Custom charter tour · Cumbria
Lake District custom charter tours
Mirror-still lakes, dramatic fells and the villages that inspired Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter – explored at your own pace in a private vehicle.
From £320 per vehicle per day · You receive a quotation before anything is confirmed. Submitting a form does not create a confirmed booking.
The Lake District is England's largest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its landscape of lakes, valleys and mountains has drawn poets, painters and walkers for centuries, and it remains one of the most-loved destinations in Britain.
From Nottingham, the Lakes are a long drive each way. A one-day tour is possible but makes for a full day on the road, so many guests prefer to stay one or more nights. A private vehicle lets you move between lakes and villages easily – ideal when some of the best viewpoints are on narrow roads with limited public transport.
Highlights
Windermere & Bowness
England's largest natural lake, with lakeside promenades and seasonal boat trips.
Grasmere
A peaceful village closely associated with William Wordsworth.
Beatrix Potter country
The countryside around Near Sawrey and Hawkshead that inspired Peter Rabbit's creator.
Keswick & Derwentwater
A lively market town beside one of the most photographed lakes in the national park.
Buttermere & Honister
A dramatic valley and mountain pass in the quieter north-west.
Castlerigg Stone Circle
A prehistoric stone circle ringed by fells, near Keswick.
Example itinerary
Example itineraryExample: one long day from Nottingham
- Day 1
- Early pickup in Nottingham
- Windermere and Bowness – lakeside stroll or an optional boat trip (seasonal)
- Lunch stop in Ambleside or Grasmere
- Scenic drive north to Keswick and Derwentwater
- Return to Nottingham in the evening
Example itineraryExample: two days with an overnight stay
- Day 1
- Pickup in Nottingham
- Windermere and Bowness
- Hawkshead and Beatrix Potter country
- Overnight in the Lakes (hotel not included)
- Day 2
- Grasmere
- Keswick and Castlerigg Stone Circle
- Buttermere via the Honister Pass (weather permitting)
- Return to Nottingham
Approximate travel considerations
- The Lake District is a long drive from Nottingham – overnight stays make the trip more relaxed.
- Mountain passes are narrow and steep, and some may be unsuitable in poor weather.
- Weather changes quickly; bring waterproof layers and comfortable shoes in every season.
- Summer weekends and school holidays are busy, and parking at popular spots fills early.
- Boat services and some attractions run seasonal timetables.
Suitable for
Couples & honeymooners
Quiet lakeside villages and romantic viewpoints.
Families
Lake cruises, gentle walks and Beatrix Potter stories for children.
Photographers
Early light on the lakes and dramatic valley views.
Literature lovers
Wordsworth and Potter heritage sites.
Frequently asked questions
Can I visit the Lake District in a day from Nottingham?
It's possible, but it's a long day with a lot of driving. We usually suggest at least one overnight stay if you can.
Can you include a boat trip on Windermere?
We can plan time for one. Boat tickets are bought separately, and services depend on the season and weather.
Is the tour suitable for older travellers?
Yes – a private vehicle means you can enjoy viewpoints with minimal walking. Tell us about any mobility needs when you enquire.
Plan your Lake District tour
Tell us your dates and ideas – we'll suggest an itinerary and send a quotation.
You receive a quotation before anything is confirmed. Submitting a form does not create a confirmed booking.