3 Perfectly Picturesque Lake District Tours from London (2023)

The bustling city of London, brimming with iconic landmarks, has long held a special place in my heart as an avid traveler. Yet, just beyond the city’s vibrant energy lies a breathtaking world of natural splendor: the Lake District in northwest England.

With its stunning landscapes, tranquil lakes, and quaint villages, it offers a serene escape from the urban hustle and a haven for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Embarking on a tour from London to the Lake District is an unforgettable journey into the heart of England’s countryside, where the majesty of nature unfolds before your eyes. As you wind your way through verdant hills and picturesque valleys, you’ll discover the idyllic charm that has inspired poets, painters, and dreamers for centuries.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, the enchanting allure of the Lake District will leave you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for the diverse beauty of England’s landscapes. Here are your best options for Lake District tours from London.

Lake District Tour With Cream Tea & Cruise

Are you ready to explore the rolling hills, tranquil lakes, and picture-perfect villages on this Lake District tour with cream tea and cruise? Nothing can truly prepare you for the beauty you’re about to see, so it’s no wonder a London Lake District tour is one of the awesome things to do in London.

Get ready to become ever wiser as a local guide takes you on your journey through the region. You will travel along Lake Windermere to the medieval village of Hawkshead, where the famous poet, William Wordsworth, went to school. 

Then take a relaxing cruise on Lake Windermere. At the end of the tour, you can enjoy traditional British cream tea at Lindeth Howe Country House Hotel, once owned by Beatrix Potter. This full-day tour costs around £259 ($326) per person. It includes your round-trip tickets and your guide but does not include additional food and drinks. 

Lake District Rail Day Trip From London

A Lake District rail day trip from London is the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and charm of the English countryside.

The journey from London to the Lake District takes around three hours by train, passing through some of the most beautiful parts of England. You can sit back, relax, and enjoy the views as the train winds through rolling hills, picturesque villages, and lush green forests.

On the Lake District rail day trip from London, you could stroll around one of the many picturesque lakes, such as Lake Windermere or Coniston Water. Alternatively, venture up into the hills for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. You will also experience the Hawkshead Grammar School Museum, an incredible London museum worth visit.

Once you arrive in the Lake District, you’ll have the chance to explore this beautiful area at your own pace. The Lake District has stunning natural scenery, tranquil lakes, rugged mountains, and dense forests. There are also plenty of charming villages and towns to explore, such as the lovely town of Bowness-on-Windermere and the hidden gem of Tarn Hows. 

This is also a full-day tour and costs around £262 ($330) per person. The train ride to Oxenholme station in the Lake District is unguided, but you will meet your tour guide at Oxenholme and start your Lake District guided tour there. 

Overnight Lake District With Afternoon Tea & Cruise

Make sure you pack your London essentials and get ready to spend the day enjoying the beauty of the Lake District with a guide. 

On the first day, you will meet your guide at Oxenholme Station. From here, you can experience the Hawkshead Grammar School Museum and the Hill Top, followed by a cruise on Coniston Water. On your cruise, you might spot local wildlife like otters or red deer as you glide through the water.

After a full day, you get to see and stay at the Lindeth Howe Hotel, the house once owned by Beatrix Potter, where breakfast is included. You’ll enjoy a restful night’s sleep in this peaceful and idyllic setting.

On the second day, you can explore the Lake District further at your own pace. You could stroll gently through Bowness-on-Windermere and visit some of the region’s charming villages, such as Grasmere. For those feeling more adventurous, you can venture up into the hills for some panoramic views.

This overnight Lake District tour with afternoon tea and cruise from London costs around £374 ($471) but varies depending on the group size. The tour includes your cream tea on the first day and the one-night hotel stay in the Lake District with breakfast. 

While it’s a long day and there aren’t many options, it is entirely possible to visit the Lake District from London on a day/overnight tour – you just need to choose one of the above options. Have any questions about these Lake District tours from London? Let me know in the comments below.