Beatrix Potter's Lakeland Tour from Windermere Including Lake Cruise

Windermere, United Kingdom

Discover the locations that inspired Beatrix Potter on a 4.5-hour Lake District afternoon tour. Embark on a cruise across the majestic Lake Windermere, England’s largest lake. Visit Hill Top farm, Beatrix Potter’s former home, and see the landscapes that inspired some of her books. Continue on to the charming medieval village of Hawkshead, where poet William Wordsworth attended school, and then to Tarn Hows, a scenic beauty spot with lake and woodland views. Learn more about the much-loved children’s author from your knowledgeable guide.

After a midday pickup from your Windermere hotel, travel by minibus into the heart of the stunning Lake District. Upon arrival at Bowness Bay, board a boat for a leisurely 30-minute sightseeing cruise across the beautifully clear Lake Windermere, the largest lake in England.
Soak up views of the surrounding green countryside, a pastiche of mountains, woodland and fells. Disembark at Waterhead, at the northern end of the lake.

From there, continue on to Hill Top farm, where the beloved author once lived. Beatrix Potter purchased the property in 1905, using the profits from her best-selling and much-adored first book, The Tale of Peter Rabbit.

Stroll through the colorful garden, home to various flowers, vegetables, herbs and a wildlife pond. Browse the goods in the shop or if you wish, pay an entrance fee to see the interior of the old 17th-century farmhouse, which remains as it was when Beatrix Potter herself lived there.

Afterward, wander through the enchanting medieval village of Hawkshead, which boasts another literary connection: It’s where the great English Romantic poet William Wordsworth attended school. Head onward to Tarn Hows, a scenic, mountainous beauty spot that is among the most photographed places in the Lake District.

Later, relax on the drive back to Windermere, where you’ll be dropped off back at your accommodation.

Please note: Hill Top house is not open on Fridays.