Things to do in Lake District

Our most recommended things to do in Lake District

From Manchester: Lake District Bus Tour & Windermere Cruise

From Manchester: Lake District Bus Tour & Windermere Cruise

Discover the wonderful scenery of the Lake District on a guided tour from Manchester. Take a scenic boat cruise on Lake Windermere, with visits to the charming villages of Bowness, Hawkshead, and Grasmere. Set off from Manchester and enjoy a comfortable ride to the Lake District. Your first stop of the day is at Bowness, which sits on the shores of Windermere. Board a leisurely cruise on the lake or wander around the town, which offers beautiful views. Then continue your journey down narrow country lanes towards Grasmere, a place Wordsworth described as “the loveliest spot that man hath found." Enjoy free time to visit Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage, taste the legendary gingerbread, or soak up the peace and tranquility of the Wordsworth Daffodil Garden by the River Rothy. Travel around the southern tip of Windermere and towards Coniston Water. Marvel at the views across the water before arriving in the picturesque conservation village of Hawkshead, the place where famous poet William Wordsworth attended Grammar School. After exploring the cozy village, you return to Manchester in the early evening.

From Windermere: Ten Lakes Full-Day Tour of Lake District

From Windermere: Ten Lakes Full-Day Tour of Lake District

The Lake District is renowned for being the most beautiful corner of England and this full-day tour introduces you to just that; magnificent scenery of mountains, valleys and lakes from the south to the north. From within the circle, get picture-perfect views of some of the Lake District’s highest peaks. Travel over the famous Kirkstone and Honister passes whilst enjoying some spectacular mountain scenery. From beautiful valleys to waterfalls and traditional Lakeland villages, enjoy plenty of stops for admiring the views and taking photographs.  Eat lunch at the market town of Keswick, where you can try a typical pub lunch, or seek out a charming restaurant.

Liverpool: Lake District Tour with Lake Cruise & Cream Tea

Liverpool: Lake District Tour with Lake Cruise & Cream Tea

Experience a day in the spectacular Lake District National Park with a cruise on England's largest lake Windermere, and a locally-sourced cream tea at the historic Lindeth Howe Hotel in Bowness-on-Windermere. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes that make the National Park so special. Lake cruise and cream tea included. Itinerary Departing Manchester we'll make our way towards the spectacular Lake District. On arrival enjoy some free-time in the lakeside town Bowness-on-Windermere. Explore the shops, cafes, and unrivaled views of the iconic lake. Windermere Lake Cruise: Relax on a beautiful lake cruise, taking in the panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding fells. Tarn Hows: After joining your driver-guide at Ambleside Pier you will make your way along the winding country roads to the tranquil Tarn Hows, an iconic spot known for its breathtaking views and connections to Beatrix Potter. The medieval village of Hawkshead: Explore the charming village of Hawkshead, famous for its connections to Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth. Here you can enjoy a pub lunch or some Grasmere Gingerbread which can be found in the village. Cream Tea: Afterward a scenic drive through the Cumbrian countryside we'll arrive at Lindeth Howe for cream tea. here you can warm yourself by the fire or admire the views out onto lake Windermere. This is only available until the 31st March 2025. Experience the timeless beauty and heritage of the Lake District, gaining insights from our expert guide and enjoying the unique opportunity to explore this iconic landscape up close. Attractions included: The tour includes a cruise on Lake Windermere and a locally-sourced cream tea collectively worth £20. From the April 1st 2025 - 31st October 2025 passengers will enjoy a Windermere Lake Cruise followed by a journey through Leven Valley at the southern end of Lake Windermere on a heritage Steam Train. Cream Tea is only available until the 31st march 2025.

Manchester: Lake District Tour with Lake Cruise & Cream Tea

Manchester: Lake District Tour with Lake Cruise & Cream Tea

Experience a day in the spectacular Lake District National Park with a cruise on England's largest lake Windermere, and a locally-sourced cream tea at the historic Lindeth Howe Hotel in Bowness-on-Windermere. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes that make the National Park so special. Lake cruise and cream tea included. Itinerary Departing Manchester we'll make our way towards the spectacular Lake District. On arrival enjoy some free-time in the lakeside town Bowness-on-Windermere. Explore the shops, cafes, and unrivaled views of the iconic lake. Windermere Lake Cruise: Relax on a beautiful lake cruise, taking in the panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding fells. Tarn Hows: After joining your driver-guide at Ambleside Pier you will make your way along the winding country roads to the tranquil Tarn Hows, an iconic spot known for its breathtaking views and connections to Beatrix Potter. The medieval village of Hawkshead: Explore the charming village of Hawkshead, famous for its connections to Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth. Here you can enjoy a pub lunch or some Grasmere Gingerbread which can be found in the village. Cream Tea: Afterward a scenic drive through the Cumbrian countryside we'll arrive at Lindeth Howe for cream tea. here you can warm yourself by the fire or admire the views out onto lake Windermere. This is only available until the 31st March 2025. Experience the timeless beauty and heritage of the Lake District, gaining insights from our expert guide and enjoying the unique opportunity to explore this iconic landscape up close. Attractions included: The tour includes a cruise on Lake Windermere and a locally-sourced cream tea collectively worth £20. From the April 1st 2025 - 31st October 2025 passengers will enjoy a Windermere Lake Cruise followed by a journey through Leven Valley at the southern end of Lake Windermere on a heritage Steam Train. Cream Tea is only available until the 31st march 2025.

From Liverpool: Lake District Sightseeing Adventure Day Trip

From Liverpool: Lake District Sightseeing Adventure Day Trip

The tour departs from Liverpool and drives out of the city heading north to connect to the M6 Motorway. Listen to a partially narrated journey as we head to Bowness on Windermere for our first views of one of the many Lakes that give this area its name. You will have the opportunity to hop on one of Windermere's boats (at own cost - but ticket from driver/guide) on a one way journey to Ambleside. On a pleasant day, use your time to shop for a picnic that we can have when we are in the open air of the Langdales. On colder, more overcast days, you can take lunch at Ambleside in one of the many eateries. On to the Langdales, we travel through Little Langdale to Blea Tarn where we spend time exploring the area. At the end of our walk, we head out through Great Langdale and on to the picturesque village of Grasmere. The final stop of the day, you can wander around and see why it has been voted England's most beautiful village on a number of occasions. You may wonder what that delicious aroma is and follw the scent to the Grasmere Gingerbread Shop like so may travellers who have been here before you!

From Manchester: North Wales and Caernarfon Castle Day Trip

From Manchester: North Wales and Caernarfon Castle Day Trip

Caernarfon included. We’ll stop in the historic seaside town of Conwy. You’ll have time to explore and take in the sights that make Conwy such a popular visitor destination. After a roam around the town, we’ll head off to explore the incredible Snowdonia National Park, they’ll be plenty of opportunities for photo stops and for you to really enjoy it. We'll journey onto Caernarfon Castle, this medieval fortress steeped in Wales' fascinating history, stands as a testament to the nation's rich past. Here, you'll have time to explore its towering walls and uncover the pivotal role it played in shaping the nations history. We then head to the charming Welsh village of Betws-y-Coed situated in the heart of the National Park. The village, which was once a place for pilgrims, became a hub for artist and authors who took inspiration form the scenery and landscapes that surround it. It’s a wonderful stop on the tour and a great place for some free time to explore.

Lake District: Beatrix Potter Half-Day Tour

Lake District: Beatrix Potter Half-Day Tour

Surround yourself with the scenery that inspired Beatrix Potter's enchanting tales during a half-day tour of the Lake District National Park. Visit the author's home and explore the medieval Hawkshead and the scenic Tarn Hows. Start by making your way to Hill Top, the 17th-century home that Beatrix Potter used as an artistic retreat. Stroll through the charming garden, home to various flowers and which featured in several of her little stories. ~Please note, Hill Top House is closed on Fridays out of the UK school holidays and from November-February. In this case you will visit the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction in Bowness, here you will discover more of the authors life and about the characters she created. After exploring Miss Potter’s extraordinary house, continue to the medieval village of Hawkshead, and get some time to explore the fascinating village. Drive through the renowned beauty spot of Tarn Hows. Conclude with a lake cruise offering unrivaled views of the mountains. Note: The tour includes a £32.50 worth of attractions, Lake Cruise RRP £17.50 and Hill Top £15

Lake District: Six Lakes Morning Tour from Windermere

Lake District: Six Lakes Morning Tour from Windermere

Start off by travelling over the famous Kirkstone Pass which is the highest mountain road in the Lakes, before making your way down to take in the beautiful Ullswater. You’ll have the chance to stretch your legs at Castlerigg Stone Circle, taking in the panoramic views of the fells. The tour returns travelling south along the vast Thirlmere whilst learning all about its interesting story. There is then time to wander around the historic village of Grasmere before travelling back to Windermere. This half-day tour is perfect for those who are short on time but want to see as much of this beautiful area as possible.

Coniston Water: 60-Minute Wild Cat Island Cruise

Coniston Water: 60-Minute Wild Cat Island Cruise

Discover ‘Wild Cat Island’ as seen in the 1970‘s film ‘Swallows and Amazons’ during this 60-minute cruise. Enjoy an outing that perfectly pairs serenity and sightseeing during your time in the Lake District. Hop aboard your vessel and sail to Brantwood, the former home of John Ruskin, poet, artist and social reformer. Visit the house, garden, craft gallery, and Brantwood Café all in the span of 60-minutes. Catch a later sailing back and see stunning views of the lake and natural surroundings.

From Windermere: High Adventure Landscapes & Legends Tour

From Windermere: High Adventure Landscapes & Legends Tour

Embark on a full-day adventure exploring the Western Lake District’s hidden gems and captivating scenery. Drive over the stunning Wrynose Pass, with its steep, winding route and spectacular views. Your driver-guide will share fascinating insights as we navigate one of Britain’s steepest mountain roads. Then, prepare for the legendary Hardknott Pass, another of Britain’s most challenging roads. Along the route, you’ll pass Hardknott Roman Fort, perched 1,000 feet up on the fells. After descending into the Eskdale Valley, you’ll arrive at Muncaster Castle, where a delicious lunch awaits. Enjoy the castle’s magnificent grounds and historic charm, adding a special touch to your day. The afternoon takes you to Wast Water in Wasdale Valley, renowned as “Britain’s Favourite View.” Framed by peaks including Scafell Pike, Red Pike, and Great Gable, Wast Water is England’s deepest lake, known for its striking beauty and dramatic atmosphere.

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What people are saying about Lake District

Overall rating

4.8
(955 reviews)

This day trip was fantastic! The views were spectacular and stunning, even though the weather wasn’t perfect. The guide, Mark, was knowledgeable and enthusiastic. I highly recommend this trip if you have the chance to visit the area.

Despite the heavy cloud cover, the views were still breathtaking! 🤍 Our guide, Rob, was fantastic—funny, friendly, and provided great commentary!

interesting and relaxing experience, enjoyed meeting the horses and taking some time to breathe and chill with these gentle creatures

The views were incredible and our guide, Derek, was incredibly knowledgeable and completely brilliant.

Visiting the different villages and the countryside -- it was a picture perfect day.