Scenic Cumbria & the Lovely Lake District

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 Holiday Inn Express, Barrow-in-Furness (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast- Excursions to Bowness-on-Windermere, the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, Grasmere, Kendal & Ulverston- Heritage train journey on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway- Cruise on Lake Windermere- Scenic drive through Cumbria

Itinerary
Included ExcursionsLakeland Rails, Sails & Tails (full day)We head to Haverthwaite where we climb aboard our heritage train on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway for our nostalgic journey. We are transported back to the golden age of steam as we travel through the picturesque Leven Valley to peaceful Lakeside, the southern tip of Lake Windermere.From here we explore the stunning beauty of Lake Windermere on a leisurely scenic cruise. Sit back and relax as we enjoy magnificent views of mountain scenery, secluded bays and many wooded islands as we cruise England's largest natural lake.We disembark in Bowness-on-Windermere, a popular resort and charming enclave on the eastern shores of the lake. We enjoy free time in this bustling town with its craft and gift shops, lakeside cafés and quaint tea rooms. We also enjoy free entry to the enchanting World of Beatrix Potter Attraction where an endearing short film presentation, exhibition and garden bring Beatrix Potter's celebrated characters to life, complete with sights and sounds of the glorious countryside.Scenic Cumbria (full day)We take a scenic drive through stunning Cumbria, passing through highlights such as the enchanting village of Grizebeck, the seaside resort of Newbiggin-by-the-Sea and the market town of Ulverston, the birthplace of Stan Laurel, where we enjoy some free time. Be sure to visit the Laurel & Hardy Museum, devoted to the beloved double act and bursting with personal items, photos, memorabilia and more, located in a 1930s period cinema and originally created by a lifelong fan.Grasmere & Kendal (full day)In the morning, we make our way to Grasmere, the picturesque village associated with the poet William Wordsworth, who lived here for 14 years and declared the Grasmere as 'the loveliest spot that man hath ever found'. You may like to visit his former home of Dove Cottage and his grave in the churchyard before picking up some deliciously moreish Grasmere gingerbread in the famous Victorian shop - the top-secret recipe hasn't changed since 1854 and is locked away in a bank in Cumbria!We continue to the market town of Kendal, the southern gateway to the Lakes and home of the famous Kendal mint cake. There are also plenty of cafés and boutiques as well as one of the country's oldest museums plus an award-winning art gallery housed in a beautiful Grade I listed villa.

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.
England'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.
Hotel
Holiday Inn Express, Barrow-in-FurnessJG3 ratingThe modern Holiday Inn Express in the heart of Barrow-in-Furness is ideally located for our break and offers a warm welcome. You can expect a restaurant, bar, free Wi-Fi and modern bedrooms with tea and coffee-making facilities, flat-screen TV and a hairdryer.Hotel RatingJG3 ratingHotels with a JG3 rating tend to be a more formal style of hotel, often part of a hotel chain, or are very-welcoming family-owned properties. Generally, they offer a greater range of facilities and services, and bedrooms tend to be a little more spacious with additional features. Public areas are larger and include lounge seating, bar and restaurant with good quality food served either buffet style or waiter service.