English Lake District Walking Adventure.

Arrival - ADD MORE

Walking distance - approx 10km / 6 miles
Walking Time - approx 5hrs
Terrain - Footpath with several rockier sections, which require a bit of easy scrambling. Gradual ascent early in the day, but steeper descent at the end back into the valley bottom.

Today we wander in the footsteps of the great English poet, William Wordsworth. We walk together out of the quaint and bustling village of Grasmere, through typical Lake District views with white-washed cottages and sheep grazing among the craggy peaks, views of the Langdale Pikes gradually rising up on the horizon.

Our walk today takes in Easedale Tarn and Stickle Tarn, beneath Pavey Ark. Easedale Tarn proves that you do not have to climb to the tops to enjoy true Lakeland - this tarn is set in a deep valley, scarred by a retreating glacier roughly 20,000 years ago. The retreating glacier has left an excellent selection of glacial erratics scattered like picnic tables right around the Tarn, an idyllic spot for a short break to get your breath back after the climb and take in the surroundings.

We continue to walk through the dramatic landscape of Great Langdale to our rest stop for this evening, The Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel. The Old Dungeon Ghyll is a rustic Lakeland instition. It has been offering traditional Cumbrian hospitality to fell walkers and climbers for more than 300 years. Located in the remote and unspoilt Great Langdale Valley, what the Old Dungeon Ghyll lacks in modern facilities is greatly overshadowed by the majesty of the surrounding Lakeland scenery and Langdale Pikes. Enjoy a traditional local ale and peruse the bar menu this evening in one of the best located public houses in England.

Walking distance - approx. 9km / 5.6 miles
Walking Time - approx. 5 hrs
Terrain - Moderate, with a couple of rockier sections which require a bit of easy scrambling. Short, moderately steep ascent early in the day, undulating terrain across Haystacks, then gradual descent into the valley for a flat walk along the lakeshore into Buttermere.

To begin the adventure today, we travel by vehicle to Honister Slate Mine. Here we go deep underground to learn about one of the Lake District’s most traditional industries - slate mining. Slate has been mined in these valleys since Neolithic times and continues to be mined here today. Delve deep into the underground tunnels and caverns of the magnificent Fleetwith Pike to experience first-hand what life has been like for slate miners through the ages.

We then continue our journey on foot to Haystacks, Wainwright’s favourite amongst the Lakeland Fells...

ADD IN WALKING WITH WOLVES?

Walking Distance: Approx. 14km / 8.5 miles
Walking Time: Approx. 6-7 hours
Terrain: Strenuous mountain walking – steep ascents and descents, rocky ridges, and exposed sections.

Today, we embark on the Newlands Horseshoe, one of the Lake District’s most iconic ridge walks, renowned for its stunning vistas, rugged peaks, and a true sense of adventure.

We begin with a short transfer from Keswick to Little Town in the heart of Newlands Valley. From here, we start our ascent up to Robinson (737m), the first peak of the day. As we climb, we are rewarded with sweeping views of Buttermere, Crummock Water, and the western Lake District fells.

Continuing along the ridge, we tackle Hindscarth (727m), where we pause to admire the panoramic views stretching over Derwentwater to the high fells of the northern lakes. We then reach the summit of Dale Head (753m), with its awe-inspiring drop into Newlands Valley below.

From here, we make our way to High Spy (653m), with breathtaking views of Catbells, Borrowdale, and Skiddaw, before continuing along the ridge to Maiden Moor (576m). Finally, we descend towards Catbells (451m), one of the most iconic fells in the region.

Our descent leads us to the picturesque village of Buttermere, where we finish the walk at the famous Skye Farm Pies. After a challenging day, enjoy a well-deserved hearty pie—widely regarded as some of the best in the Lake District—at this charming family-run farm shop.

We take time to relax in Buttermere, perhaps taking a leisurely stroll by the lake before our transfer back to Keswick.

Walking Distance: Approx. 6km / 4 miles
Walking Time: Approx. 3 hours
Terrain: Moderate walking on trails – uneven ground, rocky in places with short steeper uphill/downhill gradients.

The day begins in Ambleside, a charming Lakeland town at the northern tip of Lake Windermere, England’s longest lake. From here, we step aboard a classic Windermere steamer, gliding across the tranquil waters while taking in breathtaking views of wooded hills, historic lakeside homes, and distant mountain peaks.

Arriving at Bowness-on-Windermere, we take a short break before beginning our walk into the fells. Our route takes us up Loughrigg Fell, a stunning mix of rocky knolls, heather-strewn paths, and panoramic viewpoints. At Lily Tarn, we pause to enjoy an unforgettable vista stretching the full length of Windermere, a perfect spot to reflect on our morning’s journey.

Continuing along the ridge, we take in views of the Skiddaw and Helvellyn ranges before descending towards the serene shores of Rydal Water and Grasmere. Upon reaching Grasmere village, you’ll have free time to explore.

Described by William Wordsworth as “the loveliest spot that man hath ever found”, Grasmere offers a chance to visit Dove Cottage, Wordsworth’s former home, or sample the world-famous Grasmere Gingerbread—a must-try local delicacy.

As the day winds down, you are free to choose from a variety of excellent local dining options, taking in the charm of this historic village before returning to your accommodation.

ADD IN FOREST SWEGWAYS? 

Helvellyn, standing at 950m, is one of the most celebrated peaks in the Lake District, steeped in history and legend. From early shepherds and poets to daring Victorian adventurers, this mountain has long captured the imagination of those who visit. Even in 1926, a small aircraft famously landed on its summit, proving just how extraordinary this place truly is.

The day begins with a breakfast at hotel followed by a short transfer takes us to Thirlmere, our starting point.

Following an old packhorse route, we climb gradually through ancient woodland, once used by local farmers to transport goods across the fells. As we ascend past Birk Side, the landscape opens up, revealing breathtaking views of Striding Edge, Ullswater, and the surrounding peaks. The final stretch to the summit of Helvellyn is both exhilarating and rewarding, standing in the footsteps of the poets and explorers who once roamed these heights.

For the descent, we take the Wythburn Path, a gentler route leading us back towards Thirlmere, where we pause to take in the tranquil beauty of the valley. From here, we continue to a traditional Lakeland pub, where a well-earned lunch awaits. Enjoy a hearty meal by the fire, surrounded by the warmth and charm of the Lake District’s heritage.

Following lunch, we return to hotel, where you can unwind and enjoy a relaxing evening at lesiure. 

MAYBE ADD IN SOMETHING 

Walking Distance: Approx. 10-12km / 6-7 miles
Walking Time: Approx. 6-7 hours
Terrain: Strenuous – steep ascents, rocky terrain, and high-level paths with some exposed sections.

After breakfast, we will grab our packed lunch and head out to start our longest walk yet. 

We begin our day at the end of Borrowdale in Seathwaite, nestled at the base of the towering fells. From here, we follow the Grains Ghyll stream, which leads us gently upwards, with the sound of cascading water accompanying us as we climb. The path grows steeper as we make our way past Sprinkling Tarn, a tranquil spot nestled below the mighty peaks.

Continuing on, we begin the more challenging ascent towards the summit of Scafell Pike, the highest peak in England. As we reach the tops, the route becomes more rugged, offering a mixture of rocky terrain and steep sections. The views become increasingly spectacular as we gain elevation, with vistas of Great Gable, Scafell Crag, and the surrounding valleys.

Upon reaching the summit of Scafell Pike, we’ll enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the Lake District, stretching across Wasdale and Langdale, with the peaks of Helvellyn and Skiddaw in the distance. This is a true highlight of the day, a rewarding moment after the challenging ascent.

For the descent, we follow the Corridor Route, one of the most famous paths in the Lake District, which contours along the southern side of Scafell Pike. The route offers dramatic views down to Wastwater and Wasdale Head, with the towering crags of Scafell and Sca Fell looming overhead. The path is exhilarating but manageable, gradually descending back towards Seathwaite.

As we return to Seathwaite, we take a moment to reflect on the incredible landscapes we’ve experienced before our transport takes us back to the hotel. 

ADD DINNER IN

After breakfast, we will be collected from our hotel to visit the Lakes Distillery. Here, they say that the nature of their art is whisky and the inspiration of their art is nature. In the setting of a beautifully renovated Victorian farmstead on the shore of Bassenthwaite Lake, you can immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of this working distillery on a short tour.

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After this very full day, we head back to The Low Wood Bay Hotel for our Farewell Dinner and our last night in the English Lake District this evening.

After a final breakfast at the hotel, today we say goodbye to the Lake District. There will be transfers to Manchester Airport to meet flights for the onward travel you have arranged.