Lake District Road Trip Itinerary
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking Lake District of England. Starting in Kendal and ending in Penrith, this 75-mile road trip takes you through some of the most picturesque towns in the area, including Windermere, Grasmere and Keswick.
The best time of the year to take this journey is during the spring or summer months, when the landscapes are at their most vibrant. You'll be surrounded by rolling hills, lush green fields and tranquil lakes, with plenty of opportunities to take in the spectacular views.
The roads are generally in good condition, though you should be aware of some narrow stretches along the way. The trip should be completed in around three days, but you may wish to take more time to explore the area and discover some of its hidden gems.
This is a journey that will stay with you for a long time, and one that can be enjoyed by drivers of all levels. However, it should be noted that a high budget is generally required for a successful road trip.
Overall, the Lake District Road Trip is an experience that you won't forget in a hurry, and one that will provide you with a lifetime of memories.
3
number of days
121 km
route length
high
budget
family
good for
on the left
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Kendal
Distance 121 km
Driving time 3.1 h
Pace: slow
27.8 kWh
Airports
LBA
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BWF
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Kendal, England is the perfect starting point for a Lake District Road Trip. Located in the South Lakeland District of Cumbria, this town is surrounded by lush green hills and stunning lakes. Visitors can explore the historic town centre and discover its many attractions, including the remains of Kendal Castle and the Museum of Lakeland Life and Industry.
Kendal is also home to the famous Lakeland Arts Centre, which houses a range of galleries and exhibitions. Nature lovers can take a stroll around the picturesque Kendal Fell and marvel at the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Those looking for a more active experience can go hiking in the nearby Grizedale Forest or explore the RSPB's Leighton Moss Nature Reserve.
For travelers coming from abroad, the closest international airport is Manchester Airport (MAN), located approximately 75 miles from Kendal. Rental cars are available from the airport, making it easy to begin your Lake District Road Trip.
Kendal is the perfect destination for travelers looking to explore the beauty and culture of England's Lake District. With its stunning scenery, historic attractions, and outdoor activities, Kendal is the perfect starting point for an unforgettable road trip.
1
Kendal
- Windermere
Distance 44 km
Driving time 1.6 h
Pace: slow
10.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a 28mi journey from Kendal, England to Windermere and discover the beauty of the Lake District! On your way, you will pass through the charming village of Newby Bridge, where you can take a ferry crossing and enjoy the picturesque landscapes. The drive will take you fewer than 2 hours and you'll traverse some narrow roads - keep an eye out for historical sites, scenic roads, and picturesque views! This is a part of a larger journey, so for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites, please refer to the Itinerary. So make sure to take in the beauty of the Lake District and enjoy your journey!
Windermere - England - Europe - Road Trip - pixabay.com
Windermere - England - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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2
Windermere
- Ambleside
Distance 8 km
Driving time 0.2 h
Pace: slow
1.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for the most scenic road trip stage yet? Starting in Windermere, England and ending in Ambleside, this 5-mile stretch of road will take you less than an hour to drive. But don't be fooled by the short distance - this drive is full of beautiful sights and attractions!
The first stop is the Windermere Lake, England's largest natural lake. Here you can take a boat cruise, or take a leisurely stroll along the shore. Further down the road, you'll come across the picturesque village of Bowness-on-Windermere. Here you can visit the World of Beatrix Potter, the Lakeland Motor Museum, and the Blackwell Arts and Crafts House.
Continue your journey and you'll arrive in Ambleside. Here you can explore the 17th-century Bridge House, the Armitt Museum and Library, and the Stock Ghyll Force Waterfall. This is also a great spot for hiking and mountain biking.
Make sure to take your time and enjoy the scenery as you drive from Windermere to Ambleside. And for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Ambleside - England - Europe - Road Trip - Wikipedia
Ambleside - England - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Ambleside
- Grasmere
Distance 7 km
Driving time 0.2 h
Pace: slow
1.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome, road-trippers! Get ready for an exciting journey from Ambleside to Grasmere, two beautiful towns in England’s Lake District. This 4-mile drive will take you less than an hour, so you can enjoy the scenery and visit some of the most interesting places along the way.
Start your trip in Ambleside, where you can admire the beautiful architecture and explore its historical sites, such as Stock Ghyll Force, a 70-foot waterfall. You can also take a stroll along the River Rothay or take a boat ride on Lake Windermere.
When you reach Grasmere, make sure to visit the famous poet William Wordsworth’s grave, located in the churchyard of St. Oswald’s Church. You can also take a walk around the village and explore its shops and galleries.
The route between Ambleside and Grasmere is filled with stunning views of the countryside, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the ride. Be sure to keep an eye out for the small villages and scenic roads as you drive.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Grasmere - England - Europe - Road Trip - www.needpix.com
Grasmere - England - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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4
Grasmere
- Keswick
Distance 20 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: modest
5.3 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Grasmere-Keswick stage of your road trip! This 13mi drive takes less than an hour, and is sure to be a memorable experience. As you drive, take in the stunning views of the rolling hills and lush fields of the English countryside. Be sure to keep an eye out for the historic sites scattered throughout the area, such as the beautiful Rydal Mount, the home of the renowned poet William Wordsworth. You can also explore the ruins of the once-mighty Castlerigg Stone Circle, and the quaint village of Grasmere. When you reach Keswick, take a stroll along the banks of Derwentwater, and visit the breathtaking ruins of the 12th-century Crosthwaite Church. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the itinerary for this stage of your journey. Enjoy the ride!
Keswick - England - Europe - Road Trip - Wikipedia
Keswick - England - Europe - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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5
Keswick
- Penrith
Distance 41 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: modest
10.6 kWh
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Itinerary
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Get ready for a beautiful 25-mile road trip starting in Keswick, England! The journey takes you through Troutbeck and Ullswater, where you'll find some of the most stunning scenery in the region. You'll be able to take in the breathtaking views of the Lake District National Park, and you can even stop to take a few pictures along the way. Keep an eye out for the narrow sections of the road, as well as the state border you'll cross. The drive will take less than an hour, so you'll have plenty of time to take in the sights. Once you reach Penrith, you'll have plenty of interesting places to explore. Be sure to check out the Itinerary for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your road trip!
Penrith - England - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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Penrith
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Penrith is the perfect ending point for any road trip to the Lake District. Located in the north-west corner of Cumbria, Penrith is only a few miles away from the M6 motorway, making it an ideal destination for a leisurely drive.
Penrith itself is a picturesque market town, home to the impressive Penrith Castle, built in the 13th century and now open to visitors. The town also offers a variety of shops, restaurants and cafes, as well as the Penrith Museum, which tells the story of the town's history and heritage.
For those looking for something more adventurous, the nearby Lake District National Park offers stunning scenery, walking and cycling trails, and a range of activities, from sailing to rock-climbing. There are also plenty of opportunities for wildlife-spotting and bird-watching.
For those travelling by air, the closest international airport is Manchester Airport (MAN), located a little over an hour away by car.
No trip to the Lake District would be complete without a visit to Penrith. With its incredible history, beautiful scenery and wide range of attractions, it's the perfect place to end your road trip.
Penrith - England - Europe - Road Trip - Geograph
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Lake District Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Kendal
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End:
Penrith
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Distance:
121 km
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Stay:
3 days
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Getting there:
Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA),
Barrow Walney Island Airport (BWF)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
The Lake District Road Trip is an enchanting 75-mile journey through the heart of England's scenic northwest, starting in Kendal and ending in Penrith. This route meanders through a landscape celebrated for its breathtaking vistas, comprised of rolling hills, verdant fields, and serene lakes, while threading through storybook towns like Windermere, Grasmere, and Keswick, each brimming with unique character and cultural heritage.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Kendal: A town rich in history, Kendal is famed for its well-preserved medieval structures, cultural festivals, and the iconic Kendal Mint Cake, a peppermint-flavored confection often used by climbers and mountaineers for its high-energy content.
- Windermere: As England's largest natural lake, Windermere is a hub for aquatic adventures, offering an array of boat tours and water sports. The nearby town of Bowness-on-Windermere is a popular starting point for exploring the lake and the surrounding fells.
- Grasmere: Immortalized by the works of William Wordsworth, Grasmere is quintessentially English, known for its gingerbread shops and the poet's former home, Dove Cottage, which now serves as a museum.
- Keswick: Nestled among imposing fells like Skiddaw, Keswick is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with the picturesque Derwentwater providing a stunning backdrop for hiking, cycling, and kayaking.
Best Time to Go:
The spring and summer months (May to September) are the most favorable to experience the Lake District's full splendor, with wildflowers in bloom, longer daylight hours, and a lively calendar of local events and festivals.
Potential Risks:
- The Lake District's narrow and winding Roads call for prudent driving and familiarity with local driving etiquette.
- The region's weather can be unpredictable, with rain and fog potentially complicating travel, particularly outside the peak summer season.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Allocating at least three days for this Road Trip allows ample opportunity to soak in the tranquil beauty and engage with the rich cultural offerings of each destination.
- Planning for a reasonable budget is recommended to fully experience the area's hospitality, including comfortable accommodations, fine local cuisine, and maybe a guided tour or two.
- The Lake District's Roads are generally well-maintained and signposted, making the drive accessible even for those less experienced in country driving.
A good choice for:
The Lake District Road Trip is a journey that promises a wealth of enduring memories. It offers not just an escape into the sublime splendor of nature but also a deep dive into the cultural tapestry of England's storied northwest, leaving travelers enchanted by its peaceful hamlets and the enduring allure of its landscapes.
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