Discover England: The Lake District to Yorkshire Dales

Journey to the North of England, arriving in Penrith, where an included transfer will take you to your accommodation in the peaceful Borrowdale Valley. Surrounded by the towering peaks of the Southern Lake District, this green retreat offers stunning views of Derwentwater, making it a true haven for hikers and nature lovers. It’s the ideal starting point for the first half of your adventure in the Lake District.

Leaving the dramatic Borrowdale Valley, you'll follow a well-trodden path that ascends towards Catbells, one of the most iconic peaks in the Lake District. The climb is steep in parts, but the views over Derwentwater and the surrounding fells are worth it! On a clear day, you’ll be treated to a sweeping vista of the lake below, with the jagged peaks of Skiddaw and the Helvellyn range in the distance.

Once at Catbells summit, take a moment to enjoy the 360-degree views, stretching from the rugged Lakeland mountains to the serene waters of Derwentwater. The descent from Catbells is fairly straightforward, with a well-maintained path leading down the hillside, offering more picture-worthy views as you make your way towards the lively market town of Keswick for a well-earned pint in one of the town’s traditional pubs!

Included hike via Catbells (High level): 6 miles Ascent: +1340ft / Descent: -1340ft

We also offer an easy-going low-level alternative route around Derwentwater Lake on this day:

via Derwentwater Lake (Low level): 5.5 miles / Ascent: +128ft / Descent: -144ft

Please note that accommodations in the Borrowdale Valley have a two-night minimum stay on Fridays and Saturdays. If your trip starts on a weekend, we will book three nights in Keswick instead (your included transfer and hike will change accordingly).

Alternatively, should you wish, you could add a pre-night in the Borrowdale Valley to get settled after a long day of travel. Please contact us at time of booking about this opportunity for an additional fee.

Today is yours to explore the delightful town of Keswick. Stroll along the scenic lakeside promenade, where you'll be treated to magnificent views of Derwentwater and the surrounding fells. Wander through the town's charming streets, lined with independent shops, cozy cafes, and local galleries.

The Macs App offers various hikes in the area should you be interested, including a visit to the ancient Castlerigg Stone Circle, or a hike up Latrigg, for spectacular panoramic views of the Keswick and the surrounding lake. With its perfect blend of natural beauty and inviting atmosphere, Keswick has something to offer everyone.

Optional walks to choose from:

Latrigg Loop Hike: 5 miles Ascent: +965ft / Descent: -965ft

Castlerigg Stone Circle Loop Hike: 6 miles Ascent: +750ft / Descent: -750ft

Combined Castlerigg Stone Circles and Latrigg Loop Hike: 8.5 miles Ascent: +1370ft / Descent: -1370ft

Your morning begins with a taxi transfer to Carlisle, where you’ll board a train for a scenic journey south along the Carlisle to Settle Rail Line—widely considered one of the UK’s most picturesque rail routes. As the train winds through the rolling countryside, you'll pass through 14 tunnels and cross the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct, offering breathtaking views along the way. Arriving in Settle, you'll find a bustling and historic Yorkshire Dales market town. It is surrounded by a limestone landscape that abounds with dry stone walls, meadows, scars, peaks and waterfalls. It is also one of the places where the movie “Calendar Girls” was filmed.

For those eager to stretch their legs, we’ve included a selection of easy-going hikes on the Macs App, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.

Optional Walks:

Settle Riverside Loop (Easy): 3.5 miles / Ascent: +115ft / Descent: -115ft

Settle Loop via Langcliffe Park: 6 miles / Ascent: +760ft / Descent: -760ft

Get ready for an unforgettable hike along the Settle Loop, where you’ll soak in stunning views of Yorkshire’s iconic Three Peaks—Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough. The path takes you over dramatic limestone uplands, before winding down through postcard-perfect farmland. Along the way, take a short detour to the fascinating Victoria Cave. This is no ordinary cave—it’s a treasure trove where prehistoric remains and Roman artifacts have been unearthed, adding yet another layer to the rich history of your hike.

Finish your hike in the charming village of Malham, where Malham Beck’s crystal-clear waters flow through streets steeped in history, from Bronze Age settlers to medieval monks. Every step of the way, there’s something to see, discover, and admire!

Ascent: +1045ft / Descent: -950ft

Today offers a wonderful loop hike showcasing some of the most iconic landscapes in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. This trail takes you past striking limestone cliffs, the tranquil cascade of Janet’s Foss, and the dramatic rock formations of Gordale Scar. Along the way, you’ll encounter Malham Cove, a breathtaking natural amphitheatre that served as a filming location for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows film. Perfect for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts alike, this hike offers spectacular views and memorable highlights at every turn. Lace up your boots and experience one of the Dales' most rewarding adventures!

After finishing today's hike, a short afternoon transfer will take you from your accommodation in Malham to the pretty village of Grassington. After checking in, we offer a short hour's walk on the Macs App that lets you explore its scenic setting, finishing in the market square with traditional pubs and quirky cafes.

Ascent: +745ft / Descent: -745ft

A short loop hike awaits, passing the Grassington National Park Centre. Set off down the iconic cobbled path that has become a hallmark of the Yorkshire Dales. From there, follow a charming riverside trail that winds gently along the River Wharfe, leading you to the quaint village of Hebden. The return journey takes you through picturesque pastures back to the sleepy town of Grassington.

In the afternoon, a taxi will take you to Skipton train station, where you'll board a train to York (via Leeds). Upon arrival, dive into the city's captivating streets, steeped in old-world English charm. Stroll through the medieval lined alleyway with timber-framed buildings, known as "The Shambles", enjoy a pint of beer in one of York's historic pubs, and perhaps round off your day with a hearty English savoury pie for dinner!

Ascent: +325ft / Descent: -320ft

Start your final day with the iconic York City Walls walk—a must for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the city's beauty and rich history! Stretching over two miles, these medieval walls are the longest in England, offering a unique perspective on York’s storied past. As you wander along the ancient ramparts, you’ll pass through historic gateways, known as bars, and enjoy sweeping views of York Minster, the River Ouse, and the charming streets below.

After completing the walk, you can delve into more of York’s renowned attractions, including the immersive Jorvik Viking Centre, the fascinating National Railway Museum, and the awe-inspiring Gothic York Minster Cathedral.

Ascent: +85ft / Descent: -85ft

For the chance to fully experience everything this historic city has to offer, why not talk to your adventure specialist about adding an extra night to your stay?

And if you’re really not ready to go home or have more time to discover England, ask your adventure specialist about adding our sister trip Discover England: Cotswolds to Cornwall Coast to your vacation.