Delights of the Lake District

This morning we enjoy a trip aboard the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, a heritage line the snakes its way through the contrasting lake and river landscapes of the Leven Valley. We depart from the small village of Haverthwaite close to the river Levern and travel to the lakeside station before taking a leisurely cruise on the glistening waters of Lake Windemere to Bowness-on-Windermere. This afternoon we have some free time to enjoy this lakeside town, wander the array of independent shops or perhaps visit the World of Beatrix Potter, which explores the literary legacy of this Lakeland resident.

Today we have an optional full day exploring two pretty market towns, Keswick and Cockermouth. We begin the day in Keswick, which is sandwiched between the towering Skiddaw Mountain and the tranquil Derwentwater. Spend the morning meandering through the selection of shops, explore one of the unique local museums or stop for a spot of lunch in one of the many local restaurants.

In the afternoon we will make our way to the town of Cockermouth which sits just beyond the borders of the Lake District National Park, thus has a quieter and calmer feel than some of its neighbouring towns. The town grew up at the junction of the two most important rivers in the area, the river Cocker and the river Derwent, making it strategically important throughout history. The Romans left a tangible legacy all round this area and the Normans built the first Castle in Cockermouth in the 12th Century. Whilst here we continue exploring the literary legacy of the Lake District with a visit to National Trust’s Wordsworth House and Garden, the birthplace of this legendary poet.

This morning, after breakfast we depart for one of the most popular villages in the Lake District, Grasmere, thanks to its former resident – William Wordsworth. Whilst here perhaps take time to explore Dove Cottage, Wordsworth’s former home and where he wrote many of his most loved works. For a special treat, head to Sarah Nelson’s Gingerbread Shop the former village school and the only place you can buy the unique Grasmere Gingerbread.

This afternoon, we head to Coniston which sits on the western shore of one of England’s largest lakes – Coniston Water. Spend the afternoon in one of the village’s eateries enjoying spectacular vistas and wandering the quaint shops or perhaps choose to embark on the Coniston Steam Yacht Gondola, a Victorian steam-powered yacht and ride in style around the southern end of Coniston Water Relax in the elegant saloon or on the open-air deck and listen out for the crew’s commentary on the area’s history and famous connections (not included).

After breakfast we return to our original pick-up points.