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Scenic Strides in the Lake District

Experience the quieter side of the Lake District on this guided walking holiday from Hassness Country House. Explore peaceful lakeshores, hidden valleys and classic fell landscapes, discovering the beauty of Buttermere, Crummock Water, Loweswater and Wild Ennerdale.

  • Lake District

  • Full Board (excluding one evening meal if you are staying on a Wednesday)
  • Landscape

    Mountains

  • Oct

  • Average group size: 12-14 per grade

What does this mean?

Grade Moderate/Challenging

Moderate/Challenging

What does this mean?

3, 4 or 7 Nights

From

£599
Without flights
View Dates & Book Now Group Booking of 8+
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Walking grade

Grade 4

Grade 7

These holidays are typically in mountainous areas where stamina is important to be able to enjoy longer days. There is plenty of ascent and descent on some rough and steep paths that require good footwear, a steady foot, and a good head for heights. Some days may be shorter in distance or ascent/descent, but the overall effort levels required are of a higher nature.  

Usual daily walks - Distance: 10 miles; Ascent/Descent 950m; Terrain: varied with rough, rocky and steep sections; Walking Time: 8hrs+ / Long Days. 

The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s keys walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".

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Classic Collection

Thoughtfully designed, meticulously planned, carefully graded, and expertly guided walking tours and hiking holidays along well-loved and off-the-beaten-track footpaths.

Overview

Holiday Highlights

  • Spectacular accommodation on the shores of Buttermere
  • Guided walking through the Western Lake District.
  • Enjoy a friendly group atmosphere and expert local guidance throughout.
  • Explore the iconic Lakeland lakes

Discover some of the Lake District's most beautiful and unspoilt landscapes on this guided walking holiday based at Hassness Country House, idyllically situated on the shores of Buttermere. Designed for walkers who enjoy scenic routes, spectacular views and a comfortable pace, this holiday showcases the quieter western valleys that make this corner of Cumbria so special.

On this guided walking, you'll explore a diverse range of Lakeland landscapes, from tranquil lakeshores and ancient woodland to remote mountain passes and sweeping fellside paths. Accompanied by experienced volunteer leaders, you'll enjoy carefully selected routes that reveal both the iconic scenery and hidden treasures of the Western Lake District.

Walk alongside the sparkling waters of Buttermere, Crummock Water and Loweswater, where dramatic mountain backdrops, charming villages and peaceful woodland create some of the most picturesque scenery in the National Park. Discover the legendary valley of Rannerdale, famed for its springtime bluebells and rich local folklore, and enjoy quiet paths that lead through some of the region's most beautiful and less-visited landscapes.

For those seeking classic Lakeland fell walking, a journey to Haystacks offers the chance to visit Alfred Wainwright's favourite mountain. Following historic mining tracks and sections of the famous Coast to Coast route, you'll pass Blackbeck Tarn and Innominate Tarn before reaching the summit, where far-reaching views stretch across the surrounding fells and lakes.

Another highlight is the spectacular walk into Wild Ennerdale, one of the Lake District's most remote and inspiring valleys. Here, dramatic natural scenery combines with one of Britain's leading rewilding projects, creating a landscape rich in wildlife, history and tranquillity. The route takes in Black Sail, England's most remote youth hostel, before crossing Scarth Gap and returning to the Buttermere Valley.

Throughout the holiday, you'll enjoy a varied programme of walks that combine natural beauty with fascinating local heritage. Traditional Lakeland villages, historic inns, ancient paths and hidden waterfalls all contribute to an authentic experience of the Lake District away from the crowds.

At the end of each day, return to the warm welcome of Hassness Country House. Set in one of the most spectacular locations in the National Park, Hassness provides the perfect base from which to relax, unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. With comfortable accommodation, hearty home-cooked meals and exceptional scenery right outside the door, this holiday offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the landscapes, tranquillity and timeless charm of the Western Lake District.

  • Comfortable double, twin and single rooms, most en suite
  • Cooked or Continental breakfast each morning
  • Three course evening meals (except on Wednesday)
  • Packed lunches on each organised walk day
  • Complimentary tea & coffee always available and cake after each walk day
  • Renowned Hassness House hospitality
  • All public bus fares to / from the trailheads
  • Services of a Classic Tour Leader
  • One evening meal per week - the house manager's day off is on Wednesday.
  • Personal expenses (such as your bar bill)
  • Discretionary tips
  • Travel insurance

Holiday Information

Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.

NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen

View Holiday Information Sheet

Tour Codes

70213, 70214

Itinerary & Travel

Itinerary Details

Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to Hassness

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

We wish you a very warm welcome to Hassness Country House. 

Your hosts will be there to welcome you and ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible. Your holiday starts upon arrival at Hassness Country House in Buttermere where you are welcome to arrive from 3pm. Your evening meal will be served at 6.30pm. If you anticipate arriving after this time, we kindly request that you telephone Hassness Country House to confirm your expected arrival time.

Day 2 to 3

Scenic Strides

Meals

Full board

Accommodation

Your holiday includes two days of guided walking through some of the Lake District's most beautiful and unspoilt landscapes.

Based at Hassness Country House on the shores of Buttermere, you'll explore tranquil lakes, hidden valleys, historic paths and classic Lakeland fells, all in the company of experienced volunteer leaders. The walks below provide an indication of the routes and terrain typically enjoyed on this holiday. Routes may vary according to weather conditions and the needs of the group to ensure the best possible walking experience.

Rannerdale and Buttermere

A classic walk through one of the most picturesque corners of the Western Lake District. Starting at Lanthwaite, the route follows the shores of Crummock Water before entering the beautiful valley of Rannerdale, famed for its carpet of bluebells in spring. Crossing Rannerdale Beck, the walk continues over Hause Point and through woodland and pasture to Buttermere Village. From here, a scenic lakeside route circles Buttermere, offering magnificent views of the surrounding fells before returning to Hassness.

Distance: 8.8 miles (14.2 km)
Ascent: 200m

Crummock Water, Loweswater Village and Scale Force

This delightful walk combines peaceful lakeshore paths, charming villages and one of the Lake District's most impressive waterfalls. From Crummock Water, the route heads to the picturesque village of Loweswater and the historic Kirkstile Inn before returning via the western shore of the lake. Along the way, there's an opportunity to visit Scale Force, the highest waterfall in the Lake District, hidden within a dramatic wooded gorge.

Distance: 8.3 miles (13.4 km)
Ascent: 240m

Haystacks from Honister

One of the Lake District's most beloved fell walks, this route visits Haystacks, Alfred Wainwright's favourite mountain and the place where his ashes were scattered. Starting at Honister Pass, the walk follows historic mining tracks and sections of the famous Coast to Coast route before reaching Blackbeck Tarn, Innominate Tarn and the summit of Haystacks. Extensive views across Buttermere, Crummock Water and the surrounding fells make this a truly memorable day.

Distance: 6.6 miles (10.6 km)
Ascent: 555m

Wild Ennerdale and Black Sail

Discover one of the Lake District's most remote and dramatic valleys. Beginning at Honister Pass, this walk follows old miners' tracks into Wild Ennerdale, an inspiring landscape shaped by one of the UK's leading rewilding projects. After a break at Black Sail, England's most remote youth hostel, the route crosses Scarth Gap before descending back towards Buttermere and Hassness with superb views across the valley.

Distance: 6.2 miles (10 km)
Ascent: 455m

Loweswater Circuit

This rewarding circular walk explores the quieter side of the Lake District. Passing through Loweswater Village and alongside the peaceful waters of Loweswater, the route meanders through ancient oak woodland, open farmland and traditional stone-walled pastures. The elevated return along the historic Coffin Road provides wonderful panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Distance: 10.4 miles (16.7 km)
Ascent: 350m

Day 4

Final day

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

After a hearty breakfast, your hosts wave you goodbye when you'll leave with memories from your Lake District experience. Check out is by 10am. 

We hope you enjoyed your stay and we look forward to welcoming you again soon.

Departure dates for your selected tour

Travel Details

Private or public transport to and from the trailheads, if necessary, is included. 

See our Holiday Information Sheet for more details on how to reach Hassness Country House by car or public transport. 

Nearest railway station: Penrith (approx. 28 miles)

Nearest bus station: Keswick (approx. 9 miles)

Parking is available at Hassness County House. If driving, please note that there is no opportunity to fuel vehicles in the immediate Buttermere area, so please ensure you have enough fuel to get you to the house and away on your return journey. The nearest filling station is in Keswick or Cockermouth. There is no electric charge point at the property. 

If you are travelling by train, we offer a taxi transfer service from Penrith Railway Station on your arrival day at 16:45 and on your departure day at 09:30. To add the transfers to your booking, please telephone our Sales & Reservations Team on 01707 331133.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to Hassness House!

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

We wish you a very warm welcome to Hassness Country House. 

Your hosts will be there to welcome you and ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible. Your holiday starts upon arrival at Hassness Country House in Buttermere where you are welcome to arrive from 3pm. Your evening meal will be served at 6.30pm. If you anticipate arriving after this time, we kindly request that you telephone Hassness Country House to confirm your expected arrival time.

Day 2 to 7

Scenic Strides

Meals

Full Board (excluding one evening meal)

Accommodation

Your holiday includes five days of guided walking through some of the Lake District's most beautiful and unspoilt landscapes.

Based at Hassness Country House on the shores of Buttermere, you'll explore tranquil lakes, hidden valleys, historic paths and classic Lakeland fells, all in the company of experienced volunteer leaders. The walks below provide an indication of the routes and terrain typically enjoyed on this holiday. Routes may vary according to weather conditions and the needs of the group to ensure the best possible walking experience.

Rannerdale and Buttermere

A classic walk through one of the most picturesque corners of the Western Lake District. Starting at Lanthwaite, the route follows the shores of Crummock Water before entering the beautiful valley of Rannerdale, famed for its carpet of bluebells in spring. Crossing Rannerdale Beck, the walk continues over Hause Point and through woodland and pasture to Buttermere Village. From here, a scenic lakeside route circles Buttermere, offering magnificent views of the surrounding fells before returning to Hassness.

Distance: 8.8 miles (14.2 km)
Ascent: 200m

Crummock Water, Loweswater Village and Scale Force

This delightful walk combines peaceful lakeshore paths, charming villages and one of the Lake District's most impressive waterfalls. From Crummock Water, the route heads to the picturesque village of Loweswater and the historic Kirkstile Inn before returning via the western shore of the lake. Along the way, there's an opportunity to visit Scale Force, the highest waterfall in the Lake District, hidden within a dramatic wooded gorge.

Distance: 8.3 miles (13.4 km)
Ascent: 240m

Haystacks from Honister

One of the Lake District's most beloved fell walks, this route visits Haystacks, Alfred Wainwright's favourite mountain and the place where his ashes were scattered. Starting at Honister Pass, the walk follows historic mining tracks and sections of the famous Coast to Coast route before reaching Blackbeck Tarn, Innominate Tarn and the summit of Haystacks. Extensive views across Buttermere, Crummock Water and the surrounding fells make this a truly memorable day.

Distance: 6.6 miles (10.6 km)
Ascent: 555m

Wild Ennerdale and Black Sail

Discover one of the Lake District's most remote and dramatic valleys. Beginning at Honister Pass, this walk follows old miners' tracks into Wild Ennerdale, an inspiring landscape shaped by one of the UK's leading rewilding projects. After a break at Black Sail, England's most remote youth hostel, the route crosses Scarth Gap before descending back towards Buttermere and Hassness with superb views across the valley.

Distance: 6.2 miles (10 km)
Ascent: 455m

Loweswater Circuit

This rewarding circular walk explores the quieter side of the Lake District. Passing through Loweswater Village and alongside the peaceful waters of Loweswater, the route meanders through ancient oak woodland, open farmland and traditional stone-walled pastures. The elevated return along the historic Coffin Road provides wonderful panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Distance: 10.4 miles (16.7 km)
Ascent: 350m

Day 8

Departure day

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

After a hearty breakfast, your hosts wave you goodbye when you'll leave with memories from your Lake District experience. Check out is by 10am. 

We hope you enjoyed your stay and we look forward to welcoming you again soon.

From (GBP)£999 Without flights

Departure dates for your selected tour

8th Oct 2027 - 15th Oct 2027 (7 Nights)

Travel Details

Private or public transport to and from the trailheads, if necessary, is included. 

See our Holiday Information Sheet for more details on how to reach Hassness Country House by car or public transport. 

Nearest railway station: Penrith (approx. 28 miles)

Nearest bus station: Keswick (approx. 9 miles)

Parking is available at Hassness County House. If driving, please note that there is no opportunity to fuel vehicles in the immediate Buttermere area, so please ensure you have enough fuel to get you to the house and away on your return journey. The nearest filling station is in Keswick or Cockermouth. There is no electric charge point at the property. 

If you are travelling by train, we offer a taxi transfer service from Penrith Railway Station on your arrival day at 16:45 and on your departure day at 09:30. To add the transfers to your booking, please telephone our Sales & Reservations Team on 01707 331133.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to Hassness!

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

We wish you a very warm welcome to Hassness Country House. 

Your hosts will be there to welcome you and ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible. Your holiday starts upon arrival at Hassness Country House in Buttermere where you are welcome to arrive from 3pm. Your evening meal will be served at 6.30pm. If you anticipate arriving after this time, we kindly request that you telephone Hassness Country House to confirm your expected arrival time.

Day 2-4

Scenic Strides

Meals

Full Board (excluding one evening meal)

Accommodation

Your holiday includes three days of guided walking through some of the Lake District's most beautiful and unspoilt landscapes.

Based at Hassness Country House on the shores of Buttermere, you'll explore tranquil lakes, hidden valleys, historic paths and classic Lakeland fells, all in the company of experienced volunteer leaders. The walks below provide an indication of the routes and terrain typically enjoyed on this holiday. Routes may vary according to weather conditions and the needs of the group to ensure the best possible walking experience.

Rannerdale and Buttermere

A classic walk through one of the most picturesque corners of the Western Lake District. Starting at Lanthwaite, the route follows the shores of Crummock Water before entering the beautiful valley of Rannerdale, famed for its carpet of bluebells in spring. Crossing Rannerdale Beck, the walk continues over Hause Point and through woodland and pasture to Buttermere Village. From here, a scenic lakeside route circles Buttermere, offering magnificent views of the surrounding fells before returning to Hassness.

Distance: 8.8 miles (14.2 km)
Ascent: 200m

Crummock Water, Loweswater Village and Scale Force

This delightful walk combines peaceful lakeshore paths, charming villages and one of the Lake District's most impressive waterfalls. From Crummock Water, the route heads to the picturesque village of Loweswater and the historic Kirkstile Inn before returning via the western shore of the lake. Along the way, there's an opportunity to visit Scale Force, the highest waterfall in the Lake District, hidden within a dramatic wooded gorge.

Distance: 8.3 miles (13.4 km)
Ascent: 240m

Haystacks from Honister

One of the Lake District's most beloved fell walks, this route visits Haystacks, Alfred Wainwright's favourite mountain and the place where his ashes were scattered. Starting at Honister Pass, the walk follows historic mining tracks and sections of the famous Coast to Coast route before reaching Blackbeck Tarn, Innominate Tarn and the summit of Haystacks. Extensive views across Buttermere, Crummock Water and the surrounding fells make this a truly memorable day.

Distance: 6.6 miles (10.6 km)
Ascent: 555m

Wild Ennerdale and Black Sail

Discover one of the Lake District's most remote and dramatic valleys. Beginning at Honister Pass, this walk follows old miners' tracks into Wild Ennerdale, an inspiring landscape shaped by one of the UK's leading rewilding projects. After a break at Black Sail, England's most remote youth hostel, the route crosses Scarth Gap before descending back towards Buttermere and Hassness with superb views across the valley.

Distance: 6.2 miles (10 km)
Ascent: 455m

Loweswater Circuit

This rewarding circular walk explores the quieter side of the Lake District. Passing through Loweswater Village and alongside the peaceful waters of Loweswater, the route meanders through ancient oak woodland, open farmland and traditional stone-walled pastures. The elevated return along the historic Coffin Road provides wonderful panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Distance: 10.4 miles (16.7 km)
Ascent: 350m

Day 5

Departure day

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

After a hearty breakfast, your hosts wave you goodbye when you'll leave with memories from your Lake District experience. Check out is by 10am. 

We hope you enjoyed your stay and we look forward to welcoming you again soon.

From (GBP)£599 Without flights

Departure dates for your selected tour

11th Oct 2027 - 15th Oct 2027 (4 Nights)

Travel Details

Private or public transport to and from the trailheads, if necessary, is included. 

See our Holiday Information Sheet for more details on how to reach Hassness Country House by car or public transport. 

Nearest railway station: Penrith (approx. 28 miles)

Nearest bus station: Keswick (approx. 9 miles)

Parking is available at Hassness County House. If driving, please note that there is no opportunity to fuel vehicles in the immediate Buttermere area, so please ensure you have enough fuel to get you to the house and away on your return journey. The nearest filling station is in Keswick or Cockermouth. There is no electric charge point at the property. 

If you are travelling by train, we offer a taxi transfer service from Penrith Railway Station on your arrival day at 16:45 and on your departure day at 09:30. To add the transfers to your booking, please telephone our Sales & Reservations Team on 01707 331133.

Accommodation

Accommodation information

Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.

Hassness County House Hotel

  • Traditional country house accommodation in a peaceful and secluded setting
  • 11 comfortable bedrooms, many with stunning views across the lake and surrounding fells.
  • Majority of rooms are lakeside-facing, creating a truly immersive Lake District experience
  • Welcoming communal spaces ideal for relaxing and socialising after a day's walking.
  • Hearty home-cooked meals served in a friendly atmosphere
  • Direct access to walking routes around Buttermere, Crummock Water, Haystacks and Ennerdale.
  • Ideal for solo travellers, friends and walking groups, offering a warm and supportive environment.

Trip Information

All the details you need

Holiday Grade

These holidays are typically in mountainous areas where stamina is important to be able to enjoy longer days. There is plenty of ascent and descent on some rough and steep paths that require good footwear, a steady foot, and a good head for heights. Some days may be shorter in distance or ascent/descent, but the overall effort levels required are of a higher nature.  

Usual daily walks - Distance: 10 miles; Ascent/Descent 950m; Terrain: varied with rough, rocky and steep sections; Walking Time: 8hrs+ / Long Days. 

The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s keys walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".

Walks & Excursions

Optional Excursions

At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.

Tour Leaders & Local Guides

Tour Leaders

Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations.  Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.

Your Travel Details

Personal Details Check

Please ensure your personal details, including your passport information and date of birth, are accurate and up to date, and that we have all the information needed to arrange your holiday. If you have any dietary allergies or intolerances, please let us know.

You can view and update your details using Manage My Booking on our website or by contacting our Sales & Reservations team on +44 (0)1707 331133. Please check your booking confirmation carefully and notify us of any changes as soon as possible.

Footwear & Kit List

Footwear

Good quality waterproof walking boots with a moulded sole with a deep tread and good ankle support are essential for holidays at grade 7 and above.

General Kit List

Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared. In many terrains the ability to layer will make for more comfortable and safer walking.

If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:

  • Waterproof jacket (Goretex or similar) and trousers
  • Lightweight quick-drying trousers
  • Walking T-shirt/shirts
  • Walking socks
  • Fleece or jumper
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, lip salve and sun screen
  • Warm hat and gloves
  • Swimwear & towel (if appropriate)
  • Day sack (this should be able to carry all you would need for the day's activity)
  • Day sack liner
  • Water bottle - at least 1 litre capacity
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Lunchbox
  • Walking poles (should you find them useful)
  • Sit mat
  • Head torch
  • Survival bag - What is a survival bag? Click here!

This list is not exhaustive and every walker is different and may have their own preference.

Staying Healthy On Holiday

Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Health Advice for United Kingdom

For the latest health advice and entry requirements for the United Kingdom, please visit the GOV.UK travel advice and NaTHNaC.

Further Travel Advice

For further advice please visit:

You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.

Travel Insurance

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses, mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

In the event that you fail to obtain suitable travel insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.


Personal Safety

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.

When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!

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