Rose Castle Retreat | Lake District Tour: Explore Buttermere, Derwent Water and Ullswater

Journey through the Northern Lake District’s captivating lakes and fells, uncovering the history, geology, and culture woven into this remarkable landscape. An enriching experience for those who appreciate both nature and the narratives it holds

Step into the quiet beauty of the Northern Lake District on a walking & sightseeing holiday that explores the shores of Buttermere, Ullswater, and Derwent Water.

Led by an experienced Blue Badge Guide you’ll uncover the stories woven into the landscape—tales of local life, ancient paths, and the creative spirits who found inspiration here. Each day offers time to walk, pause, and connect with the land, gaining a deeper understanding of how nature and heritage shape this remarkable corner of England.

After each day’s walk, return to the peaceful setting of Rose Castle—an ideal place to relax, reflect, and savour the quiet rhythm of the gardens and surrounding countryside. This holiday offers a gentle balance of exploration and rest.

Buttermere looking towards Fleetwith Pike

A view over Ullswater from the Wainwright, Arthur's Pike

Your Itinerary

This four-night retreat combines expert-led tours with the comfort and charm of the historic Rose Castle as your base.

Day 1 – Arrival - Check in from 2:00pm: Join us in the peaceful surroundings of Rose Castle and enjoy a welcome tea at 4:30pm in the charming state drawing room. Take the time to meet your host and fellow guests and hear a little about the Castle’s fascinating history. You’ll also have a chance to explore the beautiful grounds before we come together at 7:00pm for a relaxed group dinner and a toast to the start of your history break.
Day 2 – Buttermere: After a journey through the remote Northern Lake District, we reach Buttermere Valley. Surrounded by majestic fells and impressive scenery in every direction, we will follow the gentle path circling the lake - perhaps enjoying an ice cream en route - whilst learning about the farming practices and local traditions that have shaped the valley over the centuries. Distance: 7km (4.5m) Elevation: 90m (300ft)
Day 3 – Ullswater: We begin our day with a walk from the village of Dockray, descending through Aira Force, an 18th-century pleasure ground that provided the backdrop for William Wordsworth’s Somnambulist. A short bus journey takes us to Glenridding - a village once at the heart of the lead mining industry and now a popular tourist resort - from where we’ll board a steamer for a leisurely cruise the length of Ullswater. Your guide will give you the history of the landscape as you go, from the Norse Settlers, to the poets who it inspired. Distance: 2.5km (1.5m) Elevation: 20m (60ft) - This walk has a steady descent, on mostly good paths.
Day 4 – Derwent Water: We begin our day with a stroll through the streets of Keswick, continuing to Friar’s Crag with its splendid view out onto Derwent Water. A short retrace of our steps takes us to the Keswick jetties where we’ll board a launch and head south across the water towards the Borrowdale Valley enjoying panoramic views en route. Alighting from the boat at Brandlehow we’ll walk north taking in stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountainscapes. Stopping for lunch at Lingholm Kitchens (payable locally), we’ll have time to explore the gardens which inspired Beatrix Potter before walking to Keswick, where we'll end our day. Distance: 9.5km (6m) Elevation: 190m (620ft)
Day 5 - Departure - Check out prior to 11:00am: Start the day with a relaxed breakfast, letting the memories of your retreat linger, before heading home.

*All itineraries are expertly curated; however, changes to the route or schedule may occur for weather or operational reasons

VIEW DATES AND PRICES

Your Guide

Anna Gray is an experienced Blue Badge Guide with a deep passion for the heritage, landscapes, and stories of Cumbria

Anna at Holker Hall - without background

Based near Carlisle, she brings a wealth of local knowledge to every tour, from the Roman frontier of Hadrian’s Wall to the stunning lakes and fells of the Northern Lake District. Anna believes that learning should be fun, creating tours that are engaging, enlightening, and memorable. By sharing the history, culture, and natural beauty of the region, she ensures every visitor leaves with a richer understanding and treasured memories to share.

Dates and Prices

All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.

All retreats are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.

Dates, prices and booking status
Start Date	Double/Twin (pp)	Status	Book Now
Lake district tour · 4 nights 8th June 2026	£1,275	Open	BOOK NOW

Lake district tour · 4 nights 13th July 2026	£1,275	Open	BOOK NOW

Lake district tour · 4 nights 21st September 2026	£1,275	Open	BOOK NOW

Helpful Information

Accommodation

Rose Castle prides itself on its relaxed atmosphere. Having been home to the Bishop’s of Carlisle for almost 800 years, it now operates as an international centre for peace and reconciliation programmes.

Each bedroom is thoughtfully appointed with everything you need for a restful stay — from tea and coffee facilities to ensuite or private bathrooms, complete with luxury toiletries and hairdryers.

Guests are welcome to enjoy the many inviting spaces within Rose Castle, including the Bishop’s library, peaceful chapel, elegant drawing room, and grand dining room. A small kitchen area is also available for guest use, adding a homely touch to your stay.

Outdoors, the extensive gardens are lovingly cared for by our head gardener, Janet. Stroll through the vibrant flowerbeds, explore the orchard and vegetable garden, or take a gentle walk around the tranquil moat woodland — a perfect way to soak up the calm and beauty of this remarkable setting.

Check in and Check out times

Check in and out times

Check-in is available from 2:30 PM, with check-out by 11:00 AM on the day of departure.

What to bring

The UK’s weather can be wonderfully changeable, with sunshine one moment and a light shower the next. To help you enjoy your stay comfortably, here’s a guide to the items we would recommend you bring.

For out and about

Suitable footwear with sturdy grip as we will be spending plenty of time on our feet.
Waterproof Jacket
Daypack
Sun Hat
Sunglasses
Sun Cream
Water Bottle
Mobile Phone
First Aid Kit
Wallet/Purse
Walking Poles
Flask for hot drinks
Umbrella

For relaxing on the castle grounds

Slippers
Tablet or e-reader for reading or watching shows in comfort
Phone charger

What's included

This break is designed to offer you the greatest enjoyment with none of the usual travel hassles. Every detail has been considered so that you can simply relax and experience the very best our region has to offer.

Your package includes:

Three nights of luxury accommodation at Rose Castle
All dinners and breakfasts, plus two picnic lunches. Lunch on the Derwent Water day is payable locally.
A complimentary glass of wine or your preferred drink with each evening meal
Comfortable transport to and from walks
The services of an experienced, knowledgeable guide, ensuring you enjoy a rich and engaging experience throughout your stay

Food & Drink

Welcome Tea

What better way to begin your stay than with a freshly served welcome tea on arrival, designed to help you unwind and feel instantly at home. Choose from a selection of fine fruit teas, classic English Breakfast tea, or freshly brewed coffee, all accompanied by a tempting array of home-baked treats prepared with care in our kitchen.

Breakfast

Begin your day at Rose Castle with a satisfying cooked breakfast and a delicious continental selection. Complemented by a variety of hot beverages, refreshing juices, and seasonal fruit, this morning offering provides a nourishing start, ensuring you are well-fuelled and ready to embrace a day of historic discovery.

Lunch

Our lunches are tailored to each day’s activities. On some days, you may enjoy a delightful picnic featuring freshly made sandwiches, cakes, and snacks, while on others, there will be local eateries available to dine in. Each lunch is designed to be relaxing, convenient, and an enjoyable part of your day.

Evening meals

Our talented chef, Noel, designs each two-course dinner menu to celebrate the best of every season — from hearty winter comfort dishes to light, vibrant flavours in summer. Special dietary requirements are gladly accommodated with advance notice. Wherever possible, fresh produce is gathered straight from our own gardens, ensuring every meal is both delicious and thoughtfully prepared

Fitness and activity level

You will be active throughout the day, exploring the Lake District on foot and hopping on and off the coach. Some walking may be on uneven paths, country tracks, or through mud. Daily mileage and ascent has been noted on the day by day itinerary. Should you wish to discuss any of the terrain in greater detail, please call 01228 642980 or email retreats@rosecastle.com.

Getting Here

Address:
Rose Castle
Dalston
Carlisle
CA5 7BY

01228 642980
hello@rosecastle.com

By Car

Leaving the M6 at Junction 42, follow signs for A595W and subsequently Dalston. Continue through the village, passing the green on your left and the Bridge End Pub on your right as you exit. After one sharp bend and at the junction of another, take the turning signposted Rose Castle & Raughton Head.
Rose Castle is located approximately one mile along this road, with a red post box beside the entrance pillars.

By Train

The nearest rail station is Carlisle, around 6 miles from Rose Castle.
Carlisle lies on the West Coast Main Line, with direct services to London, Edinburgh, Manchester, Glasgow, and Newcastle

By Bus

There are no direct bus routes to Rose Castle. We recommend travelling by taxi from Carlisle Station.

By Air

The nearest airports are Glasgow, Newcastle, and Manchester, each offering regular train connections to Carlisle.

Taxi

You can pre-book a taxi from our recommended company, Dalston Taxi Service*. We recommend booking your taxi in advance by Call or WhatsApp on:

Tel: +44 (0)7858 574 154

*Dalston Taxi Service is an independent company and is not owned or managed by Rose Castle Company.

Lake District Tour: Explore Buttermere, Derwent Water and Ullswater