Popular itinerary for Exploring the Natural Beauty of Northwest England’s Lake District:
The Lake District in Northwestern England is a haven for nature lovers. Renowned as England’s most mountainous region, it boasts the highest peak, Scafell Pike, which towers at about 3209 feet, and Windermere, England’s largest lake. Designated as a National Park in 1951, the Lake District spans approximately 912 square miles and includes over 33 bodies of water and numerous hills, known as Fells.
As a highly sought-after tourist destination, the Lake District provides a plethora of activities both on land and water, coupled with cultural and historical points of interest.
*Below, you will find an alternate 3-4 day itinerary.
Day 1: Manchester
The most convenient international airport to start this trip is Manchester. While Manchester, as the UK’s second-largest city, offers numerous attractions, our primary emphasis today is on exploring nature. However, here are a few of the city’s highlights:
During the peak of the 19th century industrial revolution, Manchester played a pivotal role as a major textile industrial city. Visit the Science and Industry Museum, free of charge, to explore many of the inventions and industrial developments that originated in Manchester and changed the world.
Manchester is home to 2 famous football clubs, and, in fact, the game originated in the working-class neighborhoods. If you are a football fan, visit the National Football Museum to learn more about the English national sport. Consider visiting one of the local club’s stadiums as well – Etihad Stadium is home to Manchester City, and Old Trafford is home to Manchester United.
Manchester’s historic quarter, situated around the cathedral and known as Shambles Square, offers charming local pubs and restaurants to explore.
Sleep in Manchester.
Day 2: Bowness-on-Windermere
Today, we will head up about 83 miles to the Lake District, where we’ll be based in Bowness-on-Windermere for the first few days. Located on the shores of Windermere, the largest lake in the Lake District, Bowness-on-Windermere is the region’s largest town.
Consider making a stop along the route in Lancaster, a historic northern town with ties to the House of Lancaster, a notable branch of the English royal family that played a crucial role in the War of Roses during the 15th century. Lancaster boasts key attractions like Lancaster Castle and the Lancaster Cathedral.
Stay overnight in Windermere.
Day 3: Bowness-on-Windermere
Our day begins in Bowness, where you have the option to rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard and enjoy a delightful sail on the beautiful lake. The Bowness Bay Marina hosts most of the rental businesses.
A must-visit local attraction in Bowness is The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, dedicated to the life and work of Beatrix Potter. The renowned author, famous for her tales of Peter Rabbit and friends, resided and worked on the shores of Windermere at Hill Top Beatrix Potter House, situated across the water from Bowness.
Stay overnight in Windermere.
Day 4: In and Around Bowness-on-Windermere
Enjoy scenic strolls starting from Bowness, such as the Orrest Head, a prominent peak offering panoramic views of Windermere. For a shorter yet rewarding walk, explore Brant Fell, providing excellent views of the lake and the central summits of the Lake District. If you’re up for a full-day adventure, consider the longer trek from Windermere to Ambleside via Wansfell Pike.
Spend the night in Windermere.
Day 5: Grasmere Village and Keswick
Today, we will drive to the northern lakes and explore the central town of Keswick situated on the shores of Derwentwater. En route, make a stop in Grasmere Village, known as the former residence of the renowned poet William Wordsworth. Dive into his world by visiting Wordsworth Grasmere, which includes Dove Cottage, Wordsworth’s residence, a new museum showcasing his work, and a garden described by Wordsworth as “the loveliest spot man hath ever found.”
Take a brief break at The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop to savor the famous Grasmere Gingerbread, a tradition baked in this village for nearly 200 years.
Grasmere is situated on the shores of Grasmere, the smallest lake in the district, providing an opportunity for a leisurely stroll along the lake’s tranquil shores.
Sleep in Keswick.
Day 6: Keswick
Explore Keswick, a charming historic market town nestled on the shores of Derwentwater. A highlight in the town is the Derwent Pencil Museum, offering a captivating narrative of the pencil, the ubiquitous writing tool produced in Keswick.
Embark on a short stroll from the town to discover the Castlerigg Stone Circle, a Neolithic stone circle that predates Stonehenge by a millennium. Wander along the picturesque shores of Derwentwater, and consider catching a live show at the Theatre by the Lake.
Sleep in Keswick.
Day 7: Honister
We have an adventurous day head of us! Drive to Honister, a mountain pass, and the last active slate mine in England. Honister is home to many activities, including hill climbing, rope walking, bungee jumping, and many more in and around the mine.
Sleep in Keswick.
Day 8: Driving Along the Coast Toward Carlisle
Today, we bid farewell to the lakes and make our way to the sea. Travel along the coastal road heading north towards Carlisle. As you drive along the Irish coast, you’ll see numerous charming villages, including the Solway Coast, an area of outstanding natural beauty. Located just west of Carlisle, the coast is characterized by sandy beaches, bird watching opportunities, pastoral landscapes, and quaint communities.
Sleep in Carlisle.
Day 9: Carlisle
Carlisle, originally established as a Roman fort, played a crucial role in the formidable Hadrian’s Wall, which marked the northern frontier of the Roman Empire’s dominion over Britain for four centuries. Key attractions in Carlisle include the Carlisle Castle, a fortress with a history spanning 900 years, and the majestic Carlisle Cathedral. The city’s main attraction, though, is Hadrian’s Wall, a monumental structure that extended from west to east, safeguarding Roman Britain from the northern Scottish tribes.
While Hadrian’s Wall is renowned for its 84 mile walking trail, which takes several days to traverse, you can also explore some of its forts, museums, and military bases as a day trip from Carlisle.
Spend the night in Carlisle.
This proposed itinerary is flexible and can be adjusted based on the time you have available. From Carlisle, you have the option to head towards the eastern part of England or continue your journey north towards Glasgow, Scotland.
Here’s a 3-4 day itinerary for nature lovers visiting the Lake District:
Day 1: Spend the day in Windermere. You can take a boat ride on the lake, visit the World of Beatrix Potter attraction, or hike up to Orrest Head for panoramic views of the surrounding area 12.
Day 2: Explore the area around Ullswater Lake. You can hike to the Aira Force waterfall, take a boat ride on the lake, or visit the Rheged Centre for arts and crafts.
Day 3: Go sightseeing around Derwent Water. Take a boat ride on the lake, hike up to Catbells for stunning views, or visit the Keswick Museum and Art Gallery.
Day 4: Head north of Cumbria to Hadrian’s Wall. Visit the Roman Army Museum, hike along the wall, or explore the historic town of Carlisle.
The Lake District is a beautiful place to explore, and this itinerary will help you make the most of your time there. Enjoy your trip!
