Lake District Walking Tour - Self-Guided

Arriving into Windermere railway station, a quick public bus ride will take you four miles to the picturesque town of Ambleside, where our friendly local guides will provide a thorough introductory briefing. A popular tourist destination, the afternoon is then yours to explore the charming local shops, cafés and restaurants or even catch a ferry onto the calm waters of Lake Windermere. With the afternoon drawing to a close, you’ll rest up for the evening in the cosy Lacet House Bed & Breakfast.

Setting out from Ambleside, today’s itinerary takes you on a looped walk down to the shores of Lake Windermere, before turning north toward Grasmere. Hiking through the beautiful Rydal Park, along the way you’ll pass Rydal Mount, the house in which renowned English poet William Wordsworth spent his final days. Continuing past Rydal Water, a smaller lake thought to have inspired many of Wordsworth’s celebrated works, the trail soon brings you into Grasmere. From enticing tearooms to traditional pubs, there’s plenty to enjoy in this sleepy little town. Just make sure to pay a visit to the famous Sarah Nelson’s Gingerbread Shop.

Today you’ll embark on a looped walk from Grasmere to the summits of Helm Crag and Calf Crag. Described by Wainwright himself as “a brief essay in real mountaineering,” along the way you’ll come across the iconic ‘Lion and the Lamb’ craggy outcrops, before feasting on what are unquestionably some of the Lake District’s best views over the Fairfield and Helvellyn mountain ranges. Having conquered both peaks, you’ll spend the rest of the afternoon enjoying a gentle walk through quiet country lanes back to Grasmere.

Our local Active England guides will transfer you this morning to the bustling market town of Keswick. Once you have your bearings, today’s walk takes you up to Castlerigg Stone Circle. One of the most atmospheric in all of England, you’ll enjoy panoramic views toward Helvellyn and High Seat, before continuing to Walla Cragg for equally dramatic vistas over the glittering Derwentwater. Winding your way back via the lakeshore to Keswick, you’ll find plenty of excellent places to eat and drink before turning in at The George Hotel, in the centre of town.

Setting out from Keswick, today you’ll walk the famous Catbells. Known for its steep climb and spectacular views of Borrowdale and Derwentwater, this particular peak is easily one of the most popular in all of the Lakes. After reaching the summit, the descent will bring you to the far end of Derwentwater, where we recommend catching a relaxing ferry back to Keswick.

For your last full day of walking, you’ll head to Buttermere via public bus, to one of the most stunning Lake District valleys. Famous for its glorious setting among the northern fells, walk the Buttermere ring, marvelling as you go at Haystacks, where Alfred Wainwright’s ashes are buried, and Great Gable, with its iconic pyramid-like shape. After completing your hike around the lake, return a final time to Keswick, for a celebratory dinner to mark the end of your tour.

With the tour coming to an end this morning, our Active England guides will transfer you back to Windermere railway station for your onward travel.