Scenic Tour of the Lake District in Winter

Key Points

• Six-hour small-group tour with a maximum of 7 participants offers an intimate experience of the Lake District in winter.
• Visit 10 lakes and enjoy breathtaking mountain passes, including Kirkstone Pass and Honister Slate Mine.
• See iconic sights like Castlerigg Stone Circle, Derwentwater from ‘Surprise View,’ Moss Force Waterfall, and more.
• Expert guides provide engaging commentary, sharing insights into the area’s natural beauty and history.
• Multiple starting options and a flexible booking process with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

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Discover the Unique Charm of the Lake District in Winter

This 6-hour scenic tour of the Lake District in winter from English Lakes Tours offers a compact yet comprehensive glimpse of one of the UK’s most beautiful regions. With small group sizes limited to 7, travelers enjoy an intimate experience, guided by knowledgeable hosts who bring the landscape to life. The tour starts from several convenient locations, including Oxenholme Lake District and Windermere, and covers a carefully curated route packed with stunning views, iconic landmarks, and natural wonders.

The highlight is the opportunity to see 10 lakes in a single day, complemented by visits to mountain passes, waterfalls, and ancient sites. The tour’s flexibility and focus on winter scenery make it a perfect choice for those wanting a relaxed but richly scenic exploration without feeling rushed.

Specific Stops That Make This Lake District Tour Stand Out

This tour is crafted around several memorable stops, each offering a new perspective on the area’s natural and cultural heritage. The journey begins with a climb up to Kirkstone Pass Inn, where panoramic views of Lake Windermere and Ambleside unfold before the descent into Kirkstone Pass. Here, travelers can enjoy the cold winter air while taking in dramatic mountain landscapes.

Next, the route takes visitors along Ullswater’s shoreline, with a brief photo stop. This lake’s serene winter atmosphere provides excellent photography opportunities. Then, a visit to Castlerigg Stone Circle offers a glimpse into ancient history, with a 15-minute walk leading to a natural plateau that commands a 360-degree view over the fells.

A highlight is the view over Derwentwater from ‘Surprise View’, one of the most stunning vantage points in the Lake District. This 15-minute photo stop captures the wintry beauty of the lake and surrounding hills. The journey continues towards the Honister Slate Mine, where a scenic stop allows travelers to appreciate the rugged landscape at the head of the pass.

Descending into the lush Vale of Lorton, the scenery softens into rolling hills and valleys. The route passes by the Moss Force Waterfall, where a 10-minute photo stop showcases water tumbling down rocky ledges, framed by winter’s bare trees. The tour then winds through the Newlands Valley, an area known for its lush scenery even in colder months.

The final stages include a visit to Grasmere, a charming village famous for its connection to William Wordsworth, where a 20-minute stop allows for a quick walk and sightseeing. The last lake on the route is Rydal Water, providing a peaceful setting before returning to Windermere for a final 10-minute photo stop.

Practicalities: Meeting Points and Logistics

This tour offers four starting locations: Oxenholme Lake District, Windermere bus interchange (Stand 1), Bowness Pier, and Windermere itself. The specific meeting point depends on the chosen option, with the coordinates 54.42997741699219, -2.9631285667419434 serving as a general reference.

The morning departure lasts approximately 6 hours, with a flexible schedule that allows for stops at each location. The tour is led by a live English-speaking guide, who shares stories and insights throughout the journey. The group is deliberately kept small to enhance comfort and personalized attention.

Travelers should be aware that every passenger is required to purchase a seat, including children. The tour may be adjusted due to traffic or weather conditions to ensure safety and enjoyment.

What Makes This Tour Special in Winter

The winter setting accentuates the scenic beauty of the Lake District with snow-dusted mountains, frozen lakes, and waterfalls. The route is designed to maximize winter views, with key stops at ‘Surprise View’ and the Honister Slate Mine, where the rugged landscape is particularly striking in cold weather.

Unlike summer tours, this experience offers a quieter, more contemplative atmosphere, with fewer crowds at popular sites. The scenic drives along mountain passes and along lakeshores provide plenty of opportunities to appreciate the winter landscape, all within a comfortably paced schedule.

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The Guide and Group Experience

Based on reviews, the guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. One guide, Tim, stands out for his engaging commentary and ability to share interesting information about the area’s natural features and history. The small group size allows for a more personal experience, where guides can tailor their explanations and respond to questions.

The reviews also highlight the flexibility and professionalism of the tour provider, especially in situations where bookings were honored despite low numbers or cancellations. This adds confidence that the experience will be well-managed and attentive to travelers’ needs.

The Pacing and Duration

While six hours may seem brief given the number of stops, the itinerary is carefully designed to offer a relaxed pace with plenty of time for photos and brief explorations. Stops range from 10 minutes for quick photo opportunities to 20-minute walks at Grasmere, ensuring that participants can enjoy each site without feeling hurried.

The early start and structured route help make the most of the daylight hours, especially important in winter when daylight is limited. The tour balances scenic drives with opportunities for breaks, making it suitable for those who prefer a leisurely exploration.

Accessibility and Physical Considerations

The tour involves some walking, particularly at sites like Castlerigg Stone Circle and Grasmere, but no extensive hiking. Travelers should be prepared for potentially icy or snowy conditions in winter, especially when visiting mountain passes and waterfalls. The vehicle access is good for the routes taken, and the stops are mostly roadside or involve short walks.

Since every passenger must purchase a seat, it’s suitable for most mobility levels, provided they can handle brief walks and standing outside in cold weather. The tour is designed to be accessible and comfortable, with a focus on sightseeing rather than strenuous activity.

Comparing This Tour to Other Lake District Experiences

This full-day tour stands out because it covers a broad range of sights in a manageable timeframe, focusing on the scenic beauty of winter landscapes. While some other experiences might focus on specific themes like Beatrix Potter or literary history, this tour emphasizes the natural grandeur of the lakes and mountains.

The small-group format and experienced guides distinguish it from larger bus tours, providing a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere. The inclusion of iconic sites like Castlerigg and ‘Surprise View’ ensures memorable photo opportunities, especially in winter’s dramatic light.

Final Thoughts on the Winter Lake District Tour

This 6-hour scenic tour provides an excellent way to see the Lake District’s most stunning lakes and mountain passes during winter, with small group intimacy and flexible logistics. The route’s highlights—including 10 lakes, mountain passes, waterfalls, and ancient stone circles—are carefully selected to showcase the region’s natural beauty.

The expert guides make a real difference, sharing insights that deepen the appreciation of each location. While the tour is well-suited for those who enjoy relaxing sightseeing and photography, travelers should be comfortable with cold weather and some walking.

This tour offers a beautiful, manageable introduction to the Lake District in winter, perfect for those seeking scenic views, cultural sites, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, with visits and stops at key sights along the route.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Oxenholme Lake District, Windermere bus interchange (Stand 1), Bowness Pier, or Windermere, depending on the booked option.

Is the tour suitable in winter weather?
Yes, the route is designed for winter scenery, but travelers should be prepared for cold and possibly icy conditions, especially at mountain passes and waterfalls.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, but every passenger, including children, must purchase a seat. The tour is suitable for most mobility levels and does not involve strenuous activity.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby