The Lake District, a picturesque region in northwest England, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. For those visiting from Manchester, the Lake District offers a variety of options for day trips and longer stays, with the closest lake being just a short drive away.
Closest Lake to Manchester for a Day Trip
The closest lake to Manchester for a day trip is Lake Windermere, which is approximately 120 miles (193 km) from Manchester city center. Windermere is the largest lake in the Lake District and offers stunning views, boat cruises, and picturesque villages like Bowness-on-Windermere and Ambleside. The journey from Manchester to Windermere takes around 2 hours and 11 minutes by car, making it an ideal destination for a day trip.
Best Route from Manchester Airport to the Lake District for Beginners
For those flying into Manchester Airport, the best route to the Lake District involves taking a train from the airport to Oxenholme Station and then transferring to a local train to Windermere Station. This journey takes around 2 hours and 54 minutes and is the most convenient option for those unfamiliar with the area.
Is it Better to Fly into Manchester Airport or Another Nearby Airport?
Manchester Airport is the most convenient airport for visiting the Lake District from Manchester. It offers direct trains to Oxenholme Station, which connects to the Lake District. Alternatively, you can fly into Newcastle or Glasgow airports, but these require longer train journeys to reach the Lake District, making Manchester Airport the preferred choice.
Tour Options from Manchester
Several tour operators offer guided tours from Manchester to the Lake District, providing a hassle-free way to explore the region. These tours typically include transportation, scenic stops, and activities like boat cruises and hiking. Some popular tour options include:
| Tour Operator | Tour Details |
|---|---|
| Rabbie’s Tours | 3-day Lake District Explorer tour from Manchester, including visits to Ullswater, Aira Force Waterfall, Castlerigg Stone Circle, and Lake Windermere. |
| Mountain Goat | Full-day Lake District tour from Manchester, featuring a cruise on Lake Windermere, a visit to Tarn Hows, and exploration of the charming village of Hawkshead. |
Transportation Options
There are several transportation options available for traveling from Manchester to the Lake District:
- Train: Trains run regularly from Manchester Piccadilly Station to Oxenholme Station, with a journey time of around 1 hour and 3 minutes. From Oxenholme, you can transfer to local trains to reach Windermere, Ambleside, or other Lake District destinations.
- Bus: Bus services are available from Manchester Central Coach Station to Penrith and Keswick in the Lake District. The journey takes around 4 hours and 40 minutes.
- Car: Driving from Manchester to the Lake District takes around 2 hours and 11 minutes via the M6 and A591 roads.
Accommodation and Activities
The Lake District offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly B&Bs to luxury hotels, catering to various preferences and budgets. Popular activities in the Lake District include hiking, boating, and visiting attractions like Dove Cottage, the homes of famous poets like William Wordsworth.
References:
– Getting to Western Lake District from Manchester
– Rabbie’s 3-Day Lake District Explorer Tour from Manchester
– Mountain Goat’s Lake District Tour from Manchester
– Rome2rio: Manchester to Lake District