The Lake District

Tucked away in England’s northwestern corner, in the ancient county of Cumbria, lies The Lake District. Its shimmering lakes, silent forests, and craggy mountains (the Fells) have inspired poets, writers, and artists such as Wordsworth, Wainwright and Potter through the centuries. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Lake District is dotted with quaint villages and small bustling towns where its history, heritage and culture sit side by side with the beautiful but hard landscape. The Lake District is one of the largest National Parks in Britain and has a wide range of activities and attractions alongside world-class accommodation and fine dining.

From the standing stones of the Ancient Britons through to the stately homes of the Victorians – whichever way you turn in the Lake District, you will find a rich heritage and a fascinating history. The story of early settlers, the Vikings and Saxons, can be read in the names they left behind like fell, beck and ghyll, whilst later arrivals came not to conquer, but to bask in the beauty of the landscape. William Wordsworth, John Ruskin and Beatrix Potter are just a few of the famous names who were inspired to greatness by the natural beauty of the Lake District. Here you can visit stone circles, historic houses and the gardens, birthplaces, homes and workshops of famous poets, writers and artists.

For the more adventurous, the Lake District is full of attractions and experiences. Cruise Lake Windermere on a Lakeland steamer, enjoy the stunning views of lakes and fells aboard a heritage steam train, find out how the local farmers use their sheepdogs to bring the herds off the fells or drive deep into the mountains with an off-road adventure. The more active can go mountain biking or walking in the fells, canoe or kayak on the many tranquil lakes and white-water rivers or even try rock climbing or ghyll scrambling with one of the many outdoor centres in the area.

For a more relaxing day out, our Best of the Lake District guided tour offers a day of high mountain passes, stone circles, spectacular waterfalls and, of course, the shimmering lakes that make the area famous. We add in special moments such as walking amongst Wordsworth’s daffodils, standing alongside the mighty Aira Force waterfall, and experiencing the surprise view over the northern lakes. During our rest breaks and stop-offs you can experience a Taste of Lakeland – maybe a bowl of local Herdwick lamb stew, a Lakeland cream tea, or even some Grasmere gingerbread.