The Lake District Central

A car-free, outdoor lovers mini guide to the English Lake District. Have a look at some of a local's favorite locations and activities to do in the Lakes, all within reach of the main bus route (555) which runs from Lancaster to Keswick.

Read less

Updated ago

Save

Where to start:

The 555 bus route (operated by Stagecoach) runs all the way from Lancaster to Keswick, with tonnes of stops along the way! You can join the bus within five minutes walk of Lancaster and Kendal train stations, or grab a connecting bus from Penrith station to Keswick. This mini-guide breaks down the route into four stages, showing you some of the best outdoor activities along the way!

Kendal to Windermere:

Staveley Mill Yard

@katru55

A local favorite stopping off point where you can grab a takeaway coffee and bakery items, or dine in at one of the traditional Lake District cafes, serving a range of local delights.

Add to

Details

Reston Scar

@katru55

A lovely circular walk, straight from Staveley which gives you great views up into the central Lake District.

Add to

Details

Windermere to Ambleside:

Brockhole on Windermere

@katru55

Stop off and explore the shores of Windermere from Brockhole. From high ropes courses, to lake cruises and boat hire, all this is just minutes away from the bus stop.

Add to

Details

Ambleside to Grasmere:

Loughrigg Fell

@katru55

Walk up this pretty hill, accessible from the 555 bus route, starting at either Ambleside or Rydal. On route, make sure to check out Rydal Caves!

Add to

Details

Rydal Cave

@katru55

Explore the old slate quarry areas on the edge of Loughrigg Fell.

Add to

Details

Buckstones Jump

@katru55

From the 555 bus stop in Rydal, an hour long walk up through the woods and onto the fells leads you straight to the gushing mountain stream at Buckstones Jump, perfect for a picnic and swim!

Add to

Details

Grasmere to Keswick:

Easedale Tarn

@katru55

Add to

Details

Raven Crag

@katru55

Add to

Details

Keswick

@katru55

Keswick is nestled within the mountains so is a great base for anything outdoor related! Go swimming or paddle boarding on the lake, hike up England's fourth highest mountain, or go explore the old slate mines at Honister Pass. To find out more check out the Keswick Mini-guide!

Add to

Details

Wanting more?

A detailed three-day car-free itinerary, with the best cafes, activities and transport options is coming soon.

* * *

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Katie

Hey, I'm Katie! I grew up in the mountains in the UK but have been lucky enough to travel (mostly solo) to over 30 countries, where I love to explore the mountains, beaches, and just the outdoors in general. I aim to share some activities and must sees for my favorite outdoorsy locations, as well as how to make these trips as sustainable as possible!

Read less

Send A Tip

Support Katie ’s work.

Select your tip amount

$10

$20

$50

Or type in other amount