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Discover a World of Culture along the Stagecoach 555 Bus Route in the Lake District

Discover a World of Culture along the Stagecoach 555 Bus Route in the Lake District

Bus routes really do not get much more scenic than the Stagecoach 555 service through the heart of the Lake District.

From south to north along the route from Lancaster to Keswick you’ll enjoy the splendour of lakes and mountains, with the added bonus of knowing that centuries of Lakeland heritage are within easy reach.
 

Travelling by Train


Take the Avanti West Coast, Northern or TransPennine Express to Lancaster Station, and walk town through the town to the Bus Station to pick up the 555 service. If you do not want to take in Levens hall you can travel through to Oxenholme the Lake District and change for the connecting Northern operated Lakes Line service to Windermere. Connect with the 555 from Windermere train station.
 

Morning


With all the glorious scenery to come as you head north, heritage enthusiasts shouldn’t neglect the southern end of this route.

If you join the 555 at Lancaster or Carnforth, be sure to stop off at Levens Hall. Located five miles south of Kendal, it is a spectacular Elizabethan house, surrounded by jaw-dropping horticulture. It’s also home to the world’s oldest topiary gardens: this surreal and unique collection of shaped trees
dates back to the 17th Century. There’s also the intriguing history of the hall itself to discover - it was once gambled away in a game of cards! The 555 northbound service stops a 5-minute walk from the hall, and the southbound service is directly opposite. The hall and gardens are open for visits until 6th October.

Brunch/Lunch

Before resuming your journey, it’s time for lunch – and where better for refreshment than the hall’s Levens Kitchen (open all year). It was declared Best Newcomer in Cumbria Live’s Food and Drink Awards in 2020.

Late morning/ Early afternoon 

It’s time to resume your journey and experience the scenic glory of the heart of the Lake District, with so much for heritage enthusiasts to discover on the 555 route.

Just a couple of stops along the 555 route towards Kendal, you will find yourself in striking distance of yet another historic jewel: Sizergh Castle.

This beautiful medieval house with extensive gardens is home to one of the finest examples of Elizabethan artistry in the Inlaid Chamber with its intricate panelling. The chamber was a sign of the political aspirations and wealth of its original Tudor owners. Sizergh Castle is a 20-minute walk from the Brettagh Holt stop.

However, stay on the bus a short while longer and you will soon be in the Lake District. Getting anywhere on this route really is part of the joy, with the journey a huge part of the experience.

You will head through the bustling market town of Kendal before moving on to Windermere where you can catch regular connections down to Bowness and the waterfront. Then it’s on through Ambleside, Rydal and into Grasmere.

Here, leave the bus at the Daffodil Hotel stop for Wordsworth Grasmere, which includes Dove Cottage – the humble home William Wordsworth and his family lived in from 1799-1808.

Its gardens and the museum dedicated to his life and poetry have had a multi-million-pound investment to make them Cumbria’s newest “must-see” attraction. Tour the cottage, immerse yourself in the museum and wander through the garden-orchard that Wordsworth called “the loveliest spot that man hath ever found”.

If you fancy even more history and heritage, you could also head to the National Trust’s Allan Bank. It’s a short 10-minute walk up the hill from the centre of the village. It was also briefly home to Wordsworth and his family; and to the founder of the National Trust, Canon Hardwicke Rawnsley.

Hop back on the bus and head over Dunmail Raise, along the wooded slopes of Thirlmere, and on to a truly wonderous and scenic end of your journey. the fells that stunningly frame Derwent Water, and mark your arrival in the bustling Lakeland town of Keswick.

You can spend a full day exploring Keswick and the surrounding area. The Derwent Pencil Museum explains more about the area’s graphite mining industry, and the development of pencils across the years. Don’t miss a visit to the museum shop: a must for artists of all ages. With the beautiful Alhambra Cinema and Theatre by the Lake in town, there is much for culture lovers to enjoy.

Take a Round Trip

See even more of the Lake District’s stunning scenery by taking the X4/X5 bus to Penrith Railway Station, where you can connect with Avanti West Coast Services.

Top Tips

Public Transport

Travel by Avanti West Coast, Northern or TransPennine Express to Oxenholme the Lake District and change for the Lakes Line to Windermere. At Windermere Train Station catch the Stagecoach 555 service.

Travelling with Dogs on Public Transport

When travelling by train, dogs are generally allowed on board. However, we recommend checking ahead for guidance on how to travel with your dog.

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 www.visitlakedistrict.com for lots of information on places to stay and things to do.

Useful Walking Maps: OS Explorer OL 7

In association with Avanti West Coast and Stagecoach Bus

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Itinerary Items

Item
1 Keswick
2 Levens Hall, Gardens & Kitchen
3 Sizergh Castle - National Trust
4 Kendal
5 Windermere
6 Rydal Water
7 Wordsworth Grasmere
8 Avanti West Coast
9 Stagecoach Buses
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Product Information

  1. Keswick

    Keswick

    Keswick is an attractive traditional small market town, which offers a variety of attractions, friendly shopping and a range of local delicacies.

  2. Gardens and Topiary at Levens Hall & Gardens in Levens, Cumbria
    Gardens and Topiary at Levens Hall & Gardens in Levens, Cumbria
    Seasonal Flora at Levens Hall & Gardens, in Levens, Cumbria
    Delicious Hot Drinks at Levens Kitchen in Levens, Cumbria
    Delicious Food at Levens Kitchen in Levens, Cumbria
    The shop at Levens Hall, Gardens & Kitchen in Levens, Cumbria
    The shop at Levens Hall, Gardens & Kitchen in Levens, Lake District
    Adventure Playground at Levens Hall, Gardens & Kitchen in Levens, Cumbria
    Historic interior at Levens Hall & Gardens in Levens, Cumbria
    Historic interior and lounge at Levens Hall & Gardens in Levens, Cumbria
    World's oldest topiary gardens at Levens Hall & Gardens in Levens, Cumbria
    Gardens and Topiary at Levens Hall & Gardens in Levens, Cumbria
    Seasonal Flora at Levens Hall & Gardens, in Levens, Cumbria
    Delicious Hot Drinks at Levens Kitchen in Levens, Cumbria
    Delicious Food at Levens Kitchen in Levens, Cumbria
    The shop at Levens Hall, Gardens & Kitchen in Levens, Cumbria
    The shop at Levens Hall, Gardens & Kitchen in Levens, Lake District
    Adventure Playground at Levens Hall, Gardens & Kitchen in Levens, Cumbria
    Historic interior at Levens Hall & Gardens in Levens, Cumbria
    Historic interior and lounge at Levens Hall & Gardens in Levens, Cumbria
    World's oldest topiary gardens at Levens Hall & Gardens in Levens, Cumbria

    Levens Hall, Gardens & Kitchen

    Kendal

    A stunning Elizabethan mansion with spectacular interiors and impressive collections of antiques. Also home to the world's oldest topiary gardens, designed by Guillaume Beaumont, retain many original features. Cafe, Gift Shop and Plant Centre.

  3. Exterior and grounds at Sizergh Castle, Lake District © National Trust Images
    Exterior and grounds at Sizergh Castle, Lake District © National Trust Images
    Exterior and gardens at Sizergh Castle, Lake District © National Trust Images, Lucy Tickle
    Visitors Admiring artwork in the house at Sizergh Castle, Lake District - National Trust
    Interior and decorations at Sizergh Castle, Lake District © National Trust Images
    Family days out and walking routes at Sizergh Castle, Lake District © National Trust Images
    Walking routes at Sizergh Castle, Lake District © National Trust Images
    Exterior and gardens at Sizergh Castle, Lake District © National Trust Images
    Dog walking at Sizergh Castle, Lake District © National Trust Images
    Cafe and food and drink at Sizergh Castle, Lake District © National Trust Images
    Cafe and food and drink at Sizergh Castle, Lake District © National Trust Images
    Exterior and grounds at Sizergh Castle, Lake District © National Trust Images
    Exterior and gardens at Sizergh Castle, Lake District © National Trust Images, Lucy Tickle
    Visitors Admiring artwork in the house at Sizergh Castle, Lake District - National Trust
    Interior and decorations at Sizergh Castle, Lake District © National Trust Images
    Family days out and walking routes at Sizergh Castle, Lake District © National Trust Images
    Walking routes at Sizergh Castle, Lake District © National Trust Images
    Exterior and gardens at Sizergh Castle, Lake District © National Trust Images
    Dog walking at Sizergh Castle, Lake District © National Trust Images
    Cafe and food and drink at Sizergh Castle, Lake District © National Trust Images
    Cafe and food and drink at Sizergh Castle, Lake District © National Trust Images

    Sizergh Castle - National Trust

    Nr Kendal

    The house boasts 800 years of family history, and is still lived in by the Strickland family today. Filled with thousands of items collected by 26 generations of the family the house certainly feels lived in, with centuries-old portraits and fine furniture sitting alongside modern family…

  4. Kendal

    Kendal

    Kendal is a large market town situated on the River Kent, on the eastern Cumbrian border, and is the southern gateway to the Lake District.

  5. View from a Jetty over Windermere with a Dramatic Sunset in the Lake District, Cumbria
    View from a Jetty over Windermere with a Dramatic Sunset in the Lake District, Cumbria
    View from a Jetty over Windermere in Winter in the Lake District, Cumbria
    Visitors Watching a Canoe on Windermere in the Lake District, Cumbria
    View from a Jetty over Windermere with a Dramatic Sunset in the Lake District, Cumbria
    View from a Jetty over Windermere in Winter in the Lake District, Cumbria
    Visitors Watching a Canoe on Windermere in the Lake District, Cumbria

    Windermere

    Windermere is England's largest and most popular lake, stretching over 11 miles (18km) through the heart of the Lake District. Windermere has attracted visitors for centuries, and today it is still a great escape for water activities, boat rides, and lakeside strolls.

  6. Rydal Water

    Rydal Water

    Rydal Water is one of the smallest lakes and is very popular partly because of its Wordsworth connections. Steps lead up to 'Wordsworth's Seat'.

  7. Dove Cottage at Wordsworth Grasmere in the Lake District, Cumbria
    Dove Cottage at Wordsworth Grasmere in the Lake District, Cumbria
    Dove Cottage at Wordsworth Grasmere in the Lake District, Cumbria
    Dorothy Wordsworth's Diary at Wordsworth Grasmere in the Lake District, Cumbria
    Dove Cottage Garden at Wordsworth Grasmere in the Lake District, Cumbria
    View From Dove Cottage Garden at Wordsworth Grasmere in the Lake District, Cumbria
    Inside Dove Cottage at Wordsworth Grasmere in the Lake District, Cumbria - Photograph: Gareth Gardner
    Inside Dove Cottage at Wordsworth Grasmere in the Lake District, Cumbria - Photograph: Gareth Gardner
    Museum at Wordsworth Grasmere in the Lake District, Cumbria - Photograph: Gareth Gardner
    Museum at Wordsworth Grasmere in the Lake District, Cumbria - Photograph: Gareth Gardner
    Dove Cottage at Wordsworth Grasmere in the Lake District, Cumbria
    Dove Cottage at Wordsworth Grasmere in the Lake District, Cumbria
    Dorothy Wordsworth's Diary at Wordsworth Grasmere in the Lake District, Cumbria
    Dove Cottage Garden at Wordsworth Grasmere in the Lake District, Cumbria
    View From Dove Cottage Garden at Wordsworth Grasmere in the Lake District, Cumbria
    Inside Dove Cottage at Wordsworth Grasmere in the Lake District, Cumbria - Photograph: Gareth Gardner
    Inside Dove Cottage at Wordsworth Grasmere in the Lake District, Cumbria - Photograph: Gareth Gardner
    Museum at Wordsworth Grasmere in the Lake District, Cumbria - Photograph: Gareth Gardner
    Museum at Wordsworth Grasmere in the Lake District, Cumbria - Photograph: Gareth Gardner

    Wordsworth Grasmere

    Grasmere

    A visit to Dove Cottage today transports you back to this remarkable period of ‘plain living and high thinking’. The sights, sounds and smells bring to life the bustling family home the Wordsworths would have known over 200 years ago.

  8. Avanti West Coast Pendolino train on the West Coast mainline in Cumbria
    Avanti West Coast Pendolino train on the West Coast mainline in Cumbria
    Avanti West Coast train travelling through the Lake District countryside
    Avanti West Coast train pulls into Penrith Station
    Avanti West Coast train in Penrith Station
    Avanti West Coast Pendolino train on the West Coast mainline in Cumbria
    Avanti West Coast train travelling through the Lake District countryside
    Avanti West Coast train pulls into Penrith Station
    Avanti West Coast train in Penrith Station

    Avanti West Coast

    Avanti West Coast (formerly Virgin Trains) run fast and frequent trains from London, Birmingham and Glasgow to the Lake District, serving Oxenholme (South Lakes), Penrith (North Lakes) & Carlisle.

  9. Stagecoach buses
    Stagecoach buses
    Stagecoach buses
    Stagecoach buses
    Stagecoach buses
    Stagecoach buses
    Stagecoach buses
    Stagecoach buses
    Stagecoach buses
    Stagecoach buses
    Stagecoach buses

    Stagecoach Buses

    We're Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire and we provide bus services in Barrow, Carlisle, Kendal, Keswick, Morecambe and West Cumbria.

Itinerary Distances

Sort By Shortest Journey

FromToDistance * (metric)
Keswick (54.60041,-3.13767)Levens Hall, Gardens & Kitchen (54.25903,-2.77628)40.17
Levens Hall, Gardens & Kitchen (54.25903,-2.77628)Sizergh Castle - National Trust (54.28336,-2.77255)2.45
Sizergh Castle - National Trust (54.28336,-2.77255)Kendal (54.32709,-2.74708)4.63
Kendal (54.32709,-2.74708)Windermere (54.37395,-2.93729)12.06
Windermere (54.37395,-2.93729)Rydal Water (54.44434,-3.00072)7.96
Rydal Water (54.44434,-3.00072)Wordsworth Grasmere (54.4541,-3.01792)1.4
Wordsworth Grasmere (54.4541,-3.01792)Avanti West Coast (54.30503,-2.72154)22.85
Avanti West Coast (54.30503,-2.72154)Stagecoach Buses (54.45765,-3.01455)22.94
Total Distance *114.44 miles
Estimated Journey Time3.68 hours

* Approximate distance by road

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