Windermere , United Kingdom

8 Lakes in a Morning

Active

(13 reviews)

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

Best half-day tour for scenery. Your morning will be spent touring around some of the most spectacular scenery in the whole of the Lake District. This is a stress free, easy way to see a lot of the Lake District in a morning without feeling rushed. You have time to soak up the views and even paddle in a lake if you are brave enough. It is a great way for getting an overview of the Lake District, its culture, history and of course, its amazing scenery.

You will get plenty of variety, see magnificent scenery, eat gingerbread and get all the facts, figures and fascinating stories from our friendly, knowledgeable guides and drivers who know the area well.

Travelling in a comfortable mini-van with air con & phone charging ports as one of only 6/7 passengers you will find it is easy to ask questions and join in the conversation (if you want to). There are lots of stops for photos and fresh air. It is a great morning out and we can't wait to share it with to you.

Available options

Windermere Departure 10:00am

Winter Departure Starting point: Windermere LA23 1AH, UK

Ambleside Departure 9:19am

Starting point: 2 Kelsick Rd, Ambleside LA22 0BP, UK

Windermere Departure 9:00am

Starting point: Windermere LA23 1AH, UK

Bowness Departure 10:08am

Winter Departure Starting point: Bowness on Windermere Ferry Terminal, Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere LA23 3HQ, UK

Bowness Departure 9:08am

Starting point: Bowness on Windermere Ferry Terminal, Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere LA23 3HQ, UK

Ambleside Departure 10:19am

Winter departure Starting point: 2 Kelsick Rd, Ambleside LA22 0BP, UK

What's included

Comfortable minivans with air-conditioning and charging points for most mobile devices

Relaxed and friendly small-group tour of no more than 7 guests

Regular photo / comfort stops

Live commentary on board

Knowledgeable guide available throughout the tour

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

You will get to see Rydal Water, one of the smaller "big" lakes

Next is another of the smaller lakes, Grasmere

Hopefully we will get to stop at the fabulous little shop and try its tasty biscuit!

Learn about the ancient, last King of Cumberland

Discover the secret behind Thirlmere

Probably the best view in the Lake District

Visit this photogenic spot

Stop 8 Pass by

View this lake

Stop 9 Pass by

Another of the big lakes

Stop 10

Visit one of the oldest stone circles in England

The second longest lake in England

A lake with a grisly tale

The highest road in the Lake District

What's not included

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

11 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The English Lake District weather can change quickly, even in the summer months. Please bring a waterproof coat with a hood in case of rain or windy weather

As there is a little walking involved on the tour, some uphill and on uneven or wet terrain, please wear suitable, comfortable shoes

No Children under the age of 7

Children must be accompanied by an adult

All passengers, including children of any age, must have a seat purchased for them

Meeting point

If you have selected this option, your driver or guide will meet you outside of Ambleside Library on Kelsick Road. Postcode: LA22 0BZ What3Words: ///treaty.courier.constants They will be wearing an orange or black coat printed with our "EnglishLakesTours.com" logo

Important notes

We will collect you from the departure point linked to your chosen option. Please do not change to a different departure point without informing us in advance as we don't automatically go to every departure point. If we don't know you have changed your departure point we may not pick you up for the tour!

Please ensure that you are at your chosen departure point at least 10 minutes before your pickup time. The minibus will be unable to wait for you if you are not there and you will miss your tour.

Due to local traffic conditions the bus may arrive later than expected. Please wait 10 minutes after the quoted departure time before calling.

The English Lake District weather can change quickly, even in the summer months. Please bring a waterproof coat with a hood in case of rain or windy weather.

As there may be a small amount of walking involved in the tour, some uphill and on uneven or wet terrain, please wear suitable, comfortable shoes.

No food or drink is included in the tour price.

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