Hello, dear readers! Welcome to Day 8 of our UK road trip, taking us through the serene landscapes of the Lake District. If you’re just hopping onto our journey, or if you’re curious to start from the very beginning in the historic streets of Oxford, feel free to explore our earlier posts. This post will be a bit shorter, tailored for those who might only have one day to experience the Lake District. We’re excited to share how we made the most of our brief yet memorable time in this stunning region, from the charming town of Kendal to the scenic peaks of Wansfell Pike. Whether you’re planning a quick visit or just enjoying a virtual tour, this day is for you!
A Kendal Morning
On Day 8 of our UK road trip, we awoke in the charming town of Kendal, nestled in the heart of the Lake District. The previous evening’s arrival from Liverpool had been perfectly timed to witness a breathtaking sunset from our Airbnb window. As we settled in and gazed out, a sense of tranquility enveloped us. This was a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of the cities we had visited so far. Kendal’s peaceful, quiet atmosphere, with its fresh air, was nothing short of serene. It was an idyllic end to the day, and we eagerly anticipated our hike the next morning.
The next day greeted us early, filled with promise. To our delight, our Airbnb hosts had prepared breakfast, offering a warm and hospitable start to our day. We went to the kitchen at the agreed time and were greeted by a beautifully presented, filling meal. Home-baked muffins, cereals, and freshly brewed coffee awaited us. This healthy and delicious breakfast was just what we needed to fuel our adventure in the Lake District.
Ambleside to Wansfell Pike
The drive to Ambleside, our hiking starting point, was an experience in itself. The Lake District’s scenic beauty unfolded with every turn, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination. In Ambleside, a kind gesture from a stranger enhanced our experience; a woman leaving the parking lot offered us her day ticket, a small but appreciated welcome gift.
We embarked on our hike to Wansfell Pike, a moderate trek involving a continuous steep climb with stretches through shaded woods and along a narrow road. The physical challenge was a welcome activity, especially since we had passed on the Snowdon hike. As we ascended, the landscape opened up, offering panoramic views of the Lake District’s splendor. Reaching the peak of Wansfell Pike was a moment of awe. The vast expanse of Windermere Lake below provided a stunning backdrop for photos and a serene landscape to admire. We paused there, taking time to fully absorb the beauty of our surroundings.
Our descent was a gentler path, taking a less traveled bike trail through grassy fields. A unique moment during our descent was witnessing a glider plane soaring below us over the Windermere Lake valley, a surreal and memorable sight. The path was dotted with sheep, adding to the picturesque landscape of the Lake District.
Lunch at Fresher’s Cafe
After the hike, hunger set in, and we found a delightful spot for lunch at Fresher’s Cafe in Ambleside. The staff recommended their special Quiche Lorraine, a mouth-watering blend of cheese, onion, bacon, served with a side salad and chips. Along with some egg salad sandwiches, this meal was the perfect culmination of our Ambleside visit. The quiche was particularly memorable – crisp, flavorful, and utterly satisfying.
Although we had planned for another hike (Tarn Hows Circular Walk), the day’s heat and our depleted energy reserves made us reconsider. The Lake District deserves a more extended visit to be fully appreciated, ideally spanning over three days. Our itinerary was tight, so we had to make some tough choices. We had a short road trip mapped out through the Lake District, but time constraints meant we couldn’t undertake it. I’ve added the map below for future travelers to explore these enchanting towns.
Checkout the highlights of Day 8 here:
As we said goodbye to the Lake District, we reflected on our brief but incredibly sweet visit. The peacefulness and beauty of the area left a lasting impression. Our journey was nearing its end, but not before we explored two more cities, with York being our next destination. The memories of the Lake District’s serene landscapes and warm hospitality would stay with us as we continued our adventure.
