Beatrix Potter: Morning Half Day with an Expert Guide - includes entrance fees

Windermere , United Kingdom

Beatrix Potter: Morning Half Day with an Expert Guide - includes entrance fees

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About this experience

This tour is a fascinating experience that takes you on a journey through the picturesque Lake District to explore the world of the famous author and illustrator, Beatrix Potter. The tour is an ideal way to learn about the life and works of one of the most beloved figures in British children's literature. The tour includes a visit to Hill Top, the former home of Beatrix Potter, where you can explore the charming cottage and beautiful gardens that inspired many of her beloved stories. You will also get the opportunity to visit other landmarks related to Potter's life and work, making for a truly memorable and informative morning tour.

Available options

Bowness Departure 9:13am

Starting point:<br/>Bowness on Windermere Ferry Terminal, Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere LA23 3HQ, UK

Windermere Departure 9:05am

Starting point:<br/>Windermere LA23 1AH, UK

Ambleside Departure 9:24am

Starting point:<br/>2 Kelsick Rd, Ambleside LA22 0BP, UK

What's included

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

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

Regular photo / comfort stops

Professional Guides share their expertise of all the fascinating facts and stories in English

Entry into Hill Top (Beatrix Potter's house) is included in the price

Departure and return to convenient, centrally located meeting points

All entrance fees for locations on the itinerary are included

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your morning starts with a visit to Wray Castle for spectacular scenery and lake views. This is the holiday home where Beatrix first fell in love with the Lake District. There will be plenty of time for photos.

Stop 2

While on holiday, Beatrix visited many of the small villages in the area and Near Sawrey became her favourite. This village features in many of her "little books" illustrations. The Tower Bank Arms is immediately recognisable as the place where Kep, the collie-dog goes looking for the two fox-hound puppies to rescue Jemima Puddle-duck. You will be amazed when you see it, exactly like it is in the book!

One of the reasons why Beatrix visited Near Sawrey so often was because while staying on holiday in the area, the Potter's coachman and his family were lodging at a farm there. That farm was Hill Top and is the one Beatrix later bought with the profits from publishing Peter Rabbit. She often visited her 'holiday home' Hill Top and wrote many more books here which were inspired by the people and the places around her in this beautiful part of England.

We stop at Near Sawrey and Hill Top for you to see the locations which are so recognisable in the books and the place where Beatrix Potter lived. Entry to Hill Top IS included in the price of this tour. Your guide will take you on a guided walk through the village to show you actual places illustrated in Beatrix's books.

Close by Hill Top is Esthwaite Water where Beatrix walked while courting her future husband, William Heelis. This was a favourite spot for Beatrix who thought it "the most beautiful of the Lakes".

Stop 4

We now stop off in Hawkshead. Your guide will take you on a walking tour around this medieval village pointing out all of the important locations.

Stop 5 Pass by

William Heelis was a solicitor who advised Beatrix about her land purchases. His offices were in Hawkshead village. They are now the Beatrix Potter Gallery.

Stop 6

Beatrix bought a lot of land in the Lake District and owned the beauty spot Tarn Hows. Here you will have a photo opportunity here.

Stop 7

Coniston Water is the third largest lake in the Lake District and is the straightest. You will have a short stop here to admire the view and see the famous fell of Coniston Old Man towering over the village and the lake.

Beatrix also owned a lot of farms in the area and as we travel down the Yewdale Valley back to Ambleside, you will see Yew Tree Farm, famous as a location in the film "Miss Potter".

This is one of our pickup points

Stop 9 Pass by

This is one of our pickup points

What's not included

Food & drink

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

58 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

92 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

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 5 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