-
The Lake District, in the county of Cumbria in the North of England, is home to countless rugged mountains and 16 majestic lakes. It has captured the hearts of many artists, writers and poets, inspiring the likes of Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth, two of Britain’s literary greats. We are sure this magical place will inspire you just as it did them, and we believe our hikes into the spectacular scenery will take your breath away (quite literally!). There’s nothing quite like the Great British outdoors! This tour is ideal for nature lovers, but also for those wanting to walk in the footsteps of some of Britain’s finest writers.
On Day 1 we’ll take you on a walk around Aira Force, a picturesque waterfall in the hills around Ullswater, one of the Lake District’s prettiest lakes. It was here that Wordsworth was inspired to write one of his most famous works, ‘Daffodils’, and where your guide might even give you a performance of the poem – in Chinese of course! There will be plenty of photo opportunities on this varied walk through woodland, farmland and highland with distant views of beautiful country homes and the famous Ullswater Steamers. In the evening you can enjoy dinner and a gentle stroll in the nearby market town of Keswick, and catch the sunset by the water if you’re lucky.
On Day 2 you will wake up to the most beautiful view in England, and, if you choose to, you can climb to the highest peak in the country. The hike up Scafell Pike is challenging but the views on a clear day and the sense of achievement you will feel afterwards will make it all worthwhile!
How you spend Day 3, your final day, is largely up to you. You may choose to enjoy a leisurely valley walk with your guides, take a scenic drive to an old Roman Fort or give your legs a rest at two of the best literary attractions in England – Dove Cottage (the well-preserved home of William Wordsworth) and the World of Beatrix Potter in the Eastern Lakes.
This tour resonates with superlatives – England’s highest mountain, smallest church and deepest lake. It’s also a chance to learn about Britain’s most famous poet, its greatest fell runner and hear some fantastic tales about the region’s oddest traditions including the ‘World’s Biggest Liar’ competition!
* Please note: the itinerary for this tour is subject to change, based on accommodation availability, your train times and tour start/end points. All transfers are by car unless otherwise stated.
-
These activities are fixed and form the foundation of your tour itinerary. We believe they are the best bits of each tour that nobody should miss out on!
Ullswater and Aira Force Walk
(7km, moderate, 2-3 hours)
Ullswater is one of Britain’s most beautiful lakes and a favourite spot of William Wordsworth. Aira Force is a picturesque waterfall in the hills around Ullswater and the starting point of our first walk. The walk will take us past the waterfall through woodland and into vast farmland with impressive views over the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Trip to Keswick
(1-2 hours)
Keswick is a delightful market town on the banks of another idyllic lake. Here, you will have time to wander the cobbled streets, go shopping if you wish and enjoy a hearty dinner at one of the many local restaurants.
Wasdale Head
The location of England’s highest mountain, deepest lake, smallest church and favourite view – all of which you will see whilst staying in the area.
-
This is where you can get creative! Pick the activities that suit you and your group best. Please note, all group members must participate in the same activities and not all combinations are possible.
Scafell Pike walk
(10.5km, hard, 6-7 hours)
The hike up Scafell Pike, and the view from the top, has inspired famous British writers including Wordsworth and Wainwright. It is a tough climb to the top, not for the faint-hearted, but on a clear day you will be rewarded with some unique panoramic views of the Lake District and even the Isle of Man!
Great Gable walk
(12km, hard, 6-7 hours)
If you are an accomplished walker who has already conquered Scafell Pike, then this walk is for you! The hike to Great Gable’s summit is a Lake District classic which promises to get your heart rate going – both on your way up and at the top, as you admire the breathtaking views of neighbouring mountains.
Wasdale Head walk
(7km, moderate, 2-3 hours)
For those who don’t want to take on the strenuous hikes, we offer this shorter walk with beautiful views of the Mosedale valley, the surrounding mountains, streams and a fair few English sheep and cows!
Hardknott Pass and Roman Fort
(1-2 hours)
Hardknott Pass is the steepest road in England and as we drive the winding route to the top, you will be presented with stunning views of the Lake District! Our onwards drive takes us through some untouched rural villages and we will stop off at a 2000-year old fort, built and occupied by the Romans.
Visit to Dove Cottage, former home of William Wordsworth
(1-2 hours)
Dove Cottage is the former home of William Wordsworth, one of England’s finest writers. He lived here for 8 years and wrote some of the best poetry in the English language within these very walls! Little has changed in the house or garden since the Wordsworths were residents, you can still see the stone floors, glowing coal fires and the family’s own belongings on display.
The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
(1 hour)
Beatrix Potter was an English author who wrote and illustrated some of the world’s best-loved children’s books. Her most famous characters were three animals called Peter Rabbit, Benjamin Bunny and Tom Kitten. You’ll learn much more about these characters plus many others on our trip to the ‘World of Beatrix Potter’ attraction, a fun and colourful recreation of the magical world that Beatrix created in her books!
-
Included:
All accommodation
Private transport throughout
Breakfast (except if hostel accommodation chosen)
Picnics (if chosen)
All entrance fees
All chosen activity costs
Native British Mandarin-speaking guides throughout
Not included:
Transport to/from tour start/end point
Lunch (except picnics)
Dinner (unless specified)
-
Private tour
Max 15 people per tour
This tour starts from Penrith Train Station
This tour consists of some tough walking, we recommend that all customers have a good level of fitness and come in appropriate walking attire.
For those who are not confident walkers, we also offer some shorter, easier walks on this tour.
More general details about our tours can be found here.