Grasmere is probably Cumbria’s most popular village, thanks to William Wordsworth (1770-1850). Today Grasmere is totally given over to the tourist industry, with plenty of gift shops, places to stay and places to eat.

Most of the buildings date from the 19th or early 20th Century, though the farms around Grasmere are much older. The Church dates from the 13th Century.

At the head of Lake Windermere and the foot of Kirkstone Pass, there’s a pastime for everyone. Ambleside is a bustling market town great for cafes, walking and climbing equipment. With Waterhead pier connecting visitors to the Lake, catch the steamer for a leisurely boat ride or hire a boat.

The town is bursting with traditional pubs, tea shops, and award winning restaurants.

Windermere has a variety of independent shops, cafes and eateries for sedate afternoon teas with spectacular views. A charming town for a leisurely stroll around the lake or grab your boots and walk to Orrest Head, School Knot or the National Trust’s 17th century farmhouse, Townend.

From here, hop on the 555 or 599 to Bowness for wonderful panoramic views of Lake Windermere, hire a boat or enjoy a leisurely cruise with a Windermere Lake Cruises bus & boat ticket.

Stop off at Brockhole on the Windermere shoreline – a must for family fun! Have lunch in a variety of eateries before hitting the shops in Bowness, then walk along the promenade for an ice-cream whilst taking in the best Lake views.

Windermere has a variety of independent shops, cafes and eateries for sedate afternoon teas with spectacular views. A charming town for a leisurely stroll around the lake or grab your boots and walk to Orrest Head, School Knot or the National Trust’s 17th century farmhouse, Townend.

From here, hop on the 555 or 599 to Bowness for wonderful panoramic views of Lake Windermere, hire a boat or enjoy a leisurely cruise with a Windermere Lake Cruises bus & boat ticket.

Stop off at Brockhole on the Windermere shoreline – a must for family fun! Have lunch in a variety of eateries before hitting the shops in Bowness, then walk along the promenade for an ice-cream whilst taking in the best Lake views.

At the Southern gateway to the Lakes, Kendal is a great market town full of hidden places, quaint streets and quirky cafes to explore.

The home of fell walkers’ favourite, Mint Cake, Kendal offers a great base with a 12th Century castle, an array of coffee shops and eateries, Abbot Hall and numerous galleries.