Moffat

Enjoy the stunning rolling landscapes of the Galloway Hills and Southern Uplands as we make our way to our first stop of the day: the Victorian spa town of Moffat. Though the area feels serene today, it has a rich history marked by conflicts and border skirmishes over the centuries.

Penrith

Leaving Moffat, we continue south across the border into England, making our way to the historic market town of Penrith in Cumbria. Here, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy lunch and explore the impressive ruins of Penrith Castle. This uniquely colored castle once played a vital role in defending the border against invading Scots during the late 13th and early 14th centuries.

Aira Force Waterfall

After lunch, we enter the Lake District National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has captivated poets and visitors for centuries. Traveling along the northern shores of Ullswater - often described as England's most beautiful lake - you'll have the chance to take a forest walk and witness the majestic Aira Force waterfall.

Castlerigg Stone Circle

Next, we head toward Keswick, stopping just outside the town to visit the mysterious Castlerigg stone circle. Believed to be over 5,000 years old, this ancient site was once a lively hub of pagan rituals.

Ullswater Lake

The second largest lake in the English Lake District is famous for its sublime, tranquil beauty.

Lake Windermere

Next, we journey to the stunning Lake Windermere and the charming village of Bowness-on-Windermere. Here, you’ll have time to enjoy lunch before boarding a relaxing 45-minute cruise across England’s largest lake, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and timeless beauty.

Hawkshead

Your next stop is the picturesque conservation village of Hawkshead, where the poet William Wordsworth attended Grammar School.

Grasmere

We'll then take narrow country lanes north to Grasmere, which Wordsworth called “the loveliest spot that man hath found.” Enjoy free time to visit Wordsworth's Dove Cottage, taste the famous gingerbread, or unwind in the peaceful Wordsworth Daffodil Garden.

Whinlatter Forest

We pick you up from your accommodation and begin our journey through Whinlatter Forest Park, crossing the stunning Whinlatter Pass into some of the most breathtaking landscapes the Lake District has to offer.

We travel along scenic, winding lanes, passing through the charming village of High Lorton and along the shores of Crummock Water and Buttermere, en route to the dramatic Honister Mountain Pass. We'll pause among the towering mountains, offering you the chance to capture photos and reflect on the historic slate workings, where a small number of locals still earn their livelihood.

Lake District

After a refreshment break, we'll continue through the lush forests of Borrowdale, passing by Derwent Water, where you'll have free time for lunch and some shopping.

Biggar

Following lunch, we'll bid farewell to the Lake District and start our return journey, heading towards Penrith and further north as we cross the border back into Scotland. Our route then takes us through the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders, where we'll stop in the historic town of Biggar, a royal burgh since 1415. From there, it's a leisurely drive through the countryside, arriving back in Edinburgh.