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Iconic Lakes Trail

Fancy exploring some of the most iconic areas of the Lake District but don’t have a car or do you simply not want the hassle of driving? Well, Thanks to the Low Carbon Lake District programme we have the perfect trail for you. Walk or ride your way around this Grand Tour of the Northern Lakes.

By making a long weekend of it you reduce the impact of your travel to and from the area. Plus travelling around without a car can reduce your carbon footprint further.

Day 1 – Take the Train or bus to Penrith

Hop on the train or bus and head for Penrith. Located on the West Coast Main Line, it’s around a three and a half hour train ride on the direct Avanti West Coast service from London– and passes through some beautiful landscapes along the way.

Upon arrival, it’s time to check in to your accommodation. There are plenty of places to stay in Penrith itself, as well as in the surrounding area, so you’ll be spoilt for choice. Arriving early? Many places will keep your bags for you ahead of check in.

Once you’ve dropped off your bags, it’s time to head out and explore. Feeling active? Why not hire an e-bike. Arragons Cycle Hire offers bike hire from Penrith Train Station as well as their central Penrith store; they will also deliver your bike to a number of accommodation providers in the Penrith area. Alternatively, there are plenty of bus services with Stagecoach to take you to your next stop.

Once you’re all kitted out, head for a nearby country house or castle. Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens is an impressive mixture of medieval, Tudor and early Georgian architecture; with beautiful gardens and a scenic woodland walk. It’s also home to the World’s Original Marmalade Awards & Festival, which take place each spring.

Nearby, Lowther Castle & Gardens is a striking ruined castle in the Gothic style, set amidst 130 acres of ancient and romantic gardens. As well as wandering the castle’s halls, visitors can also enjoy a bite to eat in the café. For kids, there’s the Lost Castle Adventure Playground – one of the largest adventure playgrounds in the UK.

After all that exploring, you’ll be ready for dinner. There are lots of places to choose from, including country pubs; stylish bistros; and even a Michelin starred restaurant: Allium at Askham Hall.

Day 2 – The Ullswater Way

After a good night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast, it’s time to head out for a day on nearby Ullswater. Take the 508 bus from Penrith train station to Pooley Bridge – it’s a direct service which takes around half an hour.

Winding its way around Ullswater for 20 miles, the Ullswater Way is a walking route which can be done as one big stretch; or in smaller sections. There are bus and boat stops along the way, so you can easily take public transport to shorten the route. The walk may be long, but it’s also low level and fairly easy – making it great for a range of abilities.

Beginning at Pooley Bridge, walk along the north of Ullswater to Aira Force – around 8 miles on foot, via some stunning views and landscapes.  Then, it’s on to the village of Glenridding on Ullswater’s southern tip for lunch at a local pub or café.

If you want to keep walking, continue the Ullswater Way back up to Pooley Bridge along the south side of the water. Alternatively, take an Ullswater Steamers boat up to Pooley Bridge via a stop at Howtown, before taking the 508 Stagecoach bus back to Penrith; the bus can also be taken from Glenridding.

Day 3 – Keswick

For your third day in the Lake District, it’s time to head to the market town of Keswick. Here, you can easily spend the day exploring the local shops and cafes; and discovering museums and galleries like the Derwent Pencil Museum and Puzzling Place – an attraction filled with optical illusions.

This is also a great place to go walking, with a range of routes to suit all levels. The Keswick to Threlkeld Railway Trail is part of the Miles Without Stiles initiative: it’s an accessible route suitable for wheelchairs, trampers, prams and cyclists. The trail follows in the path of the old Keswick to Penrith Railway, passing by the River Greta; and travelling through original Victorian railway bridges and tunnels. Stretching for 5km each way, the route begins in Keswick and makes for a brilliant car-free day out.

During the spring / summer months, the Honister Rambler offers the chance to experience Honister Pass by bus, stopping off at popular locations along the way. The Honister Rambler is a seasonal bus service, numbered 77/77A, which operates from Easter to October. Along the way, it takes in Portinscale, Catbells, Grange, Seatoller, Honister Slate Mine, Buttermere, Lorton and Whinlatter Forest.

Day 4 – Departure

After a few days spent exploring the Lake District by foot, bike, and public transport, it’s time to hop on the train and head for home.

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