Overnight Lake District with Cream Tea and Cruise from London

The Overnight Lake District with Cream Tea and Cruise from London offers an engaging escape into one of England’s most beautiful regions. For $774.52 per person, this two-day tour combines scenic train journeys, guided sightseeing, and leisure time, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a balanced taste of nature and culture. The tour departs from London’s Euston Station at 8:00 am, with round-trip train tickets included, ensuring a smooth and comfortable start to your adventure.

You’ll visit iconic spots like Lake Windermere, where a 45-minute cruise provides stunning views of England’s largest lake, and Hill Top, the former home of Beatrix Potter, which is open from mid-February to October. Staying at the Lindeth Howe Hotel, a charming accommodation once owned by the beloved author, adds a touch of literary charm. The trip also features a traditional cream tea experience, highlights scenic drives through Tarn Hows and Langdale Valley, and offers ample free time to explore the area independently.

While this tour is ideal for those with moderate physical fitness and an appreciation for guided and self-guided exploration, note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, and the tour is unescorted beyond the guide on Day 1. Booking is recommended around 10 days in advance to secure a spot, as the tour tends to fill quickly.

Key Points

• Two days of exploration in the Lake District, starting from London.
• Round-trip train tickets with reserved seating included for a hassle-free journey.
• Guided tour on Day 1 covering highlights like Lake Windermere and Hill Top.
• Luxury overnight stay at Lindeth Howe Hotel, once owned by Beatrix Potter.
• Cruise on England’s largest lake and a traditional cream tea at Bowness-on-Windermere.
• Leisure time on Day 2 for independent exploration, including the historic village of Grasmere.

Scenic Train Journey from London to the Lake District

The trip begins with a reserved seated train departing from London Euston at 8:30 am and arriving at Oxenholme around 11:08 am. The train offers free Wi-Fi, letting travelers relax or plan their day en route. The journey offers a picturesque view of the Cumbrian countryside, setting the tone for the scenic days ahead.

Once at Oxenholme, a guide awaits to lead the group into the Lake District’s stunning landscape. This part of the trip offers a smooth transition from urban sights to the natural beauty of lakes, mountains, and green valleys.

Visiting Hawkshead Grammar School Museum: A Glimpse into History

The first stop highlights Hawkshead Grammar School, founded in 1585. The school played a vital role in education, teaching Latin, Greek, arithmetic, and sciences. It remains a free attraction where visitors can appreciate the historic setting and early education in 16th-century England. This stop provides a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural past and the importance of education in the Lake District.

Exploring Hill Top, Beatrix Potter’s Former Home

Hill Top, a 17th-century house near Near Sawrey, was once the residence of Beatrix Potter. Recognized as an example of Lakeland vernacular architecture, it features stone walls and a slate roof. As the former home of the famous children’s author, Hill Top offers insights into her life and inspiration for her stories. Visitors should note that Hill Top is open from mid-February to October, and it may be closed on Fridays outside this period.

Scenic Cruise on Lake Windermere

The tour includes a 45-minute cruise on Lake Windermere, England’s largest lake. This cruise promises beautiful views of the surrounding hills and tranquil waters, offering some of the best scenery in the Lake District. The boat ride provides a relaxing break from land exploration and a chance to capture memorable photos.

Bowness-on-Windermere and Cream Tea Experience

Bowness-on-Windermere features prominently in the itinerary. Known for its lively atmosphere and scenic location, the town has become a popular tourist spot. Visitors enjoy a traditional cream tea at Lindeth Howe Country Hotel, once owned by Beatrix Potter. The experience includes tea, scones, and views of the countryside that inspired her stories, making it both a culinary and cultural highlight.

Tarn Hows: Picturesque Lakeside Scenery

Tarn Hows is a short drive from Bowness and offers an iconic view of a glacial tarn surrounded by lush greenery. This spot is perfect for taking photographs, enjoying a peaceful walk, or simply soaking in the natural beauty of the Lake District. It’s a quick stop, but one that leaves a lasting impression of the area’s serene landscape.

Driving Through the Langdale Valley

Your guide takes you through the Langdale Valley, a long valley filled with waterfalls, rocky scenery, and mountain views. This drive showcases some of the most impressive natural landscapes, including Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain, and offers numerous opportunities for photographs amid the dramatic scenery.

Day 2 Leisure in Bowness and Grasmere

The second day provides free time in Bowness-on-Windermere for independent exploration. Switching to a more relaxed pace, visitors can visit local shops, walk along the lakeshore, or take a bus to the charming village of Grasmere. Famous for being associated with William Wordsworth, Grasmere offers a quiet atmosphere and scenic streets, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The day ends with the return train from Oxenholme at 6:30 pm (or 6:26 pm on Saturdays), arriving back in London by around 9:20 pm.

Accommodation at Lindeth Howe Hotel

The Lindeth Howe Hotel provides an elegant yet comfortable stay, with breakfast included. Its historic connection to Beatrix Potter adds a literary charm to the overnight experience. While some rooms overlook a car park, the hotel’s location offers convenient access to the Lake District’s attractions and a cozy base for your explorations.

Practical Details and Booking Tips

This tour is designed for a maximum of 16 travelers, balancing guided experience with free time. It is suitable for individuals with moderate physical fitness and includes no hotel transfers, so planning your arrival and departure logistics is essential. Advance booking is recommended, as the tour is most popular about 10 days ahead.

Travelers should be aware that this is an unescorted tour outside the guided portion on Day 1. Children aged 5-11 are permitted, but those under 5 are not allowed. The itinerary may vary seasonally, and special dietary needs should be communicated at least 7 days prior.

Final Thoughts on the Lake District Experience

This 2-day trip from London offers a well-organized opportunity to see the scenic beauty and cultural highlights of the Lake District without the need to plan extensive logistics. The combination of guided tours, scenic cruises, and leisure time makes it suitable for visitors seeking a balanced experience.

The train journey ensures comfort and ease, while the hotel stay at Lindeth Howe adds a touch of elegance. The inclusion of cream tea, stops at Hill Top, and a cruise on Lake Windermere make this tour particularly appealing to those interested in literature, nature, and relaxing lakeside scenery.

While the lack of hotel pickup and limited free exploration time may be drawbacks for some, the overall value, especially given the included train fares, accommodation, and activities, makes this an attractive option for a memorable short escape into the Lake District.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include transportation from my hotel in London?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. Travelers should arrive at Euston Station ahead of the scheduled departure time.

What is the duration of the train journey?
The train departs at 8:30 am and arrives at Oxenholme at 11:08 am, offering roughly 2 hours and 40 minutes of scenic travel.

Are the stops at Hill Top and Tarn Hows included in the tour?
Yes, Hill Top and Tarn Hows are part of the guided itinerary, with Hill Top open from mid-February to October and Tarn Hows offering picturesque views.

Is there free time for personal exploration?
Yes, Day 2 includes free time in Bowness-on-Windermere and can include a visit to Grasmere via local bus.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers breakfast, return rail journey, Wi-Fi on the train, cream tea, and one night’s hotel stay at Lindeth Howe with breakfast.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
The scenic cruise on Lake Windermere, a guided tour of key sites, the visit to Hill Top, and the overnight at Lindeth Howe are the standout features.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children aged 5-11 years can participate. Children under 5 years are not permitted.

Can I expect a guided tour on Day 2?
No, Day 2 is at leisure, giving you time to explore independently in Bowness or Grasmere.

How do I book this tour?
Bookings are recommended around 10 days in advance through the provider, Evan Evans Tours, with tickets sent via email one week prior to departure.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
While not explicitly detailed, the tour requires moderate physical fitness, and walking or standing at stops may be necessary.

What should I do if I have dietary restrictions?
Please advise the tour provider of any special dietary requirements at least 7 days prior to your trip to ensure accommodations are made.