Tour of the Lake District Walk in 2025/26

Home | Walking Holidays | Lake District | Tour of the Lake District

The Tour of the Lake District is a 96 mile circuit of England’s most celebrated national park. This stunning route showcases the diverse beauty of the Lake District, from remote valleys and shimmering lakes to rugged mountain passes and timeless villages. Seasoned walkers will find this challenging route deeply rewarding, relying at times on their map-reading and navigational skills.

Starting in the bustling town of Windermere, the route travels along a mix of ancient packhorse trails, quiet country lanes, and rugged fell paths. Along the way you’ll encounter the tranquil shores of Buttermere, the remote beauty of Wasdale, and the picturesque charm of Borrowdale. The scenery constantly changes, from the dramatic passes of Walna Scar and Black Sail to the peaceful pastures of Eskdale and Langdale

The landscape is steeped in history, with traditional Lakeland villages, ancient stone bridges, and historic inns that have welcomed walkers for generations. Literary connections also add to the area’s charm, from Wordsworth’s inspiration in Grasmere to Beatrix Potter’s beloved countryside near Coniston.

With its ever-changing scenery and a perfect blend of challenge and reward, the Tour of the Lake District offers a memorable adventure for those looking to explore this incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Our Holidays

We have 3 options on the Tour of the Lake District. You can walk the whole route over 9 or 10 days, alternatively you can walk from Windermere to Keswick via the Western Lakes over 6 days, or enjoy an Eastern Lakes short break from Keswick to Ambleside over 3 days.

The section from Windermere to Keswick takes you through the quieter, more remote Western Lakes, including the beautiful valleys of Ennerdale, Wasdale and Eskdale. The short break from Keswick to Ambleside for those with less time, takes in the popular tourist hotspots of Keswick and Grasmere and includes a visit to Castlerigg Stone Circle.

Please bear in mind that the distances each day are trail distances only. They do not take into account walking to your accommodation. On some days the accommodation might be on or close to the trail but on other days you may need to walk one or two miles to get to your overnight stop.

Why do this walk?

A stunning circuit of England’s most celebrated national park.

Cross rugged mountain passes, including Walna Scar and Black Sail.

Wander through peaceful valleys such as Eskdale, Langdale, and Borrowdale.

Explore the landscapes that inspired Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter.

A rewarding challenge that blends adventure, history, and spectacular scenery.

Tour of the Lake District

Windermere to Ambleside 96 miles/154 km

We offer 2 itineraries on the Tour of the Lake District. This captivating trail takes you through some of the Lake District’s most iconic landscapes, from tranquil lakeshores and charming villages to rugged mountain passes. Starting in Windermere, the route heads to Ambleside then leads you through each of the main Lakeland valleys before completing the circuit back in Ambleside.

Code	Length	Average per day	Price range
TL10	9 days (10 nights) 9 days walking (10 nights)	11 miles/18 km	£1427 – £1793	Info Book
TL11	10 days (11 nights) 10 days walking (11 nights)	10 miles/16 km	£1560 – £1967	Info Book

Tour of the Lake District: The Western Tour

Windermere to Keswick 59 miles/95 km

A shorter alternative to the full route, exploring the quieter, more remote valleys of the Western Lakes, including Ennerdale, Wasdale, and Eskdale, as well as the popular tourist towns of Ambleside and Coniston before finishing in Keswick.

Code	Length	Average per day	Price range
TLW7	6 days (7 nights) 6 days walking (7 nights)	10 miles/16 km	£1019 – £1263	Info Book

Tour of the Lake District: The Eastern Tour

Keswick to Ambleside 37 miles/60 km

For those short on time, this journey offers a perfect three-day snapshot of some of the Lake District’s most cherished locations. Starting in Keswick, the route takes you through the charming village of Grasmere before reaching Ambleside, all while offering stunning views of tranquil lakes, picturesque valleys, and the surrounding fells.