Lake District Places to Visit by Car: A Guide for Lakes Touring Enthusiasts

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The Lake District is a breathtaking national park in Cumbria, England, renowned for its picturesque lakes, majestic mountains, and charming towns and villages. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-time visitor, discovering the Lake District by car offers a unique and unforgettable experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the must-see places, the best towns to visit, the top lakes to explore, and the most scenic drives in the Lake District, providing you with all the information you need to plan your ultimate Lakes touring adventure.

Must-See Places to Visit in the Lake District by Car

Lake District Places to Visit by Car
Image Credit: Wikimedia

  1. Castlerigg Stone Circle: Situated near the town of Keswick, this historic stone circle offers breathtaking views of the surrounding fells and mountains, making it a must-visit destination for history and nature enthusiasts alike.

  2. Windermere: As the largest lake in the Lake District, Windermere is a true gem, offering scenic drives along its shores and the opportunity to enjoy boat rides and other water-based activities.

  3. Keswick: This charming town, nestled among the mountains, is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, with a variety of shops, cafes, and activities to explore.

  4. Coniston Water: Steeped in history, Coniston Water is a beautiful lake with connections to the legendary water speed record attempts of Donald Campbell.

  5. Helvellyn: The third-highest peak in England, Helvellyn offers stunning views and challenging hiking trails for the adventurous.

  6. Honister Pass: This thrilling mountain pass, connecting Keswick to Buttermere, provides breathtaking vistas and a true test of driving skills.

  7. Ullswater: Known for its serene atmosphere and stunning scenery, Ullswater is a picturesque lake that is sure to captivate visitors.

  8. Grasmere: This charming village is famous for its connections to the renowned poet William Wordsworth and its delicious gingerbread.

  9. Bowness-on-Windermere: A lively town on the shores of Windermere, Bowness-on-Windermere offers a variety of shops, cafes, and boat rides for visitors to enjoy.

  10. Wray Castle: This historic castle near Ambleside now houses a children’s adventure playground and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

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Best Towns to Visit in the Lake District by Car

Lake District Places to Visit by Car

  1. Keswick: The major center for tourism in the north lakes, Keswick offers a wide range of shops, cafes, and outdoor activities.

  2. Ambleside: A charming town at the head of Windermere, Ambleside is known for its outdoor gear shops and scenic views.

  3. Grasmere: This picturesque village is famous for its connections to William Wordsworth and its delicious gingerbread.

  4. Bowness-on-Windermere: A lively town on the shores of Windermere, Bowness-on-Windermere is a hub for shops, cafes, and boat rides.

  5. Coniston: A charming village on the shores of Coniston Water, Coniston is known for its connections to Donald Campbell’s water speed record attempts.

Top Lakes to Visit in the Lake District by Car

  1. Windermere: The largest lake in the Lake District, Windermere is perfect for scenic drives and boat rides.

  2. Ullswater: A picturesque lake known for its serene atmosphere and stunning scenery.

  3. Coniston Water: A beautiful lake with a rich history, including connections to Donald Campbell’s water speed record attempts.

  4. Derwentwater: A charming lake near Keswick, offering scenic views and boat rides.

  5. Bassenthwaite Lake: A peaceful lake near Keswick, known for its osprey nesting site and scenic views.

Scenic Drives in the Lake District

  1. Keswick Loop via Buttermere and Borrowdale: A 23-mile circular route offering stunning views of the fells and Derwentwater.

  2. Coniston Loop: A 42-mile circuit through mountains, valleys, and villages, manageable in an afternoon.

  3. Ravenglass to Eskdale: A scenic drive through the western Lake District, offering stunning coastal views.

  4. Newlands Pass: A thrilling mountain pass with breathtaking views, connecting Keswick to Buttermere.

  5. Hardknott Pass: A challenging mountain pass with stunning views, connecting Eskdale to the Duddon Valley.

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Tips for Driving in the Lake District

  1. Parking: Be prepared to pay for parking, especially in towns and popular attractions.

  2. Weather: Pack for unpredictable weather, as the Lake District can be wet and mild.

  3. Remoteness: Be prepared for limited phone signal and internet connectivity in remote areas.

  4. Busyness: Avoid peak season (June to September) for a more peaceful experience.

  5. Road Conditions: Be cautious of narrow and winding roads, especially in winter or bad weather.

By following these tips and exploring the must-see places, towns, lakes, and scenic drives, you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable Lake District adventure by car. Happy touring!

References

The Broke Backpacker. (2024). Best Road Trips in Lake District (Can’t-Miss Stops in 2024). Retrieved from https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/best-road-trips-lake-district/

Sally’s Cottages. (n.d.). 7 Scenic Drives in the Lake District. Retrieved from https://www.sallyscottages.co.uk/guides/7-scenic-drives-lake-district

Lake District Drives. (n.d.). The best Lake District drives and tours with attractions. Retrieved from https://www.lakedistrictdrives.com

Trendy Tourist. (2021). The Best Lake District Road Trip for Beginners. Retrieved from https://www.trendytourist.co.uk/lake-district-road-trip/

EnjoyTravel.com. (n.d.). 10 most scenic Lake District drives. Retrieved from https://www.enjoytravel.com/en/travel-news/epic-road-trips/10-most-scenic-lake-district-drives

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