A Loop of the Lake District
Kendal – Windermere – Keswick – Scafell Pike – Ambleside
Total Driving Distance: 90 miles (145 km) | Recommended Duration: 3 Days | Drive Grade: Moderate
Start Point: Kendal | End Point: Kendal (Loop)
Road Trip Itinerary Overview
This stunning circular route takes you through the heart of the Lake District National Park. Starting in the historic market town of Kendal, you will drive alongside the shores of Lake Windermere, cross through Ambleside, head north to the lakeside town of Keswick, drive past the base of Scafell Pike (England's highest peak) in Wasdale, navigate the steep bends of Hardknott Pass, before returning to Kendal.
Drive through England's premier national park, visiting deep lakes, mountain passes, and historic writer estates.
Key Waypoints & Scenic Stops Along the Route
- Windermere Lakefront & Bowness
- Ambleside Bridge House
- Derwentwater & Keswick
- Castlerigg Stone Circle
- Wasdale Head & Scafell Pike
- Hardknott Pass Bend & Roman Fort
Recommended Places to Stay & Overnight Stops
- 🏨 The Low Wood Bay Resort, Windermere (Accommodation):
- 🏨 The Lodore Falls Hotel, Keswick (Accommodation):
- 🏨 Wasdale Head Inn (Accommodation):
EV Charging Stations & Rapid Hubs
- ⚡ GRIDSERVE Windermere Pier:
- ⚡ GRIDSERVE Keswick Central:
- ⚡ Ambleside EV Station:
Fuel, Petrol Stations & Rest Services
- ⛽ Kendal Gateway Services:
- ⛽ Keswick Co-op Fuel:
- ⛽ Ambleside Fuel Station:
Essential Driving Tips & Seasonal Advice
- Hardknott Pass has grades up to 30% with hairpin bends; do not attempt in icy weather or if you are not a confident driver.
- Parking in Keswick and Bowness fills up early on sunny weekends; use park-and-ride options where available.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the A Loop of the Lake District road trip and what are the main stops?
A Loop of the Lake District covers 90 miles (145 km) over 3 Days, rated Moderate. It starts at Kendal and finishes at Kendal (Loop), passing through Windermere Lakefront & Bowness, Ambleside Bridge House, Derwentwater & Keswick, Castlerigg Stone Circle, Wasdale Head & Scafell Pike, Hardknott Pass Bend & Roman Fort.
Where are the EV charging stations on A Loop of the Lake District?
GRIDSERVE Windermere Pier: Fast EV charging available. GRIDSERVE Keswick Central: Fast EV charging available. Ambleside EV Station: Fast EV charging available.
Where are the best places to stay along A Loop of the Lake District?
The Low Wood Bay Resort, Windermere (Stay): The Lodore Falls Hotel, Keswick (Stay): Wasdale Head Inn (Stay):
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