Sometimes there’s nothing more freeing and relaxing than getting in your car and taking to the open road. Everyone’s perfect drive is different. Some people like to use their drives as a chance to listen to some great music, while others sit back and absorb the sound of rubber to road. One thing that all petrolheads agree on is that the best expeditions come with great scenery. That’s why so many travel to the North West in Cumbria, taking advantage of the many stunning Lake District drives the area has to offer.
This piece will explore some of the best drives in the Lake District, so you can take to the tarmac and experience all the sights of the region from the comfort of your car. These drives make breaks in the Lake District feel all the more worthwhile, especially when paired with some walks and experiences of the area’s great eateries.
The Hardknott & Wynrose Pass (for confident drivers)
When it comes to Lake District driving routes, this is often seen as the holy grail. However, its challenging nature, climbs and single track roads mean it’s not for the faint of heart, or those driving more sizeable vehicles.
The route for the Hardknott & Wynrose Pass is as follows:
- Start at Little Langdale
- Cross Wynrose Pass
- Descent into Cockley Beck
- Climbing up Hardknott Pass
Once at the top of Hardknott (the steepest road in England), you get a view of the stunning mountains and down into Eskdale, from a Roman Fort spot to stop at. This drive includes thin roads and hairpin turns, so make sure you’re a confident, intuitive driver before you take it on.
The A591 from Kendal to Keswick is the country’s favourite
This is a wide, properly maintained road for all drivers, which is why it’s been voted Britain’s favourite drive many times. It’s the kind of scenic Lake District drive that everyone from a seasoned veteran to a relatively new driver can enjoy. It’s simple enough, following the A591 from Kendal, past Windermere, through Ambleside and alongside Thirlmere. Along the way, you get a ‘greatest hits’ compilation of central fell views, making it a great all-rounder route for all levels of drivers.
Keswick to Buttermere is perfect for photographers
What are Lake District drives without the lakes themselves? The Keswick to Buttermere route offers a great opportunity to enjoy the mirror-like lakes and jagged peaks of the district, without having to make the same sorts of climbs associated with Hardknott.
- Leave Keswick on the B5289 through the Borrowdale Valley
- Climb over the Honister Pass, then descend into Buttermere
- Head back through Newlands Pass for a different view
On the way, you’ll get to see iconic shots of the lake framed by High Stile and Grasmoor, as well as passing through the Borrowdale ‘Jaws’.
Checking out the ‘hidden’ valley of Newlands Pass
Honister might be one of the most attractive areas of the Lake District, but the Newlands Pass (which also features in the last route) offers one of the softer, more heritage-focused drives on the list. Travelling from Braithwaite over to Buttermere, this route offers access to the view from Newlands Hause summit. Park up by the Moss Force waterfall to marvel at the natural beauty, without actually needing to get out of the car.
Take to the lakes!
If you’re eager to enjoy some of the best driving routes that the UK has to offer, the Lake District is a region that needs to be on your radar. Best of all, the area is also full of great hotels, restaurants and walking routes, making it a perfect spot for a full weekend or longer.