Day 1: Following your home taxi collection you will join our luxury tour coach as we head North to Kendal and the Riverside Hotel for our 4 night stay, on a dinner bed and breakfast basis.
Day 2: Today we take a scenic drive past Lake Windermere, Thirlmere Reservoir and Bassenthwaite Lake, to the Lakes Distillery where we enjoy a tour and tasting. Accompanied by an expert tour guide, you will explore the Still Room, learn about the impact of oak and cask seasoning on flavour creation, and discover how they make The Lakes whisky, gin, and vodka. You will then be invited to enjoy a tasting of three of the spirits, followed by time to visit the distillery shop.
We then make our way to Keswick, the capital of the North Lakes area for lunch. This busy market town is a northern gem in the Lake District with a never ending list of things to do and places to explore. Known for its historic landmarks, iconic walks, picturesque views and friendly ambience, Keswick is the perfect place to explore. One of the most beautiful stretches of water in the Lakes is situated nearby. Derwentwater is surrounded by woodland, bays and fells. You can easily walk around the whole lake, take a boat ride on it and walk to the shore in less than 10 minutes from Keswick town centre. (boat trip not included).
This afternoon, on our way back to the hotel, we visit Grasmere. Perhaps best known as the home of William Wordsworth, a place he once described as "The most loveliest spot that man hath found." Set alongside Grasmere Lake, Grasmere is shrouded by a panorama of fells and mountains that provide the atmosphere so beloved of Wordsworth and the Romantic poets. Old cottages, faced with pebbledash, and houses of bluish-green local slate vie for attention along the twisty streets of the village. The local church of St. Oswald's, in the centre of Grasmere, has a history stretching from the 13th century, and is the final resting place of William Wordsworth. Gingerbread lovers are strongly recommended to stop for a treat at the famous Grasmere Gingerbread shop near the church!
Day 3: We have a leisurely morning, beginning with a heritage rail journey from Haverthwaite to Lakeside. The 3.2-mile-long track runs through the awe-inspiring scenery of the Leven Valley. Beginning in the small village of Haverthwaite in the stunning Lake District, the line runs through the beautiful scenery of majestic lakes and flowing rivers, to its terminus in Lakeside at the southern end of Windermere, the largest natural lake in England.
No visit to the Lake District would be complete without a cruise, and it is from here where you will sail across Lake Windermere to Bowness. After disembarking there will be free time to explore this popular village at leisure. This dynamic town boasts an array of shops, eating and drinking establishments and many historical attractions. Whilst here, you may wish to explore the fine 15th century church of St. Martin's or maybe visit The World of Beatrix Potter™ (attractions in Bowness subject to individual choice and payment)
Day 4: This morning we head north towards Lake Ullswater for another relaxing cruise. We then continue our day onto the Cumbrian town of Penrith, which is rich in history and hub of the Eden Valley. This afternoon, we spend time in Ambleside and see Waterhead, where the sweeping views across Lake Windermere and the fells are breathtaking. Situated at the northern end of Windermere, Ambleside is perfectly located in the heart of the national park. Surrounded by majestic Lakeland fells, Ambleside’s roots are in the medieval woollen trade, but the town you see today is primarily Victorian, built of traditional grey slate. Described by purists as ‘the true Lake District’, Ambleside is a walkers’ paradise. Plenty of routes begin from near the Waterhead Pier, so why not grab a copy of Windermere Lake Cruises’ handy walkers leaflet and explore the local area.
Day 5: Sadly this morning we depart our hotel as we make our way back to Norfolk, making suitable stops along the way. Upon our arrival we re-join our door to door taxi service who will return you safely home.
Holiday Information:
4 Nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast (Dinner may be plated or carvery style)
Price: £740pp
Single Supplement: £nil (Limited Availability)
Additional Singles Beyond Allocation From: £113 (Will be allocated a twin or double room for sole occupancy, depending on availability)
Insurance: TBC (Insurance not currently available)
Tour Reference: AWE5079
Deposit Required: £50pp
Balance Due: 8 weeks prior to departure