National Trust Road Trip in the Lake District 🚗🏞️
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Explore the best National Trust sites in the Lake District on this scenic 41-mile road trip, featuring historic homes, stunning gardens, and breathtaking lake views.
National Trust Road Trip in the Lake District Itinerary Summary
📍 Allan Bank & Grasmere – A charming former home of William Wordsworth, set in beautiful woodland with stunning views over Grasmere.
📍 Stagshaw Gardens – A hidden gem near Ambleside, featuring winding woodland paths, rhododendrons, and azaleas in a peaceful setting.
📍 Townend – A traditional 17th-century farmhouse, offering a glimpse into rural Lakeland life, with original furniture and fascinating stories from the Browne family.
📍 Fell Foot – A scenic park on the shores of Windermere, ideal for picnicking, paddleboarding, and lakeside walks. A great spot to relax and enjoy the views.
📍 Claife Viewing Station & Windermere West Shore – A historic viewpoint with stunning panoramic views over Windermere. The colourful stained-glass windows create a unique experience.
📍 Hill Top & Hawkshead – Visit Beatrix Potter’s 17th-century farmhouse, filled with her belongings and inspirations for her famous stories. Then, explore the charming village of Hawkshead, home to the Beatrix Potter Gallery.
📍 Historic Steam Yacht Gondola – Take a ride on this restored steam-powered yacht, offering a leisurely cruise on Coniston Water with spectacular scenery.
Total Distance: 🚗 41 miles
Recommended Time: ⌛ 2 days
📸 Photos & Info are located further down. Keep scrolling to see all these places. ⬇️
This Lake District National Trust Road Trip is the perfect way to immerse yourself in history, literature, and the stunning landscapes of the Lakes! 🌿✨
Get the FREE National Trust Road Trip in the Lake District Map!
🚗 Need a car for this road trip?
If you don’t have your own car, I’d really recommend renting one — it gives you the flexibility to stop at each waterfall and explore at your own pace.
I usually use DiscoverCars to compare prices and find the best deals across different rental companies.
👉 It’s really easy to use:
- Compare multiple providers in one place
- Cheaper than booking direct
- Free cancellation on most options
- Their 3rd party insurance is a lot cheaper
- They have a great customer service for claims (though I hope you won’t have to use it!
Additional Information & Highlights
📍Grasmere
An absolutely stunning village, once home to William Wordsworth, and where you can find the world famous The Grasmere Gingerbread.
🗺️ Things To Do:
– Get gingerbread from the The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop
– Go to Wordsworth Daffodil Garden
– Visit Dove Cottage and The Wordsworth Museum
– Go to St. Oswald’s Church
– Visit Allan Bank
🅿️ Parking: Stock Lane Car Park (pay and display) is very convenient but it can be very busy in summer or on a sunny day.
📍 Hill Top
📍Hawkshead
Located just north of Esthwaite Water, Hawkshead is a pretty village known for its connections with Beatrix Potter.
🗺️ Things To Do:
– Explore the village and get lost in the narrow streets
– Visit the Hawkshead Grammar School Museum
– Walk up to St Michael and All Angels Church and admire the views
– Get local products from the Honey Pot or the Chocolate Factory
– Visit Wray Castle (National Trust)
– Visit Hill Top, Beatrix Potter’s former farmhouse (National Trust)
🅿️ Parking: The main car park in Hawkshead (pay and display) is the best place to park but it can be quite busy if you’re visiting during peak season.
