Lake District Scenic Drive

Explore the stunning scenery of England's Lake District by taking the 35 mile drive from Buttermere to Hawkshead. The drive winds through mountain pass and around majestic lakes, you will see the beauty that moved many of Lakeland's writers.

Leaving Buttermere on the B5289, make a stop at the North lakes capital Keswick; it is here you will find England's highest mountain, Scafell Pike, which stands 3,210 ft above sea level, as well as the beautiful lake of Derwent Water.

After leaving Keswick take the A691 toward Grasmere, which was the home to William Wordsworth for many years. From here it is a short drive to Ambleside, where you'll find one of the region's most popular walking tracks. Close by is the largest lake in England, Lake Windermere which contains some 14 islands and offers a range of watersports activities and relaxing boat rides.

Leaving Windermere, take the B5285 toward Esthwaite Water, which is surrounded by rolling fells and covers 280 acres. It is known to be one of the most beautiful waters in the whole Lake District. Beatrix Potter's Hawkshead is just a few minutes' drive from here.