Discover the stunning beauty of the Lake District National Park with expertly guided tours and activities starting from Carlisle.
Carlisle, with its rich history and strategic location, serves as an excellent gateway to the majestic Lake District National Park. While Carlisle itself boasts the impressive Carlisle Castle and a charming cathedral, its true allure for many visitors lies in its proximity to one of England's most celebrated natural landscapes. Lake District National Park Excursions departing from Carlisle offer a seamless way to experience the breathtaking fells, crystal-clear lakes, and picturesque villages that have inspired poets and artists for centuries. These tours are designed to maximize your time in the park, taking the hassle out of navigation and parking, so you can immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring scenery. Whether you're a seasoned hiker eager to tackle challenging trails or a leisurely explorer looking to soak in the views from a scenic viewpoint, there's an excursion tailored to your interests. Imagine cruising across the serene waters of Lake Windermere, exploring the charming streets of Bowness-on-Windermere, or standing atop Orrest Head for panoramic vistas. Many tours focus on the northern or central parts of the park, easily accessible from Carlisle, making for efficient and rewarding day trips. You'll encounter iconic locations like Ullswater, often described as England's most beautiful lake, and the dramatic landscapes around Keswick. These excursions go beyond just sightseeing; they provide insights into the park's unique geology, wildlife, and cultural heritage, enriching your understanding of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Discover our top picks for lake district national park excursions in Carlisle

If you visit Bariloche, the Circuito Chico is a must-see excursion, showcasing the region’s most iconic landscapes in just half a day. The journey starts on Av. Ezequiel Bustillo, winding along Nahuel Huapi Lake, surrounded by forests of cypresses, coihues, and ñires. At km 17, Cerro Campanario offers one of the world’s best panoramic views. Further along, at km 24, you’ll find the San Eduardo Chapel, Llao Llao Hotel, and Puerto Pañuelo, followed by Villa Tacul and the crystal-clear Lago Escondido. A highlight is the Angostura Bridge, where Nahuel Huapi and Perito Moreno lakes meet in a stunning natural display. The Panoramic Point at Lago Moreno offers breathtaking views, while the return journey passes the peaceful Laguna El Trébol. This 60 km route is a perfect blend of nature, history, and magic, capturing the soul of Bariloche.

An unforgettable adventure from Bariloche to San Martín de los Andes, traveling through one of the most emblematic landscapes of the region: the legendary Lakes Route. This excursion will take you through the imposing Nahuel Huapi and Lanín National Parks. The trip begins in Bariloche, following National Route 40 towards the north. Soon, you will find yourself immersed in the serenity of Puerto Manzano, a picturesque and cozy mountain village that seems straight out of a story. From here, the visual spectacle of the 7 Lakes Route begins, where the water mirrors (Correntoso, Espejo, Escondido, Villarino, Falkner, Hermoso and Machónico) reflect mountains, forests and blue skies in a postcard landscape. Upon arriving in San Martín de los Andes, you will have time to explore the charming city center and immerse yourself in the essence of this Patagonian town. The return, along the same route, allows you to relive each landscape and capture again the beauty of this unique route.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to Nahuel Huapi National Park, where the majestic Cerro Tronador stands as the guardian of eternal snows and glaciers. The thunderous echoes of its ice falls reveal the mystery behind its name. The journey begins in Bariloche along National Route 40 South, crossing breathtaking landscapes. We pass Huenuleo Pampa, Gutiérrez Lake, and Pilmayen and Melgarejo streams. At the 'watershed,' Mascardi Lake leads us to a charming gravel road, unveiling scenic views like Isla Corazón. We continue past Cerro Los Emparedados and the winding Manso Superior River to Pampa Linda, a perfect spot to admire Tronador. Through Vuriloches Valley and a lush forest, we reach Ventisquero Negro, a natural wonder. The excursion ends at the base of Cerro Tronador, standing at 3,454 meters, with its three peaks: International, Argentine, and Chilean.

Mirror like lakes with crystal clear water, outstanding woodlands, impressive mountains and the overwhelming Patagonian steppe. The Siete Lagos route runs through three national parks and spans two provinces. The scenery will take your breath away.

This full-day excursion from Bariloche covers 352 kilometers through the Nahuel Huapi and Lanín National Parks, starting from Bariloche along National Route 237 and traveling along the eastern end of Lake Nahuel Huapi to the Limay River. Continuing along National Route 231, we border the lake along its northern shore up to Villa La Angostura, where we take a short break, to continue on our way to Lakes Espejo, Correntoso, Escondido, Villarino, Falkner, Machónico, and Lácar, on the shores of which the city of San Martín de los Andes is located. The return to San Carlos de Bariloche is by the same route. - Discover Villa La Angostura, a charming mountain village that will envelop you with its Andean charm and architecture. - As you cross the Seven Lakes Route, you will encounter the fascinating beauty of the lakes. - Each of the lakes has a unique charm, surrounded by ancient forests that whisper stories of yesteryear.

Explores the very best of the Yorkshire Dales in one day! Discover the dramatic limestone valleys and emerald countryside of the Yorkshire Dales National Park tour from Windermere. See the landscapes that inspired James Herriot and discover some of the filming locations for the hit TV series. Travel with ease from the Lake District and visit the quaint villages in Swaledale and Wensleydale (famed for its cheese) and Bolton Castle, in which Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned. See too, Aysgarth Falls and the cobbled streets of Hawes. This full day tour from Windermere takes you on a stunning adventure exploring the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

*Tour price includes admission to Bamburgh Castle, Cruise on Lake Windermere (45 minutes) and entrance to Vindolanda Roman Army Museum. Discover some of northern England’s most picturesque regions on this 5-day excursion from Edinburgh. With an expert driver-guide, enjoy a scenic journey along the magnificent East Lothian coastline to the historical city of York. From here, visit the breathtaking natural beauty of North York Moors National Park and the Yorkshire Dales, and then relocate to the charming market town of Keswick to explore the Lake District and Hadrian’s Wall. Numbers limited to 16 on this small-group tour, ensuring an intimate experience with personalized attention from the guide.

The tour departs from Bariloche on Route 40 Sur. After 45 km, we cross the Pampa de Huenuleo, border Lake Gutierrez and cross the Pilmayen and Melgarejo streams. After passing through the watershed, we follow the banks of Lake Mascardi until we take the detour to the Thronador by a path of ripio. The tour continues around Lake Mascardi again along its west coast until it reaches the viewpoint of Heart Island. Afterwards, we pass in front of the Cerro Los Emparedados and follow the course of the Manso Superior River to Pampa Linda, one of the best panoramic points to appreciate the Tronador in its full magnitude. Then we cross part of the valley of the Vuriloches and, after entering a dark forest, we reach the imposing Black Blizzard. The excursion ends at the foot of Cerro Tronador, which at 3,454 meters above sea level is the highest point of Nahuel Huapi National Park.

El Bolsón is a town located to the southwest of the Río Negro province. Situated in a fertile valley through which the Quemquemtreu river flows and at the foot of Mount Piltriquitron, the town is truly unique and its people are warm and welcoming. Treat yourself to the delightful local traditional products.

Setting sail from Puerto Pañuelo, this excursion proposes to discover the Centinela islet, where the remains of Perito Francisco Pascasio Moreno, father of National Parks in Argentina, rest, to later arrive at the Cascada de los Cantaros . On the way up, you can enter the lush vegetation of the Valdivian jungle, reach Lake Cantaros, the birthplace of the waterfall, to enjoy the forceful presence of a larch with more than 1,500 years. You will sail just five more minutes to finally arrive at Puerto Blest. From there you can visit the bay and see the shores of Lake Frías, whose peculiar green waters come from one of the glaciers of Cerro Tronador, the natural border between Argentina and Chile.

Discover the magic of the snowy landscapes of the Nahuel Huapi and Bariloche National Park. It is a tour that can be perfectly adapted to the needs of the group, being perfect both for families and for groups that want to demand more of themselves.

What makes this excursion different from the rest is the personalized attention in our mini van with a national park guide providing all the appropriate information about the path of seven lakes, Villa la Angostura and San Martin de los Andes. In Villa La Angostura we will be enjoying the shopping center with time to have a coffee and in San Martin there will be time to have lunch and tour its attractive city, with its very peculiar wooden architecture. And of course the natural environment between mountains and lakes make this trip an unforgettable day.

Over the course of 3 full days, you will experience the following excursions in Bariloche: Day 1: Circuito Chico and Cerro Campanario Tour Day 2: Victoria Island Navigation and Bosque de Arrayanes Day 3: Seven Lakes Route and San Martín de los Andes All excursions include transfers and a guide. These tours combine two National Parks, Nahuel Huapi and Lanín. After a small circuit tour and an introduction to Bariloche, we will visit La Angostura Village. We will also visit several lakes such as Espejo, Correntoso, Escondido, Villarino, Falkner, Machónico, and Lacar. Lunch will be in San Martin de los Andes Village, and we will return during the afternoon. Navigating through the crystalline waters of Lake Nahuel Huapi, you will enjoy two wonderful views of the Nahuel Huapi National Park: Myrtle Forest and Victoria Island. The driver will be waiting for you at the airport in Bariloche to take you to your hotel. After your stay in Bariloche, the driver will take you back to the airport.

Rafting in the Rio Manso a class 4, ideal for a day of adventure with a lot of adrenaline. Rafting is an activity where you descend an inflatable river with rapids on inflatable rafts. The Manso Frontera is a full day activity, with rapids from class II to IV. The trucks take us to the southern limit of the Nahuel Huapi National Park. From there it is almost two hours of descent down the river to the border with Chile. This excursion is only for people over 14 years old. Adrenaline and fun are guaranteed.

Immerse in Patagonia’s natural beauty from one of its many lakes during this half-day kayaking tour, suitable for beginners or those with more skill. With an experienced guide, paddle around either Lake Moreno or Lake Gutiérrez, both just outside Bariloche in Nahuel Huapi National Park. Enjoy the serene natural atmosphere, stop to admire beautiful views of the forest and surrounding mountains, and learn about the natural history of the region from your guide. Snacks are included.
Access the iconic fells, lakes, and valleys of the Lake District, renowned for their natural beauty.
Depart directly from Carlisle, eliminating the need for self-driving or complex public transport arrangements.
Discover the cultural and historical significance of the region, from Roman roots to Beatrix Potter's inspiration.
Choose from boat trips, guided walks, scenic drives, and village explorations to suit your pace.
Benefit from knowledgeable local guides who share insights into the park's flora, fauna, and history.
Maximize your Lake District experience with itineraries planned to cover key highlights within a day.
These tours focus on exploring the Lake District's breathtaking landscapes from the comfort of a vehicle. They often include stops at panoramic viewpoints, famous lakeshores, and charming villages. Expect a narrative from your guide about the area's history and natural features.
Experience the tranquility of the Lake District's iconic bodies of water. Tours typically include a boat cruise on lakes like Windermere or Ullswater, combined with time to explore nearby lakeside towns and attractions such as Bowness or Ambleside.
For those who wish to connect more closely with nature, these excursions offer guided walks and hikes through the fells. Trails are often chosen to be accessible for most fitness levels, showcasing the park's diverse terrain and natural beauty.
Combine the natural beauty of the Lake District with its fascinating heritage. These tours might visit historical sites, Beatrix Potter's former homes, or towns with significant literary or industrial pasts, offering a more in-depth cultural experience.
Excursions typically range from a half-day (3-4 hours) to a full-day (7-8 hours), depending on the itinerary and the number of locations visited.
The Lake District experiences unpredictable weather. Be prepared for sunshine, rain, and wind, often within the same day. Layers are highly recommended.
Tour sizes vary. Some are small, intimate group experiences (6-12 people), while others can be larger coach tours (20-50 people). Check individual tour details.
Typically includes transportation from Carlisle and guided commentary. Boat trips, entrance fees to attractions, and meals are often extra, so check the specific tour inclusions.
Most tours depart from a central, easily accessible location in Carlisle, usually near the train station or city center. Specific meeting points are confirmed upon booking.
Budget for personal expenses, optional entrance fees, souvenirs, and meals not included in the tour package. Prices listed usually cover the tour and transport.
Book in advance, especially during peak season (summer and school holidays), as tours can fill up quickly.
Wear comfortable walking shoes; even scenic drives involve some walking to viewpoints or villages.
Pack waterproof clothing and an extra layer, as the weather in the Lake District can change rapidly.
Bring a reusable water bottle and snacks, as opportunities for purchase may be limited on some routes.
Consider the time of year. Spring and autumn offer beautiful colours with fewer crowds, while summer is ideal for longer daylight hours.
Check the specific itinerary for your chosen tour to understand the balance between driving, walking, and free time.
Don't forget your camera – the photo opportunities are endless!
Be flexible; sometimes weather or local conditions might necessitate minor adjustments to the itinerary by the tour operator.
A: Most tours are designed as day trips, so travel time is factored in. Depending on the specific areas of the Lake District visited, you can expect to be in the park for most of the day, with driving times varying from 45 minutes to over an hour to reach the main areas.
A: While many excursions from Carlisle are day trips, some operators might offer longer, multi-day packages that include accommodation. It's worth checking the extended tour options available to see if multi-day itineraries are listed.
A: Generally, meals are not included in the tour price. You'll typically have opportunities to purchase lunch or snacks in villages visited during the tour. Some premium tours might include a specific lunch stop, but this will be clearly stated in the tour description.
A: For convenience and to make the most of your time, joining a guided excursion from Carlisle is highly recommended. It takes the stress out of driving and parking in popular areas, and guides provide valuable local knowledge.
A: Yes, many scenic driving tours and boat cruise excursions are very family-friendly. Look for tours that focus on shorter durations, less strenuous activities, and include stops in towns with facilities. Always check the tour's suitability for children before booking.
A: Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are a must, even if you're not planning a long hike. Dress in layers, as the weather can be changeable. Waterproof and windproof outerwear is essential year-round.
A: It's strongly advised to book your Lake District excursions in advance, particularly during peak tourist seasons (spring to autumn) and around public holidays. This guarantees your spot, especially for popular or smaller group tours.
A: Tours from Carlisle commonly visit the larger, more accessible lakes in the northern and central parts of the park, such as Ullswater, Derwentwater, and parts of Windermere. These offer dramatic scenery and are key highlights of the park.
Explore Carlisle’s rich history, from Roman walls to a mighty castle, offering a glimpse into England's border past.
Discover the charm of this historic city, nestled near the stunning Lake District National Park for easy day trips.
Enjoy a relaxed pace of life and friendly atmosphere, making your visit to Carlisle a truly welcoming experience.
Immerse yourself in centuries of history at Carlisle Castle and Hadrian's Wall, key sites in Northern England.
Experience authentic Cumbrian hospitality and sample local produce in a city proud of its heritage.
Carlisle offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and access to spectacular northern landscapes.
The United Kingdom experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters, with rainfall distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. Snowfall is more common in the winter months, especially in higher elevations, and fog can be frequent, particularly in coastal areas.
May and June often offer the best balance of pleasant temperatures, longer daylight hours, and lower rainfall, making them ideal for exploring the diverse landscapes and cities.
The peak tourist season typically runs from July to August, coinciding with school holidays. During this time, expect warmer weather, but also larger crowds and higher prices for accommodation and attractions.
From November to March, the UK experiences its off-season. While the weather can be cold and wet, you can enjoy fewer crowds, lower prices, and festive Christmas markets and events.
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
Discover curated tours and activities to uncover the rich history of Carlisle Castle, from Roman foundations to medieval might.
Discover the tastes of Cumbria with guided food and drink tours in Carlisle, from local produce to craft beverages.
Explore the Roman frontier on immersive day trips from Carlisle, uncovering the history and landscapes of Hadrian's Wall.
Uncover centuries of history and captivating stories on guided walking tours through Carlisle's ancient streets and landmarks.
Uncover the Roman past of Hadrian's Wall country with in-depth tours of Carlisle's rich archaeological heritage.
Getting around Carlisle is straightforward. The city centre is very walkable, perfect for exploring historic sites like the castle and cathedral on foot. For longer distances or trips out of the city, local bus services are available and reasonably priced. Carlisle is also a major railway hub, making train travel an excellent option for day trips to nearby attractions or for onward journeys. Taxis are readily accessible for door-to-door convenience. Consider hiring a car if you plan extensive exploration of the surrounding Cumbrian countryside and national parks.
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
Find the perfect accommodation for your Carlisle adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
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