The best drives and attractions within the Central Lake District
This page contains links to 5 fabulous drives around the Central Lake District. The area boasts some of the best scenery in the country and many of the most popular attractions. The main towns include Bowness, Windermere, Ambleside and Keswick. Plus some very attractive villages including Grasmere, Hawkshead, Coniston, Glenridding and Buttermere. Of course many of the famous Lake District lakes are included such as Windermere, Coniston Water, Derwent Water, Ullswater and Grasmere. The area also has many historic connections with Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth, many are included. Between them the 5 drives visit all of these wonderful places and many more inbetween. An interactive map of the 5 drives is also included.
Central Lakes Drives
Ambleside - Keswick - Ullswater drive
A drive along the main Lake District artery from Ambleside to Keswick which then returns via Ullswater and Kirkstone Pass. Several lakes are visited and there is a Wordsworth theme including a number of locations associated with the famous poet. 46 miles.
Keswick - Borrowdale - Buttermere drive
A drive of many natural wonders starting from Keswick visiting some of the most beautiful lakes, valleys and mountain passes in the Lake District. Highlights include Derwent Water, Borrowdale, Honister Pass, Buttermere, Crummock Water and Whinlatter. 38 miles.
Windermere circuit drive
A drive of contrasts around England’s largest lake, Windermere. The route visits some of the most popular attractions in Lakeland and also some relatively remote and peaceful parts on the western shore. The scenery is fabulous throughout. 31 miles.
Hawkshead - Coniston - Grizedale drive
A drive based around Hawkshead which includes two separate loops. One visits beautiful Tarn Hows and the many delights of Coniston Water, the other passes through Grizedale Forest and includes some wonderful forest attractions. 35 miles.
Windermere - Coniston - Langdale drive
A drive around central Lakeland through some of the best scenery in the area. There is a Beatrix Potter theme, visiting a number of locations associated with the famous author. A short car ferry trip across Windermere lake is also included. 37 miles.
Ambleside - Keswick - Ullswater drive
A drive along the main Lake District artery from Ambleside to Keswick which then returns via Ullswater and Kirkstone Pass. Several lakes are visited and there is a Wordsworth theme including a number of locations associated with the famous poet.
47 miles.
Keswick - Borrowdale - Buttermere drive
A drive of many natural wonders starting from Keswick visiting some of the most beautiful lakes, valleys and mountain passes in the Lake District. Highlights include Derwent Water, Borrowdale, Honister Pass, Buttermere, Crummock Water and Whinlatter.
38 miles.