Experience the beauty of the Lake District on this 3-day tour beginning and ending in Edinburgh. Head south through the Scottish Borders, the rolling Galloway Hills and Southern Uplands to the market town of Keswick before exploring the picturesque Lake District National Park to find waterfalls, forests, mountains, and lakes. Then discover Lake Windermere and the historic towns dotted around the park before returning north to Edinburgh.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
The Lake District and Keswick
Edinburgh - Lake District National Park - Keswick. Leaving Edinburgh, we journey south through the Scottish Borders, admiring the picturesque Galloway Hills and Southern Uplands en route to Moffat, a charming Victorian spa town. Continuing south into England, we reach Penrith, a historic Cumbrian market town, where we can enjoy lunch and explore the ruins of Penrith Castle, a key border defence against Scottish invasions.
After lunch, we enter the Lake District National Park, tracing the northern shores of Ullswater. Here, we can take a forest walk to witness the majestic Aira Force waterfall, and admire the beauty of England's most stunning lake. Next, we visit the mysterious Castlerigg standing stones, believed to be over 5,000 years old and steeped in ancient pagan history.
Our journey concludes in Keswick, a lively market town where we're free to explore its charming streets and settle into our accommodation.
Please note: Check-in closes at 08:30 (tour departs at 08:45) - Edinburgh Bus Station Pick Up, Gate J and Gate K, inside Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ
Accommodation: The Edwardene B&B, Elm Tree Lodge B&B or similar
Overnight: Keswick
Lakes and Charming Villages
After breakfast, we journey along country roads to the southern shores of Ullswater Lake, soaking in its scenic beauty. Continuing south, we traverse the winding Kirkstone Pass to reach Lake Windermere. Here, we can enjoy an included 45 minute cruise on Lake Windermere, or you can opt for a leisurely lunch with stunning views of the surroundings. Afterward, we explore Coniston Water and visit the charming village of Hawkshead.
Following our exploration, we travel north to Grasmere, described by Wordsworth as "the loveliest spot that man hath found". Enjoy free time to visit Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage, sample the famous gingerbread, or relax in the Wordsworth Daffodil Garden. In the late afternoon, we return to Keswick.
Accommodation: The Edwardene B&B, Elm Tree Lodge B&B or similar
Overnight: Keswick | Breakfast
Return to Edinburgh
Keswick - Lake District National Park - Edinburgh. Leaving our accommodation, we venture into Whinlatter Forest Park, traversing the Whinlatter Pass to immerse ourselves in the Lake District's stunning landscapes. Meandering through High Lorton village, we journey past Crummock Water and Buttermere before reaching the Honister Mountain Pass. Pausing amid the mountains, we explore old slate workings, where a small number of Cumbrians continue to make their living.
Afterward, we navigate through Borrowdale's forests, passing Derwent Water for lunch and shopping. Following lunch, we begin our return journey, heading towards Penrith and crossing into Scotland. We stop in the historic town of Biggar before a leisurely drive through the scenic border hills back to Edinburgh.
Please note: This tour ends at 19:00 - Edinburgh Bus Station Drop Off, Gate J and Gate K, Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 2 travellers. 'Twin Share' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single Room' prices are applicable to all solo travellers, or if your booking party cannot reach the minimum of 2 persons in a room. Single Rooms can also be booked by any other person wanting the comfort and privacy of their own room.
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
The Edwardene B&B , Keswick
This charming hotel, housed in a Victorian Lakeland stone property, is situated on a residential street just two blocks from Keswick town centre. The 11 traditionally furnished guest rooms are equipped with en suite bath and/or shower rooms, tea and coffee making facilities, and TVs.
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 2 travellers. 'Twin Share' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single Room' prices are applicable to all solo travellers, or if your booking party cannot reach the minimum of 2 persons in a room. Single Rooms can also be booked by any other person wanting the comfort and privacy of their own room.
At a Glance
