England Self-Drive Adventure: Yorkshire and the Lake District

Day 1 - Welcome to England

Touching down at Manchester Airport, step off the plane into the bustling terminal, before making your way to collect your hire car.

Embark on the drive through the Lake District, winding past shimmering lakes and rugged fells before arriving at the tranquil retreat of the Gilpin Hotel. Welcomed warmly, check in and take a deep breath of fresh country air, a moment to admire the elegant surroundings, and soon you’re sinking into a plush armchair, ready to unwind in this peaceful haven.

Overnight: Windemere | Langdale Chase
Room Type: Windermere Lake View Double Room
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - A Literary Day in the Lakes

The morning begins with a scenic drive through the misty Lake District to Grasmere, where Dove Cottage, once home to William Wordsworth, awaits. Stepping inside the charming, stone-built house, the scent of aged wood and an open hearth fills the air, transporting you back to the poet’s time. Enjoy a VIP tour, as you wander through dimly lit rooms adorned with Wordsworth’s personal belongings, stories from the private collection bring his life and poetry vividly to life. A tasting of historic treats follows as you’re seated, rare manuscripts are unveiled, revealing the poet’s inspirations. With a final toast to Wordsworth’s legacy, the morning ends on a reflective note, surrounded by the beauty that once stirred his timeless verses.

Spend the afternoon strolling through the charming streets of Ambleside, explore quaint bookshops, cosy cafés, and lakeside paths, with the fresh scent of pine and water in the crisp air. A visit to Grasmere brings the irresistible aroma of freshly baked gingerbread, and with a warm, spiced bite of the world-famous treat melting on your tongue, you savour the perfect blend of sweetness and history in this picturesque Lakeland village.

Overnight: Windemere | Langdale Chase
Room Type: Windermere Lake View Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Walking in the Lake District

Meet your local expert guide and begin the day at Rydal Hall Gardens & Estate, where you’ll discover the rich history of local pastimes like hound trailing and fell running. Enjoy a scenic walk along the historic Coffin Route, leading to the peaceful shores of Grasmere.

Be adventurous and take on the Loughrigg Summit for breathtaking panoramic views. The journey concludes at Rydal Old School Room Tea Shop, where a certificate of achievement awaits. For the more seasoned hiker, the Fairfield Horseshoe offers an iconic and rewarding challenge right from the doorstep.

Overnight: Windemere | Langdale Chase
Room Type: Windermere Lake View Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - North Lakes

Leaving the serene elegance of Langdale Chase, you set off northward, the road hugging the shores of Windermere as the lake shimmers in the morning light. A brief stop in Bowness-on-Windermere offers a chance to wander the charming streets, perhaps visiting the World of Beatrix Potter or enjoying a lakeside coffee while watching the boats glide by.

Continuing onward, the landscape unfolds into rolling fells and hidden valleys, inviting a detour to the historic village of Hawkshead, where cobbled streets, whitewashed cottages, and connections to both Beatrix Potter and Wordsworth add to its timeless charm.

Finish the day strolling through Hill Top’s charming rooms, feeling as though you’ve stepped into one of Beatrix Potter’s beloved tales, with its cosy parlours, well-loved wooden furniture, and walls adorned with her original sketches. Wandering the surrounding cottage garden, bursting with bright blooms and winding pathways, you’ll discover the very hop‑over stones and hidden nooks that inspired classics like Peter Rabbit and Jemima Puddle‑Duck.

Overnight: Ullswater | Another Place
Room Type: Better Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5 - Ullswater Lake

This morning, your private boat charter on Ullswater begins with leisurely boarding a beautifully maintained vessel, where a friendly skipper welcomes you aboard. As the boat glides effortlessly across the tranquil lake, relax on deck, soaking in panoramic views of rolling fells, hidden bays, and lush woodlands reflected in the shimmering water.

Perhaps stop at a secluded shoreline, step ashore to explore or enjoy a gourmet picnic prepared with local delicacies. If adventure calls, there’s time for a swim, paddle boarding, or even a taster session in handling the boat under expert guidance. As the afternoon sun casts golden hues over the water, cruise back toward the pier, feeling utterly relaxed, having spent the day embraced by the peaceful beauty of Ullswater.

Overnight: Ullswater | Another Place
Room Type: Better Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 6 - Journey through Yorkshire

Leaving the serene waters of Ullswater behind, set off southeast, winding through the breathtaking landscapes of the Lake District before crossing into the rolling hills of Yorkshire. The journey takes you past charming market towns and sprawling moorlands, where dry-stone walls and grazing sheep dot the countryside.

Perhaps make a stop in the historic town of Richmond offers a chance to stretch your legs, perhaps exploring the imposing medieval castle or enjoying a traditional Yorkshire tea in a cozy café. Continuing through the scenic Dales, the road gradually flattens as you approach York, where ancient walls and the towering spires of York Minster welcome you into the heart of this historic city, ready for the next chapter of your adventure.

Overnight: York | The Grand Hotel York
Room Type: Executive Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 - Exploring York

This morning, meet with an expert local guide as they lead you through the awe-inspiring York Minster, where the towering Gothic architecture and intricate stained glass tell tales of centuries past.

Wander through the narrow, medieval Shambles as your guide brings to life the bustling market days of old, before you ascend the ancient city walls for panoramic views of York’s red rooftops and the River Ouse, learning about the city’s Viking and Roman roots.

Overnight: York | The Grand Hotel York
Room Type: Executive Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8 - Depart

This morning, drive your car back to the airport to make your onward connections. Waving farewell for now but taking with you special memories and wonderful stories of your explorations.

Meals Included: Breakfast