The Lake District might just be the most popular holiday destination in the UK, although it has fierce competition thanks to the Cotswolds, the Highlands, and the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. The Lake District has served as a muse to poets, authors, and painters for centuries. From Beatrix Potter to William Wordsworth, the Lake District has been the backdrop to countless masterpieces. This huge expanse of untamed beauty in Cumbria is home to England’s highest mountain and deepest lakes. Its untamed beauty is juxtaposed by quaint, historical villages and cosy pubs, where you can always find a warm meal to end a day spent outdoors.
The Lake District is begging to be explored in a road trip. And what better way to do this than in a campervan? You can end your nights under the endless starry sky and wake up in the heart of nature. We’ve got a guide to a Lake District road trip in 4 days, complete with wild, windswept walks and epic driving routes.
Day 1 — Keswick
Let’s start this Lake District campervan route at Keswick, a market town bustling with things to do. This town is kept busy throughout the year with various festivals, events, and activities. If you can, consider lining up your visit with the Keswick Film Festival, Words by the Water or Keswick Beer Festival, to see the town truly come alive. Or, if you’re looking for peace and quiet, actively avoid those dates!
Filled with quaint shops, art galleries, and small museums, Keswick features many Lake District hidden gems. Try not to stock up on too many souvenirs, as you’ve got a long way to go. Although at least you won’t worry about fitting them into your luggage, thanks to your motorhome!
Keswick is home to some of the best pubs in the Lake District, which are tourist attractions in themselves. They serve some of the finest local Lakeland ales, including Jennings, Hawkshead and Keswick Brewery. You’ll find the locals gathered at The George and The Dog and Gun at the end of the day, so head there for a hearty meal.
Things to do:
Explore your first lake of the trip—it definitely won’t be the last you see! Derwentwater is located just south of Keswick, and it's the third-largest lake by area. It’s a ten-minute walk from the town centre, and then you can take a leisurely stroll around the lake or opt for a boat cruise to take in the scenic views. Don’t fret; the Lake District isn’t home to one of Nessie’s siblings—as far as we know…
Visit the Keswick Museum. Delve into local history and art exhibits showcasing the region's heritage.
Step back in time at Castlerigg Stone Circle, situated on a prominent hill to the east of Keswick. It's one of the earliest stone circles to be found in Britain and is important in terms of megalithic astronomy and geometry. Plus, it's far cheaper and less crowded than Stone Henge!
Ready for your first hike? Again, it certainly won’t be the last of this trip! Latrigg Fell is a moderate hike offering panoramic views of Keswick and the surrounding area.
Staying at: Castlerigg Hall
Situated less than two miles from Keswick, Castlerigg Hall Caravan and Camping Park offers breathtaking panoramic views of Derwentwater, Bassenthwaite Lake, and the surrounding fields. With a rich history spanning over 110 years, this family-run park has been creating cherished holiday memories for generations.
The park boasts three modern toilet blocks, featuring fully tiled facilities with underfloor heating and accessible rooms. For convenience, amenities include washing machines, dryers, ironing facilities, washing sinks and baby changing areas.
But the real highlight is the cosy campers’ lounge, a renovated Lake District barn offering comfortable seating and underfloor heating—it’ll be a struggle to leave!
Castlerigg Hall, Castlerigg, Keswick CA12 4TE
54.593107, -3.113251
Day 2 — Ambleside
Driving distance: 17 miles
We’re heading deeper into the heart of the Lake District, with the popular market town of Ambleside. Sitting just north of Lake Windermere, this town is steeped in history. For example, one of the most photographed buildings in England is the 17th Century Bridge House over Stock Ghyll Beck. This tiny building, originally an apple store for nearby Ambleside Hall, was built over Stock Beck to escape land tax. It’s owned by the National Trust, and you can explore its two cramped rooms.
Ambleside is popular with both holidaymakers seeking a relaxing break and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a challenge— there’s just something for everyone! It features some of the best things to do in the Lake District, including gift stores, historic remains, museums, and lookout points.
Things to do:
Visit the Armitt Museum, also known as the Armitt Museum and Library. Founded in 1909, it shares the history and heritage of Ambleside and its people, as well as the Lake District as a whole.
Pull out your raincoat and head to Stock Ghyll Force. Take a short walk to this impressive 70-foot waterfall nestled in the woods. Or, for a longer hike, tackle Loughrigg Fell. At the top, you can enjoy breathtaking views over Grasmere and Rydal Water.
We already mentioned that William Wordsworth was a big fan of the Lake District, and now you can visit his historic home. Take a tour of Rydal Mount and stroll through the picturesque gardens.
History buffs will delight in Ambleside Roman Fort. Free to visit, this fort dates back to the 1st or 2nd century, and the ruins have been tentatively identified as those of either Galava or Clanoventa.
Remember how we told you to save space in your luggage? Well, that’s going to become difficult when you visit Sarah Nelson’s Grasmere Gingerbread. This staple of the region has been producing gingerbread since 1854. Aside from fresh gingerbread, you can get jams, fudge, and other goodies.
Staying at: Skelwith Fold Caravan Park
Set within a wooded estate, Skelwith Fold Caravan Park offers full-service pitches for motorhomes and is conveniently located near Ambleside. You can choose between a standard pitch with electric hookup or a premium pitch, which comes with a freshwater standpipe, grey waste drain, electric hookup, TV hookup, extra room and even a picnic table.
The adventure playground will endlessly entertain young ones, and they’ll quickly make friends with fellow campers. There’s a bus stop outside the gates, so you can always stay pitched and head into town for a bite.
Skelwith Fold Caravan Park is dog-friendly, with a maximum of three dogs per motorhome.
Skelwith Fold Caravan Park, Ambleside LA22 0HY
54.417044, -2.995373
Day 3 — Windermere
Driving distance: 5 miles
If you only recognise one destination of this Lake District campervan route, it’s likely Windermere! This is one of the most popular places in the Lake District, and it’s easy to see why.
Let’s talk about Windermere Lake first. Famous for being the largest natural lake in England, Windermere Lake measures over 11 miles long and 1 mile wide at its widest part. There’s a walking route circling the entire lake, although this 32-mile circuit can be in stages instead. The route includes viewpoints of the lake, fells and more.
As for the town of Windermere, it’s filled with numerous Lake District hidden gems. These picturesque streets are filled with cafes, shops, pubs and bistros. It’s always bustling with people and yet never feels crowded, merely cosmopolitan.
Things to do:
Another big name to learn more about today, and this time it’s Beatrix Potter. The renowned author lived in the Lake District and captured its beauty and magic in her many stories. Visit the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction to immerse yourself in the stories and characters of the beloved author.
You’re at Windermere, so a trip on the water is a necessity. Take a cruise on Lake Windermere. There’s no better way to experience England's largest lake than by boat.
If the sun shines through the clouds (even a little bit), head to Holehird Gardens. Wander through these beautiful gardens maintained by volunteers, showcasing a variety of plants.
For a bite to eat, head to The Elleray for that traditional British pub experience. For some cocktails—as you are on holiday after all—definitely check out The Lighthouse.
Finally, it’s time for another one of the Lake District’s hidden gems: the Windermere Jetty Museum. Learn about the region's boating history with a collection of historic vessels.
Staying at: Hill of Oaks Caravan and Lodge Park
Nestled on the tranquil southeastern shores of Lake Windermere, Hill of Oaks Lodge & Caravan Park offers exclusive access to nearly a mile of the lake's pristine shoreline. You can head onto those dazzling waters using the park's five jetties and multiple slipways for boat launches. During peak season, a convenient ferry service connects the park's twin piers to Lakeside, courtesy of Windermere Lake Cruises.
The park features numerous forest trails, open grassy areas perfect for dog walks (with canine companions warmly welcomed), and a children's play area. We particularly appreciate this campsite’s commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship. Hill of Oaks has earned the Gold accolade from the David Bellamy Conservation Awards. The carefully managed woodlands create a rich, biodiverse habitat for local wildlife.
A592, Lake, Windermere, Ulverston LA12 8NR
54.300346, -2.946923
Day 4 — Coniston
Driving distance: 12 miles
And finally, we round off this road trip in the Lake District in the lovely village of Coniston. This village usually attracts hikers and watersports enthusiasts. Visitors tackle the challenging Old Man of Coniston or the Langdale Pikes or head onto the water for sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or boating. But even if you’re looking for something a little less strenuous for the end of your trip, you’ll find plenty of tranquil activities in this charming village. You can dive into the history of quarrying and mining for copper, which shaped Coniston and its population.
Things to do:
For the final day of your road trip through the Lake District, we’ve got one more museum. The Ruskin Museum was established in 1901 by W. G. Collingwood, an artist and antiquarian who had worked as secretary to art critic John Ruskin. This small museum takes about an hour to explore and is filled with art, history, and memorabilia.
Keen for more information about John Ruskin? You can tour Brantwood House, his historic home. Alongside the incredible art collections, this home features stunning gardens.
Need some fresh air after that? Walk to Tarn Hows, which is approximately two miles northeast of Coniston. Enjoy a circular walk around this picturesque tarn, suitable for all fitness levels.
It’s time to hike the Old Man of Coniston. This is one of the most popular walking routes in the Lake District, and it is definitely recommended for experienced hikers. This challenging ascent of six miles takes four to six hours but offers rewarding views from the summit.
After all that walking, refuel at the 400-year-old Black Bull pub, which serves some of the best onion rings we’ve ever had. A pint might be in order as well.
Staying at: Coniston Park Coppice Caravan and Motorhome Club Site
Surrounded by woodland near Coniston Water, Coniston Park Coppice Caravan and Motorhome Club Site offers motorhome pitches with modern amenities. The pitches are located on open glades, providing shade and that rustic feeling we’re all searching for. There’s a self-serve laundry option, a mini adventure playground, and pets are allowed—need we say more?
It offers easy access to hiking, cycling, rock climbing, and pony treks. Located near Coniston Water and Coniston Pier, you can do watersports or hire a boat from there. There’s no better place to round off your Lake District campervan route!
Park Gate, Coniston LA21 8LA
54.351310, -3.083273
Before you know it, this Lake District road trip has come to an end! In just four days, we managed to see many Lake District hidden gems, although there is plenty more to explore if you have the time. This is one of the most beautiful areas in the UK, and you’ll definitely need a few trips to explore it properly.
Hire a motorhome in the Lake District for the best way to experience this stunning region. We also recommend not driving after dark, as there is minimal lighting and a lot of one-lane, two-way roads, which can be nail-biting for even the most experienced drivers among us. Book your campsites ahead of time to ensure your spot, and perhaps avoid school holidays if you can. Check out more campsites in the Lake District.
