Windermere is a fantastic base for exploring the Lake District. It’s well-connected, charming, and offers easy access to some of England’s most iconic scenery. Whether you’re after a comprehensive full-day tour or a shorter, focused experience, Windermere’s tour options cater to all kinds of travelers. We especially love the full-day trips that hit multiple lakes and highlights, or the Beatrix Potter tours that bring childhood stories to life amid stunning views. For example, the Ten Lakes Full-Day Tour offers a deep dive into the region’s natural beauty with visits to Keswick, Grasmere, and Castlerigg Stone Circle.
Windermere’s tours range from scenic boat cruises and literary journeys to adventure-filled drives over mountain passes and visits to historic castles. Whatever your interests, there’s something that will fit your schedule and curiosity. The list below showcases the best options, each with its own unique focus, itinerary, and experience.
1. From Windermere: Ten Lakes Full-Day Tour of Lake District
This full-day tour takes you through ten of the most picturesque lakes in the Lake District, combined with visits to historic sites and charming villages. Starting at Windermere Visitor Information Centre, you’ll enjoy scenic drives, photo stops, and a visit to Keswick, where you can sample the famous Grasmere Gingerbread. Highlights include Ullswater, Buttermere, and Honister Pass. The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge make this trip memorable, as you learn the stories behind each lake and village. The itinerary balances sightseeing with opportunities for photos and casual walks, making it suitable for most travelers. Many reviewers mention how spectacular the views are even in less-than-perfect weather, and the inclusion of a visit to Castlerigg Stone Circle adds a mystical touch.
Bottom line: This tour offers excellent value for a full day immersed in the Lake District’s most photogenic spots.
2. Lake District: Beatrix Potter Half-Day Tour
Perfect for fans of children’s literature and scenic lakes, this half-day tour works well for those with limited time. Starting from Bowness Bay, it includes a cruise on Windermere and entry to Hill Top House, Beatrix Potter’s beloved home. You’ll also visit Tarn Hows, a peaceful spot that inspired her illustrations, and the charming village of Hawkshead. The highlight is the lake cruise, which offers relaxing views of the water and mountains, and the chance to see where Potter found her inspiration. Many reviews commend the guide for being friendly and knowledgeable, making the trip both fun and educational. The tour’s short duration makes it ideal for families or travelers with tight schedules who still want a taste of Beatrix Potter’s world.
Bottom line: A charming, well-paced trip that combines literature, scenery, and a gentle cruise.
3. From Windermere: Mountain Passes & Muncaster Castle
For those craving adventure and rugged scenery, this full-day tour over England’s steepest mountain passes is a highlight. Starting at Windermere, you’ll cross the Wrynose and Hardknott passes, two of the most dramatic routes in the British Isles, with breathtaking views of Wast Water. The tour includes a visit to Muncaster Castle, where you can explore the castle grounds, enjoy a Bird of Prey Show, and even try axe throwing or archery. Guests love the locally sourced lunch and the chance to see some of the highest, most rugged terrain in the Lake District. Guides like Tony make the experience informative and fun, sharing insights about the landscape’s formation and history. Be prepared for bumpy roads and narrow passes, which add an element of excitement but may not suit everyone.
Bottom line: Ideal for adventure seekers and lovers of historic castles, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
4. Lake District: Six Lakes Morning Tour from Windermere
This morning tour is perfect if you’re short on time but want to catch a glimpse of Ullswater and see Castlerigg Stone Circle. Starting early, you’ll visit six lakes, including Thirlmere and Rydal Water, while soaking in the panoramic mountain views. The guide ensures you get plenty of photo stops and interesting commentary about the area’s history and geology. Many visitors find this trip offers great value, especially because it includes a visit to Castlerigg, a stone circle that predates many ancient monuments. It’s a great way to experience the lakes at sunrise or in the early morning hush, and the guide’s personalized approach earns high praise.
Bottom line: A quick, scenic way to see some of the best lakes and historical sites in the Lake District.
5. Lake District: Half-Day 8 Lakes Tour
If you want a comprehensive snapshot of the Lake District’s lakes and mountains, this half-day tour is hard to beat. For around $106, you’ll ride over the highest mountain pass and see eight lakes, with stops for photos and a chance to learn about the area’s literary ties to Wordsworth’s famous “Daffodils.” The guide Tim is praised for being both knowledgeable and friendly, making the drive informative and enjoyable. The tour also features a visit to Wray Castle, which was used in the film “Miss Potter,” adding a touch of film history. Expect scenic vistas and mountain views that make for memorable photos, and the flexible itinerary suits travelers wanting a taste of everything. The only downside is the limited duration—so it’s best for those wanting a quick, yet packed, introduction.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those wanting a broad overview of Lake District landscape in a half-day.
6. Windermere Yellow Cruise: Sail between Bowness and Lakeside
This scenic cruise offers a relaxing 1.5-hour journey along Windermere, England’s largest lake. Starting from Bowness Pier, the boat’s inner and outer decks provide fantastic views, and commentary highlights local sights. You can hop off at Lakeside, where attractions like the steam railway and aquarium await. Many travelers appreciate the casual, flexible nature of this cruise, perfect for combining with other activities or simply enjoying a peaceful boat ride. Reviewers mention how much they enjoyed the scenery and the ease of exploring at each stop. It’s an ideal option if you prefer a laid-back way to experience Windermere’s waters without a long or strenuous tour.
Bottom line: A leisurely cruise option that adds a relaxing water perspective to your Windermere visit.
7. Half-Day Tour of Beatrix Potter Country and Places
This half-day guided tour combines Lake District scenery with literary history. Starting from Windermere or Bowness, you visit Hill Top, Beatrix Potter’s beloved home, and the charming Hawkshead Village, where she spent time. You’ll also see Tarn Hows and Wray Castle, which Potter visited early on. The guide is praised for their enthusiasm and local knowledge, making the journey both informative and fun. The small group size and focus on Potter’s life make this a great choice for families or literature fans. Many reviewers appreciate how the guide’s stories brought the region to life and made her stories feel real. It’s an excellent short excursion if you want a literary touch combined with scenic views.
Bottom line: Perfect for fans of Beatrix Potter and those seeking a personalized, story-rich experience.
8. The Brontes, Wuthering Heights & Jane Eyre Tour
For lovers of classic novels, this literary tour takes you to Haworth, home of the Bronte sisters. Drive through the Yorkshire Dales countryside and visit the Parsonage Museum, where the sisters lived. The guided walk around Haworth’s cobbled streets reveals the inspiration behind their novels, like Wuthering Heights and Jane Eyre. The tour also visits Wycoller Hall ruins, adding a touch of gothic romance. It’s a long day at 9-9.5 hours but packed with literary history and stunning scenery. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guide and the chance to see the landscape that inspired those timeless stories. This tour suits book lovers and history enthusiasts willing to spend a full day immersed in classic literature.
Bottom line: A must for literary fans seeking an in-depth, scenic experience.
9. Ultimate Lake District Tour Visiting 10 Lakes
At number 9 on our list, the Ultimate Lake District Tour covers all the high points—10 lakes, mountain views, and a boat trip on Ullswater. The guide’s enthusiasm shines as they reveal the stories behind each site, including an ancient stone circle and England’s tallest mountains. Many reviews emphasize how this tour offers “spectacular scenery” and a full immersion into the landscape’s grandeur. The inclusion of a boat trip adds a relaxing element, perfect for photography and appreciating the lakes from the water. It’s suited for travelers wanting a rundown with plenty of photo stops and stories. The only caveat: it’s a longer day, so be prepared for a full schedule.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, detailed exploration for those eager to see as much as possible.
10. Windermere Red Cruise: Sail between Bowness and Ambleside
This shorter cruise is a 70-minute ride connecting Bowness and Ambleside. It offers a relaxed half-lake journey with opportunities to hop off and explore each town. The vessel’s heated cabins and outdoor decks make it comfortable in various weather conditions, and the commentary highlights key sights. Reviewers appreciate the ease of transportation and scenic views, making it a good option for families or those looking for a quick water experience. It’s best suited for travelers who want a gentle cruise as part of a broader Lake District visit.
Bottom line: An easy, scenic waterway experience with flexibility to explore towns separately.
11. Scenic Tour of the Lake District in Winter
For a special seasonal experience, this winter tour captures the beauty of the lakes and mountain passes in snow or frost. It covers 10 lakes and includes stops at Keswick and Honister Pass, along with a waterfall high in the hills. Many reviews highlight how even in winter, the scenery remains stunning, with the added charm of seasonal landscapes. The tour is suitable for those who want to experience the Lake District’s tranquility and natural beauty without the summer crowds. Expect a full 6-hour day with plenty of photo opportunities and scenic drives.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for winter travelers seeking serene, snow-dusted landscapes.
12. Full-Day Yorkshire Dales Tour from Lake District
This full-day trip explores the rugged landscapes of North Yorkshire. Including visits to Bolton Castle and the Wensleydale Creamery, it’s perfect for those wanting a mix of scenery and local food. The tour offers insights into the region that inspired “All Creatures Great & Small” and fellow scenic villages. Many reviewers highlight the comfortable coach ride and the knowledgeable guide. It’s best for travelers with a few hours and a curiosity about the Dales’ pastoral charm and history. Keep in mind, it’s a shorter 3-hour tour, so prioritize what interests you most.
Bottom line: Good for a quick, scenic taste of Yorkshire’s Dales and its cheese.
13. William Wordsworth and Dove Cottage Half-Day Tour
Finally, for poetry lovers, this half-day tour offers an intimate visit to Dove Cottage, Wordsworth’s first home in Grasmere. You’ll walk through the village, visit St Oswald’s Church, and see the Wordsworth family graves. The guide shares engaging stories about Wordsworth’s life and the environment that inspired his famous poems, like “Daffodils.” Reviewers note that the guide’s knowledgeable storytelling makes this experience special, especially for those interested in literary history. The tour is compact but rich in insight, perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
Bottom line: A literary-focused, personal experience ideal for poetry fans and history buffs.
How to Choose Your Windermere Tour
Selecting the right tour depends on your interests, available time, and energy level. If you want a comprehensive experience with multiple lakes and scenic drives, the Ten Lakes Full-Day Tour is hard to beat. For a literary treat, the Beatrix Potter Half-Day or the William Wordsworth tour are excellent picks.
If you’re short on time but want a taste of Windermere’s waters, the Yellow Cruise offers a relaxing, scenic ride. Adventure travelers might prefer the Mountain Passes & Muncaster Castle, while those seeking seasonal scenery should consider the Winter Lake District.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular full-day tours in peak seasons or special experiences like the Brontes & Yorkshire Dales. Match your interests and schedule to find the perfect Windermere tour and enjoy a memorable adventure in England’s most scenic corner.
Whether you’re after a full immersion or a quick scenic jaunt, Windermere’s tour selection provides quality, variety, and plenty of stories waiting to be discovered. Happy exploring!
