Beatrix Potter and Lake District Tours

Departing from London Euston and arriving at Oxenholme Station, a professional guide will give you a taste of the culture, history, and people of these outstanding landscapes.

Both tours include a visit to Hawkshead, Tarn Hows, Coniston, a Lake Windermere Cruise, and a Cream Tea. 

Hawkshead
Wander through the cobbled narrow streets of the picturesque medieval village Hawkshead. Closed to cars, the village is lined with higgledy-piggledy stone houses, old arches, 17th century inns, cosy teashops and a dramatic landscape. Overlooking the village on a hill, you can also find St Michael and All Angels Church, which has been there since 16th century.

Hawkshead is famous for its connection to the Romantic poet, William Wordsworth, and writer and illustrator, Beatrix Potter. Built in 1585, Hawkshead Grammar School was attended by Wordsworth and his brother. Venture inside to see the headmaster’s study, an original classroom and many desks covered by carvings. The village is also home to the Beatrix Potter Gallery. Formerly her solicitor husband’s office, the 17th century building is now a museum and gallery displaying Potter’s original drawings and illustrations. 

Lake Windermere Cruise
Cruise along the largest lake in England. See glorious mountains and small villages, as well as the lake’s 18 islands. Marvel at its beauty and try to spot the trout, char, perch and pike that call this beautiful lake home. 

Tarn Hows and Coniston
A man-made beauty spot, Tarn Hows is one of the most photographed locations in the Lake District. The short walk offers magnificent views which have inspired many writers and artists over the years, including Beatrix Potter who purchased Tarn Hows and Monk Coniston estate for conservation purposes.

Towered by the mountain of the Old Man of Coniston, the beautiful village of Coniston is famous for its 5-mile-long lake. Once an important source for fish, Coniston Water is where Donald Campbell CBE broke the world water speed record of 276mph. It’s also where the Steam Yacht Gondola — a restored Victorian steam powered yacht — offers cruises along the lake. 

Cream Tea 
Enjoy a delicious cream tea in the house once owned by Beatrix Potter. Unwind with warm homemade fruit scones, jam, cream, and a hot drink of your choice. Built in 1879 for a wealthy mill owner, Lindeth Howe is now a 30-bedroom hotel with a Potter themed interior. Its logo is even in her handwriting!

Lake District Tour
The Lake District Tour offers all the above and more. Discover the breathtaking Langdale Valley for spectacular views of the U-shaped valley and iconic Langdale Pikes. With human activity tracing back to the Neolithic times, the valley is now home to herds of Herdwick Sheep laying out in the fields.

On this tour, you will also visit Blea Tarn, Yewdale Valley and Yew Tree Farm. A Site of Special Scientific Interest, and a hidden gem, Blea Tarn is a body of water located between the Little Langdale and the Greater Langdale. It’s also a popular walk. 

Beatrix Potter Tour
On this tour, you will explore the landscapes that inspired Beatrix Potter and venture into her beautifully preserved 17th century farmhouse. Purchased in 1905, Hill Top Farm inspired many of Beatrix’s books and is home to all of her personal belongings including kitchen plates painted by her father, her miniature dolls’ house and original drawings. 

If there is a time, you may stop at Wray Castle — a mock-Gothic castle boasting beautiful views.