Six Lakes Spectacular

If you’re short on time but eager to see the best of the Lake District, the Six Lakes Spectacular tour offers a convenient way to soak in some of the region’s most iconic sights. Promising around four hours of travel, it’s designed for those who want a taste of the lakes without the fuss of navigating winding roads or planning multiple stops themselves. From the comfort of a small mini-coach, you’ll journey through stunning scenery, visit historic landmarks, and get a good overview of this beloved part of England.

What immediately appealed to us about this tour is how organized it is—every stop is carefully chosen to maximize your experience, especially if your time is limited. We also loved the informative commentary from friendly guides, which adds context and a personal touch to each location. And at just around $48 per person, the price feels surprisingly reasonable for the amount of scenery and history packed into the trip.

The main consideration? Since it’s a “whistle-stop” style tour, it’s not for those wanting a deep, leisurely exploration of each site. It’s more about getting a quick, beautiful sampler of the Lake District’s highlights. This makes it ideal for first-timers or those with a tight schedule, but less suitable if you’re seeking a slower, in-depth experience.

If this sounds like your kind of day, then read on. We’ve broken down every part of the itinerary and included insights from recent travelers so you can get a clear picture of what to expect—and whether it’s worth your time.

Key Points

• Ideal for time-pressed visitors wanting to see major highlights quickly
• Guided commentary enhances understanding of the scenery and sites
• Scenic routes over Kirkstone Pass and past Grasmere deliver iconic views
• Stops at historic sites like Castlerigg Stone Circle enrich the experience
• Small group size (max 16) allows for a more personal journey
• Good value for the price, especially considering the included transport and commentary

Overview of the Tour Experience

The Six Lakes Spectacular is designed as an efficient, well-organized overview of the Lake District. It’s perfect if you’re visiting Windermere and want to maximize your time with minimal hassle. The tour lasts roughly four hours, including several stops at key points, and is run by Mountain Goat Tours, a company known for small, personalized excursions.

The route is pre-arranged, so you won’t have to worry about getting lost or missing top sites. The tour includes comfortable transport in a small mini-coach, with an on-board guide providing commentary in English. As the reviews suggest, guides like Peter, Tim, and Gerry are especially praised for their knowledge and friendliness, which greatly enhances the overall experience.

Why This Tour is a Great Choice

One of the standout features is value. For less than fifty dollars, you get transportation, informative narration, and access to scenery and landmarks that might otherwise require extensive planning. The stops are brief but meaningful, giving you a snapshot of the region’s natural beauty and cultural history.

Travelers love how efficient the route is—covering six lakes, the historic Castlerigg Stone Circle, and the charming village of Grasmere in just a few hours. Several reviews note how the tour maximizes sightseeing opportunities, even with a limited schedule. For example, one traveler called it “the perfect sampler” for a first visit or for those wanting a quick but comprehensive look at the area.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Timing

The tour departs from the Windermere Tourist Information Centre at 9:55 am. This convenient central location makes it easy to join if you’re already exploring Windermere. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

Kirkstone Pass

Your journey begins with a drive over Kirkstone Pass, one of the most dramatic routes in the Lake District. This ascent offers sweeping views of the surrounding fells and lakes. You’ll have about ten minutes here to snap photos and take in the scenery. One reviewer remarked on the “stunning views” and how the pass provides a perfect introduction to the rugged beauty of the area.

Note: Sometimes Kirkstone Pass is closed due to roadworks (as noted in one recent review), which can be disappointing but is beyond the tour’s control. The operators usually adjust by diverting the route, still maintaining the overall experience.

Glenridding and Ullswater

Next, you stop briefly in Glenridding, a pretty village sitting on the edge of Ullswater, often called the most beautiful of the lakes. Here, a quick coffee break gives you a chance to breathe in the fresh air, soak in the mountain views, and perhaps chat with fellow travelers. One reviewer described this as a “nice little stop” in a picture-perfect setting.

Travel along the shoreline of Ullswater, your guide will point out features like the surrounding fells and natural landmarks, making this a scenic drive you’ll remember.

Castlerigg Stone Circle

The next stop is the Castlerigg Stone Circle, estimated to be about 4,000 years old—older than Stonehenge! It’s a real highlight for those interested in ancient history and prehistoric sites. The circle’s dramatic setting on a hilltop offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. Visitors often comment on how “magical” and “mysterious” this site feels, with one reviewer noting how the guide’s storytelling brought the stones and their history to life.

Passing by the Reservoir

From here, the tour passes a man-made reservoir—a brief passing point that highlights the region’s water management efforts and how human engineering blends with natural beauty.

Grasmere

The charming village of Grasmere is a highlight for many. Famous for William Wordsworth and his poetry, the village is also known for its gingerbread. With about 20 minutes here, you can take a quick stroll, grab some local treats, or simply enjoy the views. Several reviews praise the “atmospheric” setting and say it’s a perfect spot for a quick wander.

Final Stop and Return

After soaking in the scenery and exploring Grasmere, you will return to your pickup point, completing your half-day adventure.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, with many mentioning specific guides like Peter, Tim, or Gerry as making their trip extra special. One said, “Our driver, Tim, was excellent in his commentary and particularly good with children,” highlighting how the tour caters well to families.

The scenery is a recurring theme in reviews—whether it’s driving along Ullswater or passing Kirkstone Pass, travelers are awed by the views. Even when the weather isn’t perfect, many say the atmospheric mist or drizzle adds to the experience, making the scenery even more evocative.

The value for money is another common praise. Several reviewers noted that for around $48, they felt they had seen a significant slice of the Lake District—more than enough for a quick overview, and often enough to inspire a return trip.

Some travelers pointed out the small group size (limited to 16), which allows for a more intimate, flexible experience. And while the tour is fast-paced, the brief stops are enough to get a feel for each location without feeling rushed.

Transportation and Comfort

The mini-coach is described as comfortable and easy to get in and out of. The small group size means you’re not stuck on a large bus, which can make for a more engaging experience—more opportunities to ask questions and hear the commentary clearly.

Timing is well-managed, with plenty of toilet stops and brief breaks. One reviewer appreciated how the driver’s careful driving and attention to safety reassured them even on challenging roads.

The Value of Guided Commentary

The on-board guides are often singled out for their depth of knowledge and personable style. Whether sharing tidbits about William Wordsworth or explaining the significance of Castlerigg Stone Circle, their stories deepen the appreciation of each stop. Many reviews mention how the guides’ enthusiasm and storytelling made the scenery come alive far more than just looking out the window.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want a quick but comprehensive introduction to the Lake District. It’s also excellent for travelers with limited time who still want to see the key sights, including lakes, historic sites, and charming villages.

Those who appreciate guided commentary—especially with friendly, knowledgeable guides—will find it particularly rewarding. It’s also suitable for families, thanks to the minimal walking required and the engaging nature of the stops.

However, if you’re seeking a deep dive into each site or prefer longer, leisurely explorations, this tour might feel a bit rushed. It’s ideal if your priority is to maximize scenery and highlights in a short window.

The Sum Up

The Six Lakes Spectacular offers excellent value for travelers eager to see the best of the Lake District without the commitment of a full-day tour. Its well-chosen stops, lively guides, and stunning routes make it a standout for those with limited time or a first visit. You’ll come away with a good sense of the area’s natural beauty, ancient history, and charming villages—all in just half a day.

This experience suits first-time visitors, families, or anyone wanting a convenient overview of the Lakes. It’s especially worthwhile if you love scenic drives and informative guides who bring the landscape to life. Just remember, it’s a quick taste, not a deep immersion—perfect if you want to leave wanting more.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, including all stops. You’ll spend about 20 minutes at Grasmere, 15 at Castlerigg, and 10 minutes each at Kirkstone Pass and Glenridding.

What is included in the price?
Transportation in a small mini-coach and on-board commentary are included. No meals or entrance fees are covered.

Are there any additional costs?
You might choose to buy food, drinks, or souvenirs at stops like Grasmere. Entrance fees for sites like Castlerigg are free, but other attractions or activities are not included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes—most travelers of age 5 and older can participate. Children must have their own seats, and the minimal walking involved makes it manageable for families.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, some cash or card for optional purchases, and dress appropriately for the weather. The guide’s commentary makes even a cloudy day feel special, but waterproofs are always a good idea.

What happens if Kirkstone Pass is closed?
The tour may take a diversion route, but the overall experience remains similar, with other scenic stops added to ensure a full, enjoyable morning.

In essence, the Six Lakes Spectacular is a smart choice for those wanting a well-paced, insightful glimpse into the Lake District’s iconic lakes, charming villages, and ancient landmarks—all in just a few hours. It’s a tour that respects your time while offering a warm, friendly atmosphere and plenty of “wow” moments.