lake district off road tours

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EXPERIENCE AN OFF-ROAD ADVENTURE ON MILES OF FOREST TRACKS

Please refer to our covid procedures on the health and safety policy on our booking form

QUAD BIKE TREK

per person including tuition approximately 80 minutes

QUAD BIKE DETAILS

Minimum Age: 16 years old

We use top spec Can Am 450cc Pro Quads, power steering, hydraulic disc brakes.

We supply helmets and all protective gear necessary

WOODLANd QUAD SKILLS SESSION

per person including tuition approximately 60 minutes

SeSSION DETAILS

MinimuM Age: 16 years old

PLEASE READ SAFETY NOTE ON QUAD BIKE PAGE

per person 

Half days / Full days available

E-BIKE DETAILS

MinimuMAge: 14 years old

Model: HaiBike SDURO Hardseven 5.0

E-BIKES ARE LOADS OF FUN!!

OFF-ROAD ADVENTURES

We offer fantastic off-road quad bike treks in the heart of the Lake District with some of the most stunning scenery in the UK. Follow one of our fully trained, experienced guides through woodland tracks and up hills on the 1000 acre Lingholm Estate, just 4 miles from Keswick. Our tracks are suitable for all abilities, from beginners to experienced riders

CORPORATE BOOKINGS

We provide all of our activities and more in a package to businesses. Our corporate days will feature a mix of off-road and team building activities. We are based on the edge of Derwentwater and can include water sports. We provide a number of facilities including parking, toilets, changing rooms, function room with catering to provide you with everything you'll need for your corporate day. Please contact for further details

TRIP ADVISOR

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We provide all of our activities and more in a package to businesses. Our corporate days will feature a mix of off-road and team building activities. We are based on the edge of Derwentwater and can include water sports. We provide a number of facilities including parking, toilets, changing rooms, function room with catering to provide you with everything you'll need for your corporate day.Please contact for further details

HOW TO FIND US

From the A66, turn off at the Portinscale junction. Follow the road through the village for 2 miles (Do not turn off at the Lingholm kitchen). Follow the signs for Hawse End Adventure Centre. Just before the centre turn left through the private gate (Derwent bay). Turn left at the bottom of the drive.

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THE 5 BEST 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours in Lake District, England

4wd, atv & off-road tours in lake district.

• Climbing Tours
• Adrenaline & Extreme Tours
• Hiking & Camping Tours
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Castlerigg Stone Circle
• Kirkstone Pass
• Sailing Windermere
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Lake District Adventure Sightseeing Day Trip from Liverpool

2. 4-Hour Private Lake Tours by 4x4

3. Six Lakes Lake District Tour (Half Day 4 Hours)

4. 2 Hour Private Superior Lake Tour by 4x4

5. Private Ullswater Sightseeing Tour (Full Day 7 Hours)

6. Private Hire: Lake District from Manchester

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Rock Climbing Experience By The Beach

2 Hour Guided Tour of Hadrian's Wall

Private Climbing Sessions at Powillimount Beach, West Scotland

White Water Tubing

Blackpool Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK

Yorkshire Dales Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK

Southern Dales Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK

Walking tour of Hadrians Wall and Forest Bathing

Isle of Man Discovery Tour with experienced Driver Guide

Isle of Man Wildlife & Scenic Adventure with Wildlife enthusiast

Isle of Man Viking and Celtic Heritage Tour

Isle of Man Wildlife and Scenic Adventure -Half Day

Isle of Man Northern Discovery Tour - Half Day

Isle of Man Southern Discovery Half Day Tour

What travelers are saying.

Kankku - the ultimate offroad experience

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Let's talk 015394 47414

DISCOVER THE LAKE DISTRICT OFF-ROAD BY 4X4

Drive your own 4x4 off road adventure.

...designed for complete beginners to experienced 4x4 drivers on a journey off the beaten track in the Lake District National Park. Whatever the weather, seven days a week all year round, you can take the wheel of a specially prepared KANKKU vehicle...

OUR EXPERIENCES EXPLORE OUR HISTORIC LAKE DISTRICT TRAILS

Our fragile earth protecting the park and its heritage trails.

KANKKU works with the terrain - our intelligent driving techniques and specially prepared vehicles ensure our expeditions respect the spectacular landscape as you explore. With a Kankku off road driving experience, the initiated learn how smart driving techniques tread lightly on our magnificent landscape. We strive to preserve and protect these historic trails for future generations.

With a diverse fleet of ultra-capable vehicles, Kankku sets its benchmark high: we only use equipment that works exceptionally well and operates in harmony with our terrain.

"Fantastic experience. If you've never driven off road - You'll be in awe of just how capable these vehicles are."

ABOUT KANKKU THE ULTIMATE OFF ROAD EXPERIENCE

Many people know us for our orange vehicles, we now favour our ex-military canvas topped Land Rover’s which better connect you with the landscape.

ON THE DAY WHAT TO EXPECT

Take the wheel of a specialist 4x4 vehicle for a real off road adventure. From our command centre in Windermere you will be briefed on the challenge ahead before setting out behind the wheel.

RECENT ADVENTURES

Don't just take our word for it.

“ Hugely experienced instructors, pure adventure” ”

Anthony Westley - Trip advisor

“ An adventure in the truest sense... it's hard to imagine a more beautiful setting. ”

Emma Kennedy - The Guardian

“ Highly recommend, great guide, fantastic afternoon! ”

Tom - Trip advisor

“ Best off-roading in the lake district” ”

David - Trip advisor

KANKKU, Victoria Forge, Victoria Street, Windermere, LA23 1AD We'd rather talk T: 01539 447414 E: [email protected]

© Copyright 2017 Kankku Made by nicepond

The Ultimate Lake District Motorcycle Tour

The Lake District is home to some of the most beautiful lakes, stunning mountains and fantastic forests the UK has to offer and it’s one of our absolute favourite places to ride! If you fancy riding there too, then have a read of this first because we reckon it’s the Ultimate Lake District motorcycle tour!  

By Rob Burden

Motorcycle traveller and touring expert

Why motorcycle tour in the Lake District?

The Lake District is a stunning region in the UK and has so much going for it. The region is brimming with 16 lakes (interestingly, only one of them – Bassenthwaite Lake – is the only true lake as the rest are technically classed as ‘bodies of water’). Riding past and around these lakes almost transports you out of the UK and puts you among Europe’s alpine glaciers.

And it’s not all just ‘bodies of water’, the Lake District is also home to the highest mountain in England – Scafell Pike… and 10 of England’s highest mountains as well!

There are 214 hills and mountains in the region, beautiful lakes and welcoming lakeside villages. The roads are epic and you’re going to love riding there. 

Where is the Lake District?

The Lake District is a national park located in Cumbria in the northwest of England. It’s an easy region to get to with motorways linking to it. 

Where to stay?

You’re spoilt for choice with accommodation in the Lake District.

If you prefer to stay in a hotel or guesthouse, take a look at this booking.com map below with its location marker set as Keswick, it’ll give you an idea of prices and availability along this particular route. 

And if you prefer to camp, there are plenty of official campsites and many on the waterfront. It’s easy to find local grounds once you’re in the area. But in the height of summer, expect places to be full on the waterfront. If you’re after some camping guides, check these out:

• The Best Motorcycle Friendly Campsites in the UK
• Motorcycle Camping Guides

When to go?

As with most places in the UK, motorcycle tours are great in spring and autumn as you’ll steer clear of all the tourists. July and August are by far the busiest months in the Lake District as the tourists flock to Lake Windermere and the other hot spots, but being on two wheels means you can still easily avoid the busy areas and carve up these incredible and empty mountain roads anytime. 

The Ultimate Motorcycle Tour in the Lake District

This is the ultimate Lake District motorcycle tour because this epic route takes in all five passes in one go. It can be done as one long day or in two days at a slower pace. 

I have started this route from Keswick, but you could join it From Ambleside or Broughton in Furness of even Low Lorton on the west side if you prefer.

Below you’ll find the route on Google Maps. You can save this route to your phone or laptop by clicking the ‘More options’ button under the pin in the top left of the map image. 

Below the map, you’ll find my step by step instructions. 

The Lake District Motorcycle Tour Route Guide

Leaving Keswick on the A66 and heading East for about 8 miles, take a right to Troutbeck on the A5091.

This little road is one of my favourites as it not only has some cracking bends, but it also has one of the very best views in the lake District looking over Ullswater.

Once you’ve snapped your pics, carry on to the very end of the road until you reach the shores of Ullswater. Turn right here to Patterdale and Glenridding.

This road meanders alongside Ullswater and eventually starts to climb up the Kirkstone pass. On the way up, you’ll pass the “Two Brothers Inn” and Sykeside campsite on the right. I can recommend both!

If you fancy something tasty, at the top of the pass you’ll find the Kirkstone inn on the left – they do great chips!

After the inn, descend a few metres and take the first right turn, “The Struggle” and follow it all the way down to Ambleside.

Once in the quaint and busy town of Ambleside, you need to take the A593 Coniston road. And then one mile after Skelwith bridge, turn right to Wrynose.

Follow this winding road up onto the Wrynose pass route until you get to Cockley Beck and look for a turning on the right to Eskdale via Hardknott pass.

Here is where it gets more interesting as the climb to Hardknott is narrow in places with some tight switchbacks. But as long as you ride it with care, it’s easily doable. The summit of the pass is worth the struggle.

The descent can be a bit nerve-wracking at the top as the road does have an off camber hairpin with some nasty potholes, but with care and even on a heavy bike, it’s still doable and okay (this is where having a lightweight enduro bike wins the day).

Drop down into the valley with some more stunning views and follow the road to Eskdale.

Now if you have time I recommend a detour to Wasdale Head, which is an hour round trip from Eskdale. At Wasdale Head there is an inn and a nice shop that does refreshments.

Okay, back to Eskdale and take the road to Ulpha and on to Broughton in Furness. From here you need the A593 again through Wrynose pass back past Coniston to Ambleside. Once at Ambleside take the Keswick road A591.

Now at Keswick we want the Borrowdale road B5289. Go through Borrowdale and Seatoller and start the climb through the Honister pass. A good stop is the Honister Slate mine which has a café.

Leaving the Mine drop down the pass to beautiful Buttermere. We carry on to Low Lorton where we turn right on the B5292 Whinlatter road. The Whinlatter pass is not as much of a dramatic ride as the other passes, but it’s nice all the same and has a visitor centre with café too.

After the visitor centre, the road gets a bit twisty and more interesting as it winds down to Braithwaite where we re-join the A66 and head back to Keswick.

All in all, this is an absolutely epic one day motorcycle tour or a relaxed photo op weekender.

About the author

Rob Burden is a hugely experienced motorcycle traveller and tourer. He’s 61 years old and knows the two-wheeled world well after working in the motorcycle trade for 30 years. He’s travelled most of Europe, some of Africa and Turkey. And as well as non-stop motorcycle travel, he’s also a seasoned traveller on foot with 3 Himalayan treks and climbs of over 20,000ft under his belt. 

Read more on motorcycle touring in the UK

Thanks for checking out The Ultimate Lake District Motorcycle Tour Guide. We hope you enjoyed it! Here’s a few more articles on motorcycle touring in the UK and Europe that we recommend you read next. 

• Europe Destination Guides
• UK Destination Guides
• Motorcycle Touring Guides
•   Motorcycle Touring for Beginners
• Tips for Planning a European Tour
• What to Pack for a Motorcycle Tour
• The Best Trail Riding Routes in the UK

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The Ultimate Winter Motorcycle Riding Gear Guide

The BEST Motorcycle Touring Jackets

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The 5 Best Motorcycle Sat Navs

The Ultimate Motorcycle Trip Packing List

The 10 Best Adventure Motorcycle Helmets

Are you planning a motorcycle tour in the Lake District? Do you have any questions or tips to share? Let us know in the comments below. 

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All bike hire must be booked in advance via this website.

Easy Off-Road Mountain Bike Routes

Easy off-road rides – know your cycling level.

See also: Moderate & Challenging .

These routes are suitable for beginners and those who may not have ridden off-road before. Great for building your confidence, they follow tracks, bridle paths and quiet country lanes. They are relatively flat, however, it is the Lake District and you may encounter an odd cheeky uphill! Ride at a gentle place with plenty of opportunities to take photos and enjoy the  tranquility of off-road riding and of course there if always a coffee and cake stop to be found! Special cycling gear is not needed for these rides but a good pair of flat soled trainers is recommended.

Suitable bikes: Hybrid E-Bikes , Mountain Bikes , Mountain E-Bikes , Gravel Bikes .

Blawith Loop, Woodland Fell, Subberthwaite Common

Remote open fells, tracks – a tranquil rural escape.  Approximate distance 10 miles.

This is a great route with some fantastic views and descents yet avoiding anything too technical. A real ride for escaping from the rest of the world and immersing yourself in rural Cumbria. When you are on the top of Woodland Fell and Subberthwaite Common you really do feel alone and away from civilization.

This loop takes you along quiet country lanes, farm tracks and some easy singletrack.  Being right on our doorstep with lovely views in every direction, it is ideal for exploring the freedom of off-road riding.

Coniston Water and Tarn Hows

Lakes and Tarns, Coniston Village. Approximate distance 22 miles.

This beautiful route takes you quickly to the east side of Coniston Water where the quiet lane meanders along the lake shore. The terrace café at Brantwood, with fantastic views overlooking the lake, is your first pit stop before the climb to the top of Hawkshead Hill. You will soon arrive at the off-road section winding your way through the track in the woods to emerge with Tarn Hows right in front of you.  There are lots of different opportunities to visit the village in Coniston, or spend some time on the lake shore at the lovely Bluebird Café, before heading south to return to Lowick.

Roudsea Nature Reserve, Bigland, Cartmel

Morecambe Bay, natural woods, an historic village and stately home. Approximate distance 25 miles.

This route initially starts on road before crossing the estuary at Greenodd by the bridge over the confluence of the River Crake and River Leven. Here the flat off-road route follows the old railway line which once linked Lakeside with Ulverston and a gravel track leads into Roudsea Nature Reserve. The route then follows the tidal river Leven to Clock Tower, originally a very important gunpowder factory, before following an uphill track to Brow Edge where you climb to the top of Bigland Hill. Then relax and admire the views as it’s downhill all the way to Cartmel, Cumbria’s historic village with the it’s ancient Priory dating back to the 11 th Century. Lots to see here and places to eat galore. Head out of the village by the market cross and the gravel track will eventually bring you out at Holker Hall, a magnificent country house and gardens which are worth a visit.  Follow the road back to Clock Tower and then retrace your route to Greenodd following the River Leven.

Blawith, Subberthwaite Common, Torver

Country lanes, open common fell, panoramic views. Approximate distance 20 miles.

Another lovely route on our doorstep. After leaving Lowick, turn off the road in the next village opposite Blawith Church onto a narrow country lane which will eventually lead you out onto the open common. With fantastic views, it really feels remote and miles away from all the tourist hotspots. A fork in the track leads into the quiet rustic Woodland valley and you can meander along the country lanes towards Torver where you can take a welcome stop at the Wilsons Arms pub. The quickest way to return is to follow the road opposite the pub which passes through several villages on way back to Lowick. Or head north and follow the old railway line and tracks through fields to the top of Coniston Water, returning via the quieter east side of the lake, meandering alongside the lake shore.

Grizedale Forest fire roads, Coniston Water, Hawkshead Hill

Follow the quiet lakeshore lane and into the forest at the highest point to enjoy the easy smooth trails. Approximate distance 20 miles.

The quiet lane which runs alongside Coniston Water is a delight with lots of photo opportunities on the lake shore for great memories. The café at Brantwood with it’s high terrace overlooking Coniston Water is the place to stop and rest before the day’s climb which is just up the road. At the top of Hawkshead Hill you enter into the forest along the smooth forest fire roads. These are mostly downhill as they meander south through this coniferous planted forest eventually leading to the Satterthwaite/Oxen Park road to take you back to Lowick. The Manor House in Oxen Park is often open for a passing pint or late lunch. If you have sufficient energy and want to extend your ride there is a fantastic off-road route with amazing views over the Cumbrian fells passing through the hamlet of Ickenthwaite on the way home. Highly recommended.

Welcome To Lake District Drives

Explore lakes and tarns, explore towns and villages, explore fabulous scenery, explore lake district attractions, welcome to lake district drives.

Lake District Drives describes a series of 16 wonderful driving routes and itineraries which between them visit all the main lakes, towns, villages and attractions within the Lake District and also many just outside the National Park but still within Cumbria. The area has some of the best scenery and visitor attractions in the country and the routes are designed to take these in and provide great days out for all the family.

There are 15 local drives which are generally 30-50 miles in length and include the best attractions along the way. These drives can normally be done in a couple of hours without any significant stops, or extended with visits to any of the attractions on route. Additionally, the Ultimate Lake District Drive has been designed to take in the best scenery and attractions that the National Park has to offer in a single 126 mile circular route, ideal for those wanting to sample the whole area.

Each drive contains descriptions of attractions visited on route with links to attraction websites, descriptions of the route between attractions, facilities on route, an interactive map of each route, GPX files plus attraction sat nav coordinates and files for download. The drives are also available as individual PDF files which can be saved and viewed even without internet connection, a common situation in the Lake District.

Lake District Drives

Explore all 16 drives

Lake District Attractions

Map and listings of all attractions visited

Route Navigation & Sat Nav

Navigation notes and sat nav files

Drives Centres Map

Detailed route maps can be found under The Drives

Lake District Drives the video

See the sights in cumbria.

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THE 10 BEST Lake District Bike Tours

Bike tours in lake district.

• Climbing Tours
• Adrenaline & Extreme Tours
• Hiking & Camping Tours
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Lake District Bikes

2. West Lakes Adventure

3. Coast to Coast Packhorse

4. Arragon’s Cycle Hire

5. Ullswater eBikes

6. E-Bike Safaris Ltd

7. Country Lanes Cycle Centre

8. Grizedale Mountain Bikes

9. The Kepplewray Centre

10. Velocene Adventures

11. Inspiring Cycling

12. Up 4 Adventure UK

13. Biketreks Grizedale - Bike Hire At Grizedale Forest

14. All Terrain Adventures - Day Tours

15. Experience The Lakes

16. MtbGuides uk

17. UK Bike Tours

18. PH Outdoors

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Home » Europe » Best Road Trips in Lake District (Can’t-Miss Stops in 2024)

Best Road Trips in Lake District (Can’t-Miss Stops in 2024)

The Lake District is the United Kingdom’s most visited and most loved national park. Beyond the lakes that you’d expect from the name, you’ll also find some of the highest peaks in the UK, wonderful walking trails, and lots of quaint towns and villages where you can stop off. And yep, they’ll all have a country pub!

While you might be tempted by the idea of a pint, hold on just a moment. The best way to see the Lake District is by car. While it may seem a challenge packing it all in, having your own transport is the best chance you’ve got. It’s a good idea to keep a few days aside to make the most of your road trip in the Lake District.

That’s where we come in. We’ve put together a list of the best road trips in the Lake District. Our comprehensive guide means you can skip the hard work and go straight to packing!

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Why Road Trip in the Lake District?

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If you still need to be convinced, let us twist your arm; we won’t need to do it very hard! The list of reasons to road trip in the Lake District is endless, but here are the top five.

• Outdoor adventure: With more than 200 fells (hills) and 16 lakes, the Lake District National Park is a paradise for walkers and cyclists. While some fells are more difficult to climb than others, you can reach the summit of them all without overnight camping. It’s undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in the UK .
• Pubs: After a day out on the fells, there’s nothing better than walking into a country pub. Warm up by the roaring fire and rest your aching limbs with a hearty meal and a pint of local ale.
• Literature: It’s not all about outdoor activities; there are several fascinating museums in the area which tell the stories of the best-known literary names associated with Lakeland.
• Public transport (or lack of): While we’d prefer to stick to positive reasons to road trip in the Lake District, we can’t ignore the lack of public transport. Yes, you’ll easily get between the main towns, but without a car, the best bits are inaccessible.
• Awesome accommodation: From campsites, Airbnbs or hostels in Lake District , you’ll find some of the most stunning places to stay in the UK here.

We’re not sure what else we can do to encourage you to visit the Lake District. Perhaps we don’t need to do anything! Before we show you our Lake District road trips, let’s get some of the boring stuff out of the way first.

North Lakes Scenic Drive – 3 days

Windermere and coniston loop – central lake district – 2-3 days, eskdale drive – southern lake district – 1-2 days, the ultimate lake district loop – 4-5 days.

• From: Penrith
• To: Whitehaven
• Total Distance: 71.3 miles/114.7km
• Top Road Trips Stops: Ullswater, Keswick, Buttermere

Starting in the north of the Lake District, this scenic drive will start off outside the Lake District in Penrith. There are some Lake District icons on this road trip – including the Ullswater steamers, Helvellyn, and the largest town in the lakes, Keswick. You’ll get to see the peaceful village of Buttermere before ending at the coast. Get ready for a pretty easy drive that you can stretch out over a few days or pack into a couple. It depends on how many walks you want to enjoy!

Road Trip Highlights:

• Ullswater Steamers
• Castlerigg Stone Circle
• Keswick Town Centre
• Honister Pass

Day 1: Penrith to Glenridding (0.5 hours)

Begin your trip slightly outside of the Lake District at Penrith. One of the largest towns in Cumbria, you’ll easily be able to pick up anything you need for your trip in terms of food and camping equipment. Head for the village of Glenridding, a great base for climbing Helvellyn. It’s 712 metres at its highest point. If you don’t want to climb the fell, take a cruise on one of the iconic Ullswater steamers or walk to Aira Force Waterfall.

• Best Stops:  Ullswater Steamers, Helvellyn, Aira Force Waterfall.
• Where to Eat: Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom, Pooley Bridge Inn, 1863
• Where to Stay: YHA Patterdale, Helvellyn Bunkhouse , Converted Patterdale Barn

Day 2: Glenridding to Keswick (0.5 hours)

Next, it’s onto the largest town in the Lake District – Keswick. On the way, be sure to pull off the dual carriageway to visit Castlerigg Stone Circle. This mysterious stone circle is said to be the most dramatic in England – it certainly has the best views! Leave for the outskirts of Keswick, where you can stop at the Cumberland Pencil Museum. Then, spend a leisurely afternoon wandering around the town and exploring the market. Take a walk on Derwentwater, too.

• Best Stops: Castelrigg Stone Circle, Cumberland Pencil Museum, Keswick Market, Derwentwater
• Where to Eat: Fellpack – 19 Lake Road, The Pheasant Inn, The Dog & Gun
• Where to Stay: YHA Keswick ,   Central One Bed Apartment , Cute Shepherd’s Hut

Day 3: Keswick to Whitehaven (1.5 hours)

Leave Keswick early to experience one of the most scenic roads in Britain. The mostly single track Honister Pass is one of the highest roads in Cumbria, travelling from the Borrowdale Valley to Buttermere. It’s not for the faint-hearted! Stop off at the Honister Slate Mine, which has some epic activities on offer. Then head to the quiet village of Buttermere for a recovery walk and food. Then it’s onto your last stop – Whitehaven, on the coast!

• Best Stops:  Honister Pass, Honister Slate Mine, Buttermere
• Where to Eat: Syke Farm Tea Room, Bridge Hotel (Buttermere) Cleaver’s Wine and Dine (Whitehaven)
• Where to Stay: YHA Ennerdale Camping Barn , Whiteside Cottage , Branthwaite Hut

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

• From: Grasmere
• To: Ambleside
• Total Distance: 51.8 miles/83.4km
• Top Road Trips Stops: Grasmere, Ambleside, Bowness on Windermere, Hawkshead, Coniston Water

If you’re into literature, this is the best road trip in the Lake District. As well as the largest lake in England (and Coniston Water) you’ll be visiting museums dedicated to Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter. There are some beautiful walks here, too, and you can stop off for a spot of shopping in Ambleside and Bowness on Windermere.

• Wordsworth Museum
• National Trust – Hill Top
• Lake Windermere
• Coniston Water

Day 1: Grasmere to Hawkshead (1 hour)

This Road Trip begins in Grasmere. But before you jump in the car, check out the fascinating Wordsworth Museum. Drive south to the largest lake in England – Windermere. Skip Ambleside as you’ll be back tomorrow, and head for Bowness. It’s always busy, and there are loads of places to eat and drink with a view of the lake. Then, take the Windermere car ferry across if you don’t want to drive the whole distance and head for Hill Top House – Beatrix Potter’s former home. Stay the night in Hawkshead.

• Best Stops: Wordsworth Museum, Ambleside, Bowness on Windermere, National Trust – Hill Top
• Where to Eat: The Magic Roundabout, Bowness on Windermere, The Drunken Duck Inn, The Little Ice Cream Shop
• Where to Stay: YHA Hawkshead , Field Cottage , The Old School House

Day 2: Hawkshead to Ambleside (1 hour)

Today, you’ll be visiting another of the beautiful lakes in the area. After leaving Hawkshead, you’ll stop almost immediately to take a walk around Tarn Hows. A popular beauty spot, it can be busy, but it’s well worth visiting. Explore the cafes and shops of Coniston Village before visiting the lake itself, where Donald Campbell attempted the water speed record. For those who want to hike, the Old Man of Coniston is a circular walk that provides fantastic views and can be done in under four hours. After leaving the village, head back to Ambleside via Elterwater village.

• Best Stops:  Tarn Hows, Coniston Village, The Old Man of Coniston, Monk Coniston (Beach), Elterwater Village
• Where to Eat: The Bluebird Cafe, Steam Bistro, Lake Road Kitchen
• Where to Stay: YHA Ambleside , Ghyll Pool Cabin , Styhead Tarn Lodge

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• From: Ravenglass
• Total Distance: 31.4 miles/50.5km
• Top Road Trips Stops: Eskdale Green, Dalegarth Station, Scafell Pike, Drigg Beach

Another short drive to get to know the best of the southern Lake District. This one can be done in a day if you’re really in a rush! However, it’s much better to spend the night at a lovely Airbnb on Wastwater before an early morning climb to the top of Scafell Pike. For those who aren’t bothered about ticking England’s highest peak off their list, there are miniature railways, beaches, and pretty villages to get excited about!

• Ravenglass Roman Ruins
• Scafell Pike

Day 1: Ravenglass to Wasdale Head (1 hour)

Start in the only coastal village in the Lake District – Ravenglass. Before getting into your car, consider checking out the Roman Ruins – they’re seriously impressive! You can drive, but consider taking the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway to Dalegarth Station. This classic miniature steam train is a wonderful way to learn about the area’s history and take in the views. If you’ve driven, check out the Japanese Garden and Giggle Alley woodland.

Then, it’s onto your stop for the night. Wastwater is said to have “Britain’s favourite view.” It’s the deepest lake in England, making it popular with divers. This remote area is a great place to stop for the night before an early morning walk.

• Best Stops:  Ravenglass Railway, Wastwater, Wasdale Head.
• Where to Eat: Wasdale Head Inn, The Boot Inn, Book House Inn.
• Where to Stay: Wasdale Head Hall Farm , YHA Wasdale Hall ,  Bower House Inn

Day 2: Wasdale Head to Drigg (0.5 hours)

We’ve kept day two quite short – especially if you use the morning to climb Scafell Pike. That’ll take five or six hours even in good weather. Even if you don’t want to climb the mountain, there are some pretty walks from Wasdale Head anyway. Carry on down to Nether Wasdale, for a well-earned lunch – however far you’ve walked. Then, providing the weather is good, finish your trip off at Drigg and its beach. The uncrowded stretch of sand is lined by dunes!

• Best Stops: Scafell Pike, Nether Wasdale, Drigg Beach
• Where to Eat: Ratty Arms, Victoria Hotel, The Screes Inn, The Strands Inn & Brewery
• Where to Stay: Traditional Log Cabin , Seascale Cottage with sea views
• From: Ambleside
• Total Distance: 117 miles
• Top Road Trips Stops: Lake Windermere, Glenridding, Keswick, Scafell Pike, Coniston Water

Last but not least, let us give you the ultimate tour of the Lake District. We’ve already been over some of the cool places to visit and things to do on the list; this route will help you incorporate all of them into just one trip. This will give you everything – visit the most beautiful lakes, tackle the highest hills, and find the base for great walks. All that with great places to eat, drink, and sleep thrown in too. Good for those who have up to a week to spend in Northern England. Like the others, it’s not hard to stretch or condense this trip!

• Honister Pass/Buttermere

Day 1: Ambleside to Glenridding (0.5 hours)

Since this is a loop, you can start anywhere you like on the trip. However, since Ambleside is in the central lakes and one of the largest and busiest towns, it’s an easy place to get your bearings. Day one has the least driving, and you’ll be heading south along the pretty north shore of Windermere before heading north up to Glenridding. Take in the stunning views along the Kirkstone Pass before you stop and decide whether to explore Ullswater or climb Helvellyn!

• Best Stops : Aira Force Waterfall, Patterdale, Helvellyn
• Where to Eat: Old Water View, Helvellyn Country Kitchen
• Where to Stay: YHA Helvellyn, The Old Cop Shop , Small Bunk Room with Mountain View

Day 2: Glenridding to Buttermere via Keswick and Honister Pass (1 hour)

If you take the morning of day two to climb Helvellyn, consider staying the night in Keswick and leaving the tricky Honister Pass until next day. However you do it, be sure to stop at Castlerigg Stone Circle before stopping in Keswick. Wander around the market town’s shops and stop for a coffee or lunch. If you didn’t tackle Helvellyn, head over to Grange. There, you’ll find Castle Crag – a much easier climb! Another idea is to stop at the Honister Pass slate mine on your way to Buttermere.

• Best Stops:  Castlerigg Stone Circle, Borrowdale (walk up Castle Crag for views of Keswick and Derwentwater, Honister Pass Slate Mine
• Where to Eat:  Merienda, Bar eS Keswick, Croft House Farm Café
• Where to Stay: Derwentwater Independent Hostel , Garden Dwelling ,  Lakes Loft Retreat for Two

Day 3: Buttermere to Coniston Water (2 hours)

When it comes to driving, today is the heaviest day of your ultimate Lake District road trip. Not that you’ll mind! On emerging from the gorgeous hill country, you’ll skirt along the Cumbrian coastline. Stop off at Drigg Sand Dunes, one of the least crowded and prettiest beaches in the UK, or explore Ravenglass’s ancient Roman ruins. If you have plenty of time, take a return journey on the Eskdale Railway! Don’t fancy either of those things? Drive up to Wastwater – England’s deepest lake. From there, numerous pretty walks await – including Scafell Pike if you have 5-6 hours. Then, it’s back inland towards Coniston Water and your stop for the night.

• Best Stops:  Drigg Sand Dunes, Ravenglass Railway, Scafell Pike, Coniston Water
• Where to Eat: The Wild Olive (Drigg), The Inn at Ravenglass, Ritson’s Bar (Wasdale), Steam Bistro (Coniston)
• Where to Stay: Cosy Country Cottage , Pod Cottage Howe Farm

Day 4: Coniston Water to Ambleside with Windermere loop (1 hour)

The final day of this Lake District road trip is quite a chilled one. You’ll be stopping off in pretty villages; first on the list, Hawkshead. You’ll have to park outside the village though as the centre is pedestrianised! Go for a wander to see what inspired Beatrix Potter and Wordsworth. Then, it’s onto Potter’s house – Hill Top, overlooking Windermere. After a stroll through the gardens, the final stretch sees you head for Ambleside via Bowness on Windermere. Whether you want to drive around the lake or take the ferry is up to you!

• Best Stops:  Hawkshead Village, Hill Top Beatrix Potter House, Bowness on Windermere.
• Where to Eat:  Red Lion Inn (Hawkshead), Porto Restaurant (Bowness on Windermere), Dodds Restaurant (Ambleside)
• Where to Stay:   Lake District Backpackers , Cosy Lakeland Cottage , Lake Windermere VW Camper

If you already live in the UK and have your own car, that’s the best way to see the Lake District. For everyone else, it’ll mean renting a car. Driving in Lakeland can be nerve-wracking at times – roads are narrow, and some of the mountain passes barely have room for two vehicles to pass. However, if you enjoy driving, you’ll relish the challenge. Just remember you’re not a rally driver!

Renting a Vehicle in Lake District

Renting a vehicle isn’t hard in the United Kingdom, though it can be expensive for solo travellers. Couples and groups can split the cost to make it more affordable. It may be best to rent a car outside of the Lake District. Kendal, Lancaster, and Carlisle are some of the nearest towns where there will be more availability.

Before renting, you should be aware of the following things before picking up your car.

• Age Surcharge:  UK residents can drive from 17 years old, but companies will rarely rent to someone that young. An age surcharge applies to drivers under 25; it’ll usually be around £30 – £40 per day. Some companies won’t even consider renting to a driver under 22 years old.
• Bond/Deposit:  A deposit is likely to be anywhere from £200 – £500. Many rental companies expect this to be on a credit card. Be sure to check for anything wrong with the car before driving away; you don’t want to be charged for something that’s not your fault!
• Additional Driver Charge:  It’s a lot of responsibility to be the designated driver. However, starting from roughly £10 per day with most companies, you can add additional drivers.
• Insurance:  You can’t drive in the UK without motor insurance. Knowing that, rental company insurance can often be extortionate! Save on cash and stress by checking out RentalCover.com .

Sort out your rental before your road trip in Lake District to get the best price. rentalcars.com simplifies the process at a lower cost and can match you with the right vehicle for your adventure.

Road Rules in Lake District

First and most importantly, the UK drives on the left, just like Ireland, Iceland, Cyprus, and Japan. You may find the roads in the Lake District so narrow that you’re driving in the middle, though. Be sure to give way to traffic coming from the right at roundabouts.

Another important thing here is drink driving: Don’t do it. While the limit allows a small amount, it’s best not to have any at all. Be sure those pints are out of your system when you jump in the car the following morning.

Road rules are no stricter than any other part of the UK, but you should be aware that at times you’ll be sharing thoroughfares with walkers, cyclists, and horses, as well as regular traffic. The Lake District actually has its own drivers’ countryside Code of Conduct, which you can find here .

Though not a rule, it’s a good idea to have a paper map with you in the Lake District. There are several spots where phone signal is impossible to find.

Now that we’ve got the admin out of the way, let’s jump into the loveliest Lake District road trips!

Insurance in Lake District

If you’re driving in the United Kingdom, you need a minimum of third party insurance cover. However, this only covers fire and theft; if you get into an accident, you’ll be liable. While we hope that won’t happen, it’s always best to be prepared. RentalCover.com can offer fully comprehensive insurance with roadside assistance too.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

If you’re not careful, Lake District’s wilderness will smack ya to next Monday.  There are six road trip essentials I never go traveling without:

1. First Aid Kit : Even if you don’t plan on doing anything extreme on your trip, like hiking, climbing, or other extreme sports, you never know what could happen. You could cut yourself while cooking, smash a finger in a car door, or burn yourself on a hot radiator. A first aid kit will be able to handle most of these minor situations.

2. Aux Cord : One of the only things to do on a long car ride by yourself is to listen to music or a podcast. Since most people use their phones as an MP3 player these days, an auxillary cord is crucial to preserving your sanity. If there is no auxiliary port in your car, buy a radio transceiver or use a portable speaker.

3. Phone mount :  It’s very dangerous to be looking down at your phone while driving. If you need to have access to your phone, for maps and what-not, buy a mount for it. This way, you can keep your eyes on the road and your phone won’t be far from your field of view.

4. Headtorch : Every backpacker should have a head torch! A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must. Currently, I’m using the Petzl Actik Core rechargeable headlamp – an awesome piece of kit! Because it’s USB chargeable I never have to buy earth polluting batteries.

5. Roadside Emergency Kit : Just like you never know what could happen to yourself , one never knows what can happen to their car . A vehicle can mysteriously fail, break, run into a ditch; all that and then some. Most emergency kit include a pair of jumper cables, a tow rope, a set of essential tools, and ties.

6. Toiletry Bag : I always travel with a hanging toiletry bag as it’s a super-efficient way to organise your bathroom stuff. Well worth having, whether you are hanging it from a tree whilst camping, or a hook in a wall, it helps to have quick access to all your stuff.

For plenty more inspiration on what to pack, check out my full road trip packing list.

Now that you have a better idea of how to plan a road trip in the Lake District, you’re probably heading to the petrol station or looking up rental companies online.

While there are some difficulties in driving in the Lake District (narrow roads, tricky mountain passes, sheep), the positives of a road trip here far outweigh any negatives! The good thing is that the Lake District is quite small, so you never need to spend more than a couple of hours of driving each day.

Whichever awesome road trip in the Lake District piques your interest, you can be assured of beautiful landscapes, wonderful walks, and traditional pubs!

Sophie Steinebach

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A very big thanks to the team….we followed your suggestions and it turned out to be one of my best drives…

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