• Kirkstone Mountain Pass - Kirkstone Pass, the highest road pass in the Lake District, provides a stunning scenic return journey as travelers descend toward the starting point. At an elevation of 1,489 feet, this historic mountain route winds through rugged, open fells, offering some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the region.

As the route meanders through the dramatic landscape, it passes the Kirkstone Inn, one of the highest pubs in England, standing in solitude amid the vast wilderness. The road follows the steep descent toward Windermere, revealing expansive views stretching across the valley below.

This final leg encapsulates the wild beauty of the Lake District, offering a fitting conclusion to a journey filled with stunning lakes, historic villages, and awe-inspiring scenery, as travelers return to their original departure point.

• Brothers Water - Nestled within a quiet valley, Brothers Water is one of the Lake District’s smaller yet most atmospheric lakes, offering a moment of tranquility before ascending into the high fells. Once known as Broad Water, it was renamed in memory of two brothers who tragically drowned here, adding to its poignant history.

Unlike the busier lakes, Brothers Water remains a secluded gem, surrounded by rugged peaks and dense woodlands, often reflecting the ever-changing skies on its still surface. In spring and summer, its fringes burst into color with wildflowers, while autumn transforms the landscape into a tapestry of deep reds and golds.

This stretch of the journey provides stunning views of the Hartsop Valley, a peaceful area rarely visited by crowds. As travelers leave the lake behind, the road begins its steep ascent toward Kirkstone Pass, the highest and most dramatic mountain pass in the Lake District.

• Glenridding - Glenridding offers a serene lakeside stop on the shores of Ullswater. Visitors can stretch their legs, enjoy the views, visit the village cafés, or walk to the water’s edge.
• Ullswater - Ullswater, stretching nine miles through a breathtaking glacial valley, is often considered the most picturesque lake in England. Its mirror-like waters, framed by towering peaks and ancient woodlands, create a landscape that shifts dramatically with the light and weather. On calm days, the lake’s surface reflects the surrounding fells, while in rougher conditions, waves lap against the shore, adding to its wild beauty.

As the journey continues along its scenic eastern shore, the rugged slopes of Helvellyn and Place Fell rise steeply above the water, showcasing some of the most dramatic terrain in the Lake District. The route takes travelers through Glenridding, a former lead-mining village now serving as a gateway to Helvellyn’s famous ridges and Ullswater’s steamer cruises. This stretch offers a final glimpse of Ullswater’s natural grandeur before the ascent over Kirkstone Pass, the highest road pass in the Lake District.

• Castlerigg Stone Circle - Castlerigg Stone Circle is one of Britain’s most ancient and striking Neolithic monuments, estimated to be over 5,000 years old. Unlike many prehistoric sites, it remains largely intact, offering an authentic glimpse into the past.

With 38 standing stones, the tallest reaching just under 5 feet, Castlerigg’s true spectacle is its setting. Positioned on a high plateau, it commands breathtaking views of Blencathra, Skiddaw, and Helvellyn, making it one of the most photogenic stone circles in the country.

Though its origins remain uncertain, it is believed to have been used for rituals, gatherings, or early astronomical observations. This short stop provides the perfect opportunity to absorb the atmosphere, appreciate the history, and take in the stunning surroundings before continuing towards Aira Force Waterfall.

• Thirlmere - Thirlmere, a long and narrow reservoir, sits in a deep valley between towering fells. Unlike the busier lakes, it offers a sense of seclusion and untamed beauty, surrounded by dense forests and the rugged slopes of Helvellyn, one of England’s highest mountains.

Originally two separate lakes, Leathes Water and Wythburn Water, Thirlmere was dammed in the late 19th century to provide freshwater to Manchester, a decision that reshaped the landscape. Despite its man-made origins, it has blended seamlessly into the natural surroundings, creating a stunning and peaceful backdrop along the journey.

As travelers pass, they can take in the serene waters, winding roads, and dramatic peaks, offering a contrast to the more visited parts of the Lake District before continuing towards Castlerigg Stone Circle.

• Grasmere - Grasmere is a quintessential Lakeland village, often described as “the loveliest spot that man hath ever found.” Surrounded by fells and steeped in literary history, it was home to William Wordsworth, whose influence remains woven into its charm.

The journey pauses outside the Grasmere Gingerbread Shop, where visitors can sample the world-famous Grasmere Gingerbread, a unique sweet treat created in 1854. Just steps away, Wordsworth’s Daffodil Garden and St. Oswald’s Church invite a peaceful stroll, with the poet’s final resting place nestled beside the ancient stone lychgate.

Grasmere’s independent shops, artisanal cafés, and breathtaking scenery make it a must-visit location, offering a perfect balance of history, culture, and local flavors before continuing the journey.

• Rydal Water - Rydal Water, though one of the smallest lakes in the region, is among the most picturesque and historically significant. Nestled between wooded slopes and craggy fells, it was a favorite retreat of William Wordsworth, who lived nearby at Rydal Mount.

As travelers pass, they can admire the lake’s serene, mirror-like reflections, which shift with the changing light. On the far shore lies Wordsworth’s Seat, a viewpoint the poet himself frequented for inspiration. In the distance, the Rydal Caves, man-made quarry caves, add a sense of mystery to the landscape.

This tranquil stretch of the journey offers a glimpse into the romantic beauty that inspired centuries of poetry, setting the scene as the journey continues towards Grasmere.

• Ambleside - Ambleside, set at the northern tip of Lake Windermere, is a lively town surrounded by dramatic fells. This stop allows time to explore its historic streets, boutique shops, and cozy cafés, offering a glimpse into everyday Lakeland life.

The journey pauses near Bridge House, a 17th-century landmark and one of the most photographed buildings in the region. Once an apple store, it now stands as a symbol of Ambleside’s heritage. Visitors can take a short leisurely stroll along Stock Beck, browse independent shops and art galleries, or simply soak up the town’s welcoming atmosphere.

With its rich history and traditional charm, Ambleside offers the perfect introduction to the Lake District before continuing towards Rydal Water.

• Windermere - Windermere, stretching 10.5 miles, is England’s largest natural lake and the gateway to the Lake District. Departing from Windermere Railway Station or Bowness-on-Windermere Boat Pier, the journey follows the scenic eastern shoreline, passing Victorian mansions, historic boathouses, and lakeside retreats.

Though there won’t be a stop, travelers can enjoy stunning glimpses of boats gliding across the water, with the distant Langdale Pikes and Fairfield Horseshoe rising beyond. Some days, the lake is a perfect mirror, while on others, mist drifts over its surface.

This breathtaking introduction sets the scene for the journey ahead as it continues towards Ambleside.

• Bottled water

Six Lakes Splendour offers a serene half-day excursion connecting six of the Lake District’s most unique waters. The journey starts in Windermere, ascending to a viewpoint with expansive views of the lake and fells, before heading north through gentle hills towards Brothers Water, a tranquil tarn nestled beneath steep slopes. The path continues to Ullswater for a leisurely stop in Glenridding, allowing time to explore, enjoy the shoreline, or relax quietly.

Following the western edge of Ullswater, the route proceeds to Castlerigg Stone Circle for a well-placed pause with panoramic mountain views.

A brief stop at Thirlmere provides reflections of Helvellyn, before moving on to Grasmere for about thirty minutes to explore the village or lake.

The return journey passes Rydal Water and Loughrigg, concluding with a final stop in Ambleside. This is sightseeing at its finest—steady, clear, and comfortably paced.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.