Ambleside, Keswick and Ullswater: A Lake District Self-Guided Driving Tour

Planning to explore the Lake District but want something a bit more independent than a typical tour bus? This self-guided driving tour promises just that—your own vehicle, your own schedule, with the added bonus of an informative audio guide. It’s a budget-friendly way to soak up the scenic beauty and fascinating stories of this iconic region.

What we really like about this experience is its flexibility—you can drive at your own pace and stop as long as you like. Plus, the offline access to maps and audio means no stressing about internet connectivity while trying to find your way. That said, some reviews point out that parking can be tricky and that the app may need some tweaking to improve the overall experience. Still, if you’d prefer a relaxed, self-directed adventure over a crowded tour, this could be a good fit.

This experience works best for those who love driving through beautiful landscapes and enjoy learning about local sights from a voice-guided narrative. If you’re comfortable with using a smartphone for navigation and don’t mind some minor parking challenges, you’ll find this tour offers a lot of value for the price. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to avoid the strict timing of group tours but still crave a structured route to guide their exploration.

Key Points

• Flexible schedule: You can linger longer or skip stops based on your interests.
• Informative narration: Learn about the history, legends, and natural features as you go.
• Offline access: No worries about internet issues in remote areas.
• Good value: At just $11.99 per group, it offers a budget-friendly way to explore.
• Highlights: Includes iconic spots like Wordsworth’s home, Castlerigg Stone Circle, Ullswater, and Kirkstone Pass.
• Some parking and syncing issues: Be prepared for occasional technical or logistical hiccups reported by some users.

Exploring the Lake District at Your Own Pace

This self-guided driving tour covers an impressive stretch of the Lake District’s most picturesque corners—ranging from charming towns to stunning lakes and historic sites. What makes it appealing is the ability to enjoy the scenery without the constraints of a group or fixed schedule. You control when to stop, explore, and soak in the views, which is a vital plus for anyone wanting a more personal experience.

What the Tour Includes and How It Works

For just $11.99 per group (up to 15 people), you get lifetime access via the VoiceMap app, compatible with both Android and iOS. The audio guide is downloaded in advance, meaning you won’t need a constant internet connection—perfect for rural spots where connectivity drops. The tour is designed for a total duration of about 2.5 to 3 hours, but you’re free to extend your journey if something catches your eye.

Once booked, you’ll receive clear instructions on where to start—the Rydal Road Car Park in Ambleside—and then you’re off. The route promises a mixture of scenic drives, historical insights, and local legends. The commentary covers a lot, from William Wordsworth’s former home to the ancient stone circle at Castlerigg, giving you a deeper understanding of the area’s culture and natural history.

Itinerary Breakdown

The route kicks off in Ambleside, a lively town with character and charm. From here, you’ll drive through Rydal, taking in Rydal Mount & Gardens, once home to Wordsworth himself. We loved the way the guide weaves in poetry and history, making the drive feel more meaningful.

Next, the tour guides you past Rydal Water and Grasmere, two of the Lake District’s most beloved spots. Grasmere offers a snapshot of traditional Lakeland life, and the commentary shares stories about Wordsworth’s connection to the town. A highlight here is passing Dunmail Raise, where legends speak of King Dunmail and ghostly warriors—adding a dash of mystery to the journey.

Driving over Kirkstone Pass is another highlight, showcasing geological signs of the last ice age. The views here are breathtaking, and listening to the legend of the glaciers makes the experience even richer. The route also features Wythburn Church, one of the few remaining buildings from the original village, offering a glimpse into local history.

From there, you’re headed toward Thirlmere, where the story of the dammed lake and its controversial history adds an interesting layer to the landscape. The tour passes through Legburthwaite and along sections of the Lake District National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, emphasizing the global significance of this place.

The journey then takes you into the bustling town of Keswick. Here, you’ll get insights into local attractions like the Castlerigg Stone Circle, dating back over 4,500 years, and the outdoor activity scene around the town. The route continues past Ullswater, one of the most picturesque lakes, with the village of Glenridding providing postcard-worthy views.

Finally, the tour makes its way past Brothers Water and over Kirkstone Pass again, closing the loop with stunning vistas and local legends. The overall drive is a well-curated mix of natural beauty, history, and local lore.

How Well Does It Work in Practice?

Reviews highlight that once travelers got used to the app, the experience was quite enjoyable. One reviewer mentioned, “Once we got used to how to operate the self audio as we used it in the car—that it was really good, and it was nice to learn as we drove.” Many appreciated the scenic routes and the knowledgeable narration that made each stop more engaging.

However, some users encountered logistical hurdles. For example, finding parking was sometimes difficult, and a few found that the app didn’t sync perfectly with their navigation, requiring manual adjustments. One reviewer noted, “Finding car parks was a pain to find. Each one cost to park up. More stressful than enjoyable.” This points to the importance of planning ahead—perhaps checking parking options beforehand.

Another common comment was about timing; the listed duration of about 2.5 hours is just for driving, and actual exploration may take longer if you stop to take photos or walk around. As one reviewer suggested, “An indication on how long it takes at each stop or suggested timings would help.”

Is It Worth the Price?

At less than $12, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the lifetime access and the detailed narration. It’s a practical alternative to more expensive guided tours or crowded bus trips. If you’re comfortable using your phone for navigation and don’t mind the occasional parking hurdles, you’ll find it a flexible, informative way to experience the Lake District.

Who Would Love This Experience?

It’s ideal for self-sufficient travelers who enjoy the freedom of exploring at their own pace. History buffs, poetry lovers, and scenery seekers will appreciate the storytelling element. If you dislike rigid schedules and prefer to customize your day, this tour gives you the controls. It’s also suitable for those who want a budget-friendly option to see the major sights without paying for a guided group.

The Sum Up

This self-guided driving tour of Ambleside, Keswick, and Ullswater is a solid choice for travelers wanting to explore the Lake District on their own terms. It offers a well-balanced mix of scenic drives, historical insights, and local legends—all delivered through an easy-to-use app. At a budget-friendly price, it provides great value, especially for those who are comfortable with a bit of planning and technical setup.

While there are some reported issues with parking and app synchronization, the overall experience remains highly praised for its stunning views and knowledgeable narration. It’s perfect for autonomous explorers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone craving an in-depth, flexible tour without breaking the bank.

If you’re seeking a way to discover the Lake District’s beauty at your own pace, with the freedom to linger or skip as you please, this tour could be just what you need. Just a bit of advance planning on parking and timing will ensure you get the most out of it.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour is mainly a scenic drive with audio narration, it doesn’t specifically cater to children. It’s most suited for travelers comfortable with driving and using a smartphone app. Kids who enjoy car journeys and scenic views might find it enjoyable, but it’s not designed as a family activity with structured kid-friendly stops.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended. Once you purchase, you receive instructions and access to the app, allowing you to start the tour at your convenience.

What do I need to bring?
A smartphone with the VoiceMap app, headphones, and a way to pay for parking at certain stops will be necessary. Make sure your device is charged, as there’s no mention of charging stations along the route.

How long is the tour?
The drive itself takes around 2.5 hours, but exploring the stops or taking photos might extend your trip. The route is flexible, and you can choose how long to spend at each location.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the tour does not include tickets for attractions or museums. You’ll need to pay separately if you want to visit places like Rydal Mount or Castlerigg Stone Circle.

What if I have technical issues during the tour?
Some reviews suggest that the app might sometimes not sync perfectly. If issues arise, contacting VoiceMap support via email or phone can help resolve problems. It’s worth downloading the tour and familiarizing yourself with the app before starting the trip.

Ready to explore the Lake District at your own pace? With stunning scenery, fascinating stories, and the freedom to customize your adventure, this self-guided driving tour might just be your best way to soak it all in without the usual crowds or rigid schedules.