From Windermere: Mountain Passes & Muncaster Castle

Top rated
4.8 out of 5 stars
4.8
115 reviews
Activity provider:
Mountain Goat Tours
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From Windermere: Mountain Passes & Muncaster Castle
Likely to sell out
Top rated
4.8 out of 5 stars
4.8
115 reviews

Get off the beaten track and enjoy a full-day tour exploring the Western Lake District. Drive over England’s steepest passes, admire the stunning Wast water and visit the beautiful Muncaster Castle.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
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Duration 8 hours
Check availability to see starting times
Live tour guide
English

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

5
5 out of 5 stars
M
Meenakshi – United Kingdom

The whole experience was amazing. Our tour guide and transport driver was Graham. He made the whole day fun, he was communicating, he had so much knowledge. Absolutely enjoyed what Mountain Passes, Muncaster Castle, the view even though it was raining and overcast, it was picturesque. First time visit to Lake District and using Mountain Goats, I would choose them again. Definitely worth the money, had lunch, the games at Muncaster were so much fun, the Archery, Hammer throw and Crossbow. A.M.A.Z.I.N.G

5
5 out of 5 stars
B
Bronwyn – New Zealand

Wow.... this was a great trip... Off the beaten track, amazing scenery despite all four seasons of weather along the way. Our guide Tony, was excellent.... Provided excellent commentary, with good knowledge of the areas. Lovely pub lunch in Boot. Would recommend this trip if you want to see the HIGH and rugged scenery over the passes.

Select participants and date

Itinerary

  • Starting location:

    Windermere Tourist Information Centre

  • Lake District National Park

    Photo stop, Sightseeing, Scenic drive, Scenic views on the way (30 minutes)

  • Great Langdale

    Break time, Photo stop, Sightseeing, Scenic views on the way (20 minutes)

  • Blea Tarn

    Break time, Photo stop (20 minutes)

  • Wrynose Pass

    Break time, Photo stop, Sightseeing, Scenic views on the way (30 minutes)

  • Hardknott Pass

    Photo stop, Sightseeing, Scenic drive, Scenic views on the way (30 minutes)

  • Wast Water

    Break time, Photo stop, Sightseeing, Scenic views on the way (20 minutes)

  • Muncaster Castle

    Break time, Photo stop, Visit, Lunch, Guided tour, Free time (2.5 hours)

  • Lake District National Park

    Scenic drive, Scenic views on the way (1 hour)

  • Arrive back at:

    Windermere Tourist Information Centre

Main stop
Other stop

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

  • Drive over the Wrynose and Hardknott passes
  • Admire the sights at Wastwater
  • Enjoy a delicious locally sourced lunch at Muncaster Castle
  • Enjoy the Grounds and Bird of Prey Show
  • Axe throwing, Archery & Cross Bow in the Medieval Weapons Hall

Full description

PLEASE NOTE: HARDKNOTT & WRYNOSE PASS WILL BE CLOSED FROM THE 30TH JUNE TILL THE 4TH JULY. THE TOUR WILL TRAVEL THROUGH THE DUDDON VALLEY ON THESE DATES.

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive through the picturesque Langdale Valley, with a photo stop at Blea Tarn. From here, continue to the dramatic Wrynose Pass, where the steep, winding road reveals breath-taking views of the surrounding valleys. As you make your way along one of Britain’s most notorious mountain passes, your driver-guide will share fascinating stories and historical insights, including a visit to the historic Three Shires Stone—marking the old boundaries of Cumberland, Lancashire, and Westmorland.

Next, prepare for the legendary Hardknott Pass, known as one of the steepest and most challenging roads in Britain. En route, you’ll pass the remarkable Hardknott Roman Fort, perched 1,000 feet above sea level. Once a vital link between the Roman settlements of Ravenglass and Ambleside, the fort offers a window into Cumbria’s ancient heritage.

Onwards you’ll travel to the deepest lake in England, Wastwater. Framed by the towering peaks of Scafell Pike, Red Pike, and Great Gable. Wast Water was rightfully named ‘Britain’s Favourite View’—a dramatic and unforgettable sight.
Around lunchtime, you'll arrive at the medieval Muncaster Castle, where your delicious lunch awaits. Enjoy a locally sourced lunch before setting out to explore the castle at your leisure. Be sure to check the lunch menu in advance so you can choose your preferred dish. Dive into its rich history, from the tale of the Luck of Muncaster—connected to King Henry VI—to the curious legend of Tom Fool, the castle’s infamous 16th-century jester.

Stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, redesigned in the 18th century when the castle's defensive role faded, or test your skills in the Weapons Hall with archery, axe throwing, and crossbow shooting. Please note children must be over 8 years old to join in the Weapons Hall activities.

Don’t miss the famous daily flying display at 2pm with owls, falcons, eagles and even vultures! —a highlight of any visit—or take time to visit the Hawk and Owl Centre, where conservation and environmental education come to life in an inspiring and engaging setting.

Includes

  • Live on-board commentary in English
  • Lunch
  • Entrance to Muncaster Castle and Gardens
  • Activities at the Medieval Weapons Hall
  • Additional Food & drinks
  • Additional entrance fees
  • Gratuities (optional)

Not suitable for

  • Children under 5 years

Meeting point

This tour departs from outside the Windermere Tourist Information Centre. What 3 Words - ///treatment.overlaid.hides

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Important information

Know before you go

  • Children must be 5 years or older
  • There will be a designated lunch stop where it will be possible to buy lunch
  • There will be toilet stops en route
  • Minimal walking is involved
  • Vehicles are not currently wheelchair accessible
  • Routes are subject to change in the event of severe inclement weather, traffic congestion or for operational reasons
Likely to sell out

From $150 per person

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.8 /5
4.8 out of 5 stars

based on 115 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    5/5
  • Transportation
    4.8/5
  • Value for money
    4.7/5

Customer photos

+4
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5
5 out of 5 stars
M
Meenakshi – United KingdomJuly 6, 2025 – Verified booking
The whole experience was amazing. Our tour guide and transport driver was Graham. He made the whole day fun, he was communicating, he had so much knowledge. Absolutely enjoyed what Mountain Passes, Muncaster Castle, the view even though it was raining and overcast, it was picturesque. First time visit to Lake District and using Mountain Goats, I would choose them again. Definitely worth the money, had lunch, the games at Muncaster were so much fun, the Archery, Hammer throw and Crossbow. A.M.A.Z.I.N.G
5
5 out of 5 stars
B
Bronwyn – New ZealandSeptember 7, 2024 – Verified booking
Wow.... this was a great trip... Off the beaten track, amazing scenery despite all four seasons of weather along the way. Our guide Tony, was excellent.... Provided excellent commentary, with good knowledge of the areas. Lovely pub lunch in Boot. Would recommend this trip if you want to see the HIGH and rugged scenery over the passes.
5
5 out of 5 stars
L
Leonard – United KingdomSeptember 2, 2024 – Verified booking
Very satisfied with the tour, it was raining for the most parts of the day but it was amazing anyway, Tony our driver and guide was absolutely phenomenal, a true professional and gentleman

Product ID: 11891

Activity provider:
Mountain Goat Tours

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