The Lake District is a haven for nature lovers, hiking enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys spending time in the great outdoors with a cup of tea and a slightly squashed sandwich. With rolling hills, glistening lakes, and charming villages, it’s no wonder that poets like Wordsworth found inspiration here (and probably a bit of rain too). But worry not, we’ve got you covered for your perfect 3-day campervan adventure, complete with cosy Caravan and Motorhome Club campsites. This is the Ultimate Campervan Adventure - 3 days in the Lake District Itinerary!
Did you know we have partnered with The Caravan and Motorhome Club? You will get discounted ferry crossings and stays at campsites with £15 off and member rates. Just request the temporary membership by following the link in your booking confirmation email!
And what better way to explore it than in your trusty campervan from Trekker Voyages? Our campervans are fully equipped and have a built in kitchen, shower and toilet! Book now here.
Let’s hit the road and explore the best that the Lake District has to offer!
Day 1: Wellingborough to Keswick (240 miles) - Lake District Itinerary begins
Bright and early, you’ll hit the road from Trekker Voyages in Wellingborough for the journey up to the Lake District. A road trip isn’t complete without a few snack stops along the way (may we recommend some motorway coffee and flapjacks to keep you going?). After about 5 hours of driving, you’ll arrive in the beautiful town of Keswick.
Welcome to Keswick, the bustling market town that sits beautifully between Derwentwater Lake and the Skiddaw mountain range. It’s the perfect spot to kick off your adventure with a mix of nature and culture. Plus, there's plenty of cozy pubs for some post-hike nourishment. You’ll want to arrive early to make the most of the day.
Start your day with a walk around Derwentwater. This serene lake offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the region. Fancy a boat ride? Take the Keswick Launch for a gentle cruise across the water, or, if you're feeling energetic, rent a kayak and paddle your way through the calm waters.
Next, head to the Castlerigg Stone Circle, one of the oldest stone circles in Britain, dating back 5,000 years. It’s a mystical place with stunning panoramic views, perfect for getting in touch with your inner druid—or just taking some stunning Instagram photos (we won’t judge).
If you’re into history, Keswick is also home to the quirky Cumberland Pencil Museum (yes, it’s a museum about pencils). It’s strangely fascinating and a great spot if you get hit by one of the Lake District’s notorious rain showers.
Campsite Stop: Troutbeck Head Club Site
Nestled in the northern Lake District, this peaceful campsite is just 10 minutes from Keswick and offers scenic views of the surrounding hills. It’s a great base to unwind after a day of exploring, with plenty of walking trails nearby.
Price: Starting from £15 per night.
Evening:
Head back into Keswick for a meal at one of the town’s traditional pubs. Treat yourself to some hearty Cumbrian fare—like Cumberland sausage—and wash it down with a pint of local ale. After all, you’ve earned it!
Day 2: Grasmere and Ambleside – Discover Wordsworth’s Legacy and Lake Windermere
Day two is all about exploring the literary heart of the Lake District and, of course, Lake Windermere—the largest natural lake in England. Today’s drive is short but packed with picturesque stops along the way.
Morning:
Start your day in Grasmere, the charming village made famous by William Wordsworth. First stop? Dove Cottage, where Wordsworth lived and penned some of his most famous works. Don’t forget to stroll around Grasmere Lake and visit St. Oswald’s Church, where Wordsworth is buried.
While you're in Grasmere, stop by Sarah Nelson’s Gingerbread Shop for some of their world-famous gingerbread. Trust us, your campervan will smell like ginger and spices for the rest of the day, and you won’t mind one bit.
Afternoon:
Continue south to Ambleside, one of the Lake District’s most popular towns. Spend some time wandering through its narrow streets and popping into the local shops and cafes.
If you’re feeling adventurous, take a hike up Loughrigg Fell—it’s a short but rewarding climb with fantastic views over Lake Windermere. If hiking isn’t on the agenda, a leisurely cruise on Lake Windermere is a must. You can hop on one of the many boats and sail across the lake, taking in the stunning views.
Campsite Stop: Kendal Club Campsite
Located just outside of Kendal, this woodland campsite is perfectly situated for exploring both Lake Windermere and Ambleside. With direct access to nature trails, it’s an ideal spot for a peaceful evening under the stars.
Price: Starting from £18 per night.
Evening:
After a full day of sightseeing, relax at your campsite and maybe cook up a campervan feast. Got that gingerbread from Grasmere? Now’s the perfect time to tuck into it while watching the sun go down over the fells.
Day 3: Coniston Water and Tarn Hows – A Day of Scenic Beauty
Your last day is all about soaking in the stunning landscapes that make the Lake District so famous. Today, you’ll head to Coniston Water and the nearby Tarn Hows, one of the most beautiful spots in the area.
Morning:
Begin your day with a visit to Coniston Water, a tranquil lake that offers a more relaxed vibe than its busier neighbour, Windermere. If you’re a fan of history, check out The Ruskin Museum, dedicated to the life and work of writer John Ruskin, who lived on the shores of Coniston.
Feeling adventurous? You can rent a boat or kayak and paddle around the lake, just like the legendary speedboat racer Donald Campbell, who set world water-speed records here (though we recommend taking it a bit slower than him).
Afternoon:
Next, head to Tarn Hows, one of the Lake District’s most iconic beauty spots. With its peaceful waters and gentle walking paths, it’s a great place for a leisurely stroll. The loop around Tarn Hows is easy and perfect for all ages, making it an ideal stop for a picnic or a last chance to stretch your legs before heading back.
Campsite Stop: Meathop Fell Club Site
For your final night, stay at Meathop Fell, a lovely campsite just a short drive from Coniston Water. Situated in an elevated position, it offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. Enjoy one last peaceful evening surrounded by nature.
Price: Starting from £16 per night.
Evening:
Wrap up your Lake District adventure with a hearty meal in Coniston or Ambleside. If you’ve been saving the best for last, now’s the time to dig into some Sticky Toffee Pudding, a Cumbrian specialty!
Bonus Tips for Your Lake District Campervan Trip:
Pack for all weathers: The Lake District is stunning but unpredictable—pack for sun, rain, and maybe even a surprise hailstorm.
Get out early: Popular spots like Windermere and Ambleside can get crowded, so aim for an early start to beat the rush.
Take it easy: There’s no need to rush. One of the joys of campervan travel is having the freedom to change plans and enjoy the moment. If you want to linger longer by a lake, do it!
Why Explore the Lake District by Campervan?
The Lake District offers endless beauty, from serene lakes to towering peaks, and a campervan gives you the flexibility to experience it all at your own pace. You can cosy up at night in a Caravan and Motorhome Club campsite, cook your meals on the road (or snack on that gingerbread!), and wake up each morning surrounded by nature.
So, ready to explore the Lake District in style? Book your campervan today and get ready for three unforgettable days of adventure, stunning landscapes, and maybe a few sheep traffic jams.
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