01- A Campervan Road Trip Itinerary for the Lake District

Green and Brown Mountains Buttermere by James Armes

Lake District and Cumbria Road Trip

We wind our way around the Lake District taking in the following beautiful locations on our travels.

• Itinerary: A Campervan Road Trip in the Lake District
• Part 1: Visit Hadrian's Wall in a Campervan
• Part 2: A Guide to Ullswater and its Campsites by Campervan
• Part 3: Discover Handpicked Campsites and More for Your Campervan Tour of Keswick
• Part 4: Everything you Need to Know about Campervanning in St. Bees
• Part 5: Uncover Campsites During a Coniston Campervan Adventure
• Part 6: An itinerary for Exploring Hawkshead in a Campervan
• Part 7: A Campervan Road Trip Exploring Grasmere visiting Stunning Campsites
• Part 8: Unforgettable Road Trip Through Ambleside by Campervan
• Part 9: Guide To A Campervan Road Trip Through Bowness On Windermere
• Part 10: Road Trip Arnside And Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

We make our way to the Lake District, a spectacular natural playground containing England’s largest peak and its deepest lake. We’ve planned a route that includes unmissable attractions, winding from coastline to countryside with stops at welcoming towns. Explore endless ways to dive into the stunning scenery, with open-air pursuits like wild swimming, hiking, and sailing. Discover some of the best campsites, and places to hire a campervan along the way.

Remember that wild camping is not permitted in the Lakes without prior permission from the landowner, and camping on the road and car parks is forbidden. Luckily, campsites are relatively cheap and come with various amenities and, better yet, varied vistas. Autumn is the best time to explore the Lake District, and the duration of your holiday depends entirely on your preferences. We recommend spending a minimum of 3 - 5 days to get the most out of the Lakes. We’ve also linked popular camping towns near the highlighted locations, ensuring plenty of options to rest your head.

Remember to take your time, and feel free to explore scenic routes or park your camper to soak in the dramatic scenery. You’re bound to find lovely spots for picnics, premier hiking trails and cosy pubs in sleepy hamlets, so be sure to work in a few stops along the way.

This synopsis outlines the places we will be visiting during this series

• Start: Hadrian's Wall
• Part 2: Ullswater
• Part 3: Lake District National Park
• Part 4: St. Bees Head Heritage Coast
• Part 5: Coniston
• Part 6: Hawkshead
• Part 7: Grasmere
• Part 8: Ambleside
• Part 9: Bowness-on-Windermere
• End: Arnside & Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Start: Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian's Wall by Gabe Fender

We begin our journey at Hadrian's Wall, this World Heritage Site extends 73 miles from coast to coast and was erected by the Romans to separate the rebellious tribes, including the hostile Caledonians unwilling to surrender their homeland. Constructed in 122 CE, Hadrian's Wall helped keep the Romans safe and eventually led to a decline in contact between tribes on both sides, decreasing tribal power. Forts, turrets, and mile castles were positioned along the wall, providing living quarters for soldiers, administration buildings, and storage. Explore rare artefacts from the town that once kept watch on Hadrian's Wall and travel back in time as you explore what life was like in Roman Britain.

Check out the full guide here: Visit Hadrian's Wall in a Campervan

Part 2: Ullswater

A Kayaker on Ullswater, Lake District by Ronan Laker

For our second stop, hop on the A6 and take an approximate hour's drive to Ullswater. Located in the northeast of the Lake District, Ullswater is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in England, nestled amid dramatic mountains and lush countryside. The lake is nine miles long, and the water looks like glass on a calm day. There is no better place to observe the surrounding mountains and falls. Hop on a Ullswater steamer and savour the vistas from a different angle. The streamers have been navigating the lake for over 150 years and take visitors to the start of some of the best walks in the area. For more scenic settings, follow the journey from Glenridding to Howtown, passing Norfolk Island, which is particularly praised for its glorious views. You'll soon understand why Ullswater is one of England's most beautiful lakes, including spectacular 360-degree views, natural woodland and forests. Ullswater brims with unrivalled natural beauty, and there's no better way to experience it than by camping and campervanning in the region.

Check out the full guide here: A Guide to Ullswater and its Campsites by Campervan

Part 3: Lake District National Park

A Large Body of Water at Lake District National Park by Imagenation

It only takes 16 minutes via the A592 and B5320 to reach the next stop on your road trip. For some, it's the glittering lakes themselves; for others, it's the glorious backdrop of majestic mountains, making the Lake District's renowned natural beauty so awe-inspiring. Many mountains loom over the landscape, enticing climbers, artists and walkers alike. This stunning Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty extends across both Lancashire and Cumbria. It is well-loved by adventuring sorts for an enticing collection of vast ancient woodlands, sprawling meadows, glittering bodies of water, and jaw-dropping scenery stretching as far as the Lakeland fells. The natural terrain creates an irresistible playground for all ages and abilities. Over 16 lakes, some 214 fells, and many more tarns create a mystical element, and the fog rolling down from the Irish Sea adds a dramatic and occasionally eerie touch to the scenery. Steeped in history, the landscape of the Lake District National Park holds diverse wildlife and habitats, and it's no wonder this mesmerising national park keeps visitors returning for more.

Part 4: St. Bees Head Heritage Coast

Coast at St Bees by Darrenfrazerphotography

The distance from the Lake District National Park to St. Bees Head Heritage Coast is approximately 16 miles via the A595 and the A5086. It is the only Heritage Coast between Scotland and Wales, blending the best parts of the English countryside with stunning coastal walks, jaw-dropping scenery, and a rich history of smuggling. The area is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest. It holds the only colony of cliff-nesting seabirds in North West England, creating a characterful location to explore in your campervan. Each village has its charms and traditions, plus a wealth of historical tales and folklore. The gorgeous coastline extends over 35 miles, stretching from Whitehaven to Milom, and boasts an exceptional array of natural beauty, rare habitats and magnificent views across the Isle of Man and Scotland. Stroll on St Bees Head and the cliffs to marvel at towering white cliffs, an impressive lighthouse, and sweeping vistas across the sparkling ocean. If coastal capers are the order of the day, you'll love this part of the road trip.

Check out the full guide here: Everything you Need to Know about Campervanning in St. Bees

Part 5: Coniston

A Person Standing on Top of a Hill at Coniston by Jonny Gios

Buckle up and stock up on snacks for our next destination - Coniston. The journey takes an hour and a half via the A595, the A66, and the A591. The village is a lovely base for getting out in the great outdoors, with Coniston Water set against a captivating setting, providing ample opportunity for walking, watersports, and picnics with a view. The settlement rests in the heart of the Lake District, which is ideal for anyone wanting to switch up the itinerary and move on to the Lakes next. Stroll up the mountains backing the river to soak in an eagle-eye view of the surroundings, explore the surrounding woodlands, or sit down and admire the gorgeous scenery, creating the ideal atmosphere for relaxation or adventure. Hire a boat at Coniston Water and head out on a memorable, family-friendly ride on Coniston Water, or book a bike and pedal alongside the shimmering lake. Refuel at one of many lovely pubs in the village, or secure groceries from a local shop before trundling back to your campsite for a quiet night around the campfire.

Check out the full guide here: Uncover Campsites During a Coniston Campervan Adventure

Part 6: Hawkshead

Boggy Pasture Land at Hawkshead Moor by Nigel Mykura

Location number six on our road trip through the Lakes is the flourishing village of Hawkshead, an easy 10-minute drive from Coniston. The pretty settlement rests in the lush heart of the Lakes, with a charming collection of lovely stone houses, winding cobblestone streets, and famous inhabitants like William Wordsworth and Beatrice Potter. Today, visitors can explore a fantastic selection of shops, cafes, and pubs, plus a wealth of culture and history tracing back to the medieval ages. The surrounding landscape creates a delightful setting for picturesque hiking, cycling routes, and water-based adventures in Coniston or Lake Windermere. Activities for all tastes make Hawkshead an excellent base for a campervan stop, and the village is well-located for visiting Grizedale Forest, Wray Castle, Tarn Hows, and Near Sawrey. Embark on undemanding strolls with the family or tackle challenging hikes with like-minded adventurers. Alternatively, stretch out on your campsite and enjoy the freedom of a schedule-free day and oodles of spectacular scenery.

Check out the full guide here: An itinerary for Exploring Hawkshead in a Campervan

Part 7: Grasmere

Brown and Green Mountain Beside Lake at Grasmere by Paul Berry

We are on the road again, rumbling over to Grasmere, which is, as William Wordsworth so eloquently stated, 'The loveliest spot that man hath ever found', resting alongside a shimmering lake of the same name. Get a taste of the panoramas that enchanted romantic poets and artists. Sit on a bench and take in the lush settings, with low-hanging clouds shrouding the lake and enclosing hills in a misty, mysterious veil. Take your time walking down winding narrow streets in the village, lined with lovely stone buildings, charming old cottages,Victorian villas, and shops offering an array of touristy merchandise. Walkers and hikers can't get enough of the fantastic routes crisscrossing the landscape, and handy outdoor equipment shops have everything you may have forgotten to pack. What better way to wind down and refuel than with a scrumptious meal courtesy of the local larder? Take your pick of cafes, tea rooms, and pubs serving delicious dishes and a hearty slice of a warm local welcome.

Check out the full guide here: A Campervan Road Trip Exploring Grasmere visiting Stunning Campsites

Part 8: Ambleside

Aerial View of Rock Cliffs on Pavey Ark at Ambleside by Andrew Ridley

Our eight stop takes us to the small market town of Ambleside, just 12 minutes away via the A591. Nestled in the Lake District, the quaint village is perfectly positioned for exploring the magnificent Lakeland Fells and beautiful hikes snaking through open farmland and moor-covered hills. The majestic mountains and glittering lakes entice the most uninspired adventurers to get out and discover the lush surroundings on foot, bike, or water. Uncover the rich history of the market town, which once served as a bustling centre for woollen trade in medieval times. Leave the world behind as you soak in sweeping views on a Lakeside cruise, or hop on a walking route from the Waterhead Pier. Ambleside is also a fantastic centre point for accessing Windermere, Keswick, and Grasmere. Whether you want to pedal along near-empty cycling paths, challenge yourself on climbs and hikes, or spend a fun-filled, family-friendly day on the water, Ambleside is a haven for outdoor pursuits. End the day with an award-winning ale and a crackling campfire at your feet. Uncover what purists call the ‘true Lake District’ on your journey through the Lake District.

Check out the full guide here: Unforgettable Road Trip Through Ambleside by Campervan

Part 9: . Bowness-on-Windermere

A Rainbow in The Sky Over a Small Town at Bowness-on-Windermere By Mark Mc Neill

Take a 12-minute drive along the A591, and you won’t go wrong at Bowness-on-Windermere. The bustling holiday town is the largest in the Lake District, resting on the shores of Windermere, the largest natural lake in England and the National Park. The fantastic vistas from Bowness across the lake are the finest around and will melt away the stress of the modern world. A near-endless range of outdoor activities ensures hours of exercise and exploration for your family or group members. Hit off a tee, walk, or clip-clop across the landscape on horseback. Amp up the pace with water skiing and sailing, or take a lake excursion and admire the natural beauty with minimal effort. Spend a wonderful escape enveloped by mountains, sleepy villages, and a stunning lake, which is popular with all ages.

Check out the full guide here: Guide To A Campervan Road Trip Through Bowness On Windermere

End: Arnside & Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

A Person Standing on The Shore of a Lake Sunset at Arnside by Jonny Gios

The final stage of our Lake District road trip is in the Arnside and Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, between 16-19 miles from Bowness (depending on the route). It is a special place with breathtaking scenery at every turn, abundant wildlife, plus rich cultural and industrial heritage. Spend the final leg of your road trip discovering ancient woodland, lush meadows, flower-sprinkled pastures, and varied fauna. On a clear day, guests can see as far as the Forest of Bowland, Yorkshire Dales, and the Lakeland Fells. Crossing the southern border of Cumbria, Arnside, and Silverdale is a hidden gem just outside the Lake District National Park. Savour the untamed beauty without the usual bustle and holiday crowds. An intricate network of footpaths is perfect for walking or cycling past charming villages to beautiful golden-sand beaches on the coast. Read on and make the best of your campervan drive through the Lake District.

Check out the full guide here: Road Trip Road Trip Arnside And Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Our Campervan Road Trip in the Lake District Map

Take a peek at our ride through the well-loved and often-visited Lake District National Park. We wind past the must-see attractions, with plenty of scenic campsites to rest your head along the way and a campervan hire spot at every stop.