Itinerary Planner

Hawkshead and Coniston by Bus- A Winding, Scenic Adventure

Hitchhiking in the Lakes is not always an easy thing to do. However, for an off-the-grid, Micro-gap experience the Coniston Rambler bus service offers a more reliable (and slightly more sedate!) alternative. It winds its way through rural hamlets and iconic scenery to some unexpected adventures.

Day 1

Morning

If arriving by Avanti West Coast at Oxenholme station, take a Northern train to Windermere station (19 mins). Board the 505 Coniston Rambler Service from Windermere Bus and Rail Interchange and enjoy as you start your winding scenic adventure.

Lunch

Alight in Hawkshead, if you are unsure as to when to get off, ask the driver to give you a nod when you are getting near. You will be dropped by the bus stop in the main car park. From here follow the road up and right to head to the village centre.

The small, yet perfectly formed Hawkshead village is bursting at the seams with a host of vibrant café’s, pubs and restaurants.

Afternoon

Explore Hawkshead’s mixture of cobbled streets and clusters of whitewashed cottages, huddled around secluded courtyards, which give the village a real sense of intimacy.

With quirky shops, William Wordsworth’s old school, and the National Trust’s Beatrix Potter Gallery, Hawkshead has everything for a traditional lakeland afternoon sojourn.

For a slightly less conventional experience pre-book an interactive chocolate making workshop at the Chocolate Factory, Hawkshead. Make three chocolate creations, get gooey and have fun! Alternatively, for the cat lovers amongst you, head over to Kittchen for local food, beverages and a snuggle with a furry friend.

Evening

Try out one of the local Lakeland Inns dotted about the village and neighbouring countryside (if you don’t mind a walk home at the end of the evening, don’t forget your torch!).

Day 2

Morning

Head back to the bus stop and catch the 505 Coniston Rambler service to Coniston. The bus stops outside the Tourist Information centre and it is a short (and obvious) walk from here to the village centre. The village of Coniston nestles at the foot of the majestic “Old Man”. Its landscape makes it a great base for walks or cycling, but don’t forget to pop into the bustling village packed full of pubs, cafes, shops and a great museum. Learn all about Coniston’s Connection to Donald Campbell and his record-breaking history.

Lunch

Take your pick from the wide range of tea rooms, café’s and inns dotted about the village.

Afternoon

Take the short, sign-posted amble down to Coniston Water.  From here you can hop aboard the National Trust’s Steam Yacht Gondola and take a leisurely cruise back to the era of the Victorian Grand Tour. If you have the energy then get a Walkers Ticket and combine your cruise with a walk up to Tarn Hows, a stunning local beauty spot, artificially made in the 19th Century by joining 3 tarns together. In 1929 it was bought by Beatrix Potter who sold it to the National Trust.

For those with lots of energy; make sure you pre-book to have a go at paddle boarding on Coniston (Easter-September only). Stand up paddle boarding is available from Coniston Boating Centre. It is great for individuals, families and groups and is a fun way to get out and explore the lake.

Evening

Stay overnight and explore the eateries of Coniston before catching the 505 back to Windermere or hurry along to catch the last bus back.

Weather

The weather in the Lake District can change quickly, clear morning skies can rapidly give way to rain, sleet or even snow so be prepared! Changes in weather can dramatically alter the difficulty of a route so please consider this before setting off. Call 0844 846 2444 to check the forecast.

Practical information

Appropriate clothing can make all the difference. It is important to be warm, comfortable and dry when out exploring so make sure you have the appropriate kit and plenty of layers.

Your rucksack should hold everything needed and be carried comfortably. Have extra layers, a hat and gloves, enough food and drink, and a first aid kit. A compass, map and the knowledge to use them is invaluable.

Mobile phone reception isn’t always good in the Lake District. Leave details of your route and expected finish time with a buddy. If you are delayed please contact your buddy to let them know. This will prevent mountain rescue, a team of volunteers, being called out unnecessarily. If there is an emergency call 999, ask for Cumbria Police and give your location; an accurate grid reference is ideal.