Discover the Lakes

This holiday is no longer being offered

This tour combines two days of cycling with one day of hiking to give a wonderful introduction to this charming area. Staying in Windermere at the heart of the Lake District you will explore the lake and the surrounding fells and be amazed at the sheer beauty of the countryside.

Day 1 Arrival in Windermere

You arrive in Windermere an unspoilt village at the heart of the English Lake District, one of the most beautiful corners of England.

Day 2 Roundtrip to Hawkshead 17 miles.

You’ll start your Lake District break by ferrying across Lake Windermere and pedalling along the shore towards the picturesque village of Hawkshead, an ideal place to stop for lunch and visit the Beatrix Potter Gallery Museum. Then it’s on to Hill Top her home that is kept exactly as she left it by the National Trust.

Day 3 Circular route 16 or 20 miles.

Today you will explore the scenic area to the south of Windermere taking in Crosthwaite and Knipe Tarn. Challenge-seekers will enjoy the Strawberry Bank option with its up-valley climb and descent through woodland to a ford, with a footbridge for those not wanting to get their feet wet.

Day 4 Walk to Ambleside and Troutbeck 8 miles.

Your final day in the Lake District is spent walking. A short hike to Ambleside along fell-side tracks and you then begin a gentle climb to the spectacular viewing point at Orrest overlooking Lake Windermere. Then it's onwards, gradually descending to the quaint village of Troutbeck. Here you can take in the well-preserved 17 th Century farmhouse at Townend and stop for refreshments. The next section follows a scenic route taking you over the fells prior to your final descent through Skelghyll Woods to Ambleside village. Here you can jump on board a boat for a rewarding cruise on Lake Windermere back to Bowness Bay, the end of your "Active" tour of the Lake District.