Mountain Goat Full Day Tour: Ten Lakes from Oxenholme

The Mountain Goat Full Day Tour: Ten Lakes from Oxenholme offers a convenient and scenic way to explore some of the most beautiful lakes in the Lake District. Priced at $75.56 per person, this tour lasts approximately 38 days 3 hours to 76 days 6 hours, but most of that is travel time as you visit 10 lakes and notable sites. The tour departs from Oxenholme Train Station at 9:10 am, providing a smooth start for a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning your own transportation or navigation.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the comfortable mini-coach transport and onboard commentary in English, which enriches the experience with insights about the region’s history and landscape. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families with children over 5 years old, and offers minimal walking, making it accessible for many.

While the lunch is at your own expense during a free-time stop in Keswick, the tour provides toilet stops and luggage storage at Windermere Information center. With a maximum of 16 travelers, the group remains intimate enough for personalized attention and engaging conversation. The tour earns a solid 4.5 out of 5 from 29 reviews, with 93% recommending the experience.

Key Points

• Visit 10 lakes and scenic sites including Derwentwater, Buttermere, and Ullswater.
• Comfortable mini-coach transportation eliminates the need for car rentals or bus planning.
• Expert onboard commentary enhances understanding of the Lake District’s landscape and history.
• Stops in Keswick and Grasmere offer free time, with opportunities for lunch and exploring local charm.
• Includes drop-off and pickup at Oxenholme Train Station for easy access.
• Most travelers find the tour well-paced with minimal walking involved.

Exploring the Lake District in One Day: The Itinerary Details

This tour from Oxenholme guides you through a carefully curated route, visiting some of the most iconic lakes and spots in the Lake District. The journey begins with a scenic drive over winding, steep mountain passes, setting the tone for a day filled with breathtaking views.

The first stop is Derwentwater, one of the Lake District’s largest lakes, where admission is included, and visitors have about 50 minutes to enjoy the scenery. This spot showcases the lake’s expansive surface and surrounding hills, making it an ideal photo opportunity.

Next, the tour visits Keswick, a charming market town. Here, travelers have about 1 hour to explore independently and enjoy lunch at their own expense. The town’s lively atmosphere and local shops make it a popular break point.

From Keswick, the group travels over Honister Pass into the Newlands Valley, a lush area offering more stunning views. The route then takes you to Buttermere, where you can take in the reflective waters famous for their tranquility and beauty.

A visit to Castlerigg Stone Circle follows, where an ancient circle of 48 stones invites photos and stories about its 3,000 BC origins. This 15-minute stop is free of charge and offers an intriguing glimpse into prehistoric times.

The drive continues with scenic views of an expansive reservoir before arriving at Grasmere, a picture-perfect village known for its connection to William Wordsworth. Here, travelers spend about 30 minutes enjoying the village’s charm, sampling Grasmere Gingerbread, or simply soaking in the peaceful setting.

Throughout the day, scenic views and insightful commentary keep passengers engaged, while the drop-off at Oxenholme ensures a straightforward end to the adventure.

The Convenience of Mini-Coach Travel and Expert Commentary

The use of a small mini-coach makes for a cozy and flexible touring experience, avoiding the common downsides of larger buses, such as crowded spaces or rigid schedules. The onboard commentary in English is a highlight, providing historical context, fun facts, and local anecdotes that deepen the appreciation of each stop.

Guides like Derek, Stef, Mike, Andy, and Tim earn praise for their knowledge, humor, and approachability. Their ability to answer questions and share stories makes the journey more engaging, turning a sightseeing trip into an informative experience.

This tour’s limited group size of 16 ensures a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere, with ample opportunity to interact with the guides and ask questions about the region.

Unique Stops: Castlerigg and Grasmere

Castlerigg Stone Circle stands out as a highlight, offering a chance to photograph an ancient ceremonial site and hear about its likely origins around 3,000 BC. The 15-minute stop allows visitors to explore this culturally significant site without feeling rushed.

Grasmere offers a delightful break in a charming village, famous for its association with William Wordsworth. The 30-minute stop provides a balance of free time and sightseeing, with options to savor local treats like the renowned gingerbread or simply enjoy the village ambiance.

These stops exemplify how the tour balances natural beauty with historical interest, creating a well-rounded experience of the Lake District.

The Logistics: Meeting Point, Timing, and Accessibility

The tour begins at Oxenholme Rd, Oxenholme, Kendal, with early arrival recommended. The start time is 9:10 am, and the entire day is designed to maximize sightseeing while maintaining a comfortable pace.

The drop-off point is the same as the meeting point, simplifying logistics. The tour is near public transportation, making it accessible for those arriving by train or local transit. It is suitable for most travelers, including families with children over 5 years old.

Toilets are available during stops, and luggage storage is offered at Windermere Information Center for added convenience. Seats cannot be reserved, so arriving early helps secure preferred seating.

Value and Considerations

For $75.56 per person, this tour provides a comprehensive day of scenic exploration and expert narration, making it a good value for those wanting an all-in-one Lake District experience without self-driving. The included stops and commentary elevate it beyond just a scenic drive.

However, travelers should note the limited lunch options—lunch is at their own expense during the stop in Keswick—and the tour lasts multiple days in duration, with actual sightseeing hours shorter. The group size is limited to 16 for a more personal experience, but this also means seats are not reservable in advance.

The minimal walking makes it suitable for most, but those looking for a physically demanding hike might find the pace too relaxed. It’s ideal for anyone seeking comfortable, informative, and scenic touring.

The Ideal Audience for This Lake District Experience

This full-day tour suits those wanting a hassle-free way to see multiple lakes and scenic spots in one go. It’s perfect for first-time visitors, families, or anyone with limited time but a passion for stunning landscapes and local stories.

While not suited for travelers seeking intense physical activity or specific culinary experiences, this tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural sites, and expert narration—making it an excellent choice for a relaxed, comprehensive Lake District adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 38 days 3 hours to 76 days 6 hours, but most of that time is spent traveling and enjoying stops during the full day.

What is included in the price?
The price includes transport in a mini-coach, onboard commentary in English, and admission to Derwentwater. Lunch and drinks are not included.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour departs from Oxenholme Rd, Oxenholme, Kendal at 9:10 am and returns to the same location.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 5 years old can participate. The tour involves minimal walking and is generally accessible.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves minimal walking, making it suitable for most mobility levels.

Can I reserve seats?
Seats cannot be reserved in advance; early arrival is recommended to secure preferred seating.

What happens if I am late or miss the pickup?
The tour cannot wait for late passengers or trains, so punctuality is important.

Is there a bathroom break?
Yes, toilet stops are available during the journey.

Can I bring luggage?
Luggage storage is available at Windermere Information location.

What guides lead this tour?
Guides like Derek, Stef, Mike, Andy, and Tim are praised for their knowledge, humor, and storytelling skills.

Is there any flexibility during the tour?
The itinerary is fixed, but the stops in Keswick and Grasmere allow some personal exploration and free time.

Would you recommend this tour?
Yes, especially for those wanting a relaxed, scenic, and informative Lake District day trip with comfortable transport and expert commentary.