The Perfect 3-Day Itinerary for a Lake District Staycation

The Lake District’s natural beauty has inspired writers, poets and artists for centuries. Its towering mountains, serene lakes, verdant valleys and charming villages captivate everyone who visits. Even if you’re only planning to visit for 3 days, we have no doubt you’ll come away rejuvenated by the Lakes’ awe-inspiring landscapes.

Our 3-day Lake District itinerary will help you to make the most of your short stay. From conquering the fells around Lake Windermere and enjoying panoramic views to sitting down for afternoon tea and following in the footsteps of famous poets, this list has everything you’ll need to have an incredible time when you next visit the Lake District!

BY TRAIN

The Lake District is accessible by rail from most major UK cities. The main train stations are located in Kendal, Oxenholme, Windermere, Penrith and Carlisle.

The West Coast mainline runs to the east of the Lake District, connecting it with London and Glasgow. Transpennine Express services run from Manchester and Manchester Airport to Windermere. The Cumbrian Coast Railway offers a scenic route along the coastline from Carnforth to Maryport.

Approximate journey times to Penrith from major UK cities are as follows:

• London – about 3.5 hours
• Birmingham – about 2.5 hours
• Manchester – about 2 hours
• Newcastle – about 2.5 hours
• Glasgow – about 1.5 hours

BY CAR

The roads around the Lake District are well-maintained and offer fantastic views of the surrounding landscapes as you drive. Having your own car will allow you to access some of the more remote areas of the region, but just bear in mind that free parking isn’t always available, so be prepared that any ad-hoc stops may come at an extra cost.

If you don’t have a car, don’t panic. There’s plenty to see in the Lake District on foot and using public transport.

BY BUS

Once you’re in the Lake District, you can hop on a local bus from town to town. The main operator, Stagecoach, has a wide range of routes throughout the region and offers 1-day tickets for unlimited travel on selected journeys! Travelling around the National Park by bus will also save you the hassle of finding parking which, especially in high season and on weekends, can be in short supply.

For more information, download the official bus timetable and route guide from Stagecoach CNL.

MORNING

The Lake District has so much to offer that cramming it all into just 3 short days means getting an early start!

After a hearty breakfast at your hotel or B&B, begin your adventure with a trip to one of the most popular places in the Lake District – Lake Windermere. As the region’s largest lake, this is a must-see for nature lovers and culture vultures alike.

You can stroll around the lake at a slower pace, taking in the magnificent views as you go, or really get your adrenaline pumping by diving headfirst into some watersports! There is a fantastic choice of lake cruise operators, places to rent motor boats, and even try your hand at sailing, windsurfing, kayaking and waterskiing at one of the activity centres dotted along the shore.

For beautiful views across the surrounding area and fells beyond, we recommend heading to Orrest Head. This short walk is perfect for children and takes you from Windermere village to the summit in well under an hour. From the hilltop, you’ll be able to take a brief pause to relax and take in the stunning vistas before making your way back down towards the lake to stroll around the shops and cafes.

From Windermere, you’re only a short distance from the town of Bowness-on-Windermere. This is home to one of the most popular Beatrix Potter attractions, The World of Beatrix Potter. If you have time, step into the world of Peter Rabbit and his furry friends, surrounded by the author’s enchanting illustrations and beloved characters. This is also the perfect activity for a rainy afternoon!

AFTERNOON

After a packed morning of outdoor activities, you can head to Ambleside at the north end of Lake Windermere. Here, you’ll find plenty of places to shop for souvenirs or grab a sandwich and a drink to refuel. Ambleside is also a great starting point for many a circular walk, including Stockghyll Force Waterfalls, Wansfell Pike and the Rydal Water loop.

If you’d rather put your feet up and see the beautiful scenery in style, take a ride on the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway. From Ambleside, take a river cruise to Lakeside Pier, where you can hop onto the 1950s steam train. On your 3.5-mile journey, look out at the surrounding countryside and take pictures along the River Leven. At Haverthwaite, you can walk around the Engine Shed to see restored steam and diesel locomotives up close.

EVENING

As the evening draws in, head back to the water’s edge to watch the sunset from Fell Foot Park. For an even better view, head a bit further up the hill to Gummers How, where you’ll catch a stunning sunset on a clear day.

If you’re starting to get peckish, you can dine by candlelight at one of Windermere’s many excellent restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty at a traditional English pub, a bite of contemporary British cuisine or a Mediterranean feast, Windermere has eateries to suit every taste.

If you’re a gourmet at heart, check out our guide on the foodie hotspots in the Lake District.

MORNING

On day 2 of your perfect Lake District itinerary, begin in the charming town of Grasmere. Visit Dove Cottage, the former home of poet William Wordsworth and his sister, Dorothy, where you can wander through the very rooms they inhabited and find yourself surrounded by their personal belongings, intimate letters and treasured artefacts.

Make sure to visit the nearby Wordsworth Museum, too. It’s a treasure trove of literary wonders, filled with manuscripts and interactive displays that bring William Wordsworth’s world to life. Dive into his literary legacy, gaining a newfound appreciation for the power of words and the beauty of the Lake District that influenced them.

No trip to Grasmere is complete without a piece of its famous gingerbread, though. Before you leave, head to the tiny bakery in the village centre and purchase a box to take home. This is hugely popular, so one of our top tips is to arrive early to beat the queues!

AFTERNOON

It’s time to refuel after exploring the poetic side of the Lake District National Park with a traditional afternoon tea. The Daffodil Hotel & Spa is situated on Grasmere’s shores and offers a delicious selection of sandwiches, scones and hot and cold drinks from midday. Enjoy uninterrupted views of one of the most beautiful lakes in the region while you sip your English breakfast tea and spread your clotted cream from our tranquil dining room.

Once you’ve had your fill of freshly-baked cakes and finger sandwiches, take a scenic drive to the town of Coniston to conquer The Old Man of Coniston. This a majestic peak that offers panoramic views of the surrounding fells and lakes. As you begin your ascent, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking vistas of rolling hills, verdant valleys and the shimmering Coniston Water.

Keep an eye out for the Old Man summit, the distinctive rocky peak that proudly overlooks the landscape. Once you’ve done the short rocky scramble to the top, take a moment to celebrate your achievement and enjoy the panoramic views before you descend. On a clear day, you may even be treated to a surprise view of Morecambe Bay in the distance.

To find out what other walks the Lake District has to offer for varying abilities, check out our comprehensive guide.

EVENING

Wind down in Hawkshead, a small town famous for its quaint streets and historical buildings. Take a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone lanes and immerse yourself in the town’s rich heritage.

Stop by one of the traditional pubs for a refreshing pint of Hawkshead’s own real ale and treat yourself to a hearty Cumbrian meal made with locally-sourced ingredients.

MORNING

On your final day, make time for one of the Lake District’s incredible castles by heading to the aptly-named Ravenglass. Set in 77 acres of woodland and gardens against the backdrop of the Western Lake District fells is Muncaster Castle, a historic (and supposedly haunted) 13th-century fortress.

Before you leave, catch the breathtaking view from the castle’s terrace. Prepare to be made speechless by the panoramic views of the Lake District’s rolling hills and the shimmering Irish Sea in the distance. It’s one of the region’s hidden gems and the perfect spot to pause and appreciate the beauty of this National Trust site.

AFTERNOON

Enjoy the scenic drive that takes you to the Wasdale Valley, where you’ll find Wastwater – the deepest lake in England at 260 feet. The mirror-like waters of Wastwater reflect the towering mountains that surround it. It’s a sight that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a painting.

Park your car and take a leisurely stroll along the lake’s shores. Dip your toes in the cool waters, skip stones across the surface and try to catch a glimpse of the local wildlife. For the more adventurous souls, consider embarking on a hike up Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England.

As the afternoon unfolds, find a peaceful spot to sit and enjoy a picnic surrounded by the peaceful landscape.

EVENING

As your Lake District adventure comes to a close, end your trip on a high note with an evening cruise on Lake Windermere. Sail across the shimmering waters as the sun paints the sky with hues of gold and pink. Then, as the icing on the cake, retreat to the cosy interior of a traditional pub in the village centre for a bite to eat.

If you’re looking for a place that combines relaxation, luxury and a touch of whimsy, the Daffodil Hotel & Spa in Grasmere is the perfect choice. During your short stay with us, you’ll enjoy a delightful escape and have the perfect base for all the incredible Lake District experiences in this 3-day itinerary!

So pack your bags, choose your suite and get on the road. Your dreamy trip to the Lake District awaits!