Exploring The Lake District and Wales

Day 1 - Sunday 20^th April - Northbound to the Lake District

After touch down in Manchester, collect your rental car and head North for the Lake District.

After a short journey, arrive at your hotel, where the serene beauty of the surroundings welcomes you to unwind and savour the unique charm of this picturesque region.

Overnight: Windermere | The Gilpin Hotel and Lakehouse
Room Type: Junior Suite
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Monday 21^st April - Ullswater and the Fells

Enjoy a delightful day in the Lake District as you board a traditional steamer boat for a scenic journey across Ullswater to Howtown. Revel in the breathtaking landscapes that unfold along the tranquil water, immersing yourself in the serenity of this iconic region. Upon arrival in Howtown, set off on a picturesque walk back to the charming town of Glenridding along the shores of Ullswater.

After the invigorating stroll, treat yourself to a leisurely lunch in the lovely town, savouring local flavours and soaking in the lakeside ambience. The afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace, whether you choose to walk into Grasmere village, explore the town, or simply enjoy the serenity of this idyllic Lake District setting.

Overnight: Windermere | The Gilpin Hotel and Lakehouse
Room Type: Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Tuesday 22^nd April - A Literary Day in the Lakes

Step into the literary world of William and Dorothy Wordsworth with a visit to their home, where the Lake District played muse to these iconic writers. Immerse yourself in the ambience that shaped your creative endeavours, gaining insights into their writing style and the profound influence of the surrounding landscapes. Indulge in a tasting of Grasmere Gingerbread, a local delight, before a leisurely lunch in the charming town of Ambleside. Post-indulgence, take a tranquil stroll around the scenic shores of Windermere, soaking in the natural beauty.

The afternoon unfolds at Beatrix Potter House, where you can explore the enchanting world of the beloved children’s author and illustrator, rounding off a day filled with literary and scenic delights in the heart of the Lake District.

Overnight: Windermere | The Gilpin Hotel and Lakehouse
Room Type: Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - Wednesday 23^rd April - Roman History

Embark on a fascinating day trip as you journey to Vindolanda and Birdoswald Roman Forts, immersing yourself in the rich history of ancient Rome along Hadrian’s Wall. Begin your exploration at Vindolanda, where the well-preserved remains offer a glimpse into Roman life on the northern frontier. Continue your adventure to Birdoswald Roman Fort, strategically perched along Hadrian’s Wall, a testament to the Roman Empire’s military prowess.

Take an invigorating excursion along the Hadrian’s Wall pathway, tracing the footsteps of Roman soldiers and marvelling at the breathtaking landscapes that surround this historic monument. This day promises a captivating blend of archaeology, history, and scenic beauty, allowing you to step back in time and experience the grandeur of the Roman frontier in Northern England.

Overnight: Windermere | The Gilpin Hotel and Lakehouse
Room Type: Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5 - Thursday 24^th April - Neolithic History and Quaint Villages

Explore the mystical Castlerigg Stones, standing proudly against the stunning backdrop of the Lake District. Feel the ancient energy of this Neolithic stone circle as you absorb the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Continue your adventure to the charming town of Keswick, where quaint shops and picturesque streets beckon exploration. From Keswick, journey to the serene shores of Bassenthwaite Lake, surrounded by lush landscapes. Whether you choose to stroll along the lake’s edge or simply revel in the tranquil ambiance, this itinerary promises a day filled with natural wonders and cultural delights in the heart of Cumbria.

Overnight: Windermere | The Gilpin Hotel and Lakehouse
Room Type: Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 6 - Friday 25^th April - A Day at Leisure

Waking up to the crisp Lake District air, spend the day at your own pace.

Perhaps choose to stroll through the charming town of Windermere, where quaint cafés and boutique shops invite exploration. Or perhaps a boat ride across Windermere’s glistening waters offers a tranquil escape. Later, a scenic walk through lush woodland leads to the atmospheric Rydal Caves, where the still, reflective waters inside create an almost magical ambiance. With time to pause and soak in the breathtaking scenery, the afternoon is best spent unwinding in a traditional pub, savouring a hearty meal before the golden evening light settles over the fells.

Overnight: Windermere | The Gilpin Hotel and Lakehouse
Room Type: Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 - Saturday 26^th April - A Day at Leisure

Enjoy today at your own pace.

Overnight: Windermere | The Gilpin Hotel and Lakehouse
Room Type: Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8 - Sunday 27^th April - Welcome to Wales

Driving from the Lake District to Wales is a breathtaking journey, weaving through rolling green hills, rugged moorlands, and quaint villages. As you cross into Wales, the scenery shifts to dramatic mountain peaks and winding country roads, eventually leading to the elegant Pale Hall, a grand Victorian mansion nestled on the edge of Snowdonia.

After checking in, you settle into your beautifully appointed room, perhaps pausing to admire the view of the lush gardens before sinking into a deep armchair with a cup of tea, ready to unwind in this tranquil retreat.

Overnight: Bala | Pale Hall
Room Type: Master Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 9 - Monday 28^th April - Elan Valley

Meeting your local guide in the crisp morning air of Elan Valley, you’re welcomed with a warm smile and an infectious passion for the landscape. After a quick briefing on the day’s adventure, set off along winding trails, the rolling hills and glistening reservoirs stretching out before you.

Enjoy the valleys scenery and its diverse wildlife, as you meander through heather-clad moorlands and dense woodlands. The fresh scent of pine fills the air, and the occasional call of red kites soaring overhead adds to the sense of wilderness. Enjoy a gentle hike with your guide and with each step, the landscape reveals new wonders, promising a day of discovery in this breathtaking Welsh gem.

Overnight: Bala | Pale Hall
Room Type: Master Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 10 - Tuesday 29^th April - Visiting the Dams

A day exploring the magnificent dams of Elan Valley is a journey through history, engineering, and breathtaking scenery. Witness one dams dramatic waterfall-like cascade before heading to the next, partially hidden beneath the reservoir, where your guide explains its crucial role in regulating water flow. Moving onto another dam, climbing to the top rewards you with stunning panoramic views, and if you’re lucky, a chance to explore the hidden tunnel leading to the central tower. Admire elegant arches and enjoy a peaceful picnic amid rolling hills.

Later, a visit to an unfinished yet fascinating part of the valley’s water scheme offers a chance to spot wildlife like red kites and otters in the secluded surroundings. As the day winds down, return to where you started, reflecting on the valley’s remarkable engineering feats and natural beauty, ending with a quiet moment by the water as the sun sets over this unforgettable Welsh landscape.

Overnight: Bala | Pale Hall
Room Type: Master Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 11 - Wednesday 30^th April - Red Kite Feeding

Head out to watch the red kite feeding at Gigrin Farm to bring you closer to one of Wales’ most iconic birds. As you arrive, the sky is already alive with movement as kites circle high above, their forked tails and graceful wings silhouetted against the clouds. Taking your place in one of the specially designed hides, watch as more birds gather, anticipation building. Suddenly, with the first scraps of food scattered, the sky erupts into a flurry of wings as dozens—sometimes hundreds—of red kites swoop, dive, and snatch food mid-air with incredible precision. Among them, ravens and buzzards join the frenzy, adding to the drama of the spectacle.

Leaving Gigrin Farm, the sight of these majestic birds soaring overhead lingers in your mind, a lasting memory of an extraordinary wildlife encounter.

Overnight: Bala | Pale Hall
Room Type: Master Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 12 - Thursday 1^st May - A Day at Leisure

Enjoy today at your own pace.

Overnight: Bala | Pale Hall
Room Type: Master Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 13 - Friday 2^nd May - Back to London

This morning, drop off your rental car and board your train, out of Wales, gradually giving way to the bustle of southern England. Hours pass in a blur of quiet reflection, the journey a gentle farewell to the countryside before the city skyline rises into view.

At the station, a private transfer awaits, whisking you through London’s streets to your hotel, where you check in and settle into the comfort of your final night in England, perhaps savouring a last taste of British hospitality before tomorrow’s departure.

Overnight: London | Ham Yard Hotel
Room Type: Luxury Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 14 - Saturday 3^rd May - Depart

A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and take you 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