Lakes 100

What is the Lakes 100 Road Trip?

The Lakes 100 scenic drive through the Lake District is a 100-mile circular route that starts in Bowness-on-Windermere, taking in the most breathtaking scenery of the region. From Grasmere to Keswick and Coniston, each area boasts its own unique charm, with sparkling lakes and towering fells.

The Lakes 100 Road Trip Route

• Stage 1: Bowness-on-Windermere to Grasmere - Start your Lake District driving route with a picturesque drive from the bustling lakeside town of Bowness-on-Windermere to the tranquil village of Grasmere, famous for its connection to poet William Wordsworth.
• Stage 2: Grasmere to Keswick - Travel from Grasmere to the vibrant market town of Keswick, nestled on the shores of Derwentwater, offering a blend of outdoor adventure and cultural heritage.
• Stage 3: Keswick to Honister Pass - This stage takes you from Keswick to the dramatic Honister Pass, where you’ll find some of the top attractions on the Lakes 100 route and awe-inspiring scenery.
• Stage 4: Honister Pass to Cockermouth - Drive from Honister Pass to the historic town of Cockermouth, known for its Georgian architecture and as the birthplace of Wordsworth.
• Stage 5: Cockermouth to Ennerdale Bridge - Head from Cockermouth to the peaceful village of Ennerdale Bridge, a gateway to some of the most remote areas in the Lake District, making it a perfect stop on the Lakes 100 road trip for nature lovers.
• Stage 6: Ennerdale Bridge to Calder Bridge - Journey from Ennerdale Bridge to Calder Bridge, passing through serene countryside and offering views of the Lake District’s lesser-known spots.
• Stage 7: Calder Bridge to Ulpha - Travel from Calder Bridge to the charming village of Ulpha, known for its scenic beauty and tranquil setting.
• Stage 8: Ulpha to Coniston - From Ulpha, head to Coniston, a village on the edge of Coniston Water, popular for its boating activities and walks.
• Stage 9: Coniston to Hawkshead - The final stage takes you from Coniston to the delightful village of Hawkshead, famous for its literary connections and cobbled streets.

Stage 1: Bowness-on-Windermere to Grasmere

Start your road trip in lively Bowness-on-Windermere, a bustling town on the shores of Windermere Lake, and wind your way through breathtaking scenery to peaceful Grasmere, famous for its literary connections and natural beauty.

Top places to visit between Bowness-on-Windermere and Grasmere:

• Lake Windermere: Take a scenic boat cruise or rent a boat to explore England’s largest lake, surrounded by stunning fells and woodland.
• Blackwell, The Arts & Crafts House: Marvel at the architecture and intricate details of this beautiful Arts and Crafts house.
• The World of Beatrix Potter: Step into the enchanting world of Peter Rabbit and other favourite characters from Beatrix Potter’s classic tales.
• Orrest Head: Take a gentle hike to this popular viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Windermere and the surrounding countryside.
• Tarn Hows: Enjoy a leisurely walk around this picturesque tarn, famous for its glassy waters and reflection of the surrounding fells.
• Grasmere Village: Visit Dove Cottage, Wordsworth’s home for 14 years, and meander through the charming streets of this idyllic village.
• The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop: Make sure you stop at this shop, which has been going since 1630 and is home to the famous Sarah Nelson's Gingerbread. There's normally a huge queue but it's worth the wait.
• Tweedies Bar: Grab a pint at this lively pub. It attracts hikers from all directions and its beer mat collection is a sight to behold. With over 200 mats, it’s a mishmash of guest beers from the Lake District that will make you feel welcome.

Stage 2: Grasmere to Keswick

From Grasmere, drive to vibrant Keswick, situated between Skiddaw and Derwentwater. This bustling market town offers the perfect blend of culture and outdoor activities in the Lake District.

Top places to visit between Grasmere and Keswick:

• Rydal Mount & Gardens: Stop by Wordsworth’s beloved home and beautiful gardens, which inspired many of his poems.
• Thirlmere Reservoir: Take a leisurely walk around this captivating reservoir, surrounded by woodland and majestic mountain vistas.
• Castlerigg Stone Circle: Wander around one of Britain’s most haunting and atmospheric prehistoric sites, set against a dramatic mountain backdrop.
• The Pencil Museum: Learn about the history of pencil making in Keswick, with fun exhibits and activities for kids.
• Keswick Market: Visit this bustling traditional market filled with local specialties, crafts, and artisan foods.
• Derwentwater: Kayak, paddleboard, or take a leisurely boat ride around this serene lake, surrounded by impressive mountain vistas.
• Catbells: Don’t miss out on one of the best 'bang for buck' walks in the Lake District. This is an easy route that offers spectacular views of Derwentwater and the surrounding fells, with the town of Keswick visible across the lake.

Stage 3: Keswick to Honister Pass

From Keswick, drive through the heart of the Lake District to the dramatic Honister Pass, one of the highlights of the Lakes 100 itinerary for a weekend getaway and home to some of the region's most breathtaking scenery.

Top places to visit between Keswick and Honister Pass:

• Lodore Falls: Admire the majestic cascading waters of Lodore Falls, a popular spot for photography and picnics in the woods.
• Surprise View: This iconic viewpoint offers panoramic views of Derwentwater and the surrounding mountains, the perfect photo opportunity.
• Borrowdale Valley: Hike through scenic trails in this beautiful valley, ideal for birdwatching and taking in the serene natural surroundings.
• Honister Slate Mine: Take a tour of this historic slate mine and learn about the extraction process. You can even try your hand at Via Ferrata.
• Watendlath Tarn: Discover this secluded tarn, nestled in a peaceful valley, and enjoy a relaxing retreat in natural surroundings.
• Ashness Bridge: Cross this stone bridge, one of the most photographed spots in the Lake District, with stunning views of Skiddaw and Bassenthwaite Lake.

Stage 4: Honister Pass to Cockermouth

From Honister Pass, drive to the historic town of Cockermouth, a charming base to discover both rugged scenery and rich history.

Top places to visit between Honister Pass and Cockermouth:

• Buttermere Lake: Take a walk around this peaceful lake, flanked by majestic fells and providing a perfect setting for photography and relaxation.
• Crummock Water: Enjoy the serene beauty of Crummock Water, one of the Lake District’s lesser-visited gems.
• Cockermouth Castle: Wander through the ruins of medieval Cockermouth Castle, which has excellent views over the town.
• Wordsworth House and Garden: Visit William Wordsworth's childhood home, now a museum showcasing what life was like in an 18th-century family home.
• Jennings Brewery: Tour this traditional brewery and learn about the age-old brewing process. Sample some of Jennings’ finest ales in the on-site pub, one of the Lakes 100 route highlights for beer lovers.
• Castlegate House Gallery: Browse this beautiful collection of contemporary art in a Georgian house setting.
• Loweswater: Loweswater is a peaceful lake that offers a more serene experience than some of its more popular counterparts. Situated right in the heart of the Lake District, it’s a great place to enjoy a leisurely walk with fewer crowds.
• Kirkstile Inn: Enjoy a plate of Fish and Chips or a Sunday roast while taking in the stunning views of Mellbreak from the outdoor seating area at this classic pub.

Stage 5: Cockermouth to Ennerdale Bridge

From Cockermouth, drive to Ennerdale Bridge, the perfect base for exploring one of the Lake District’s most secluded and peaceful valleys.

Top places to visit between Cockermouth and Ennerdale Bridge:

• Ennerdale Water: Hike around this remote, untouched lake, surrounded by wild and rugged landscapes.
• Ennerdale Forest: Unravel the extensive network of trails in this massive forest, ideal for walking, mountain biking, and spotting wildlife.
• Low Gillerthwaite Field Centre: Base your stay in the Ennerdale Valley at this field centre, offering educational resources and facilities for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Kirkstile Inn: Refuel at this 17th-century inn, serving up traditional Cumbrian fare and a range of local ales.
• Wild Ennerdale Project: Learn about initiatives to protect the unique landscape and wildlife of the Ennerdale Valley.
• St. Bees Head: Uncover the dramatic coastal cliffs at St. Bees Head, with striking views over the Irish Sea and a variety of seabirds.

Stage 6: Ennerdale Bridge to Calder Bridge

From Ennerdale Bridge, drive through spectacular landscapes to Calder Bridge, passing by historic sites and landmarks along the way. 

Top places to visit between Ennerdale Bridge and Calder Bridge:

• St. Bees Priory: Explore this 12th-century priory, featuring stunning Norman architecture and an ancient churchyard filled with quirky gravestones.
• Egremont Castle: Wander through the atmospheric ruins of Egremont Castle, a reminder of the Norman conquest and its rich history.
• Calder Abbey: Take a leisurely walk around the peaceful ruins of Calder Abbey, a perfect spot to soak up the serene atmosphere and imagine monastic life in the 12th century.
• Haile Village: Enjoy the charm of Haile Village, famous for its quaint cottages and rural seclusion.
• Gosforth Cross: Marvel at the ancient Viking cross in Gosforth, one of England's tallest and most intricately carved monuments. This is one of the best stops along the Lakes 100 route for history enthusiasts.
• Wastwater: Check out Wastwater, England’s deepest lake, flanked by rugged mountains and dramatic scenery perfect for photography and adventure seekers.

Stage 7: Calder Bridge to Ulpha

From Calder Bridge, continue your Lakes 100 road trip itinerary, driving through rolling hills and picturesque villages to Ulpha, situated in the idyllic Duddon Valley.

Top places to visit between Calder Bridge and Ulpha:

• Wasdale Head: Base your stay in Wasdale Head to climb Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain, and take in the scenery.
• Duddon Valley: Drive through this valley, which is famous for its unspoiled beauty and quaint hamlets.
• Stanley Ghyll Waterfall: Hike to this hidden waterfall, surrounded by beautiful greenery.
• Eskdale Mill: Head to one of the few remaining water-powered mills in the country and learn about traditional milling techniques.
• Ulpha Church: Visit this charming church, which has a fascinating history and a setting in the Duddon Valley.
• Birker Fell: Venture into the wild and rugged landscape of Birker Fell, a remote and atmospheric area with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding fells.
• Wasdale Head Inn: This busy pub is a popular stop for hikers, and it’s surrounded by some of the Lake District’s most iconic fells, including Scafell Pike, Great Gable, Yewbarrow and Kirk Fell.
• Scafell Pike: The highest peak in England, Scafell Pike is a must-visit for any hiker looking for a challenging but rewarding experience.

Stage 8: Ulpha to Coniston

From Ulpha, drive to Coniston, passing striking landscapes and enjoying views of the fells and lakes along the way.

Top places to visit between Ulpha and Coniston:

• Broughton-in-Furness: Walk through this historic market town, famous for its shops, cafes, and traditional architecture.
• Tarn Hows: Take a leisurely walk around the serene waters of Tarn Hows, with its stunning scenery perfectly reflected in the lake.
• Brantwood: Explore the home of John Ruskin, featuring a collection of his artifacts, art, and beautiful gardens overlooking Coniston Water.
• Coniston Water: Enjoy a range of water activities on Coniston Water, from boating to fishing, or simply relax on the shore.
• The Ruskin Museum: Learn about the history of Coniston and its famous residents, including speed record attempter Donald Campbell, at this excellent museum.
• Grizedale Forest: Wander through the beautiful Grizedale Forest, with trails that wind through the trees and outdoor sculptures to discover.

Stage 9: Coniston to Hawkshead

From Coniston, drive to the charming village of Hawkshead, famous for its cobblestone streets and literary connections.

Top places to visit between Coniston and Hawkshead:

• Hill Top: Visit the charming former home of Beatrix Potter, now a museum showcasing her life and stories, surrounded by the beautiful countryside she loved.
• Hawkshead Grammar School: Step back in time at this historic grammar school where William Wordsworth once studied. Original manuscripts and old desks are on display.
• Beatrix Potter Gallery: Explore original illustrations and learn about the life of Beatrix Potter at this gallery, located in a beautiful 17th-century building.
• Esthwaite Water: Relax on the peaceful shores of Esthwaite Water, a popular spot for fishing and nature walks.
• Wray Castle: Take in the impressive neo-gothic Wray Castle, featuring fascinating architecture and magnificent views over Lake Windermere.
• Hawkshead Brewery: Sample some of Hawkshead’s famous brews at this local craft brewery, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
• Chesters By The River: No trip is complete without a visit to Chesters By The River. A real treat during the Summer: indulge in their delicious baked goods, coffee and salads, all while enjoying the beautiful river that flows beside the café. Just a short walk away lies the beautiful Skelwith Force waterfall, making it the perfect end to your scenic journey through the Lake District.

Useful links

Top Campsites on the Lakes 100

7 Sep, 2024•10 min read

Lenka Greckova

Frequently asked questions