Beatrix Potter's Half Day Lake District Tour Including Lake Cruise

Windermere , United Kingdom

Beatrix Potter's Half Day Lake District Tour Including Lake Cruise

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the locations that inspired Beatrix Potter on a 4.5-hour Lake District afternoon tour.

Embark on a cruise, enjoy the spectacular Lake District landscape from the water.

Visit Hill Top farm, Beatrix Potter’s former home, and see the landscapes that inspired some of her books. Entrance to Hill Top farm is included, however when Hill Top is closed customers will visit The World of Beatrix Potter. (Hill Top is closed on Friday's outside UK school holidays and November - February).

Continue on to the charming medieval village of Hawkshead, where poet William Wordsworth attended school, and then through the beautiful landscapes of the central lakes with lake and woodland views. Learn more about the much-loved children’s author from your knowledgeable guide.

This tour has attractions worth £32.50 included in your ticket price. Lake Cruise RRP £17.50 and Hill Top £15.00

Available options

Pickup Windermere Information

Pick up at 11:50 from Windermere Tourist Information Centre, Victoria Street, LA23 1AD

Pickup Bowness-Bay-Pier

Pick up Bowness-on-Windermere: Pick up at 11:55 from Bowness Bay Pier Booking Office (Pier 1), Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3HQ

What's included

Lake Cruise

On-board commentary in English

Entry to Hill Top Farm or World of Beatrix Potter Attraction

Transport in a small mini-coach

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Visit Hill Top Farm, once home to Beatrix Potter

Take a Cruise on lake Windermere. England's Largest Lake

Stop 3

A stunning stop on the tour, Tarn Hows is a picturesque beauty spot that boasts some spectacular views. Originally created in the 19th century by damming a series of smaller tarns. The area was then purchased by Beatrix Potter who gave it to the National Trust to ensure its preservation.

Visit the beautiful village of Hawkshead

What's not included

Food & drink

Drivers gratuity (Optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

148 reviews

5★

106

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

185 reviews

5★

164

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be 5 years or older

There will be places in Hawkshead to buy food or drink but we recommend you have Lunch before the tour.

There are toilet stops on route

Our vehicles are not currently wheelchair accessible

Luggage storage is available at the Windermere Information departure location

Seats cannot be reserved

Each passenger must have their own seat

Please note, the pick up location you have chosen is where you will be collected from. It is not possible to be collected from a different location once chosen. If you are not at the correct pick up location and miss the tour, we cannot offer alternative arrangements.

Entrance to Hill Top farm is included, however when Hill Top is closed customers will visit The World of Beatrix Potter. (Hill Top is closed on Friday's outside UK school holidays and November - February).

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Meeting point

Main Departure Location:
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Please meet outside the ticket office at Pier 1, Windermere Lake Cruises Ticket Office (Green building).
Bowness-on-Windermere
LA23 3HQ

Important notes

Thank you for booking a Mountain Goat tour.

Please make a note of your chosen pickup point and pick up time, our driver will meet you there on your chosen day of travel. This is identified above in this confirmation.

Please arrive at the location selected in good time, if you are not, you may miss the tour.

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