My Ideal 3 Day Lake District Itinerary.
If you’re after a short, long-weekend escape to enjoy the sun without having to jump on a plane, the Lake District is a cracking shout. It’s somewhere that instantly makes you feel more relaxed with the open waters, and stunning scenery.
I decided to take a little 3-day road trip around the Lakes recently. Nothing too full-on, just a nice mix of exploring, hiking, and stopping off at a few favourite spots. I’d visited before with friends (you might’ve seen it on my YouTube channel) when we did a longer trip. But, this time I just wanted a short break away.
Below, you’ll find me ideal 3 day Lake District itinerary. If you’re thinking of doing something similar, our Road Trip Lake District Guidebook has everything you need. It features detailed itineraries, must-see spots and the best places to stay.
Day One: Windermere to Bowness
I kicked things off in Windermere with a gentle wander up to Orrest Head Viewpoint. It starts just by the Windermere Hotel (you’ll see signs at the lower entrance), and it’s only about 20 minutes to the top. Really easy-going, even if you’re not one for hiking. The views from the summit are unreal. You get a full 360° sweep across Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells. It honestly makes you stop in your tracks.
After that, I made my way down to Bowness and dropped into the World of Beatrix Potter. It’s a bit different and not something I’d usually go for, but it was interesting and well put together. You essentially walk-through all her stories, from Peter Rabbit to Jemima Puddle-Duck. A great one for kids too! From there, I just wandered along the lakefront at Bowness-on-Windermere.
That night I stayed at Park Cliffe Camping & Caravan Park. This spot is tucked away in the hills but still close enough to Windermere if you want to nip back in. A quiet spot with a decent setup allowing you to totally switch off.
Day Two: Windermere to Low Wray
I kicked off day two by heading up to Ambleside, which has lots of charming little shops. After grabbing a coffee, I went to check out Stock Ghyll Force. This is a cracking waterfall tucked just behind the town. You start from the town hall, head down Stockghyll Lane, and you’ll see a little brown waterfall sign where the path turns left. Just follow the red arrows through the woods. It’s a lovely, gentle walk and before long, you’re right in front of this 70-foot cascade.
From there, I drove over towards Rydal Cave. One of those spots that always gets a reaction when people first see it. It looks ancient and natural, but it’s actually man-made from 19th-century slate quarrying. You can get to it from Grasmere, Rydal Village, or Ambleside. Alternatively, do what I did and park up at White Moss car park and walk round Rydal Water.
The cave entrance has stepping stones you’ll need to hop across (wouldn’t recommend it in flip-flops). Plus, if it’s cloudy, it gets pretty dark inside – torch on your phone is handy here. I even spotted a few tiny fish in the shallow water, which added a bit of magic to the whole place.
Afterwards, I made my way to Grasmere. It’s always a favourite, and a lovely place to walk around. I popped into Wordsworth’s old house, had a slow wander through the village. Whilst here, I grabbed a few pieces of the famous Grasmere Gingerbread to take with me. Not overrated at all, by the way. It’s as good as people say.
I ended the day at Low Wray Campsite, pitched up near the lake. Doesn’t get much better than that.
Day Three: Low Wray to Lakeside
First stop was Wray Castle, which has always intrigued me but I’d never properly explored until now. It’s a big, bold, neo-Gothic building, built in the 1840s and has a bit of a dramatic look about it. Beatrix Potter actually spent a childhood holiday here, and it’s where she met Hardwicke Rawnsley (the guy who inspired her writing journey).
These days, you can explore parts of the castle itself, including a brilliant little photography exhibition on the ground floor featuring work by Beatrix’s dad, Rupert. The best part though? The grounds. You’ve got three waymarked walking trails that start right outside the castle, perfect for stretching your legs and enjoying the lakeside views. If you’ve got a dog with you, they’re welcome around the grounds and even in Joey’s Café, which does a decent coffee.
After that, I drove down to Claife Viewing Station. It’s only a short journey but the views over Windermere are photo-worthy, especially if you catch it in good light.
Next up was Stott Park Bobbin Mill. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but honestly, I loved it. This is the only surviving example of the hundreds of mills that used to churn out wooden bobbins for the textile industry. It’s tucked into a quiet bit of woodland and walking through it with the old machinery whirring away (still working, by the way!) felt like stepping back in time.
Finally, I rounded off the trip at the Lakes Aquarium. It’s not massive, but it’s great for a family afternoon out. The stars of the show? Has to be the otters and the underwater tunnel, where you can watch the fish swimming overhead. It’s a nice way to wrap things up before heading back home.
Looking to plan your Lake District Itinerary?
This 3-day Lake District itinerary is just a taster of what the Lake District has to offer. If you’re up for more, our Road Trip Lake District Guidebook is packed with extra stops, local tips, and must-see locations to make the whole trip easy and unforgettable.
You can also head over to my YouTube channel to find out more about my road trip adventures, and catch some of my must-see spots below.
