A Classic Taste of The Lakes

Duration 3 day/2 night
Accomodation Country House Hotel
Basis Dinner, Bed and Breakfast
From £295 per person - Check Availability now!

Treat yourself with this self-guided cycle tour of Beatrix Potter country. Set on the hillside overlooking Lake Windermere, the award-winning Fayrer Garden House Hotel provides the perfect base from which explore the dramatic scenery of Lake District National Park. Exquisite 5 course locally sourced cuisine in luxurious surroundings rewards you at the end of every day.

Day 1 Arrival - 11 or 17 miles
Make your way to the Country Lanes cycle centre at Windermere station, where your top quality bicycles and equipment are waiting for you. While we whisk your luggage to your overnight accomodation, you'll start by ferrying across Lake Windermere and pedalling along the shore for fabulous views of the lake and the surrounding fells. The picturesque village of Hawkshead is an ideal place to stop for lunch and visit the Beatrix Potter Gallery Museum, which displays original illustrations from her famous storybooks. The return ride includes a visit to Hill Top, Beatrix Potter's former home which is now a National Trust property - we've even arranged an exclusive discounted entry for your party. From Hill Top it's downhill all the way to the ferry and the short crossing back to your hotel.

Day 2 - A Lazy Day in Lakeside 7, 11 or 19 miles
Freewheel into Bowness-on-Windermere and then sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery during the 45 minute cruise to Lakeside at the southern tip of Lake Windermere. Cartmel Priory, dating back to the 13th C provides fascination for history buffs and gardening enthusiasts will want to linger at Holker Hall. For an off-road challenge, Grizedale Forest is within easy reach while those preferring gentler pusuits may find the Aquarium of the Lakes or even a ride on a steam train of interest. Whatever your choice, you're in for a lazy day at Lakeside before the scenic return cruise to Bowness and short cycle back to your hotel for dinner.

Day 3 - 17 or 20 miles
Today you'll explore the quieter scenic area to the south of Windermere taking in Crosthwaite and Knipe Tarn. After a climb you're rewarded with panoramic views stretching as far as Yorkshire Dales National Park. Traffic-free bridleways and a glimpse of the sea in the distance provide a total escape. Challenge-seekers will enjoy the Strawberry Bank option.

All too soon it's time to return your bikes to the cycle centre at Windermere where your luggage will be waiting for you. There's a last lingering look at the magical landscape as your train whisks you back home, vowing to visit this truly special area again soon!