Six Lakes Spectacular Preview

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Windermere village is situated just over one mile from the lake. Previously a village called Birthwaite, the town grew as a result of the railway station. Created due to local commercial interest in Kendal after the mainline went elsewhere, industrial leaders wanted the railway to head north to make use of the region's settlements and raw materials, such as iron ore and steel. Thanks to William Wordsworth, the famous poet who protested the railway through letter writing and rallying public opinion, the railway was never developed beyond Windermere. As the final stop on the line, Windermere became a crucial gateway, transforming the area into a popular tourist destination and leading to the development of the town.

We are now approaching White Cross Bay, which is a Park Dean Holiday Resort, but it holds a remarkable and often overlooked wartime history.

During the Second World War, this tranquil lakeside setting was transformed into a secret aircraft production site operated by the Short Brothers. Built in 1941, the facility was deliberately positioned inland to protect it from German bombing raids, while Windermere itself provided an ideal natural runway for testing large seaplanes.

It was here that the Short Sunderland flying boat, one of Britain’s most important maritime patrol aircraf was assembled and launched. The Sunderland was a massive four-engine flying boat used by the Royal Air Force for long-range reconnaissance, anti-submarine warfare, and search and rescue missions across the Atlantic.

Known as the “Flying Porcupine” due to its heavy defensive armament, it played a crucial role in countering German U-boats. Between 1942 and 1944, dozens of these aircraft were built at White Cross Bay, with many more repaired and tested on the lake. After the war, the factory was dismantled and the area gradually returned to civilian use, eventually becoming the holiday park seen today.

At 10.5 miles long, one mile wide, and 220 feet deep, Windermere is the largest natural lake in both the Lake District and England. As a ribbon lake formed by glaciers during the last Ice Age, it is fed by numerous rivers. Its name is strictly just "Windermere", but "Lake Windermere" is often used to distinguish it from the nearby town. The lake is dotted with 18 islands, the largest of which is the privately owned Belle Isle. This 40-acre island holds a unique circular mansion built in 1774, the first of its kind in England. Windermere’s waters have also been the stage for historic speed records; in 1930, Sir Henry Segrave broke the world water speed record here in his boat, Miss England II, reaching nearly 100 mph.

Briery Close is a historically significant house on the eastern side of Lake Windermere, closely associated with two major figures of Victorian literature: Charlotte Brontë and Elizabeth Gaskell. In 1850, Charlotte Brontë stayed here during a visit to the Lake District, and it was at Briery Close that she met Elizabeth Gaskell for the first time. This meeting would prove important, as Gaskell later became Brontë’s friend and, after her death, wrote the influential biography The Life of Charlotte Brontë, helping to shape how the author was remembered.

At the time, Briery Close was a private residence, offering a quiet retreat that suited Brontë’s preference for seclusion. The house itself has changed over the years and is now part of a hotel complex, but its literary connection remains an important part of its identity.

A short distance along the road, on the left as you travel north, you come to Cringlemire, another impressive lakeside house. This property is notable for its beautifully designed gardens, created by the renowned landscape architect Thomas Mawson. Mawson was one of the leading garden designers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and his work at Cringlemire reflects his signature style: structured terraces, carefully framed views, and a harmonious relationship between house, garden, and surrounding landscape.

The Kaiser’s Viewis one of the most impressive panoramic sights offering sweeping views stretching almost the entire length of Windermere. From this elevated position, the eye is drawn southwards along Windermere’s narrowing waters, framed by wooded slopes and distant fells, creating a sense of scale that’s rare in the region.

The name comes from a story involving Kaiser Wilhelm the 2nd and the influential local landowner Hugh Lowther, the 5th Earl of Lonsdale. During a visit in the late 19th century, Lord Lonsdale is said to have brought the Kaiser to this very spot to admire the view. With a grand gesture, he reportedly claimed that all the land visible before them belonged to him.

In reality, this was something of an exaggeration. Lonsdale was indeed a major landowner in the Lake District, but he certainly did not own the entire stretching down Windermere. The story has endured as a piece of local folklore.

Townend is a remarkable example of a traditional Lakeland statesman farmer’s house, dating back to around 1626. Built from local stone and slate, it offers a rare and authentic glimpse into rural life in the Lake District during the 17th century. Unlike many historic houses, Townend is especially valued for its original interiors, which have been carefully preserved over the centuries. Inside, you would find intricately carved oak furniture, panelled walls, and everyday objects that tell the story of farming life in this region.

For over 300 years, Townend was home to the Browne family, who lived here from 1626 until 1943. As “statesman” farmers, they were not nobility, but they were prosperous and influential within the local community, managing their own land and contributing to the rural economy.

In 1948, Townend was entrusted to the National Trust, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

As you look to the right, you’ll see a series of impressive bank barns, originally built in 1666 to serve Townend. These large agricultural buildings were cleverly constructed into the hillside, allowing access at different levels for storing hay above and sheltering animals below.

Troutbeck is a charming villages, with a character that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Many of the buildings you see today date back to the late 17th century, constructed from local stone and set against the backdrop of rolling fells. The village stretches along the valley rather than clustering around a central square, giving it a peaceful, linear layout that reflects its agricultural roots.

One of Troutbeck’s most important natural features is its location along a spring line. This means the village benefits from a reliable and abundant supply of fresh water, which has supported settlement here for generations. As you travel through, you may notice several wells on the left-hand side of the road. These are not only practical sources of water but also carry historic and sometimes spiritual significance.

Each well is traditionally named, often after saints, such as St. John’s Well, St. Margaret’s Well, and St. James’ Well. In earlier times, such wells would have been vital gathering points for villagers, providing water for drinking, cooking, and farming.

The Romans established an important presence in Ambleside at what is now Borrans Field. Around AD 79, under the command of Julius Agricola, a wooden fort known as Galava was constructed on an artificial mound. This raised position was chosen to help defend the site.

In AD 122, during the reign of Hadrian, the fort was rebuilt in stone, providing a more permanent and resilient structure. Galava housed a cohort of approximately 500 Roman soldiers, making it a significant outpost in the region.

The fort’s main purpose was to protect a vital Roman road that linked Ambleside to the western coastal port of Ravenglass, known to the Romans as Glannaventa. This road formed part of a wider network, connecting Galava through Troutbeck to Penrith (Brocavum) and further south to York (Eboracum), illustrating the strategic importance of Ambleside within Roman Britain.

At the northern end of Windermere is the popular market town of Ambleside, 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. With easy access to Grasmere, Keswick, Windermere and an unrivalled range of water sports, Ambleside is very popular with leisure visitors. Ambleside’s origins date from Romans, who built a stone fort at Waterhead called Galava. It is thought that Ambleside may have been named after a Norseman called Amal meaning summer pasture. Ambleside was granted a market charter in 1650, and Market Place became the commercial centre for agriculture and the wool trade.

Ambleside Bridge House is one of the most distinctive and historic buildings in the Lake District. Built around 1650, it stands uniquely over Stock Beck, a design thought to have been chosen to avoid paying land taxes. Despite its small size, the building has served many purposes over the centuries, reflecting the changing needs of the local community.

Originally, it functioned as an apple store and summer house for the nearby Ambleside Hall. By the 1850s, it had become the home of John “Chairy” Rigg, a basket maker and chair repairer, who remarkably raised a family of six children within its confined space. This period highlights both the building’s practicality and the resilience of those who lived there.

In later years, Bridge House took on a variety of roles, including a tea room, weaving shop, cobbler’s workshop, pigeon loft, leather store, and antique shop. Each use added to its rich and varied history.

In 1926, the building was purchased by local residents and donated to the National Trust, ensuring its preservation. Today, it stands as a symbol of Ambleside’s heritage and ingenuity.

Kirkstone Pass is the highest road pass in England's Lake District, reaching 1,489 feet. The road links Ambleside and Patterdale with dramatic views and steep gradients. To locals, the pass is commonly known as "The Struggle". It is a popular, scenic route for drivers, cyclists, and hikers, offering stunning vistas of mountains and valleys, including Brothers Water. Near the top of the pass sits Kirkstone Quarry, where rock extraction and architectural stone production took place over 500m above sea level until 2012. The main materials mined were green and blue-black slate. Formed of a unique composition of volcanic material layered down over 450 million years ago, it is only found in relatively small deposits within the Lake District.

As you ascend the dramatic slopes of Kirkstone Pass, you’ll come across one of the Lake District’s most iconic landmarks, the Kirkstone Pass Inn. Perched high in the mountains at nearly 1,500 feet above sea level, it is one of the highest pubs in England and has been welcoming travellers for centuries.

The inn provided a welcome place of rest and shelter from the often harsh and unpredictable weather that sweeps across the fells.

The name “Kirkstone” comes from a large stone nearby, said to resemble a church or “kirk” when viewed from a distance. This natural landmark has guided travellers across the pass for generations.
The inn itself dates back to at least the 15th century, though parts of the building you see today are from later periods. It has a long and colourful history, once serving as a coaching stop, and even gaining a reputation for smuggling in more turbulent times.

At the foot of the Kirkstone Pass, lying just to the south of Ullswater, is Brotherswater. It is a small body of water surrounded by rolling fells and larger mountains such as High Street. Due to its shallow depth, Water lilies bloom in July, providing colour. To the north-east of Brothers Water is the village of Hartsop, which has several 17th-century stone farm buildings and cottages. Some of the buildings still contain spinning-rooms where villagers would have made their own clothing, selling any surplus in the local market towns. The word Hartsop means "valley of the deer", which would have lived in the woodlands of the lower areas of the surrounding fells.

Glenridding, meaning “glen overgrown with bracken” can be found at the foot of the famous Kirkstone Pass at the southern end of Ullswater Lake. Glenridding was once the centre of the lead mining industry, now this is in the past, the area is mainly for the tourists who come to view one of the most beautiful areas in the Lakes. A lot of walkers come here is to do the classic Helvellyn walk along Striding Edge. A walk not for the fainted hearted with Helvellyn reaching a height of 3,116ft.

Alongside us is Gowbarrow, a narrow strip of woodland between the road and the lakeshore. It was here, in this quiet and unassuming setting, that one of the most famous moments in English literary history took place. In the spring of 1802, William Wordsworth and his sister Dorothy were walking together when they came across a remarkable sight, wild daffodils dancing along the water’s edge.

Dorothy, a keen observer of nature, recorded the moment in her journal with vivid detail. She described how the flowers “tossed and reeled and danced,” stirred by the breeze beside the lake. Her writing captured not just the scene, but the movement and feeling of the landscape, bringing it to life in a way that would prove incredibly influential.

William later read Dorothy’s diary entry, and it inspired him to compose what would become one of his most celebrated poems, I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud, more commonly known simply as Daffodils. Although the poem is closely associated with that day in April 1802, the version we know today was actually refined and published years later, in 1815. Wordsworth was known for continually revisiting and revising his work, carefully shaping his poetry over time.

Stretching for 7.5 miles through the eastern edge of the Lake District, Ullswater is often described as the most beautiful of all the lakes. Ullswater has a graceful, winding, almost serpentine shape, carved by a powerful glacier during the last Ice Age. As you travel along its shores, you’ll notice how the landscape constantly changes. To the southwest, the dramatic peaks of the Borrowdale Volcanics rise steeply above the water, while along the northern shores, softer Skiddaw Slates create a gentler, rolling countryside. Towards Pooley Bridge, the distinctive shape of Dunmallard Hill marks a shift again, before the land softens into sandstone and limestone at the northeastern end.

At its deepest point, over 200 feet near Glencoyne, the lake holds dark, still waters, while at its narrowest point, known as Skelly Nab, it becomes much shallower. This spot takes its name from the “skelly,” a rare freshwater whitefish once caught here in large numbers using nets stretched across the lake. Alongside these, Ullswater is home to trout, perch, roach, and eel, though interestingly, you won’t find pike or char here.

Ullswater has also played its part in more recent history. In 1955, Sir Donald Campbell set his first world water speed record on these very waters, reaching an incredible 202 miles per hour, an achievement commemorated near the lakeshore today.The lake you see today was almost transformed into a reservoir in the 1960s. However, thanks to the determined efforts of Lord Birkett, this natural landscape was preserved.

Blencathra, also known as Saddleback, is one of the most distinctive and beloved mountains in the Lake District. Rising to 868 metres, it dominates the skyline to the north-east of Keswick and is easily recognised by its broad, saddle-shaped summit and dramatic ridges. Its unique form sets it apart from many other fells, giving it a striking presence from almost every angle.

The mountain is a favourite among walkers and climbers, offering a variety of routes to the summit. The most famous of these is Sharp Edge, a narrow and exposed ridge that provides an exhilarating scramble for those with a head for heights. On the opposite side lies Hall’s Fell Ridge, a slightly less exposed but equally rewarding ascent. For those seeking a gentler approach, there are more gradual routes from the surrounding valleys, making Blencathra accessible to a wide range of abilities.

Geologically, Blencathra is composed mainly of Skiddaw Slate, some of the oldest rock in the Lake District, formed over 450 million years ago. Its steep slopes and deep corries were shaped by glaciers during the last Ice Age, creating the rugged and sculpted landscape seen today.

Blencathra also holds a special place in local culture and history. It is owned by a charitable trust, ensuring it remains protected for public enjoyment. The mountain has inspired countless writers and walkers, including Alfred Wainwright, who described it as one of the finest fells in the district.

Enjoy unrivalled 360-degree views of the surrounding fells of Helvellyn, Skiddaw, and Blencathra. It is said that this is one of the earliest stone circles, constructed around 3000 BC. A ring of 38 standing stones, it does not form a geometrically perfect circle. This is almost certainly because the builders were concerned with making the ring appear circular to people on the ground, rather than achieving geometrical accuracy. The diameter varies between 30 and 33 metres, and the stones vary in height between 1 and 2.3 metres. A wide gap on the north side seems to be an original entrance. Castlerigg became one of the first ancient monuments to be taken into state care; today, responsibility for the circle lies with English Heritage, which works with the National Trust to maintain the site.

Keswick is the most northerly of the Lake District’s towns. Situated at the northern end of beautiful Derwentwater, it is surrounded by large fells including Skiddaw and Blencathra, two of the most popular peaks for hikers. It is the perfect spot to explore this part of the National Park, notably the valleys of Borrowdale and Buttermere. Prosperity came to Keswick in the 16th century with the extraction of minerals. With no local mining expertise, skilled German miners were drafted in to work the copper and lead mines in the Newlands Valley. The later discovery of "wadd" knoen as graphite at Seathwaite in Borrowdale gave rise to around 14 pencil-manufacturing businesses, one of which, the Cumberland Pencil Company, was operational in Keswick until 2007. Keswick retains the appearance of a traditional market town, with a busy weekly market of around 80 stalls lining the streets on Thursdays and Saturdays.

St John's in the Vale is a quiet valley just south of Keswick. Sheltered between the imposing bulk of Blencathra and the gentler ridge of High Rigg, the valley has a peaceful, enclosed feel that sets it apart from busier tourist areas nearby.

Unlike many parts of the Lake District, St John’s in the Vale has no lake, but its beauty lies in its open green pastures, dry stone walls, and sweeping views of surrounding fells. The valley floor is dotted with traditional farms and narrow lanes, giving it a timeless, rural character. Walking routes here are quieter and less crowded, making it ideal for those looking to experience the landscape at a slower pace. At its heart stands the tiny St John's in the Vale Church, often described as one of the most isolated churches in the Lake District.

Deep within the shadow of Helvellyn and Dollywagon sits the man-made reservoir of Thirlmere. Originally two smaller lakes called Leatheswater and Brackmere, the area including a small hamlet was submerged by the building of a large dam in the late 1800s to provide a water source for Manchester. The dam was the first of its kind, raising the water level by over 50 feet. Today, the water travels nearly 100 miles to Manchester via a gravity-fed aqueduct that requires no pumps. As the view widens at Thirlspot, you get brilliant views of Blencathra and the entrance to St John's in the Vale. There is a small hillside church that is well worth a visit.

Dunmail Raise is a dramatic mountain pass, marking the watershed between the northern and southern fells. Sitting at around 238 metres above sea level, it forms a natural divide between Thirlmere to the north and Grasmere to the south. Today, it is crossed by the A591, one of the main routes through the National Park, but its significance stretches far beyond its role as a modern road.

Steeped in legend, Dunmail Raise is traditionally believed to be the burial place of Dunmail, the last king of Cumbria. According to local folklore, he was defeated in battle by the forces of the Scottish king and the English king Edmund I in the 10th century. After his death, it is said that Dunmail was laid to rest beneath a large cairn of stones at the summit of the pass. Even today, visitors can see this mound, and for generations it was customary for travellers to add a stone to the pile as they passed, helping to preserve the memory of the fallen king.

Grasmere is admired for its peaceful and timeless character. Surrounded by rolling fells and lush greenery, the village has a distinctly traditional feel, with stone cottages built from local bluish-green slate and narrow, winding streets that reflect its historic past. Despite its popularity, Grasmere retains a calm and intimate atmosphere, making it a favourite stop for visitors seeking both beauty and tranquillity.

At the centre of the landscape is Grasmere Lake, a small but striking body of water, Grasmere Water is 1 mile long, half a mile wide and 75 feet deep. Although modest in size, the lake is known for its quiet charm, with gently rippling waters and ever-changing reflections of the surrounding hills. Its scale makes it feel accessible and peaceful, perfect for lakeside walks where the scenery can be appreciated at a relaxed pace. The soft light and natural colours of the area have long inspired artists and visitors alike.

Grasmere is best known as the home of Poet William Wordsworth and his sister Dorethy. Wordsworth's memory is heavily present throughout Grasmere with his former home, Dove Cottage being one of the most popular attractions, which can be visited along with a museum dedicated to his work.

With its combination of scenic beauty, distinctive architecture, and enduring local culture, Grasmere offers a rich yet gentle experience that captures the essence of the Lake District.

This is also where Sarah Nelson's famous Grasmere Gingerbread originated; her bakery is located next to St Oswald's Church, Wordsworth's burial site.

Dove Cottage was the home of the poet William Wordsworth, and it remains one of the most famous historic houses in the Lake District, offering a vivid glimpse into early 19th-century life. Built in the late 17th century, the cottage is constructed from traditional Lakeland stone and retains much of its original character, including low ceilings, uneven floors, and dark wooden beams. Its compact, cosy rooms reflect the modest lifestyle of the time, yet they are full of atmosphere and history.

Inside, the cottage has been carefully preserved to recreate how it would have looked when Wordsworth lived there. Visitors can explore the small kitchen, living quarters, and bedrooms, each furnished with period pieces that help bring the past to life. The famous sitting room, with its open fire and simple furnishings, is often considered the heart of the house, where Wordsworth wrote and spent time with family and friends.

Outside, the cottage garden climbs up the hillside behind the building, offering peaceful views over Grasmere and the surrounding fells. The garden was thoughtfully arranged to feel natural rather than formal, reflecting Wordsworth’s deep appreciation of nature and the landscape.

Today, Dove Cottage forms part of a wider museum experience, allowing visitors to learn more about Wordsworth’s life and work while enjoying one of the Lake District’s most atmospheric and culturally significant landmarks.

The Coffin Route is a historic path steeped in local tradition and quiet significance between Ambelside and Grasmere. This old road once served as a vital link between communities, particularly for those living “upstock,” on the right side of Stock Beck. In earlier times, this area did not have its own burial ground, so the deceased had to be taken to Grasmere for burial.
The route earned its name from this solemn purpose. Coffins were carried along the path either by pole bearers or transported by horse and coach. These journeys would have been slow and respectful, often following the natural contours of the landscape. The route therefore became not just a physical pathway, but a symbolic one, connecting life, death, and community across the valley.

Rydal is deeply connected to William Wordsworth. While he is often linked with Dove Cottage, it was Rydal Mount that became his beloved long-term home. He lived there from 1813 until his death in 1850, and the house, set in beautifully designed gardens, remains open to visitors today.

Nearby, Dora's Field offers a more personal glimpse into Wordsworth’s life. Named after his daughter, the field bursts into life each spring with thousands of daffodils, echoing the poet’s enduring connection to nature. Together, these elements make Rydal a place where landscape and literary history blend seamlessly.

Rydal offers a quieter but equally enchanting slice of the Lake District. At its heart lies Rydal Water, a relatively small lake, just over a mile long, but one that feels expansive thanks to its dramatic surroundings. The calm surface often mirrors Loughrigg Fell, creating striking reflections that change with the light and seasons.

Rydal is a wonderful place for gentle exploration. A popular walk leads along the lakeshore and then up toward Rydal Cave, a man-made cavern carved from old slate workings. Its stepping stones and cathedral-like interior give it a slightly mysterious atmosphere, making it a favourite for visitors.