Lake District Tour: Scenic Lakes and History

Explore the Lake District’s stunning landscapes and rich history on a scenic tour from York. Discover Ullswater, Kirkstone Pass, and more.

Duration: 12 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Ullswater - As the second-largest lake in England, Ullswater is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, featuring pristine waters, dramatic mountain landscapes, and delightful villages such as Pooley Bridge and Glenridding.
  • Lake Windermere - Take a short break to stretch your legs before continuing your journey along the renowned Lake…
What's Included
  • Driver-guide
  • Live commentary on board
What's Not Included
  • Food and drinks
  • Drivers gratuity (optional)
Additional Information

Discover the stunning Lake District on this memorable tour. Journey along Ullswater, one of the most picturesque lakes, before crossing Kirkstone Pass for awe-inspiring vistas. Pass by Lake Windermere, the largest lake in England, and pause at Hawkshead, a medieval village where William Wordsworth went to school. Enjoy leisure time to explore its…

Location
Memorial Gardens
This tour will start at Coach Bay A on Leeman Road, YO1 6FZ, Opposite the Memorial Gardens at 8:00 AM. The pickup point is a 5 minute walk from York Railway Station. Please note the tour will leave promptly at 08:00 so please arrive on 5 minutes early. What 3 Words - ///rocks.defend.dive
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(19 Ratings)
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Pamela_m
Jun 17, 2025
Great trip even if vistas were hidden in the Clouds - I really enjoyed the tour of the Lake District even though the rain and drizzle meant that many of the scenic points were lost in the clouds. Our guide John S. from York kept us well informed of the history, the people connected to the Lake District such as Beatrix Potter and Wordsworth. When we stopped for lunch in Hawkshead and afternoon tea in Grasmere he pointed out the restaurants that he recommended. The final stop at the Castlerigg Stone Circle was a highlight as the mist listed and we finally had an opportunity to see some stunning views. John made sure not to rush us as we soaked it all in
Review provided by Viator
Olivebbb
Jun 17, 2025
Fun, beautiful, and would easily recommend! - This tour to the Lake District from York was amazing! John S was our guide and he couldn’t have been more perfect. We learned a LOT about each area we visited. John’s commentary was always interesting. We visited places I’ve never been and now want to plan a lengthier trip to the Lake District to enjoy more. I wish we had done this a long time ago. We visited picturesque towns, Wordsworths grave, Castlerigg Stone Circle, and gorgeous landscapes. Mountain Goat Tours was phenomenal and well priced for what we received. We will use them again in the future!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Davidce4324kk
Jun 17, 2025
Highly recommended - John S picked us up at the meeting place right on time and off we (9 of us) went in a 16 passenger van. He drove expertly and provided informative commentary - displaying an amazing depth of knowledge on history, geology, and culture. While the weather wasn’t the best (drizzle, fog, clouds), the trip was great fun and we learned a lot. This was one of the best small group tours we’ve ever taken.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Lhl92
Apr 23, 2025
The Lake District from York tour perfection! - I had an exceptional tour of the Lake District from York with Mountain Goat yesterday! My guide John S. is a such gentleman, very patient and wonderful driver. It was a long day and a lot of driving for him. I booked a group tour but ended with a private tour since I was the only tourist on this trip. John still spent a lot of time tell the single listener history, stories and his personal hiking experience amount the mountains alone the way The experience was perfect. The Lake District is beautiful and peaceful, my favorite was Tarn Hows and I enjoyed two little towns and many little lambs I saw along the way. I did feel sorry for John who drove all day long just for one guest though. I wish more tourists will join this memorable road trip with endless sceneries, wonderful driver/guide and comfortable clean vehicle.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Clare_m
Sep 23, 2019
Lakes District, North York Moors & Yorkshire Moors from York - Excellent trip. Tour guide, Lee, from York though Moors & Dales to Lakes District & return was brilliant. Spent most of day with Lee. He was great! Friendly, informative, personable & thoughtful. Lisa who took us through Lakes District very good too. Very much enjoyed our day & the sights.
Review provided by Viator
Mumsgurl
Aug 11, 2019
Lake District - Great tour. JJ our guide was friendly and very knowledgeable. I learned a lot about the area. Even though the weather wasn’t the most cooperative I’m glad I went. Very enjoyable.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Alexander_o
Aug 10, 2019
Excellent day out - Despite the quirky English summer - four seasons in one day, this was an excellent day out in the Yorkshire Dales and the southern Lakes District. Both drivers (JJ and Jane) were very informative without being over the top and had great driving skills, knowing all the back roads to avoid the traffic. We thoroughly enjoyed the day.
Review provided by Viator
Gloria
Aug 7, 2019
Great day trip - We enjoyed this trip immensely and the two guides we had during the day were excellent! The Lake Windermere cruise was lovely however unfortunately had a little rain so visibility was a little limited. The tour was well organised and ran smoothly from beginning to end. Great way to see the Yorkshire area with lots of history explained along the way
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Beth
Oct 8, 2018
Lake District from York - The drivers / guides were very personable and knowledgeable about the Yorkshire area and the Lake District. It was a lot of driving for a day - but worth it. Loved the visit to Hilltop. Too bad the house is closed on Fridays
Review provided by Viator
Lizfawcus
Oct 28, 2019
Wonderful scenery - Enjoyed the trip and wonderful scenery. However, we were disappointed that we could not access Beatrix Potter's home as this was one of the main reasons for going.and It was mentioned on the itinerary.. Both drivers/guides were pleasant and informative. A very long day but I guess it couldn't be avoided as there was a lot of ground to cover.
Review provided by Viator
From $125
up to 15 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).