The Most Scenic Drives in the Lake District: A Local's Guide to Unforgettable Routes
After twenty years of calling the Lakes home, I've driven every winding road, conquered every challenging pass, and discovered countless hidden viewpoints that most visitors never find. The Lake District's network of scenic drives offers some of the most spectacular motoring in Britain, but knowing which routes to choose and when to tackle them can make all the difference between a memorable journey and a frustrating crawl behind a convoy of caravans.
The Great Langdale Valley Drive
Starting from Ambleside, the B5343 into Great Langdale remains my favourite drive for first-time visitors. The road gradually reveals the dramatic amphitheatre of fells surrounding the valley, with the Langdale Pikes creating an iconic backdrop that's appeared on countless postcards. The narrow road demands attention, but regular passing places and a 20mph speed limit through the village keep things manageable.
Park at the National Trust car park at the Old Dungeon Ghyll (£4 for the day, pay and display). From here, you can tackle the moderate walk to Stickle Tarn (2 hours return) or simply enjoy a pint at the historic Hikers Bar. Book ahead for dinner at the Sticklebarn if you're planning an evening visit, as it fills up quickly during peak season.
Borrowdale: The Valley of Borrowdale
The B5289 from Keswick through Borrowdale to Buttermere offers perhaps the most varied scenery on any single Lake District route. Starting beside Derwentwater's eastern shore, the road winds through ancient oak woods before opening into the pastoral beauty of Borrowdale proper. The famous 'Jaws of Borrowdale' provide a dramatic rocky gateway, while Rosthwaite and Stonethwaite offer perfect stopping points for photographs.
Don't attempt this route during busy summer weekends unless you're prepared for significant delays. The section between Seatoller and Buttermere can become particularly congested. For parking in Borrowdale, the National Trust car park at Seatoller (£6 all day) provides excellent access to walks up Sourmilk Gill or the more challenging route to Great Langdale via Stake Pass.
The Kirkstone Pass Challenge
The A592 over Kirkstone Pass between Windermere and Ullswater presents one of the Lake District's most dramatic drives. Climbing to 1,489 feet, it's the highest pass regularly accessible by car in the region. The gradient reaches 1 in 4 in places, making it unsuitable for nervous drivers or heavily loaded vehicles.
Stop at the Kirkstone Pass Inn, one of the highest pubs in England, for refreshments and spectacular views. The car park here is free, though space is limited. The descent towards Ullswater reveals sweeping views across the lake to the Helvellyn range. For the best photographic opportunities, park at the small layby near Brothers Water (free, but very limited spaces).
Lakeside Serenity: The Coniston Circuit
The minor roads around Coniston Water provide a gentler but equally rewarding drive. Starting from Coniston village, take the eastern shore road towards Brantwood, John Ruskin's former home. This single-track road hugs the lakeside, offering intimate views across the water to the Old Man of Coniston.
Continue to Nibthwaite and return via Lowick for a complete circuit. The roads are narrow but well-maintained, and the lighter traffic makes for a more relaxed experience. Park at Coniston village car park (£4 for 4 hours) and consider combining your drive with a trip on the National Trust's steam yacht Gondola, which operates between Easter and October.
The Western Lakes: Wasdale Head
For those seeking the Lake District's wild heart, the single-track road to Wasdale Head offers unparalleled mountain scenery. England's highest peak, Scafell Pike, dominates the head of the valley, while the road passes Wastwater, the deepest and perhaps most atmospheric of all the lakes.
This drive requires patience and consideration for other road users. Passing places are frequent but the road is genuinely single-track for much of its length. The car park at Wasdale Head (free) fills early in summer, particularly on weekends. The Wasdale Head Inn provides excellent food and has been welcoming fell walkers for over 300 years, though booking is essential for dinner.
Hidden Gems: The Southern Lakes
Beyond the central fells, the roads around Cartmel and the southern lakes offer a different perspective on Lakeland scenery. The route from Bowness through Cartmel to Grange-over-Sands provides gentle, rolling countryside interspersed with glimpses of Morecambe Bay.
Cartmel village deserves an extended stop for its magnificent priory and the famous Cartmel Village Shop, home to sticky toffee pudding. The village car park charges £2 for two hours, which is adequate for a quick exploration and perhaps lunch at L'Enclume if you've managed to secure a booking at this two-Michelin-starred restaurant.
Practical Driving Tips
Weather conditions can change rapidly in the Lake District, making some passes impassable in winter. The Kirkstone Pass and Honister Pass are regularly closed due to snow or ice between December and March. Always check current conditions before setting out, particularly for higher routes.
Fuel stations are limited in the central lakes area. Fill up in Keswick, Ambleside, or Windermere before heading into the fells. Many villages have public toilets, but facilities can be basic and opening hours limited outside the main season.
Most importantly, remember that these roads serve local communities as well as visitors. Drive courteously, use passing places properly, and take time to appreciate the extraordinary landscape that makes the Lake District so special. The journey really is as important as the destination.
