How to visit 10 of our famous lakes in one day

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We are lucky to have so many amazing places to explore in the Lake District, but if you are short on time, it can be hard to know where to start. A tour with Mountain Goat is a fantastic way to take the stress out of exploring and allows you to take in as much of our vast landscape as possible.

Across the autumn and winter months – the Ten Lakes Spectacular is Mountain Goat’s beloved full-day tour for visitors. Allowing you to see 10 of our famous lakes in one day – some from afar and many up close at the water's edge, with plenty of time to stop for pictures and short strolls in between.

This tour is a perfect introduction to the central, north, and south lakes area and it truly lives up to its ‘spectacular’ namesake.

Forget the days of big and informal coach tours – Mountain Goat is renowned for its slick operation with modern mini-buses and comfortable seating plus the smaller tour sizes allow for a richer experience with plenty of space to stretch out and relax.

Your journey begins by winding up the 1500ft Kirkstone Pass – with the skilful drivers making the notoriously windy roads feel effortless and safe.

A stop at the top of the Kirkstone Pass is truly breathtaking and gives a hint at what’s to come for the rest of the day – as you will pass waterfalls, rolling hills, quaint lakeside villages, and many beautiful lookouts along the way.

By mid-morning you will have ticked 4 of our lakes off your list - Brothers Water and Ullswater are first-up before cruising on through the Borrowdale Valley where the next lakeside stops -  Derwentwater and Bassenthwaite come in to view.

The beauty of Mountain Goat really is the incredible knowledge of the drivers – who unearth the history of the landscape and reveal hidden gems and local secrets that you may not have discovered for yourself.

You will be entertained with tales about Beatrix Potter, discover famous film locations and learn some little-known facts about our famous ‘Herdy’ – Herdwick sheep that are dotted across the hills. For instance, did you know they are said to be the hardiest breed in Britain? No wonder they can withstand our high fells and cold temperatures!

Photo: Mike Hodgson

Along with the ten magnificent lakes, you will be delighted to discover other tour highlights such as the mighty yet less-frequented Honister Pass – The pass rises steeply to 1167ft high and its unusual landscape and showstopping views down to Buttermere are out of this world.

Castlerigg Stone Circle is another tour favourite – Marvel at this ancient creation thought to have been constructed in 3000BC, with panoramic views that take in Helvellyn and Blencathra.

The day is broken up with a well-deserved long break for lunch in Keswick.

Take a leisurely stroll through this market town and explore the shops and many local delights. There are lunch options to suit every type of traveller with artisan bakeries and coffee shops, traditional tea rooms and a variety of cheap eats and takeaways.

Return to the warmth of the bus as the tour continues toward Grasmere, arguably one of the Lake District’s prettiest villages. Discover Thirlmere along the way and learn the history of this important reservoir with its clear waters and wooded shoreline.

Grasmere’s stunning location and small lake has inspired generations of poets and painters alike – the tour stops here for an afternoon break where you will be regaled by stories of Dorothy and William Wordsworth and their strong history with this charming village.

Take a stroll and make sure you check out the local art galleries and sample Sarah Nelson’s famous Grasmere Gingerbread.

After a full day of sightseeing, eating, and uncovering the history of the landscape – the tour arrives at its final destination back in Windermere, the UK’s largest lake.  

Alight here and head into the buzzing lakeside town to grab a drink or an evening meal and reminisce on your spectacular day in the lakes.

Ready to book a tour? Find more information on Mountain Goat here.