The Lake District Driving Loop is a captivating journey through the heart of England’s stunning Lake District National Park. This picturesque route offers a diverse array of landscapes, from serene lakes and towering peaks to charming villages and historic landmarks. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a breathtaking road trip, the Lake District Driving Loop is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The Keswick Loop via Buttermere and Borrowdale
One of the most popular routes within the Lake District Driving Loop is the Keswick Loop, which takes you through the stunning Buttermere and Borrowdale valleys. This 23-mile journey typically takes around an hour to complete, but you’ll want to allot extra time to soak in the stunning vistas and explore the charming villages along the way.
The highlights of this loop include:
- Derwentwater: A serene lake surrounded by the dramatic Borrowdale fells, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and scenic walks.
- Newlands Valley: A picturesque valley with rolling hills, babbling streams, and the iconic Dale Head summit.
- Buttermere: A tranquil lake nestled between the towering Haystacks and High Stile mountains, known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning reflections.
- Honister Pass: A challenging but rewarding mountain pass that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
- Borrowdale Villages: Charming villages like Grange, Rosthwaite, and Seatoller, each with their own unique character and local attractions.
The Coniston Loop
Extending for 42 miles, the Coniston Loop is an afternoon drive that showcases the rugged beauty of the southern Lake District. This route takes you through the Langdale Valley, over the Wrynose Pass, and into the Duddon Valley, offering a diverse range of landscapes and experiences.
Highlights of the Coniston Loop include:
- Coniston: A picturesque village nestled on the shores of Coniston Water, with a rich history and a variety of outdoor activities.
- Langdale Valley: A dramatic glacial valley with towering peaks, including the iconic Langdale Pikes.
- Wrynose Pass: A challenging mountain pass that offers stunning views of the surrounding fells and valleys.
- Duddon Valley: A remote and unspoiled valley with a rugged, untamed beauty, perfect for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
- Coniston Water: A serene lake with a rich history, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and exploring the surrounding countryside.
The Ultimate Lake District Loop
For those seeking a more comprehensive exploration of the Lake District, the Ultimate Lake District Loop is a 71.3-mile (114.7 km) route that can be completed over the course of 3-5 days. This extensive loop takes you through some of the region’s most iconic landscapes and attractions, including:
- Ullswater: A stunning lake surrounded by the dramatic Helvellyn range, offering opportunities for water sports, hiking, and scenic drives.
- Keswick: A charming market town with a rich cultural heritage, serving as a hub for outdoor activities and exploration.
- Buttermere: The tranquil lake and surrounding fells, as featured in the Keswick Loop.
- Helvellyn: One of the Lake District’s highest and most challenging peaks, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Castlerigg Stone Circle: A prehistoric monument with a mystical atmosphere, offering a glimpse into the region’s ancient history.
- The Cumbrian Coast: The rugged and picturesque coastline, with charming seaside towns and opportunities for beachcombing and wildlife spotting.
Windermere and Coniston Loop
For those with limited time or a more relaxed pace, the Windermere and Coniston Loop offers a scenic and manageable driving experience. This route takes you through the heart of the Lake District, showcasing the region’s iconic lakes and charming villages.
Highlights of this loop include:
- Windermere: England’s largest natural lake, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and exploring the surrounding towns and villages.
- Grasmere: A picturesque village with strong literary connections, known for its association with the poet William Wordsworth.
- Rydal: A quaint village with historic buildings and scenic walking trails, including the Rydal Water and Rydal Mount (Wordsworth’s former home).
- Coniston: The charming village on the shores of Coniston Water, as featured in the Coniston Loop.
The Eskdale Drive
For those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience, the Eskdale Drive offers a scenic journey through the western Lake District. This route takes you through the remote and rugged Eskdale Valley, showcasing the region’s natural beauty and historic landmarks.
Highlights of the Eskdale Drive include:
- Ravenglass: A charming coastal village with a Roman heritage, offering opportunities for exploring the nearby beaches and estuaries.
- Drigg Beach: A secluded and unspoiled stretch of coastline, perfect for beachcombing and wildlife watching.
- Seascale Village: A quaint seaside town with a rich history and a variety of local amenities.
- Overbeck Bridge: A historic stone bridge that spans the River Esk, offering a picturesque photo opportunity.
- Wasdale Head: A remote and dramatic valley, home to England’s deepest lake (Wastwater) and the iconic Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England.
- Eskdale Green: A charming village with a traditional country pub and opportunities for exploring the surrounding countryside.
- Muncaster Castle: A grand historic castle with beautiful gardens and a renowned owl sanctuary, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage.
Whether you choose to explore the Keswick Loop, the Coniston Loop, the Ultimate Lake District Loop, the Windermere and Coniston Loop, or the Eskdale Drive, the Lake District Driving Loop promises a truly unforgettable experience. With its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and rich history, this captivating region of England is a must-visit destination for any road trip enthusiast.