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HomeRoad TripsEuropeWest EuropeGreat BritainEnglandAround Lake District
File:A591 road, Lake District - June 2009 Edit 1.jpg - Wikipedia

Around Lake District Road Trip

Windermere - Coniston - Keswick - Cockermouth - Carlisle

Expect on your itinerary

Landscape Landscape
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Security Security
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Wildlife Wildlife
Urban life Urban life
Historical sites Historical sites
Around Lake District Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages4 km168 h/stage1.1

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Around Lake District Road Trip in England?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 90EUR drive & more 25EUR sleep & more 154EUR eat & more 192EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 371EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 461EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 144EUR drive & more 25EUR sleep & more 319EUR eat & more 288EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 632EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 776EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 252EUR drive & more 38EUR sleep & more 451EUR eat & more 384EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 873EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 1,125EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 450EUR drive & more 50EUR sleep & more 110EUR eat & more 192EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 352EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 802EUR
Car rental Book hotel Flights
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Around Lake District Itinerary

The Around Lake District Road Trip is an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of England's Lake District. Starting in Windermere and ending in Carlisle, this 104 mile journey is best taken over two days, allowing you to take in the breathtaking views of the countryside. Along the way, you will pass through the towns of Coniston, Keswick, and Cockermouth, with plenty of attractions for you to explore. The best time of the year to drive this route is during the summer when the weather is at its best, although the route can be enjoyed at any time of the year. You can expect to drive along partly curvy and partly narrow roads, but overall the road conditions are good. This road trip provides a great experience and will leave you with lasting memories, and is suitable for all drivers. It can also be managed on a moderate budget.
number of days 2 number of days
route length 168 km route length
budget fair budget
good for family good for
traffic direction on the left traffic direction
accident level low accident level

START Windermere

Distance 168 km Driving time 4.3 h Pace: slow 38.7 kWh Airports BWF , CAX
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Windermere is a charming town located in England’s Lake District National Park. This picturesque area is a perfect starting point for the “Around Lake District Road Trip”. Tourists can enjoy a variety of attractions, such as the World of Beatrix Potter, a delightful recreation of the author’s beloved stories, or the Lakes Aquarium, where visitors can explore the underwater world of the region. Nature lovers will be delighted with a visit to the Tarn Hows, a beautiful lake and mountain landscape, or the Orrest Head, a small hill that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Those who wish to take a more active approach can take part in a variety of activities, such as sailing, kayaking, and fishing. The closest international airport to Windermere is the Manchester Airport (MAN). Various car rental companies are available at the airport, allowing tourists to explore the nearby attractions at their own pace. From Manchester Airport, it is a two-hour drive to Windermere. The “Around Lake District Road Trip” is a great way for tourists to experience the beauty of this region. With its stunning scenery, unique attractions, and plentiful activities, Windermere is the perfect place to start an unforgettable journey.

1 Windermere - Coniston

Distance 41 km Driving time 1.4 h Pace: slow 9.5 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road sections of narrow road junction of road trips interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Windermere to Coniston! This journey of 26 miles will take you less than two hours and will be full of surprises. Along the way, you'll pass through Haverthwaite, a picturesque village with a rich history. Be sure to take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, and watch out for the winding and narrow sections of road. As you drive, you'll discover historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads. There's so much to explore and experience, you'll be glad you took the time to make this journey. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and set off on the adventure of a lifetime!

2 Coniston - Keswick

Distance 40 km Driving time 0.8 h Pace: modest 10.3 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road EV charging station junction of road trips accommodation options
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Welcome to the Coniston-Ambleside-Keswick road trip! This 25mi drive through the beautiful Lake District can be completed in fewer than 1 hour, making it the perfect day trip for any adventurous traveler. Start your journey in Coniston, a picturesque village nestled in the heart of the Lake District. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, take a boat tour on Coniston Water, and admire the stunning views of the surrounding hills and mountains. Continue your journey to Ambleside, a charming market town situated on the shores of Lake Windermere. Here, you can explore the many shops, galleries, and restaurants, as well as take a leisurely walk along the lake. Finally, make your way to Keswick, a vibrant town located at the northern tip of Derwentwater. Here, you can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, from hiking to cycling, as well as take a boat tour to explore the stunning scenery of the area. As you drive along this scenic route, be sure to take in the breathtaking views of the Lake District. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

3 Keswick - Cockermouth

Distance 38 km Driving time 1.0 h Pace: slow 8.7 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road sections of narrow road accommodation options
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip starting in Keswick, England? The route will take you through the scenic Buttermere Valley and end in Cockermouth, a historic town. The total distance is 24mi, and the drive should take fewer than 1 hour. As you drive, keep your eyes peeled for the stunning views and narrow sections of road. Along the way, you'll come across some of the most beautiful places in England. In Keswick, be sure to visit the Castlerigg Stone Circle, one of the best-preserved prehistoric monuments in the country. As you drive through Buttermere, take some time to explore the lake and the surrounding fells. And when you reach Cockermouth, don't miss the 12th-century Cockermouth Castle and the Wordsworth House, the childhood home of the famous poet. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready for an unforgettable road trip!

4 Cockermouth - Carlisle

Distance 49 km Driving time 1.1 h Pace: modest 12.8 kWh View map Itinerary
EV charging station dining venues scenic road sections of narrow road accommodation options
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Welcome road-trippers! Get ready for an exciting journey from Cockermouth to Carlisle, a distance of 31 miles that can be covered in less than an hour. As you drive, be sure to take in the scenic views that the narrow roads of this stage have to offer. Along the way, you can visit places like Wordsworth House and Gardens, a historic house in Cockermouth, and the Tullie House Museum & Art Gallery in Carlisle, a museum and art gallery that houses a collection of artifacts from the Roman era. Don't forget to check out the Cathedral Church of the Holy and Undivided Trinity in Carlisle for its beautiful architecture. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

  Carlisle

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Carlisle, located in the north-western part of England, is the perfect destination to end the "Around Lake District Road Trip". Situated at the bank of the River Eden and surrounded by picturesque hills and green fields, Carlisle is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the nature. The city has a rich history, and the most iconic place to visit is Carlisle Castle, one of the most important fortifications in England. Built in 1092, it has a long and turbulent past, which makes it an exciting place to explore. Other landmarks worth visiting are St. Mary's church and the cathedral, which was built in the 12th century. The city also features some great places for shopping and dining. The city centre is full of small, independent shops and restaurants, as well as plenty of pubs and bars to enjoy. To get to Carlisle, the best way is by car, as the roads in the area are well maintained and easy to navigate. The closest international airport is Newcastle Airport (NCL), which is located approximately 145 km away. So, if you're looking for a great destination to end your "Around Lake District Road Trip", Carlisle is the perfect place. With its rich history, breathtaking views and plenty of places to explore, it's the ideal spot to relax and recharge after a long journey.

Around Lake District at a glance

Before you set off

Embark on the captivating Around Lake District Road Trip, a picturesque 104-mile adventure through the heart of England's majestic Lake District National Park. Starting from the charming town of Windermere and winding up in the historic city of Carlisle, this journey offers a glimpse into the region's diverse landscape and cultural heritage. To truly savor the enchanting scenery and attractions, it's recommended to allocate at least two days for this excursion.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

  • Windermere: Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Windermere, the largest natural lake in England, and indulge in activities such as boating and lakeside walks.
  • Coniston: Dive into the local history with a visit to the Ruskin Museum, and experience the elegance of Victorian travel aboard the restored Steam Yacht Gondola on Coniston Water.
  • Keswick: Engage with the quirky past of writing instruments at the Derwent Pencil Museum, and embrace the great outdoors with hiking, climbing, or sailing around the serene Derwentwater.
  • Cockermouth: Step into the Georgian childhood home of poet William Wordsworth, and taste the local flavors with a tour of the traditional Jennings Brewery.
  • Carlisle: Explore the medieval grandeur of Carlisle Castle, which has played a role in many historical events, and discover an array of artifacts and exhibitions at the Tullie House Museum & Art Gallery.

Best Time to Go:

Summer months offer Roadtrippers the most favorable weather conditions, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures enhancing the journey. Nevertheless, the Lake District's allure is constant throughout the year, bringing unique beauty and charm each season.

Potential Risks:

While the Roads are well-maintained, certain stretches can be challenging due to their curvaceous nature and narrow lanes. Additionally, the Lake District's weather is known for its unpredictability; it's wise to come equipped with rain gear and to check forecasts regularly.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

  • The Lake District has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its stunning landscapes and cultural significance.
  • It is home to England's highest peak, Scafell Pike, and deepest lake, Wastwater, providing ample opportunities for ambitious trekkers and nature enthusiasts.
  • The region has a rich tradition of sheep farming and is known for the Herdwick sheep, a hardy breed native to the fells of the Lake District.
  • Beatrix Potter, the beloved children's author, was greatly influenced by the Lake District's landscapes, and her home, Hill Top, is a popular attraction in the area.

A good choice for:

Traversing the Around Lake District Road Trip is an extraordinary journey through some of England's most breathtaking landscapes and a treasure trove of cultural history. This Road Trip is a must for those captivated by the fusion of natural splendor and the legacies of literary and historical figures. Whether you're seeking solitude in nature's embrace or rich cultural experiences, this route promises an unforgettable adventure.

Facts for safer driving in England

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.8
max speed urban max speed urban 48 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 96 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 112 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime off
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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