Blackpool & Cruising Lake Windermere

Vibrant, timeless and fun, Blackpool has remained one of the UK's favourite seaside destinations thanks to its iconic tower, sandy beaches and old-fashioned trams. From here we explore the Lake District with its natural beauty and stunning scenery, including a cruise of lovely Lake Windermere, England's largest lake and one of the most spectacular landscapes the country has to offer. This is the perfect combination of coast and country!What's Included?
Includes- Return coach travel- 4 nights at the Bluewaters Hotel, Blackpool (JG2 rating) with dinner & breakfast- Entertainment some evenings- Excursions to Kendal, Bowness-on-Windermere & Skipton- Cruise on Lake Windermere- Scenic drive through the Ribble Valley- Cruise on the Leeds & Liverpool CanalOptional excursion to Southport (10pp)

Itinerary
Included ExcursionsKendal, Bowness-on-Windermere & Lake Windermere Cruise (full day)We make our way to the Lake District, stopping first at the town of Kendal, the southern gateway to the Lakes and home of the famous Kendal mint cake. We then head to Bowness-on-Windermere, a charming enclave on the eastern shores of Lake Windermere.From here we explore the beauty of Lake Windermere on a scenic cruise, enjoying magnificent views of mountain scenery, secluded bays and many wooded islands along the way. We disembark back in Bowness-on-Windermere where we enjoy free time in this bustling town with its craft and gift shops, lakeside cafés and tea rooms.Ribble Valley Scenic Drive, Skipton & the Leeds & Liverpool Canal(full day)We take a scenic drive through the stunning countryside of the Ribble Valley, stopping in the market town of Longridge. We then head to Skipton, known as the 'Gateway to the Dales' and complete with a grand medieval castle as its centrepiece. Why not take the chance to browse the award-winning market, which still operates under a charter granted by King John over 800 years ago? After some time to explore, we then enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, one of the highlights of the Yorkshire Dales and a lovely way to admire the surrounding scenery.Optional ExcursionSouthport (£10pp) (half day)Our optional excursion takes us to the traditional Victorian seaside town of Southport, often referred to as 'England's Classic Resort'. Southport offers a unique blend of classic and contemporary attractions with its expansive beaches, historic pier, and vibrant town centre. There is plenty to enjoy, from a stroll along the Grade II listed pier to the botanical gardens or trying a local delicacy.

Lake District
Discover the glorious Lake District in Cumbria, an area of outstanding natural beauty with stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, clear, shimmering lakes and rugged mountains.\n\nEngland's largest National Park, this beautiful region is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the country's favourite places for enjoying the outdoors. Lose yourself in the breathtaking landscapes, with a panorama of striking mountains and crags, lush green farmland, rolling fells, thriving woodland, all home to native animals and plants, and idyllic market towns and picturesque villages. The Lake District is also home to England's highest mountain, Scafell Pike (3,206ft) and its largest lake, Lake Windermere.


Blackpool
For all year round entertainment, there's nowhere better to visit than Blackpool, the top seaside and coach holiday destination in the North of England.\n\nFamous for its miles of unspoilt beaches and its spectacular promenade, often known as the Golden Mile, Blackpool's array of attractions is second to none.
Home to the longest outdoor light show in the UK, the most experienced donkeys, the UK's tallest roller coaster and a world-renowned dance floor, Blackpool really does have something for everyone and still offers arguably the best entertainment, fun and variety compared to any other seaside resort in the UK.
Hotel
Bluewaters Hotel, BlackpoolJG2 ratingIdeally located on Blackpool's North Promenade, the Bluewaters Hotel is a three-minute walk from the beach. The hotel features two bars, a games room and a guest lounge - perfect for unwinding.Hotel RatingJG2 ratingHotels with a JG2 rating are a mixture of larger hotels and privately owned properties. Décor and furnishings may be simple but are clean and well maintained. All bedrooms have en-suite facilities, TV and may have tea/coffee making facilities. Food may be buffet style in some of the larger hotels. Services may be limited but efficient.