Windermere is a perfect base for exploring the Lake District in depth. With its stunning lakes, lush valleys, and charming villages, it offers a rich landscape that’s best appreciated on a full-day tour. Whether you’re after a guided experience that covers iconic spots like Windermere or a private, personalized adventure, the options here are diverse. What sets Windermere apart is its proximity to multiple lakes, mountain passes, and cultural sites, making it easy for tour providers to craft unforgettable day trips. From boat cruises to literary tours, each experience offers a different way to soak up the scenery and learn about the region’s past and present.
For a quick overview, this list features guided group tours, private excursions, and themed literary trips, each with unique highlights like cruising Ullswater, visiting Castlerigg Stone Circle, or exploring the Brontë landscape. The tours vary in price, size, and focus, but all provide in-depth access to the Lake District’s most photogenic and meaningful sites.
1. Ultimate Full-Day Lake District Tour: 10 Lakes, Amazing Scenery & Lake Cruise
At number one, this comprehensive day trip covers 10 lakes in the Lake District with a focus on scenic drives, storytelling, and a cruise along Ullswater. The tour lasts about 8 hours and is perfect for travelers who want a broad overview without worrying about logistics. The guide takes you through iconic spots like Honister Pass, where you can see the slate mine and learn about the area’s geology, and Whinlatter Forest, known for birds of prey and wildlife spotting. A highlight is the visit to Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage and a stop in Grasmere, famous for gingerbread. The one-hour boat cruise on Ullswater is a real treat, offering spectacular lake views.
Guests consistently praise the guide’s storytelling and the variety of landscapes. Priced at about $218 per person, this tour offers outstanding value given its scope—covering lakes, waterfalls, and historic landmarks in one day. It’s well-suited for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a taste of everything in the Lakes.
Bottom line: For those who want a full, action-packed day with plenty of photo opportunities and interesting stories, this tour hits the mark.
2. Private Tour: Ultimate Full Day Scenic Tour visiting 10 Lakes
Number two on our list is a private, fully customizable 8-hour tour designed for those who prefer an intimate experience. For around $610 per person, a dedicated driver takes the wheel, and you choose where to stop. The itinerary includes Lake Windermere, Kirkstone Pass, Ullswater, the Castlerigg Stone Circle, and Buttermere Lake.
This tour’s strength is flexibility. Instead of a fixed schedule, you can spend more time at your favorite spots like Keswick or take extra photo breaks. The private driver ensures smooth navigation of narrow country lanes, leaving you free to relax and enjoy the scenery. Guests highlight the excellent local knowledge and the luxury of avoiding crowded buses. Wi-Fi is included, making it easy to share your adventures.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers seeking privacy, tailored stops, and a no-hassle experience that lets you focus on what interests you most.
3. Full day Private tour of the Lake District
Number three offers a personalized private tour that covers villages, lakes, waterfalls, and mountain passes in about 8 hours. For roughly $660 per group (up to five people), you get a dedicated driver guiding you through highlights like Kirkstone Mountain Pass, Castlerigg Stone Circle, and Aira Force waterfall.
What makes this trip stand out is its focus on customization—you can prioritize scenic strolls, visit specific villages like Keswick, or explore lesser-known spots. The guide’s local insights bring the landscape to life, making history, nature, and literature feel tangible. Guests appreciate the smooth logistics and the chance to avoid the typical tourist crowds. Stops include Holehird Gardens and Troutbeck, offering a mix of natural beauty and quaint villages.
Bottom line: Ideal for small groups or couples wanting a flexible, personal experience with plenty of photo opportunities and local stories.
4. Private Tour: The Brontës: Full Day All-Inclusive Tour with an Expert Guide
Number four on our list takes you to Yorkshire’s moorlands, exploring Haworth and the Brontë Parsonage, roughly a 8-hour journey. For around $623 per person, this full-day experience includes round-trip transfer from Windermere and detailed stories about the influences behind Wuthering Heights and Jane Eyre.
What sets this tour apart is its literary focus. Your guide shares insights into the Brontë family’s lives and the landscape that inspired their novels. Highlights include visiting Wordsworth’s home and Gingerbread Shop in Grasmere. Perfect for literature lovers who want to combine scenic walks with cultural storytelling, it offers a deep dive into the moors and literary history.
Guests love the personalized attention and the chance to see the windswept moors that fueled the imagination of these authors. The downside? It’s a long drive, so it’s best for fans or those eager for a literary adventure.
Bottom line: Best suited for literature enthusiasts who want a comprehensive, immersive day trip to Yorkshire.
5. Ten Lakes Tour – Full Day – Up to 4 People
Number five offers an intimate, small-group experience with a maximum of four people. For about $603, you’ll spend 8 hours exploring 10 lakes, including Grasmere and Ullswater, with a comfortable vehicle and a knowledgeable driver.
This tour emphasizes stunning scenery and historical insights. Stops include Windermere, Esthwaite Water, Coniston Water, and Buttermere. The guide provides engaging commentary about the history of the lakes and the local villages, plus multiple photo stops for those perfect snapshots. The tour is praised for its expert local driver and relaxed pace, making it ideal for travelers who dislike large bus tours.
Guests note that the timing is well-organized, allowing plenty of sightseeing without feeling rushed. The price, at roughly $600 for the group, offers good value considering the personalized experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for small groups wanting a private, flexible day exploring the lakes and villages without the crowds.
6. Private Tour: Lakeland Poets: Wordsworth and his circle
Number six focuses on literature lovers, taking you through Hawkshead, Dove Cottage, and Grasmere—all connected to William Wordsworth and his literary circle. For about $646 per person, the tour lasts 8 hours and includes visits to Wordsworth House, the Gingerbread Shop, and the family graves.
What makes this trip special is its emphasis on Poetry and culture. Your guide shares stories about Wordsworth’s life and poetry, with stops at Crosthwaite Church and Wordsworth’s childhood home. The tour combines scenic walks, literary history, and visits to places where famous poems were crafted. Guests appreciate the personalized storytelling and the chance to stand where the poet once did.
While smaller in number of reviews, the experience offers an immersive literary journey—ideal for book lovers seeking depth.
Bottom line: Designed for those who want to connect with the Lake District’s poetic heritage in a relaxed, full-day setting.
7. Lake Windermere – Full Day – Up to 4 People
Number seven offers a private, all-in-one day tour around Windermere for up to four people. Priced at about $599, it includes Holehird Gardens, Ambleside Roman Fort, Wray Castle, and a steam train ride plus a lake cruise.
What makes this tour stand out is its diverse itinerary—visiting gardens, historic ruins, and a castle, along with a vintage railway experience. The guide’s local knowledge ensures you get the best viewpoints and stories behind each site. Guest reviews mention Kevin’s flexibility and the comfortable vehicle as major pluses.
This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive yet private introduction to Windermere’s highlights, especially if they enjoy mixing history, nature, and vintage transport.
Bottom line: Great for small groups or couples eager for a tailored, varied day exploring Windermere and its surroundings.
8. Hadrian’s Wall – Full Day – Up to 4 People
Number eight takes you beyond the Lake District to Roman Britain, specifically exploring Hadrian’s Wall and its ruins. For around $599, this private tour lasts 8 hours and includes visits to Lanercost Priory, the Roman Army Museum, and Vindolanda.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on Roman history and archaeology. The sites are some of the most well-preserved Roman relics in Britain, with interactive museums and detailed stories about Roman life. Guests appreciate the exclusive access and private guiding, making it an educational and fascinating experience.
It’s especially suited for history buffs or those curious about Roman Britain, with the convenience of private transportation and a pacing that suits your interests.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want an immersive day exploring Britain’s ancient Roman past.
9. Mountain Goat Full Day Tour: Ten Lakes Tour of the Lake District
Number nine is the most economical option, offering an 8.5-hour guided bus tour for just $75.50 per person. It covers up to ten lakes, including Buttermere, Grasmere, and Bassenthwaite Lake, with stops at Honister Slate Mine and Castlerigg Stone Circle.
This tour emphasizes value and variety—you see the most popular lakes, mountain passes, and historic villages. The guide shares deep local knowledge and makes frequent stops, so you won’t miss out on photo ops. Guests love the friendly guide’s storytelling and the comfortable coach.
While less customizable than private tours, this option suits budget-conscious travelers eager to see a broad slice of the Lake District’s scenery.
Bottom line: Best for those seeking a cost-effective way to cover many lakes and landmarks in one day.
$75.50 per person
10. Ten Lakes Tour – Full Day – Up to 8 People
Finally, number ten offers a full-day private group tour for up to eight people at approximately $688. This tour emphasizes exploring hidden spots and taking plenty of photos along Lake Windermere, Crummock Water, and Bassenthwaite Lake.
Guests find this tour a perfect balance of privacy and flexibility, with undivided attention from the driver. It’s ideal for families or groups of friends who want to venture off the usual path and discover less touristy corners of the Lakes.
The itinerary includes a variety of waterfalls, valleys, and mountain passes, making it a comprehensive yet relaxed experience. Many reviews highlight the personalized service and stunning scenery.
Bottom line: Perfect for larger groups or families wanting a tailored, scenic adventure with plenty of photo stops.
$688.13 per group (up to 8)
How to Choose the Right Full-Day Tour in Windermere
When selecting a tour, think about your budget, group size, and interests. If you’re after a rundown with a mix of scenery and cultural sights, the Ultimate Lake District Tour (link) offers excellent value. For a more personalized experience, consider the private options like the Ultimate Private Tour (link) or the Ten Lakes Private Tour (link), which allow you to customize your day and avoid crowds.
If your main interest is literature or Roman history, the Brontë Tour (link) or the Hadrian’s Wall Tour (link) might be best for you. Budget travelers will appreciate the Mountain Goat Tour (link), which offers a lot of scenery for a low price.
Finally, booking early is advised, especially for popular private tours or during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and ensure a smooth experience.
Final Thoughts
Windermere and the Lake District offer a wide range of full-day tours to suit every traveler’s style. Whether you’re seeking a guided group adventure, want a private custom experience, or are a literature or history enthusiast, there’s a tour that fits. For those who want comprehensive sightseeing, the Ultimate Full-Day Lake District Tour is hard to beat. For a more intimate experience, private options like the Ten Lakes Private Tour or the Full Day Scenic Tour will serve you well.
Remember, early booking not only secures your spot but also allows you to plan around the best weather and avoid the summer rush. No matter which tour you choose, you’ll leave with stunning photos, new stories, and a deeper appreciation of this unique corner of England.