Private Tour: 8 Lakes and magnificent scenery – Afternoon tour

Explore Windermere’s Scenic Wonders in a Private 8 Lakes Tour for £294.24

The Private Tour: 8 Lakes and magnificent scenery offers an immersive experience through some of the most breathtaking spots in the Lake District. Priced at $294.24 per person, this 4-hour journey is perfect for those who want to see eight lakes, admire spectacular views, and listen to expert commentary without the hassle of organizing transport. The tour departs from Windermere, England, with pickup options from most hotels, making it convenient and tailored to your schedule.

What makes this tour stand out is its private vehicle, ensuring comfort and flexibility for your group, along with Wi-Fi and charging points. With an average booking window of 57 days, it’s a well-loved choice for travelers seeking a personalized exploration of the Lake District’s scenic highlights. This tour is ideal for those eager to see multiple lakes and not miss out on key viewpoints, all guided by a knowledgeable local.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $294.24 per person for approximately 4 hours, this private tour balances a comprehensive lakeside exploration with a manageable timespan.
• Custom Pickup: The tour includes pickup from most hotels in Windermere, making start logistics simple.
• Scenic Stops: Expect nine stops, including Kirkstone Pass, Ullswater Lake, Castlerigg Stone Circle, Ashness Bridge, Surprise View, Lake Grasmere, Rydal Water, and Windermere.
• Expert Guide: A knowledgeable guide offers live commentary, enriching your experience with insights about the landscape and history.
• Comfortable Private Transport: The vehicle provides Wi-Fi and charging points, ensuring you stay connected and comfortable.
• Flexibility and Convenience: The tour is private, only your group participates, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

The Start: Convenient Pickup and Private Transportation

The tour begins with a pickup from most hotels within the Windermere area at 2:00 pm. The private vehicle offers a smooth and relaxed ride, with Wi-Fi access and charging points at all seats. This setup ensures that your group can stay connected, share photos, or simply enjoy the views en route. The air-conditioned vehicle maintains a comfortable environment throughout the journey, adding to the convenience and luxury of a private guided experience.

This setup offers a stress-free start, removing the need to navigate or worry about parking. The group discounts available also make this a good value option for families or small groups wanting to explore together.

Climbing to Kirkstone Pass and Visiting the Highland Inn

The tour kicks off with a scenic climb to Kirkstone Pass, home to the highest inhabited building in the Lake District—the Kirkstone Inn. Here, you’ll stop for about 10 minutes to take in sweeping views of the valley, Lake Windermere, and Ambleside. The coaching inn sits almost at the pass’s summit and offers a stunning vantage point.

This stop provides an opportunity for memorable photos and a chance to appreciate the high-altitude landscape. The admission is free, and the view of the surrounding mountains and valley makes it a highlight for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.

Ullswater Lake and the Valley’s Natural Highlights

Next, your journey descends into the valley leading to Ullswater Lake, one of the first lakes in the Lakes to be acquired by the National Trust. During this stop, about 10 minutes, you’ll see the church-shaped rock after which the valley is named, plus a scenic viewpoint of Brothers Water.

Ullswater is famous for its ribbon-shaped road winding down to the village of Patterdale, a hub for hill-walks, including the famous Striding Edge path to Helvellyn, the Lakes’ third-highest mountain. This stop offers an ideal chance for photos of the steep valley walls and the serene lake.

Castlerigg Stone Circle and Mountain Views

Traveling northwest, the tour pauses at Castlerigg Stone Circle, one of the most iconic prehistoric sites in the Lake District. Here, the group spends about 15 minutes soaking in the spectacular mountain backdrop, including Blencathra, a mountain with six fells reaching 868 meters.

From this vantage point, the steep ridge called Sharp Edge on Blencathra is visible—a challenge for walkers and climbers. The ancient stone circle adds a touch of historical intrigue amid the mountain scenery.

Ashness Bridge: The Most Photographed in the Lakes

Continuing along the eastern shores of Derwentwater, the tour makes a 10-minute stop at Ashness Bridge, renowned as the most photographed bridge in the Lake District. Surrounded by wooded fell sides, the bridge offers a perfect spot for memorable photos. The route here is steep and narrow, emphasizing the rugged beauty of the landscape.

This stop also provides a glimpse of Beatrix Potter’s holiday homes nearby, Lingholm and Fawes Park, which have historically attracted visitors for their charm and storytelling ties.

Surprise View: Unveiling the Landscape’s Ice-Carved Majesty

The 15-minute stop at Surprise View allows an uninterrupted panoramic of the lakes. From this vantage point, you’ll see how ice sheets shaped the landscape, with views across Derwentwater, Bassenthwaite, and as far as Scotland on clear days. This spot offers a truly impressive perspective on the scale of natural forces that formed the region.

The view is especially notable for its vastness and clarity, making it a favorite for soaking in the geological history of the Lakes.

Lake Grasmere and the Dammed Tarns

Heading southward, the tour passes Thirlmere, an area that was originally two smaller lakes. In 1889, the Manchester City Corporation Waterworks dammed the area, creating a large reservoir where settlements like Armboth and Wythburn were submerged. This demonstrates the human influence on the landscape.

Next, the group visits Lake Grasmere, a site famous for its peaceful waters and surrounding fells. The stop provides a chance for photos and to enjoy the scenic tranquility before heading back toward Ambleside.

Rydal Water and Wordsworth’s Last Home

The final lake of the tour is Rydal Water, celebrated for its mirror-like surface and reflections of the surrounding hills. The 10-minute stop here offers an opportunity to see Wordsworth’s last home, located nearby, linking the area to literature and poetry.

This serene stop prepares visitors for the concluding part of the tour, which includes iconic Lake Windermere and Ambleside.

Windermere’s Iconic Bridge House and the Return Drive

As the tour approaches Ambleside, it passes the Bridge House, famously known as the smallest house in Cumbria. Positioned over the River Rothay, it is a charming sight and a fitting symbol of Lake District architecture.

For those returning to Windermere or Bowness, the journey ends with a drive along the shore of Lake Windermere, the largest lake in England. This scenic route offers additional photo opportunities and a peaceful conclusion to the afternoon.

Overall Experience and Suitability

This private tour offers a personalized and comfortable way to see eight lakes and key scenic spots in just 4 hours. The expert guide provides engaging commentary, sharing insights about the landscape, geology, and local history. The vehicle’s amenities, including Wi-Fi and charging points, enhance the experience, making it suitable for those who want both comfort and connectivity.

While food and drinks are not included, the stops at notable viewpoints and historic sites make this tour well worth the price for those interested in nature, photography, and local scenery. The flexible pickup and private nature of the tour make it ideal for families, small groups, or anyone seeking an intimate exploration of the Lake District’s most stunning lakes.

The Best for Nature Enthusiasts and Photography Lovers

This tour is especially recommended for nature lovers and photographers who want to capture iconic landscapes without the hassle of navigation. The stunning views at Surprise View, Ashness Bridge, and Lake Windermere are perfect for creating memories and keepsakes.

The knowledgeable guide enhances the experience by sharing fascinating facts about each stop, making it engaging for history buffs and geology enthusiasts alike. Its private setting is perfect for those seeking a tailored, relaxed exploration of the Lakes’ most beautiful spots.

Final Thoughts on the Private Lakes & Scenery Tour

The Private Tour: 8 Lakes and magnificent scenery in Windermere offers a well-rounded, comfortable, and informative way to experience the Lakes in a single afternoon. Its carefully curated stops highlight the diverse beauty of the region—from mountain passes to historic stone circles and peaceful lakes.

While the price may be a consideration for some, the private vehicle, expert commentary, and flexibility provide a high-quality experience suited for visitors who want to see multiple lakes without feeling rushed. It appeals most to those who value scenic photography, local insight, and personalized service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children of all ages are welcome, but all passengers, including children, must have a seat purchased for them.

What should I bring for the tour?
A waterproof coat with a hood is recommended, as the weather in the Lake District can change quickly. Wear comfortable shoes suitable for some walking on uneven or wet terrain.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Does the tour include food or drinks?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours from pickup to drop-off.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts with pickup from most hotels in the Windermere area at 2:00 pm. The ending point is near Ambleside or Windermere, depending on the group’s drop-off.

What scenic spots will I see?
You will visit Kirkstone Pass, Ullswater Lake, Castlerigg Stone Circle, Ashness Bridge, Surprise View, Lake Grasmere, Rydal Water, and enjoy views along Lake Windermere.

Is the tour private?
Yes, the experience is exclusive to your group, ensuring a personalized journey.

What makes this tour different from other Lake District excursions?
Its private vehicle, comprehensive list of lakes and viewpoints, and expert guide commentary provide a more intimate and tailored experience compared to larger group tours.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked 57 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended to secure your preferred date.