getting around cumbria...

Once here, there are so many ways to explore the county, you will find you are spoilt for choice.

For a truly memorable day out be car free and carefree and take a scenic bus journey, relax on a traditional steamboat or experience the delights of a steam train.
Kendal at twighlight
 

Types of transport

Getting around by bus, the Honister Rambler

Travel by bus

Using a bus when you visit the Lake District gives you the opportunity to see so much more.  Take the top deck of an open top bus or brave one of our passes on a small rambler service. Our new interactive map (under the routes menu option) plots the bus routes in the county showing their service number, the route they will take and what you can see along the way, so why not give it a go.
bus service details
see bus routes using the interactive map

 
 
Getting around by train, Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway

Travel by train

You can travel the coastline of Cumbria from Barrow-in-Furness in the south to Carlisle in the north by train. If you fancy making it a full loop the West Coast main line will let you complete the journey. Cumbria is home to the highest narrow gauge railway in England or try a steam ride from Haverthwaite to Lakeside.
travelling by train

 
 
Gettaing around by boat - Ullswater Steamer

Travel by boat

Take a trip on an Ullswater Steamer and cruise the length of the lake from Pooley Bridge to Glenridding, or a Windermere Lake Cruise from Lakeside to Waterhead, both are great ways of getting from A to B whilst you relax and take in the spectacular views.  Cruises are also available on Derwentwater and Coniston Water.
travelling by boat

 
 
Getting around by car

Travel by car

Visitors are encouraged to travel by train, bus or boat but understandably this is not always possible or practical. Cumbria's roads are often quite rural, many of the valley roads can be popular with visitors but are narrow with limited parking places.  Visitors are encouraged to take care, especially in the winter months and enjoy the countryside.

car hire
car parks

 
 
 

More about this image

The Lakeland Experience, otherwise known as the 599, runs from Bowness to Grasmere offering great views of Windermere, Rydal Water and Grasmere.

Put your feet up

For a truly memorbale day out be car free.  Sit back and relax, take in the views and experience the area
great days out
golakes itineraries

Dales Rail

Explore the Eden Valley and the east of Cumbria from Dent to Carlisle on the Dales Rail.

download PDF

Ale by bus and rail