Windermere is a fantastic hub for exploring some of England’s most stunning landscapes. Its central location makes it easy to join full-day tours that cover the iconic Lake District or the charming Yorkshire Dales. We love the Ten Lakes Full-Day Tour for its comprehensive coverage of lakes, villages, and historic sites—plus, it’s highly rated with a 4.8/5 from nearly 700 reviews. For those interested in a taste of northern England’s diverse scenery and history, the Yorkshire Dales tour offers a different vibe, with Wensleydale cheese, castles, and quaint villages. Both tours provide authentic experiences and a good value for their price and length.
Below, we’ll explore these two popular options, giving you the details you need to decide which one fits your interests and schedule best. Whether you’re after the lakes and mountains or the rolling hills and castles, these trips will help you see the best of northern England in a day.
1. From Windermere: Ten Lakes Full-Day Tour of Lake District
At number 1 on our list, this full-day tour of the Lake District is a favorite for its stunning scenery and comprehensive itinerary. Starting at the Windermere Tourist Information Centre, you’ll journey through Ullswater, explore lakes like Buttermere, and visit the historic Castlerigg Stone Circle—a site that instantly transports you to ancient times. The tour also includes charming stops in Keswick, known for its lively market and lakeside views, and Grasmere, where you can indulge in the famous Gingerbread.
What makes this tour stand out is its carefully curated route, covering ten lakes and scenic spots that are often hard to see in a single day. The guide is praised for sharing engaging stories and local tips, making the trip more than just sightseeing. The itinerary includes plenty of breaks for photos, walking, and enjoying local treats, like the gingerbread in Grasmere. With a 4.8-star rating from 669 reviews, most travelers agree this is an excellent way to experience the Lake District’s highlights without the hassle of driving.
The trip’s value lies in its variety—lakes, villages, scenic drives, and historic sites—and the knowledgeable guides who make the landscape come alive. The price of about $74 per person makes it accessible, considering the length and richness of the experience.
Bottom line: If you want a broad, scenic overview of England’s most picturesque lakes and villages, this tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty and cultural charm, all led by experienced guides who love sharing their knowledge.
2. From Lake District: Full-Day Yorkshire Dales Tour
At number 2, this day trip to the Yorkshire Dales offers a different kind of landscape—rolling hills, stone villages, and historic castles. Departing from Windermere, the tour takes you across the border to North Yorkshire, with stops at Bolton Castle, where Mary Queen of Scots was once imprisoned, and the Wensleydale Creamery in Hawes for cheese tasting. It also includes a scenic drive through the Yorkshire Dales National Park, with plenty of opportunities for photos and a look at the area’s unique landscape that inspired All Creatures Great & Small.
This tour is shorter, lasting about 3 hours, but packs in a lot of classic sights. The Wensleydale cheese tasting is a highlight, offering a chance to sample the famous cheese straight from the source. The stop at Bolton Castle provides a glimpse into medieval history, and the landscape itself is quintessentially rural, with pastures and stone-built villages.
The guide’s commentary is often praised, and the personal touches—like dropping visitors off in Windermere, Bowness, or Ambleside—make the experience flexible. At about $109 per person, it’s a bit pricier than the Lake District tour, but the inclusion of castle visits and cheese tasting adds value.
Bottom line: This trip is perfect if you’re curious about historic castles, cheese tasting, and the visual charm of the Yorkshire Dales. It’s ideal for shorter visits or those seeking a taste of northern England’s diverse rural scenery.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests and schedule. If natural lakes, mountain scenery, and charming villages are your priority, the Ten Lakes Full-Day Tour (see details here) offers an immersive experience. For a shorter trip focused on castles, cheese, and pastoral landscapes, the Yorkshire Dales tour (see details here) is a smart choice.
Budgets and time also matter. The Lake District tour provides a full day for around $74, making it a great deal considering the scenery and stops included. Meanwhile, the Yorkshire Dales tour is best for those with limited time and a curiosity for historic sites.
Booking early is advisable for both, especially in peak seasons like spring and summer, to secure your spot and preferred times.
In sum, Windermere offers excellent opportunities for exploring some of England’s most photogenic and fascinating landscapes. Whether you choose the expansive Ten Lakes Lake District tour or the charming Yorkshire Dales trip, you’ll return with stories and photos to cherish. For travelers craving a mix of natural beauty, history, and local flavor, these tours are a perfect way to make the most of your day in northern England. Consider your interests, plan ahead, and don’t forget to book early—these trips fill up quickly.