Mountain Goat Full Day Tour: Ten Lakes Tour of the Lake District

Thinking about exploring England’s most beautiful landscape? The Mountain Goat Ten Lakes Tour offers a solid way to see the highlights of the Lake District without the hassle of driving yourself. It’s a full-day experience that brings you close to nature, history, and picture-perfect scenery.

What catches our eye immediately is the expert guidance and the chance to visit up to ten different lakes and villages in one day. Plus, the route over mountain passes offers some of the most panoramic views you’ll find in England. That said, a longer day on a bus isn’t for everyone—be prepared for a lot of sitting and a busy schedule. Still, this trip is ideal if you want a rundown without the stress of planning or navigating.

If you’re after a hassle-free way to soak up the Lake District’s best bits, this tour could be perfect. It’s especially suited for those who love scenic drives, quick stops for photos, and learning about local history from knowledgeable guides. Families over 5 and those with a sense of adventure will enjoy it, but keep in mind it’s a full-on day with minimal walking.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Visit up to ten lakes, charming villages, and historic sites in one day.
• Expert guides: Guides like Tim, Stef, and Graham are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude.
• Comfortable transport: Small mini-coach ensures a cozy, less crowded ride with great views.
• Stunning scenery: Expect breathtaking lakes, mountain passes, and photo opportunities at every turn.
• Ideal for busy schedules: Perfect if you want a quick but comprehensive tour of the Lake District.
• Value for money: At around $75, this tour offers a full day of sightseeing, making it a good deal for what you get.

What the Tour Looks Like in Detail

Starting Out from Windermere

The journey kicks off at the Windermere Tourist Information Centre at 9:40 am. From here, the group of up to 16 travelers boards a small but comfortable minivan. The small group size means a more intimate experience, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions or chat with your guide.

Mountain Passes and Scenic Drives

One of the highlights is the drive over winding mountain passes, which open up sweeping views of valleys, craggy hills, and distant peaks. We loved the way guides like Stef or Graham brought the landscape alive with stories and facts about local geology and history. Expect to see some of the narrowest roads, which your driver expertly navigates.

Ullswater and Waterfalls

The first significant stop is at Glenridding, a charming village in the Ullswater Valley. You get a chance to stretch your legs, take photos, and enjoy the fresh air. Ullswater itself is a mirror-like lake—perfect for snapping scenic shots. Following this, the route takes you past a beautiful waterfall and the reflective waters of Lake Derwent, which are equally photogenic.

Historic and Cultural Stops

Next, the tour includes visits to Keswick—a lively market town where you can explore shops or grab a quick snack. Travelers have mentioned how much they enjoyed the free time here. The tour also makes a quick stop at the Honister Slate Mine, which, although brief, offers some of the most stunning views in the area. One reviewer commented that this was a “surprising gem,” and it’s a great spot for photos.

Ancient Sites and Villages

The Castlerigg Stone Circle is a must-see. Thought to be about 4,000 years old, this circle of stones has an almost mystical quality, especially with mountain peaks in the background. It’s free to visit, and many reviewers noted how photogenic and interesting it is, with guides sharing insights into its possible ceremonial purpose.

Lakes and Villages

Throughout the day, you’ll pass by lakes like Buttermere, recognized for its natural beauty, and Rydal Water. The small stops here let you soak in the scenery and snap some pictures. You’ll also visit the village of Grasmere, famous for being Wordsworth’s home, where you can visit St Oswald’s Church and see his resting place if you wish.

Time for Exploration

The tour provides free time in Keswick, giving you a chance to wander around, grab lunch, or just enjoy the lakeside atmosphere. The guide will ensure you’re back on time, so don’t worry about rushing.

End of the Day

The journey wraps up with a scenic drive back to Windermere, arriving around 6 pm, giving you plenty of daylight hours to explore more or head to your next destination.

The Experience You Can Expect

Guided Commentary

The onboard commentary is a highlight for many, with guides sharing stories about the region’s geology, history, and local life. As Marilyn_P noted, “Tim took us everywhere that every visitor should see + much more,” blending fun facts with engaging stories.

Photo Opportunities

Every stop is an excellent chance for photos—from the stone circle and lakes to mountain vistas. Several reviews praised the stops for being “priceless” and “wonderful photo stops.”

Comfort and Convenience

Traveling in a small coach makes the experience cozy and allows access to narrower roads that larger buses can’t navigate. The journey is comfortably paced, with regular breaks for bathroom visits and photos, as Leesa_I mentioned, “the overall trip was timely, friendly, and fantastic.”

Food and Drink

While food isn’t included, there’s a designated lunch stop where you can purchase snacks or meals. Many enjoyed exploring local cafes or shops during free time, especially in Keswick.

An Honest Look at the Downsides

While most reviews are glowing, it’s worth mentioning that a full day on a bus might not suit everyone. The schedule is packed, and there’s minimal walking involved—so if you prefer slow-paced exploration or want to spend more time in each location, this might feel rushed.

The tour also relies heavily on the weather. Since much of the experience is outdoors, poor weather could limit some photo opportunities or sightseeing. If rain or fog rolls in, some views might be obscured, and in that case, the tour may be less impressive.

Plus, the core experience is about the scenery and the guide’s commentary. If you’re looking for in-depth visits to museums or extensive walking, this tour might not meet those needs.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This full-day adventure is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of the Lake District’s highlights without the hassle of planning. It suits those who enjoy scenic drives, nature photography, and learning from friendly guides. It’s especially good for visitors with a limited amount of time but eager to see as much as possible.

If you’re traveling with older children (over 5) and appreciate a relaxed, informative trip, this tour fits well. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or are interested in more in-depth exploration of specific sites, you might want to consider splitting the trip into smaller tours or exploring on your own.

FAQ

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included. There is a designated lunch stop where you can purchase your own meal or snack.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours and 30 minutes, from departure at 9:40 am until returning in the early evening.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a small mini-coach, which travelers have praised for being cozy and easy to navigate through narrow roads.

Can I bring luggage on this tour?
Luggage storage is available at the Windermere Information Centre, but you won’t be able to bring large amounts of luggage on the tour itself.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 16 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personal.

Are children allowed?
Children over the age of 5 can join. It’s a full-day tour, so consider whether your kids are comfortable with a long day on the bus.

What weather should I expect?
Good weather is required for the full experience. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 33 days ahead on average, so plan early to secure your spot.

Final Thoughts

The Mountain Goat Ten Lakes Tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and educational glimpse into the heart of the Lake District. It’s excellent for those who want to see many of the key sights without the stress of driving or planning a complex itinerary. The knowledgeable guides, breathtaking scenery, and comfortable transport make it a memorable way to spend a day in this iconic region.

If you’re after a lively, informative, and picturesque experience that covers lakes, mountains, and charming villages, this tour definitely deserves your consideration. It’s a fantastic option whether you’re visiting solo, with friends, or even with family over 5, looking for a straightforward way to absorb the beauty of the Lake District.

Remember: Pack your camera, bring a jacket for changeable weather, and prepare to enjoy a full, rewarding day in one of England’s most cherished landscapes.