Tour of the Lake District
The Tour of the Lake District is a 96 mile circuit of England’s most celebrated national park. This stunning route showcases the diverse beauty of the Lake District, from remote valleys and shimmering lakes to rugged mountain passes and timeless villages. Seasoned walkers will find this challenging route deeply rewarding, relying at times on their map-reading and navigational skills.
Starting in the bustling town of Windermere, the route travels along a mix of ancient packhorse trails, quiet country lanes, and rugged fell paths. Along the way you’ll encounter the tranquil shores of Buttermere, the remote beauty of Wasdale, and the picturesque charm of Borrowdale. The scenery constantly changes, from the dramatic passes of Walna Scar and Black Sail to the peaceful pastures of Eskdale and Langdale
The landscape is steeped in history, with traditional Lakeland villages, ancient stone bridges, and historic inns that have welcomed walkers for generations. Literary connections also add to the area’s charm, from Wordsworth’s inspiration in Grasmere to Beatrix Potter’s beloved countryside near Coniston.
With its ever-changing scenery and a perfect blend of challenge and reward, the Tour of the Lake District offers a memorable adventure for those looking to explore this incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Our Holidays
We have 3 options on the Tour of the Lake District. You can walk the whole route over 9 or 10 days, alternatively you can walk from Windermere to Keswick via the Western Lakes over 6 days or enjoy a short break from Keswick to Ambleside over 3 days.
The section from Windermere to Keswick takes you through the quieter, more remote Western Lakes, including the beautiful valleys of Ennerdale, Wasdale and Eskdale. The short break from Keswick to Ambleside for those with less time, takes in the popular tourist hotspots of Keswick and Grasmere and includes a visit to Castlerigg Stone Circle.
Please bear in mind that the distances each day are trail distances only. They do not take into account walking to your accommodation. On some days the accommodation might be on or close to the trail but on other days you may need to walk one or two miles to get to your overnight stop.
Tour of the Lake District
Windermere to Ambleside 96 miles/154 km
The whole Tour of the Lake District starts in Windermere and heads to Ambleside before taking in each of the main Lakeland valleys along lake shores and over remote mountain passes, completing the circuit in Ambleside.
| Code | Length | Average per day | Price range | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TL10 | 9 days walking (10 nights) | 11 miles/18 km | £1346 - £1690 | Full Info Book |
| TL11 | 10 days walking (11 nights) | 10 miles/16 km | £1472 - £1855 | Full Info Book |
Tour of the Lake District: The Western Tour
Windermere to Keswick 59 miles/95 km
This is a shorter option to the full route, but still takes in the quieter Western Lakes, including the remote valleys of Ennerdale, Wasdale and Eskdale, as well as the popular tourist towns of Ambleside and Coniston before finishing in Keswick.
| Code | Length | Average per day | Price range | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TLW7 | 6 days walking (7 nights) | 10 miles/16 km | £993 - £1222 | Full Info Book |
Tour of the Lake District: The Eastern Tour
Keswick to Ambleside 37 miles/60 km
This is a shorter option for those with less time, taking in the popular tourist hotspots of Keswick and Grasmere before finishing in Ambleside.
| Code | Length | Average per day | Price range | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TLE4 | 3 days walking (4 nights) | 12 miles/19 km | £601 - £715 | Full Info Book |