Mountain Goat Full Day Tour: Ten Lakes from Oxenholme

Planning a trip to the Lake District and want to see its most beautiful lakes without the hassle of renting cars or navigating buses? Then the Mountain Goat Full Day Tour: Ten Lakes from Oxenholme might be just what you’re looking for. This guided excursion offers a smooth, scenic way to enjoy some of the most picturesque spots in England’s Lake District in a single day.

What we love about this tour is its combination of expert commentary and worry-free logistics—meaning you can relax and enjoy the views without stressing over planning routes or transportation. Another big plus is how many different lakes and villages you’ll see, giving you a well-rounded taste of what the Lake District has to offer.

Of course, a potential consideration is that the tour involves quite a bit of driving, with a packed itinerary that leaves little time for lingering in each spot. If you’re someone who prefers slow, contemplative visits or has mobility issues, this might not be ideal. Still, for those eager to maximize their sightseeing in a single day, this tour packs in a lot for the price.

This experience feels perfect for travelers who want an easy, informative, and scenic day trip—especially if you’re short on time or prefer guided tours over DIY exploring. Families with older children, solo travelers, or couples who enjoy a good mix of nature and local culture will find this tour particularly appealing.

Key Points

• All-in-one Lake District experience: Visit 10 lakes and key spots without the hassle of arranging your own transport.
• Comfortable, small-group transport: A mini-coach ensures a cozy journey and easy access to viewpoints.
• Expert onboard commentary: Guides share interesting insights and stories about the area’s highlights.
• Flexible and convenient: Includes pick-up and drop-off at Oxenholme station, with minimal walking involved.
• Value for money: For about $75, you get a full day of sightseeing, transport, and engaging commentary.
• Limited dining options: You’ll need to buy your own lunch during the free time in Keswick.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

This tour is built for those who want to enjoy the sights without the typical stresses of driving or navigating public transport. Starting at Oxenholme Railway Station at 9:10 am, the journey kicks off with a scenic drive over winding, often steep mountain passes that set the mood for the day—think sweeping views and the anticipation of seeing some of England’s most iconic lakes.

The Lakes and Stops

Derwentwater is first on the list. With 50 minutes to enjoy this expansive lake, you’ll get a good look at the scenery, and admission is included, so you can take photos, walk along the shore, or simply relax and soak in the views. It’s a popular spot, and many reviews highlight how stunning it is—”the beautiful lakes and waterfalls,” as one reviewer put it, really do live up to the hype.

Next, you’ll visit Keswick, a lively market town worth exploring for about an hour. Here, you’ll have a chance to grab lunch at your own expense—something to keep in mind if you’re hungry after the morning drive. The free time in Keswick is a nice break, and according to reviews, it’s a charming place with plenty of local character, perfect for a quick browse or a sit-down meal.

Traveling further, the route takes you over Honister Pass and into the Newlands Valley. These areas are known for their dramatic landscapes—fells, rocky outcrops, and lush valleys—perfect for those who love dramatic scenery.

Iconic Landmarks and Ancient Sites

One of the highlights is a quick stop at the Castlerigg Stone Circle, an ancient arrangement of 48 stones dating back to around 3,000 BC. This is a short 15-minute walk, but it’s a meaningful moment—an opportunity to snap some photos and learn about its ceremonial purpose. No admission fee here, which makes it a simple but memorable stop.

Buttermere offers reflective waters and tranquil views. The photos of this lake often show calm, mirror-like surfaces—ideal for peaceful contemplation or a quick photo op.

Another highlight is Grasmere, a picturesque village famously associated with William Wordsworth. The 30-minute stop is enough to explore the quaint streets, admire the traditional architecture, and sample local treats like Sarah Nelson’s Gingerbread—highly recommended by visitors.

Guides and Commentary

Reviews consistently praise the guides and drivers—not only for their knowledge but also for their friendly, approachable manner. One reviewer mentioned Derek’s “vast and insightful knowledge,” while others appreciated the “quirky details” shared about the area. The guides also help create a relaxed atmosphere, making the experience enjoyable regardless of weather or crowds.

Many travelers note that the small group size (max 16) makes for a more intimate, personalized experience. The onboard commentary in English adds a layer of interest, turning what could be a simple drive into a learning opportunity about the history, geology, and stories behind each location.

Transportation and Practicalities

The mini-coach is a big plus—small enough for a cozy atmosphere, but comfortable enough to handle the winding roads. Seats are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early helps secure a preferred spot.

The tour is well-timed; each stop is planned to give enough time for sightseeing and photos but not so long that you feel rushed or that the day drags. It lasts roughly 38 days 3 hours to 76 days 6 hours in duration (a bit of an odd way to phrase it, but it suggests flexibility or variation in the schedule).

The tour includes pick-up and drop-off at Oxenholme Railway Station, making it especially convenient if you’re arriving by train. You should arrive early, as the tour cannot wait for late arrivals, and luggage storage is available at the station.

Value and Cost

At $75.56 per person, this tour offers a lot. You get transportation, multiple stops at major lakes and towns, and insightful commentary, all in one package. Considering the cost of hiring a car or doing numerous individual excursions, it represents good value—especially for those who prefer guided experiences and want to avoid planning logistics themselves.

What We’re Noticing

While most reviews are glowing, keep in mind that the tour involves a full day of bus travel with minimal walking. If mobility is a concern, plan accordingly. Also, since food isn’t included, you’ll need to budget for lunch in Keswick or bring snacks. The inclusion of toilet stops and the short walking distances at stops are helpful for comfort.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who:
– Want to see a lot of the Lake District in one day without the hassle of self-driving.
– Appreciate guided commentary that brings interesting stories and facts about the scenery and history.
– Are comfortable with a full day of bus travel and minimal walking.
– Are traveling with older children or adults who would enjoy a relaxed, scenic day out.
– Don’t mind paying a bit for convenience and expert insights.

It’s less ideal if you’re looking for longer, more contemplative stops or want to explore each location extensively on your own.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 38 days 3 hours to 76 days 6 hours, which suggests some variation in schedule; in reality, it’s a full-day experience, roughly around 8–10 hours including stops and travel.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Oxenholme Railway Station at 9:10 am and ends back there, making it very convenient if you’re arriving by train.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the journey is in a small, mini-coach. It’s comfortable enough for a day of sightseeing, and the group size is limited to 16 travelers to keep things cozy.

What about food?
Food and drinks are not included, but there’s a dedicated stop in Keswick where you can purchase lunch or snacks at your own expense.

Are there any age restrictions?
Children over 5 years old are welcome to join, but younger kids might find the full-day travel tiring.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Minimal walking is involved at stops, but if you have mobility concerns, it’s best to assess how much walking or standing is involved.

Do I need to reserve seats?
Seats cannot be reserved in advance, so arriving early is recommended to get a preferred spot.

Are there any attractions with entrance fees?
Derwentwater’s scenery is free to enjoy, and Castlerigg Stone Circle has no fee. Admission is included for Derwentwater, and others like Keswick and Grasmere are free to explore.

What is the guide like?
Guide reviews praise their knowledge, friendly manner, and ability to share interesting stories. Many mention guides like Derek, Stef, Mike, and Tim by name.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a stress-free way to see some of England’s most beautiful lakes and landscapes, this full-day guided tour from Oxenholme offers a compelling package. It balances scenic beauty, expert commentary, and convenience—all for a reasonable price. While it’s not suited for those wanting an unstructured, leisurely exploration, it’s perfect for travelers eager to maximize their time and see a broad swath of the Lake District in one go.

The combination of stunning views, friendly guides, and comfortable transport makes it a solid choice, especially if you’re visiting for the first time or limited on days. Prepare to enjoy the natural beauty of lakes like Derwentwater, Buttermere, and Ullswater, and to leave with a handful of memorable photos and stories to share.

Enjoy the trip, and don’t forget your camera!