Driving Brighton to Glasgow Lake District Stop Off

[Dolphin78]

I’m thinking of stopping for a night in the Lake District on 29th Dec en route to Glasgow. I’ll have two teens with me and would like to get out for a decent hike around a lake. Any suggestions on area to stop off?

Depends how long you want to stop for and what facilities that you will want.

Keswick could be a good call - come off M6at junction 40 and head west on a 66 for about 17 miles. Derwent water has a good footpath all the way round with various options for refreshments and the Keswick launch (will need to check that it is running that day) give the option to walk part of the way round the lake and get the boat back. For the easiest access park by theatre by the lake.

if that’s too far out of your way and you just want a fellside stomp, you could come off motorway at j 39 (Shap) and turn left onto a6 and then right to end up at Wet Sleddale just south of Shap. Easy walk all the way round a small reservoir, but extremally boggy in places and no facilities. Shap does have some facilities and an amazing fish and chip shop but check for opening etc.

don’t forget that the M6 will be closed for the first 2 weekends in January with very long diversions so best to avoid travel if at all possible on these dates!

Thank you! Had no idea the M6 would be closed. Thanks for the tips. I was finding it tricky to find anywhere reasonable to stay in Keswick. Found a deal for the Inn in Ullswater and an idea for a walk. Steamer to Howtown and walk back.

Inn on the lake Ullswater is lovely and loads of nice walking routes from Glenridding. The path round the lake to Howtown, is beautiful, and the Howtown tea room is a favourite of ours. I think you’ll be ok on your dates re the motorway the first weekend closure is 2nd to 5th jan but worth making sure that any return journey avoids the dates the motorway is closed!

Oh good to know and I’ve booked the Inn and will be sure to check out the tea room!