Windermere , United Kingdom

Yorkshire Dales from Windermere

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(39 reviews)

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

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About this experience

Explores the very best of the Yorkshire Dales in one day!

Discover the dramatic limestone valleys and emerald countryside of the Yorkshire Dales National Park tour from Windermere. See the landscapes that inspired James Herriot and discover some of the filming locations for the hit TV series. Travel with ease from the Lake District and visit the quaint villages in Swaledale and Wensleydale (famed for its cheese) and Bolton Castle, in which Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned. See too, Aysgarth Falls and the cobbled streets of Hawes.

This full day tour from Windermere takes you on a stunning adventure exploring the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Available options

Collection Point Windermere

What's included

On-board commentary in English

Transport in a small mini-coach

Detailed itinerary

First stop on the tour is the market town of Sedbergh. The charming town offers plenty of opportunity to grab a coffee before heading into the Dales.

Drive over the incredible Buttertubs Pass and admire the views into the Dales.

Stop 3

Visit the 14th century castle that stands majestically within the glorious Dales landscape. Mary, Queen of Scots lived here briefly in 1568. The castle was also a favourite place of the author James Herriot, who proposed to his wife here.

Stop 4

Stop at the beautiful Aysgarth Falls, famous for its appearance in the film Robin Hood Prince of Thieves.

Visit the little town of Hawes where you will have a chance to visit the Wensleydale Creamery, famous for its cheese! here you can smaple the delicious cheese yourself.

What's not included

Food & drink

Additional Entrance fees

Drivers gratuity (Optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

31 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be 5 years or older

Confirmation is received at the time of booking

There will be a designated lunch stop where you’ll be able to purchase lunch

There are toilet stops on route

Minimal walking is involved

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 pickup 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.

Meeting point

Please arrive at 08:55 for collection from Windermere Tourist Information Centre.

If arriving by car the best place to park is Broad Street Car Park, LA23 2AB. From here allow at least 15 minutes to walk to the Windermere Information Centre (0.2 miles).

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