Lakes and Passes Tour Ullswater
18th - 22nd April 2026
High Roads & Hidden Waters
Discover the timeless beauty of England’s Lake District behind the wheel of your classic car on this unforgettable driving tour centred around the serene waters of Ullswater. Lakes & Passes invites you to step back in time and explore the unspoiled northern reaches of the Lake District National Park in vintage style, where every winding lane reveals breathtaking vistas and hidden gems.
Over the course of this carefully crafted journey, you’ll trace scenic routes through glacial valleys, over rugged mountain passes, and alongside mirror-like lakes, all while enjoying the nostalgic pleasure of motoring through one of the UK’s most cherished landscapes.
Your stay near Ullswater - often called the "jewel of the north" - offers the perfect blend of lakeside serenity and central access to the region’s most exhilarating drives. Each day reveals a new adventure.
Price
(price based on two people sharing a room)
A 10% deposit is required to confirm your booking
£1,849 per person (XK or E-type Members)
£1,899 per person (Non-Members)
What's Included
Four nights accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis
Dinner on four evenings with water, tea and coffee included
Lunch on day two
Coffee stop and visit at Dovenby Hall
Coffee stop on day three
Lake cruise with drinks reception
Detailed roadbook & rally plate
Hosted by a tour manager
What's Not Included
All drinks, to accommodate individual preferences
Admission for optional attractions
Itinerary
DAY 1
Arrive at the Inn on the Lake hotel situated on the water side at Ullswater. This award winning four star hotel in Glenridding enjoys one of the most spectacular settings in the Lake District, in 15 acres of grounds with lawns sweeping to the shores of Lake Ullswater. Enjoy the most breath taking views of Lake Ullswater and the magnificent Helvellyn mountain range.
This evening we have arranged a welcome reception served on the terrace overlooking Ullswater (or Lake View lounge if the weather is not as kind)
DAY 2 - M Sport & Wasdale Head Run
Today we step into the cutting-edge world of rally sport with an exclusive visit to M-Sport Headquarters at Dovenby Hall - home to Ford’s World Rally Championship team. Discover the engineering prowess behind some of the world’s most advanced rally cars with a guided tour of the state-of-the-art facilities, and experience the exciting contrast between past and present automotive excellence.
The route then continue to Wasdale Head, on return route, stop at Nether Wasdale at the Saw Mill Café owned by local farmer, Julius & his partner Kristen, for a Herdwick Lamb lunch!
Our return route gives you the option to take the Hardknott & Wrynose Passes (not for the faint hearted) or return the same route back to the hotel. The route also takes in Wastwater, England’s deepest lake and Scafell, England’s highest mountain.
DAY 3 - North Lakes Run
Today’s run via the tranquil Northern part of the region leads you via the Whinlatter and Honister Passes - thrilling roads that twist through rugged fells and ancient woodland, perfect for spirited yet scenic driving. We have a scenic coffee stop and an optional visit to a Slate mine. There is time to stop in Keswick. Our return route offers the chance to drive along the shores of Ullswater.
DAY 4 - Day at leisure/Ruskin Museum
Yet another spectacular drive down the Kirkstone Pass & The Struggle to Ambleside and then cut down to Coniston to the Ruskin Museum for the Bluebird experience and learn about Donald Cambell’s CBE exploits, entry is included for this ever changing exhibition.
We re-group at the end of the day for a finale dinner.
DAY 5
After a hearty breakfast check out at your leisure for your return journey.