Ambleside, Keswick and Ullswater: A Lake District Self-Guided Driving Tour
Active
2h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Are you looking for a way to see Lake District without joining a tour group? Explore at your own pace with this affordable audio tour.
• Find out why two million sheep now inhabit the Cumbria landscape and why King Dunmail’s ghostly warriors try to reawaken him every year
• Hear from producer Martin Wilson, a local whose passion for the area and its history led him to create Lake District Drives
• Do it all in 150 minutes or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish
• Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it
• Use the virtual tour option at home
Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code.
The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.
Available options
Ambleside, Keswick and Ullswater: A Lake District Self-Guided Driving Tour
What's included
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
VoiceMap app for Android and iOS
Lifetime access to this self-guided tour in English
Detailed itinerary
1
This self-guided driving tour takes you into the heart of the Lake District. You'll hear about the many towns and villages that you pass along the way and learn the history of the area.
2
This Lake District driving tour from Ambleside, through the heart of the region to Keswick and back via Ullswater and Kirkstone Pass.
3
The tour passes through Rydal on the way to Rydal Mount & Gardens.
4
Stop 4
Pass by
The tour passes by Rydal Mount & Gardens, the former home of famous poet William Wordsworth.
5
Stop 5
Pass by
The tour follows part of Rydal Water as you drive through the countryside.
6
Stop 6
Pass by
The tour passes by Grasmere lake which you'll see as you drive through the countryside.
7
The tour passes by Wordsworth's former home in Grasmere. You'll hear more about the famous poet while you drive.
8
The tour passes through Grasmere. You'll hear about the town while you drive.
9
The goes over Dunmail Raise where you'll hear the story of King Dunmail and the legend of the ghostly warriors who, every year, try to reawaken their fallen king.
10
The tour passes by Wythburn Church, one of the few remaining buildings from the original village.
11
The tour passes through Thirlmere where you'll see Thirlmere reservoir. You’ll also hear about the controversy surrounding Thirlmere lake, which was dammed to become a reservoir for growing industrial cities like Manchester.
12
The tour passes by Legburthwaite where you can relax, picnic and see the lake.
13
The tour passes through sections of the Lake District National Park, named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017.
14
The tour passes through Keswick. You'll hear about the town as you drive.
15
Stop 15
Pass by
The tour passes by Castlerigg Stone Circle which was established by Neolithic farming communities over 4,500 years ago.
16
The tour passes by Keswick climbing wall and outdoor activity centre. You'll hear about the activity centre while you drive.
17
Stop 17
Pass by
The tour passes by Ullswater Lake. You'll see the lake and hear about it while you drive.
18
The tour passes through the village of Glenridding. You'll hear about the village while you drive.
19
The tour passes by Brothers Water. You'll hear about the lake while you drive.
20
The tour passes through Kirkstone Pass. You'll hear about the tell-tale geographic signs that glaciers encompassed this landscape during the last ice age
What's not included
Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route
Smarphone and headphones
Food and drinks
Transportation
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.8
8 reviews
5★
4
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
2
Tripadvisor
5.0
9 reviews
5★
9
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Before arrival, please install the VoiceMap mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
Important notes
VOICEMAP CODE
───
Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.
DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
Create an account
Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
Enter your code then select Download Now
PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.
SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me
About Windermere
Windermere is the largest natural lake in England, renowned for its stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and charming lakeside villages. It's a haven for nature lovers, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in the heart of the Lake District National Park.
Top Attractions
Lake Windermere
Lake Windermere is the largest natural lake in England, offering stunning landscapes, water activities, and scenic cruises. It's a hub for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to explore, cruises and activities vary in price
Beatrix Potter's Hill Top
Hill Top is the charming 17th-century home of the famous children's author Beatrix Potter. The house and gardens offer a glimpse into her life and the inspiration for her beloved stories.
Historical
2-3 hours
£15-£20 for adults, discounts for children and families
Windermere Steamboat Museum
This museum showcases the rich maritime history of Lake Windermere, with a collection of historic steamboats, engines, and artifacts. It's a fascinating look at the lake's past.
Museum
1-2 hours
£8-£10 for adults, discounts for children and families
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cumberland Sausage
A traditional sausage made from minced pork, seasoned with pepper and other spices, and formed into a distinctive twisted shape. It's often served with mashed potatoes and gravy.
Main Course
Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or those with pork allergies
Grasmere Gingerbread
A traditional gingerbread made with spices, honey, and treacle, originating from the village of Grasmere. It's a sweet, spicy treat often enjoyed with tea or coffee.
Dessert
Contains gluten, not suitable for those with gluten allergies
Kendal Mint Cake
A popular confectionery made from sugar, glucose, water, and peppermint oil. It's a sweet, minty treat often enjoyed by hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Snack
Contains sugar, not suitable for those with sugar allergies or diabetes
Popular Activities
Hiking
Boating
Water sports
Cycling
Mountain biking
Boat cruises
Spas and wellness
Scenic walks
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the warmest and busiest time of year, with long daylight hours and plenty of outdoor activities available. The weather is generally pleasant, making it ideal for hiking, boating, and exploring the villages.
15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F)
59°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT (UTC+0) in winter, BST (UTC+1) in summer
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
The Lake District is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash
- • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas and at night
Getting there
By air
- Manchester Airport • 150 miles (240 km)
By train
Windermere Station
By bus
Windermere Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around, with regular services to nearby villages and attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Bowness-on-Windermere
Ambleside
Grasmere
Day trips
Kendal
10 miles (16 km) • Half day to full day
Kendal is a historic market town with a rich cultural heritage, offering a mix of historic sites, museums, and shopping.
Lancaster
20 miles (32 km) • Full day
Lancaster is a historic city with a rich maritime heritage, offering a mix of historic sites, museums, and shopping.
Glenridding and Helvellyn
5 miles (8 km) • Full day
Glenridding is a charming village at the northern end of Ullswater, offering stunning landscapes, water activities, and hiking trails. Helvellyn, the third-highest mountain in England, is nearby and offers challenging hikes with breathtaking views.
Festivals
Lakeland Book of the Year Festival • June
Kendal Torchlight Carnival • Mid-November
Windermere Jazz Festival • July
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience
- Pack layers and be prepared for changeable weather, even in the summer
- Book accommodations, dining, and activities well in advance, especially during peak season
- Explore beyond the popular tourist hubs and discover the hidden gems and quieter villages of the Lake District
- Try local dishes and support local businesses, such as pubs, cafes, and shops
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
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