Directions to the Lake District
Are you looking to t ravelling by car to the Lake District ? There is nothing easier ! Get to Junction 36 on the M6 and you're only a stone's throw away from the most beautiful corner of England. Travelling by air, coach or rail? Well that's straightforward too - just read on for more information.
Don't forget the alternative transport options from bus or mini-coach, to cycle, boat or ferry and a very good local rail service to Windermere. For total relaxation, leave yourcar at your hotel or accommodation and take an alternative form of transport to travel round the district, helping us to preserve the beautiful landscape you have come to visit.
By Air
Manchester, Glasgow, Leeds/Bradford, Liverpool and Newcastle airports offer easy access to the area. Manchester Airport has its own rail station with direct services to Windermere and Barrow-in Furness.
Manchester Airport, Manchester Airport Guide, Blackpool Airport, Leeds/Bradford Airport, Liverpool John Lennon Airport, Newcastle Airport
By Coach
National Express Rapide services from London (Victoria) to Kendal, Ulverston, Ambleside, Barrow and Windermere. More details are available from your local coach travel agent or National Express. Tel 08705 808080
By Rail
Stations for the area include Lancaster and Oxenholme - the Lake District (near Kendal) on the main West Coast line. There is a branch line connecting Oxenholme to Kendal and Windermere.
Trains run direct from Lancaster to Arnside, Grange-Over-Sands, Ulverston and Barrow via the Furness line. The historic Settle/Carlisle Railway line runs through the east of the District, with stations at Dent and Garsdale.
National Rail/Regional Railways. Enquiries: Tel: 08457 48 49 50
National Rail - Virgin Trains - Railtrack
Getting Around
A network of rail, bus and ferry services makes travelling around by public transport an excellent way to see the area.
For guides to the range of public transport services see: 'Getting around Cumbria and the Lake District' or 'To and Through Cumbria and the Lake District - Map and Travel Guide' both available from Traveline on 0870 608 2 608 and Tourist Information Centres.
By Boat / Ferry
Windermere and Coniston run foot passenger ferries or steamer services which will take you on scenic cruises or journeys across the lake. Windermere car ferry operates regular shuttle services throughout the year between Bowness-on-Windermere and Far Sawrey.
By Cycle
Numerous cycle paths, bridleways, forest trails and other quiet roads make cycling around Cumbria pleasurable and safe. Details on cycle routes and bike hire are available from Tourist Information Centres.
On Foot
Depending on how energetic you are feeling, there are walks to suit all tastes. Several companies operate rucksack and passenger shuttle bus services for walkers.
When out walking, good footwear and clothing is essential. For those without the necessary equipment, some outdoor shops operate a hire service for adults and children. Before setting off, leave a note with your hotel or guest house detailing where you intend to go and when you expect to return.
Cumbria Tourist Guides, Ramblers Association, Lake District National Park Weatherline - 0870 055 0575
Useful Contacts - Public Transport
Traveline
For full details of bus, rail and ferry services to and within Cumbria, please telephone Traveline on 0870 608 2 608 Lines open daily 07.00 - 20.00 or visit Traveline Cumbria
Vehicle Hire
Westmorland Vehicle Hire - Cumbria and the Lake District leading name for vehicle hire
Situated in Kendal and Penrith Westmorland Vehicle Hire offer a wide range of self-drive hire vehicles to both the South and the North Lakes areas. For bookings or information please ring 01539 728532 or go to Car Hire Cumbria
Enterprise Rent-a-Car; Kendal and Barrow
Enterprise will Pick You Up from your hotel and take you to their office to collect your rental car. They offer a great selection of vehicles from Corsas to vans to 7 seater people carriers. Visit Enterprise call 01539 725 500.