Mountain biking Boat cruises Spas and wellness Scenic walks

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and busiest time of year, with long daylight hours and plenty of outdoor activities available. The weather is generally pleasant, making it ideal for hiking, boating, and exploring the villages.

15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) in winter, BST (UTC+1) in summer

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

The Lake District is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas and at night

Getting there

By air

Manchester Airport • 150 miles (240 km)

By train

Windermere Station

By bus

Windermere Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around, with regular services to nearby villages and attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Bowness-on-Windermere Ambleside Grasmere

Day trips

Kendal

10 miles (16 km) • Half day to full day

Kendal is a historic market town with a rich cultural heritage, offering a mix of historic sites, museums, and shopping.

Lancaster

20 miles (32 km) • Full day

Lancaster is a historic city with a rich maritime heritage, offering a mix of historic sites, museums, and shopping.

Glenridding and Helvellyn

5 miles (8 km) • Full day

Glenridding is a charming village at the northern end of Ullswater, offering stunning landscapes, water activities, and hiking trails. Helvellyn, the third-highest mountain in England, is nearby and offers challenging hikes with breathtaking views.

Festivals

Lakeland Book of the Year Festival • June Kendal Torchlight Carnival • Mid-November Windermere Jazz Festival • July

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience
Pack layers and be prepared for changeable weather, even in the summer
Book accommodations, dining, and activities well in advance, especially during peak season
Explore beyond the popular tourist hubs and discover the hidden gems and quieter villages of the Lake District
Try local dishes and support local businesses, such as pubs, cafes, and shops