Almost all of the Lake District National Park is a Unesco World Heritage Site, and for good reason too. It’s bursting with biscuit-tin villages, craggy fells and tumbling waterfalls, and bustling market towns ripe for exploring.
The Lake District is situated in the northwest of England, almost at the opposite end of the country to London. Mercifully, Blighty is a small place and it’s possible to make it to the lakes in under four hours. There are dozens of tours from London to the Lake District to choose from, catering to every taste – from outdoor enthusiasts to Beatrix Potter fans. To help make your decision a little easier, we’ve rounded up a few of the best Lake District tours from London based on itinerary and value for money.
From London: Lake District Tour with Cream Tea and Cruise
This action-packed day tour from London ticks off some of the Lake District’s most beloved experiences in less than 24 hours – castles and cream teas included. There’s a leisurely cruise around Lake Windemere, a trip to the famous Langdales valleys and a cream team at the Lindeth Howe Country House Hotel, once owned by Beatrix Potter. Plus, you’ll get to explore chocolate box villages like Hawkshead, where Wordsworth himself went to school. It’s an early morning start, but you’ll get back into London just in time for dinner too. From £225 per person.
Book at GetYourGuide.com
Lake District: 3 Day Small-Group Tour From London
This three-day tour dives deeper into the Lake District’s more rugged scenery, beyond the crowds. The price includes two nights of B&B accommodation with breakfast in Keswick, a pretty market town brimming with galleries, tea shops and independent shops. Highlights from the trip include a trip to Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage in Grasmere, a cruise along lovely Lake Windemere and a stroll to see the Aira Force waterfall. All transportation is included in the price, including railway tickets from London and a luxury mini-coach with a knowledgeable guide while you’re in the Lake District. From £409 per person.
Book at GetYourGuide.com
Private Lake District Tour
If you’re travelling in a group of up to eight people, it’s worth considering a private tour. This day trip from London is run by former History teachers – the perfect addition to any group. Lake Windemere, Keswick and the Beatrix Potter Gallery are all on the cards, but the tour is customizable, so you can pick and choose where you want to go too. The price includes transport and lunch at a quintessential English pub. From £595 per group.
Book at Viator.com