England's Lake District by E-Bike

Day 1: Arrive in Bassenthwaite

Arrive at the peaceful Lake Bassenthwaite, the most northerly lake in the Lake District. Settle in and prepare for the adventure ahead as you take in the tranquil surroundings.

Day 2: Bassenthwaite - Cockermouth - Bassenthwaite
22 mi / 35 km

Meet your host after breakfast for a tour briefing and receive your cycling gear. Ride through quiet northern fells and picturesque villages, enjoying expansive views of Lake Bassenthwaite. Stop in Cockermouth, the childhood home of poet William Wordsworth, and explore its Georgian streets, historic brewery, and traditional shops. The route includes 1,450 feet of climbing as you cross the River Derwent, circle Binsey Fell, and descend back to Bassenthwaite.

Day 3: Bassenthwaite - Ullswater
24 mi / 38 km

Today’s ride circles the base of Skiddaw and the surrounding peaks of High Pike and Saddleback. You'll pass through dramatic mountain scenery and hidden villages, each with their own unique character and charm. With 1,800 feet of ascent, narrow country lanes and stone-walled paths guide you to a welcoming village inn, where you’ll be transferred to the shores of Ullswater.

Day 4: Explore Ullswater
5 mi / 8 km

Enjoy a rest from the saddle with a steamer cruise across Ullswater. Disembark at Pooley Bridge and take a scenic walk above the lake to a quiet village featuring a pottery, heritage garden, and cosy tearoom. Continue along the river to the haunting ruins of Lowther Castle and its elegant gardens. You’ll be transferred back to Pooley Bridge for the return boat to Glenridding.

Day 5: Ullswater - Ambleside
19 mi / 30 km

A short transfer returns you to your bike for a ride south through the heart of the Lake District. With 1,200 feet of ascent, follow the valley road past Thirlmere, with views of Helvellyn, then cross Dunmail Raise. Glide into Grasmere, once home to Wordsworth, and continue along peaceful paths past Rydal Water before arriving in Ambleside.

Day 6: Ambleside - Coniston - Ambleside
24 mi / 38 km

This is the most challenging day, with 1,900 feet of ascent and spectacular scenery. Ride through the twisting Brathay Valley, full of hidden gems and tiny hamlets. Cross the river at Little Langdale and continue through rugged granite landscapes to a secluded farm before reaching Coniston. Consider taking a boat across the lake to explore John Ruskin’s former home. Return to Ambleside via the same scenic route.

Day 7: Ambleside - Bowness-on-Windermere
17 mi / 27 km

Cycle through peaceful woodland trails and along Lake Windermere’s shoreline. Climb a steep hill to Hill Top, the cherished home of Beatrix Potter, surrounded by the countryside she worked to preserve. Visit the artistic village of Hawkshead and loop around Esthwaite Water before descending to the ferry. Cross Lake Windermere to arrive in lively Bowness.

Day 8: Bowness - Lakeside - Bowness
8 or 18 mi / 13 or 29 km

Begin with a foot ferry and pedal through the softer landscapes of southern Lakeland, covering 1,200 feet of ascent. Ride beneath tall beech trees and along quiet backroads, with optional stops at a working bobbin mill or a lovely private garden. Reach Haverthwaite and board a heritage steam train to Lakeside. Conclude the tour with a serene cruise on Lake Windermere—your reward for cycling the length of the Lake District.

Day 9: Depart Bowness-on-Windermere

Depart at your own pace today. Windermere station offers convenient travel connections.