Let's Go Car-free - Explore the North Lakes by Bus and Train

Stagecoach bus heading for Penrith

Hop on the train or bus and head for Penrith. It is around a three-hour train ride from London and just over an hour from Glasgow on a direct Avanti West Coast service; or just over one and a half hours from Edinburgh with TransPennine Express.

Penrith is the perfect place from which to explore the North Lakes. If you are staying over, many places will keep your bags for you ahead of check in.

Morning

Upon arrival at Penrith Railway Station, step on the X4 Stagecoach service and enjoy a stunning journey through the Lakeland fells to Keswick. If you arrive early in Penrith, why not explore the ruins of the town’s 14th century castle, which are located in a public park close to the railway station.

The bustling market town of Keswick is located between Derwentwater and Bassenthwaite. You may be surprised to learn that Bassenthwaite is the only true ‘lake’ in the Lake District! It lies between Keswick and Cockermouth, and is the only body of water to claim this prestigious title.

Derwent Pencil Museum, Keswick

Leave the bus at Keswick, where you could easily spend the day exploring the local shops and cafes; and discovering museums and attractions like the Derwent Pencil Museum and The Puzzling Place – an attraction filled with optical illusions. Keswick is also a great place to enjoy an easy stroll: follow Lake Road down to the peaceful shores of Derwentwater and take in the majestic views across the water to Cat Bells. Theatre by the Lake is nearby and offers the opportunity to pause for coffee or catch a matinee, before taking a Lake Cruise on Derwentwater.

Theatre by the Lake, Keswick

Lunch

Follow Lake Road back into town where you’ll find numerous places to eat lunch. There is everything on offer from fish & chips to relaxing lunches in 4-star hotels.

Afternoon

September through to the end of October is the perfect time to see the Lake District clothed in the spectacular colours of autumn. From Keswick bus station, catch the X5 service through to Cockermouth and enjoy the wonderful reflections of the heather covered mountains in Bassenthwaite’s tranquil waters.

Cockermouth is the gateway town to the Western Lake District and plays host to a number of special events, like Taste Cumbria food festivals in September and December. It’s also home to Wordsworth House and Garden: run by the National Trust, it’s where the poet William Wordsworth spent his childhood. Today it’s open to visitors, who can explore the house and idyllic gardens.

Wordsworth House and Garden, Cockermouth

Top Tips

• Public Transport - Travel by Avanti West Coast or TransPennine Express to Penrith (North Lakes) and catch the Stagecoach X4/X5 service to Keswick.
• Travelling with Dogs on Public Transport - When travelling with Avanti West Coast and TransPennine Express, you can take up to two domestic pets for no extra charge. Please check the guidance on their websites. Dogs are allowed to travel on Stagecoach buses at the discretion of the driver. Please be aware that the driver will consider things like if there is already another pet on the bus when making their decision. Assistance and guide dogs can travel at all times.
• Accommodation and tourist information: Visit our accommodation page for lots of information on places to stay and things to do.