Windermere & Lake District Tour from Manchester Including Cruise

Swapping Manchester’s busy streets for the serene beauty of the Lake District, this Windermere & Lake District Tour offers an enriching day trip at just $103.72 per person. The tour lasts approximately 11 hours and includes transportation in a top-range Mercedes mini-coach, a 45-minute Windermere cruise, and visits to charming villages like Hawkshead and Grasmere. With a full itinerary planned, there’s no need to research or plan ahead — the guide takes care of the details.

This small-group experience, capped at 16 travelers, has consistently earned a perfect 5.0 rating from nearly 200 reviews, with 98% recommending the tour. The emphasis on local scenery, historical sites, and personalized attention makes it ideal for those who want a comfortable, well-organized exploration of the Lake District in a single day. Keep in mind, the tour is not suitable for children under 5, and some sites require optional admission fees.

Key Points

• Includes a 45-minute Windermere cruise at no extra cost, offering stunning lake views
• Visits Bowness-on-Windermere, Hawkshead, and Grasmere, with free time to explore
• Guided by knowledgeable professionals who share stories and details about William Wordsworth and local history
• Transport is in a luxury Mercedes mini-coach, ensuring comfort during the journey
• Small group size, with a maximum of 16 travelers for a more personalized experience
• Tour departs from Store Street in Manchester at 8:30 am and returns the same day

Scenic Start at Bowness-on-Windermere

The day begins in Bowness-on-Windermere, a lively town on the shores of Windermere Lake. You have about an hour here to stroll around, enjoy the views, or hop on the included 45-minute cruise across the lake. The cruise provides an unbeatable perspective of Lake Windermere’s expansive waters and surrounding landscape, making it a highlight of the trip.

The town itself offers charming streets and scenic vistas, making it a perfect spot for photos or a quick coffee. The cruise is pre-reserved and included in the ticket price, so there’s no need to worry about booking separately.

Exploring Windermere’s Famous Lake

The Windermere cruise gives travelers a chance to see the lake’s renowned beauty from the water. Spectacular scenery unfolds as the boat glides past the lush shoreline, islands, and the distant hills. The 45-minute cruise is a relaxing way to soak in the tranquil atmosphere and capture memorable photos.

This cruise is one of the most popular parts of the tour, praised for its convenience and scenic value. It’s a peaceful break in the day where the natural landscape is on full display, and the views are often described as breathtaking.

Visiting the Legendary Grasmere

Next, the tour stops at Grasmere, which William Wordsworth called “the loveliest spot that man hath found.” Travelers have about 1 hour 30 minutes here to visit Dove Cottage, Wordsworth’s former home, and explore the quaint village. The cottage is free to enter and offers insight into the poet’s life and work.

In addition, visitors can try the famous gingerbread sold locally or relax in the peaceful Daffodil Garden by the River Rothy. The limited time means you can enjoy a quick walk or settle in to enjoy the tranquil scenery that inspired many of Wordsworth’s poems.

Discovering Hawkshead’s Charm

The small conservation village of Hawkshead offers about an hour of exploration. Its cobbled streets, traditional architecture, and cozy shops make it a favorite stop. Visitors can browse local delicacies, enjoy the village’s peaceful atmosphere, and learn about its history.

This stop is praised for its charm and the opportunity to see a typical Lake District village with fewer travelers than major towns. It provides a relaxed environment to stroll, shop, or simply soak up the atmosphere.

The Logistics and Comfort of the Tour

The entire journey is done in a luxurious Mercedes mini-coach, ensuring a smooth ride across scenic roads. The vehicle has three steps of 150mm height into the coach, with grab handles and non-slip treads for safety and ease of boarding. The small group size enhances comfort and allows for more personal interaction with the guide.

The tour departs promptly at 8:30 am from Store Street in Manchester and ends back at the same meeting point. Travelers are advised to arrive at least 15 minutes early for check-in. Luggage is limited to 14 kg per person, similar to airline carry-on luggage, with a small personal bag for onboard items.

Expert Guides and Engaging Commentary

The tour is led by a professional driver-guide known for their knowledgeable storytelling and friendly demeanor. Multiple reviews highlight guides such as Richie, Darren, James, Simone, and Rob for their passion, humor, and deep local knowledge.

Guides share interesting facts about William Wordsworth, local history, and the scenery, making the experience both educational and entertaining. The personalized attention in small groups creates a friendly, relaxed atmosphere and allows for spontaneous stops or questions.

Flexible, Well-Organized Itinerary

The tour’s day is carefully structured to balance sightseeing, leisure, and travel. It includes descriptive stops at iconic locations like Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere Lake, Grasmere, and Hawkshead. The optional admission fees for Dove Cottage and other sites are not included in the price, but the tour’s flow allows for flexible exploration.

The timing at each stop is designed to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed, with breaks scheduled for comfort and photo opportunities. Weather conditions are taken into account, with many reviews mentioning good weather enhancing the experience.

The Value of a Small Group Experience

With a maximum of 16 travelers, this tour offers a more intimate setting compared to larger bus trips. This smaller size allows guides to tailor the experience, answer questions thoroughly, and include additional stops if weather permits.

Travelers often praise how the small group size improves the overall vibe, making conversations easier and the atmosphere more relaxed. The tour offers excellent value, including transportation, a scenic cruise, and engaging guides.

Ideal Audience for This Tour

This trip suits those who appreciate scenic lakes and villages, enjoy guided storytelling, and prefer the comfort of luxury transport. It’s perfect for day-trippers from Manchester who want a comprehensive yet relaxed exploration of the Lake District.

While children over 5 are welcome, the tour does not accommodate those under that age, and the duration and walking involved might suit travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity. Travelers looking for a hassle-free day out, with everything planned, will find this tour especially appealing.

Final Thoughts on the Windermere & Lake District Tour

The full-day itinerary offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, charming villages, and cultural insight. The inclusion of a Windermere cruise adds a special touch, providing picturesque views that are hard to beat.

The guides’ expertise and personable manner consistently earn praise, making the experience both informative and fun. Despite the limited time at each stop, the tour captures the essence of the Lake District’s landscapes and history.

This tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive, comfortable, and well-organized day trip from Manchester, with enough flexibility to explore and enjoy each site at a relaxed pace. It represents good value for money, especially given the small-group intimacy and scenic highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes the 45-minute Windermere cruise, transportation in a Mercedes mini-coach, and a professional driver-guide. Entry to Dove Cottage and other sites is free unless specified, but optional admission fees are not included.

Where does the tour depart from?
The tour departs from the NCP Car Park on Store Street in Manchester at 8:30 am. Arrive at least 15 minutes early for check-in.

How much luggage can I bring?
Passengers may bring up to 14 kg (31 lbs) of luggage, similar to airline carry-on size, plus a small personal bag for onboard items.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be at least 5 years old to participate. Those under 5 are not permitted, and children under 1.35 meters may require a booster seat if not already provided.

Are there restroom facilities on the bus?
There are no restrooms onboard, but the tour makes regular stops for restroom breaks.

What is the group size?
The tour has a maximum of 16 travelers, allowing for a more personalized experience and easier interaction with the guide.

What if I cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 11 hours, starting at 8:30 am and returning the same day to Manchester.

Is the vehicle accessible for wheelchair users?
The coach is not wheelchair accessible, but storage for folding wheelchairs or walking frames is available. Guests must be able to get on and off the coach independently or with assistance.

Will weather impact the tour?
Weather conditions can influence the experience. Many reviews mention enjoying the tour even in less favorable weather, and the itinerary is flexible enough to adapt to conditions.

The Windermere & Lake District Tour from Manchester offers a memorable, scenic, and well-organized way to explore England’s most iconic landscapes comfortably and with expert guidance.