The Lovely English Lake District

Awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 2017, the Lake District boasts some of England's finest scenery, from navy blue lakes and jagged fells to the lush valleys they loom over. The collection of idyllic towns and villages, as well as a nostalgic heritage railway, complete the timeless appeal of this beautiful region. With a leisurely cruise on the stunning Lake Windermere and entrance to the endearing World of Beatrix Potter Attraction also included, this break is the perfect chance to fully experience the lovely English Lake District.What's Included?
- Return coach travel- 4 nights at the County Hotel, Carlisle (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast - Excursions to Bowness-on-Windermere, the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, Hawkshead & Grasmere- Heritage train journey on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway- Cruise on Lake WindermereOptional excursion to Pooley Bridge, Keswick & Cockermouth (£14pp)

Included Excursions
Lakeland 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.Hawkshead & Grasmere (full day)We travel to the pretty, car-free village of Hawkshead. Characterised by clusters of whitewashed houses, archways and alleyways, courtyards and squares, this cosy village was once beloved by Beatrix Potter, and offers pleasant inns, tea rooms and gift shops.Afterwards, we continue 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'.

Optional Excursion
Pooley Bridge, Keswick & Cockermouth - £14pp (full day)Join our optional excursion where we first travel to Pooley Bridge in the Eden Valley. This village on the water offers views over the River Eamont and picturesque walkways along streets lined with quaint cafés and greystone houses. We continue to Keswick, a handsome market town that enjoys a lovely location sandwiched between peaceful Derwentwater and Skiddaw, England's fourth highest mountain. Enjoy the pedestrianised Market Square, browse the unique shops and art galleries, or treat yourself in one of the quaint cafés and restaurants. We conclude our day in Cockermouth, birthplace of William Wordsworth. This thriving town boasts medieval and Georgian streets beneath castle walls, pretty Georgian shop fronts, small independent shops, a wide selection of interesting antique and gift shops plus cafés and pubs.

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.
County Hotel, Carlisle (JG3 rating) Hotel
The County Hotel in Carlisle is situated in the city centre. The hotel boasts a bar and restaurant while the comfortable bedrooms include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities as well as a TV.