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Hiking England's Lake District
Lakes District, England
9 Days
From $6595
Hiking and Culture
Hiking England's Lake District
Lakes District, England
9 Days
From $6595
Hiking and Culture
Trip Overview
England’s Lake District — Fells, Villages, and Timeless Beauty
With its glacial lakes, rugged fells, and storybook villages, England’s Lake District has long been a haven for walkers, poets, and dreamers. This journey traces a scenic path from the Southern Lakes to the Northern Lakes, exploring the heart of this cherished National Park.
We’ll hike along rolling ridgelines and quiet valleys, visit England’s highest peak, and venture off the beaten path to discover hidden gems—including a dramatic cave tucked beneath the hills. Along the way, we’ll pause at classic lookout points that inspired the likes of William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter, and cap off days of walking with stops at cozy local pubs.
Blending natural beauty, literary history, and warm English hospitality, this trip is a perfect escape into one of the most beloved landscapes in the UK.
Maximum group size: 14
Highlights
- Hiking on un-crowded paths through lush green valleys with distant summits bordering our view
- Explore the quaint market town of Keswick, situated in the northern lakes
- Visit quintessential local viewpoints and caves
- Meander through bluebell forests and verdant meadows with roaming herds of sheep greeting you along the way
- Stand-Up Paddleboard on one of England’s beautiful lakes
Inclusions
- 1 - 2 local guides and an AGC guide depending on group size
- 8 nights double occupancy lodging
- All meals from dinner on the first day through breakfast on the day of departure (except lunch on your own on Day 5)
- All transportation from the Oxenholme Train Station at 12pm on Day 1, to the Penrith Train Station at 12pm on Day 9, and within the Lakes District. Vans will be smaller than a 15-passenger.
- Water and snacks while hiking
- Two ferry transfers (Days 5 & 7)
- Stand-up Paddle Boarding on Derwentwater
- All gratuities for activities
Not Included: Transportation to the UK, alcoholic beverages, gratuities for the AGC guide and local guide(s), optional activities not on the itinerary, any meals not included on the itinerary, and Travel Insurance.
Trip Info
This trip is an excellent choice for women in very good physical condition with prior hiking experience. We have rated this trip a 4 as we will hike 5 to 8 hours a day with significant elevation gain and loss on several days, on paths that can be boggy, rocky, or smooth and/or slippery.
Rating: 1 2 3 [4] 5
Curious about how we rate our trips and how to prepare for yours? Explore our AGC Fitness Guide for more details.
This trip is designed for those who want to explore the hilly valleys, stunning peaks, and charming towns of the Lakes District.
Wondering what kind of gear works well for our trips? Our AGC Gear Guide highlights some of our go-to favorites.
We will spend the first 4 nights at The Ambleside Inn in the town of Ambleside in double occupancy rooms with ensuite bathrooms. The Ambleside Inn has a charming, dim-lit lobby that looks to be inspired by Shakespeare. Our rooms are cozy and comforting, which may inspire a glass of tea upon arrival. From here, we will then move to The Borrowdale Hotel near the lake "Derwentwater" for the following 4 nights. We will have double occupancy rooms with ensuite bathrooms. The Borrowdale Hotel features classic English architecture with a posh interior. The rooms feel like a home-away-from home with English countryside charm.
Ready to picture yourself on this adventure?
Download the detailed trip summary for a closer look — daily highlights, travel notes, and everything you need to know before you go. It’s the perfect way to dream, plan, and share with a friend!
Itinerary
Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests.
DAY 1
Welcome to England! We’ll meet as a group at 12 PM at Oxenholme Train Station, where you’ll be greeted by your guide. From here, we’ll head into the Lake District National Park, starting with a stop at Brockhole Pier to catch a shuttle ferry across Lake Windermere. It’s a great way to take in the scenery as we make our way to a scenic lunch spot.
After lunch, we’ll take a short walk to Claife Viewing Station, a historic overlook with beautiful views of the lake. Then, we’ll visit the former home of beloved children's author Beatrix Potter, where you’ll have time to explore the house and gardens that inspired her stories.
Later in the afternoon, we’ll take a short transfer to our hotel in Ambleside, set at the entrance of the Langdale Valley. There’s time to settle in and unwind before we gather for a welcome dinner and orientation to kick off the trip.
Included Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Wateredge Inn (or similar)
Daily Activities: Welcome Dinner
After lunch, we’ll take a short walk to Claife Viewing Station, a historic overlook with beautiful views of the lake. Then, we’ll visit the former home of beloved children's author Beatrix Potter, where you’ll have time to explore the house and gardens that inspired her stories.
Later in the afternoon, we’ll take a short transfer to our hotel in Ambleside, set at the entrance of the Langdale Valley. There’s time to settle in and unwind before we gather for a welcome dinner and orientation to kick off the trip.
Included Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Wateredge Inn (or similar)
Daily Activities: Welcome Dinner
DAY 2
After a leisurely breakfast, we’ll set off to hike the peaceful, heather-cloaked slopes of Lingmoor Fell. Though modest at 1,540 feet, its secluded setting offers breathtaking, uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape. From the summit, the rugged silhouettes of Coniston Fells, Crinkle Crags, and the Langdale Pikes rise dramatically against the sky, while the valleys of Great and Little Langdale spread out below in a stunning tapestry of colors.
This afternoon, we’ll explore Cathedral Quarry—a fascinating maze of winding tunnels and softly illuminated caves that open into a vast chamber known as the ‘Cathedral.’ The interplay of light and shadow here creates a truly mesmerizing atmosphere.
As evening falls, we’ll return to the charming town of Ambleside, where you can wander its lively streets, browse local shops, and enjoy a delicious dinner at one of its inviting eateries. We’ll then settle in for the night, recharging for tomorrow’s adventure.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Wateredge Inn (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~6 miles, ~4 hours, ~1,300 feet elevation +/-)
This afternoon, we’ll explore Cathedral Quarry—a fascinating maze of winding tunnels and softly illuminated caves that open into a vast chamber known as the ‘Cathedral.’ The interplay of light and shadow here creates a truly mesmerizing atmosphere.
As evening falls, we’ll return to the charming town of Ambleside, where you can wander its lively streets, browse local shops, and enjoy a delicious dinner at one of its inviting eateries. We’ll then settle in for the night, recharging for tomorrow’s adventure.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Wateredge Inn (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~6 miles, ~4 hours, ~1,300 feet elevation +/-)
DAY 3
As morning dew lifts from the fields, fill up your water bottles and head out for another rewarding hike in the heart of the Lakes. We’ll make our way to hike the Langdale Pikes. The pikes sit proudly above the Great Langdale Valley, and their craggy domed tops will beckon us from up above. We’ll hike Pavey Ark, Thuncar Knott, Pike of Stickle, Harrison Stickle and Loft Crag. After winding through lush, green valleys and peaks, we’ll celebrate the day's hike with a hearty meal in a friendly English pub.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Wateredge Inn (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~6 miles, ~5 hours, ~2,900 feet elevation +/-)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Wateredge Inn (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~6 miles, ~5 hours, ~2,900 feet elevation +/-)
DAY 4
For our final day of hiking in the Southern Lakes, we’ll take a short drive to Coniston and its iconic peak, ‘The Old Man.’ Towering above a pristine lake, this impressive summit holds a rich history. Before you go searching for a lost elder, know that "Old Man" comes from the ancient Celtic Alt Maen, meaning "High Stone," while Coniston originates from the Norse Konigs Tun, meaning "King's Farm." Mined extensively for its ‘Coniston Copper’ from the 16th to 19th centuries, the mountain still bears traces of its industrious past.
After reaching the summit and taking in the views at its unique marker, we’ll descend through a rugged, untamed landscape that stuns at every turn—offering endless photo opportunities. Back at our hotel, we’ll have time to freshen up before gathering for a well-earned local dinner. Tomorrow, we journey north to explore the next chapter of our Lake District adventure.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Wateredge Inn (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~5 miles, ~5 hours, ~2,000 feet elevation +/-)
After reaching the summit and taking in the views at its unique marker, we’ll descend through a rugged, untamed landscape that stuns at every turn—offering endless photo opportunities. Back at our hotel, we’ll have time to freshen up before gathering for a well-earned local dinner. Tomorrow, we journey north to explore the next chapter of our Lake District adventure.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Wateredge Inn (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~5 miles, ~5 hours, ~2,000 feet elevation +/-)
DAY 5
After several days of long and fulfilling hikes, we get to rest our legs this morning with a 45 minute scenic drive through the heart of the Lake District to the market town of Keswick situated in the northern lakes, surrounded by high peaks in every direction. This afternoon, we’ll enjoy some free time to explore the markets and soak in the rich history and culture of the town. Lunch on your own today gives you the chance to try a local pub or 'hubble' (hubbub) cafe; the choice is yours! After lunch, we’ll drive to the Keswick Launch and board a ferry that will take us the length of the local lake, Derwentwater, to our hotel for our final 4 nights. Upon arrival, we’ll be tucked in the folds of the idyllic Borrowdale Valley, framed by valleys, and deciduous trees. After a day through the Heart of the Lakes, we’ll rejoin for dinner and settle in for some downtime.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodations: The Barrowdale Hotel (or similar)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodations: The Barrowdale Hotel (or similar)
DAY 6
As we awaken to our first day in the North Lake District, zip up your jacket, lace up your boots, and join your guides to hike up Blencathra. This is one of the most northerly hills in the Lake District that features sweeping views of the valley from above. As we begin our hike, we’ll listen for the electronic call of lapwings and the cat-like ‘kee-yaa’ of buzzards. We’ll take a break just below the summit at ‘Scales Tarn,’ a lovely spot to enjoy a drink and a good snack before the final ascent to the summit. From the top, we’ll soak up the stunning views before descending the impressive ridgeline back down into the green lock of the valley.
This afternoon, we’ll venture onto the water, where Derwentwater’s sheltered bays and islands create the perfect setting for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), a calming activity that has gained much popularity. As you glide across the lake, the soothing sound of water lapping against your board and the focus on balance will guide you into a peaceful, meditative rhythm. Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Lake District, it’s an ideal place to experience pure tranquility. This evening, relax with an aperitif in the gardens before dinner, celebrating a day well spent—both on and off the water.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Barrowdale Hotel (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~5 miles, 4-5 hours, ~2,100 feet elevation +/-), Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (1-2 hours)
This afternoon, we’ll venture onto the water, where Derwentwater’s sheltered bays and islands create the perfect setting for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), a calming activity that has gained much popularity. As you glide across the lake, the soothing sound of water lapping against your board and the focus on balance will guide you into a peaceful, meditative rhythm. Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Lake District, it’s an ideal place to experience pure tranquility. This evening, relax with an aperitif in the gardens before dinner, celebrating a day well spent—both on and off the water.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Barrowdale Hotel (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~5 miles, 4-5 hours, ~2,100 feet elevation +/-), Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (1-2 hours)
DAY 7
After a good night’s sleep, we’ll enjoy a point-to-point hike from the doors of our hotel over to a local favorite, Cat Bells. We’ll take a ferry and make the ascent up and onto the Cat Bells ridgeline to take in the panoramic views of the stunning lake, valley, and rolling hillside. Before descending down to Lingholm for a well-earned afternoon tea, we’ll take some photos and overlook the octagonal walled garden. Beatrix Potter crested this garden as her inspiration for Mr McGregor’s garden in The Tale of Peter Rabbit. After feeling charmed, we’ll enjoy our tea and the whisper of the wind. When the time is right, we’ll enjoy our dinner together and relax comfortably.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: The Barrowdale Hotel (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~5 miles, 3-4 hours, ~1,200 feet elevation +/-)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: The Barrowdale Hotel (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~5 miles, 3-4 hours, ~1,200 feet elevation +/-)
DAY 8
After a delicious breakfast this morning, we’ll set off to hike up Haystacks. Our circular route will lead us from the stunning, sheer-sidded valley of Buttermere to the expansive, rolling summit. The first part of the hike climbs quickly, marked by small cairns along the way. Once we reach the ridge, we’ll be treated to sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, their peaks softly glowing in a lavender haze. At the top, we’ll celebrate a week full of incredible summits before descending back to our cozy hotel for a final celebratory meal. We’ll raise a glass to the woman-powered accomplishments of the week!
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Barrowdale Hotel (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~5 miles, 4-5 hours ~1,200 feet elevation +/-)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Barrowdale Hotel (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~5 miles, 4-5 hours ~1,200 feet elevation +/-)
DAY 9
Enjoy the scenic views that unfold beyond the window as you wind your way back through Borrowdale Valley and the northern fells, towards Penrith. Arrive at Penrith station at noon to depart anytime after, and say goodbye to your guides and fellow participants. Hop on the train for a 2-hour journey home. Flights can be booked to depart anytime after 5pm.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Travel Time: Train (~2 hours)
Included Meals: Breakfast
Travel Time: Train (~2 hours)
Reviews
4.7
(15 reviews)
5
(12)
4
(2)
3
(1)
2
(0)
1
(0)
*These are the unfiltered reviews of women who have been on this trip in answer to the question "What made this trip special for you?". We take reviews very seriously and often tweak itineraries based on feedback. Please feel free to contact us about any questions you have.
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Mary K.
6 years ago
Each day of hiking was challenging and well paced with wonderful views. I loved seeing all the wildflowers and the sheep everywhere. The mid-week easy hiking day was fun with the boat ride and the visit to Lingholm.
Nancy K.
6 years ago
Great hiking, good places to stay, well organized, great guides
Melinda P.
6 years ago
Patty B.
6 years ago
Judy B.
6 years ago
Both guides did an A job. Hikes were great.
Michelle K.
6 years ago
The hikes were the perfect blend of a bit challenging and beautiful scenic views. Having some choices was great, and the trip seemed well thought out to provide a blend of more difficult and easier hikes.
Lori M.
7 years ago
Barbara R.
7 years ago
I have visited The Lakes many times but never hiked there, so this was the trip that was going to allow me to do that. I had some trepidation about my ability to hike in the region, mostly resulting from what a close hiking companion told me about it. Although I was challenged on a couple of the hikes, I did it (!) and enjoyed myself greatly. I also thought the group of women taking this trip really meshed well together, and as I've come to expect from AGC, the guides facilitated a comfortable intimacy among us.
Frederique O.
7 years ago
Local guide and our host at Swineside we’re super. A great hike everyday
Suzanne S.
7 years ago
The hiking was amazing and the scenery was better than I expected. The accommodations were quite comfortable (though I'm glad I had a single supplement -for me, having that option is very important as my introverted self really needs space and alone time in the midst of a trip with a group of strangers). I really liked Diana's energy at High Swinside. She was so warm and welcoming and wise and knowledgeable and interesting and on and on. It was so peaceful at her place. So glad we had 4 nights there.
Monica C.
7 years ago
Immersing myself into a new environment without having to worry about all the details of planning a trip.
Carola S.
7 years ago
I enjoyed every minute, but would like to have had more time during the hike for photography.
Anne A.
7 years ago
The Lowefell Hike was a spectacular day - the vistas, the variety of terrain, the Shetland ponies! It was perfect. The accommodations were great...the Glenthorne, especially because we could walk out/back and being surrounded by lambs was enchanting. The only drawback was the compressed window for breakfast....a little tight for those of us who need extra bathroom time in the morning. High Swinside was my favorite of the two locations. Could have stayed there for a week. The view is amazing, the chickens are entertaining, and Diana is solid gold. I preferred hiking in that region but perhaps I appreciated it all the more in comparison to Grasmere.
Karen H.
7 years ago
Everything! Great group of women, great leaders, hikes were challenging and interesting, scenery beautiful...
Miriam K.
7 years ago
Varied hiking locations and difficult hikes alternating with easier hikes
Dates & Prices
| Year | Departure Date | Availability | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2026 |
September 12 to September 20 |
Available |
$6795.00 |
Year
2026
Departure Date
September 12 to September 20, 2026
Availability
Available
Price
$6795.00
Make It Your Adventure
Turn any trip into a private experience for your group, or let us design a custom itinerary just for you! Whether it’s friends, family, or colleagues, we’ll make your journey unforgettable.
Common Questions
If we know well in advance, we can accommodate vegetarian, lactose-free, and gluten-sensitive diets. We cannot guarantee a completely gluten-free diet and we cannot provide a kitchen guaranteed to be free of cross-contamination. If you are vegan, we ask that you bring some additional protein bars; and if you are gluten-sensitive, please bring some gluten-free snacks. If you have severe allergies, Celiac disease and/or other significant dietary restrictions, please call the office before you register.
You only need to pay a single supplement if you want to guarantee you have your own room. Otherwise we’ll pair you up with someone and then switch roommates every time we switch lodging.
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