Fancy exploring some of the most iconic areas of the Lake District without a car? Well, we have the perfect trail for you. Walk or ride your way around this Grand Tour of the Northern Lake District, taking in Keswick, Penrith and the Ullswater Valley.

Thanks to the Low Carbon Lake District programme, funded by the European Structural and Investment Fund, Cumbria Tourism have developed the Iconic Lakes Trail, which includes open top bus rides, boat cruises and visits to some of the North Lakes most iconic locations and attractions.

Challenge yourself to walk the Ullswater Way or visit Aira Force Waterfall. Discover the Lost Castle Adventure Playground and interesting history of the impressive Lowther Castle and Gardens. Explore the independent shops in the vibrant and historic market town of Penrith.

Head to Keswick for more adventures from the door, including exploring Whinlatter; England’s only true mountain forest and hopping aboard what might be the most scenic bus route in England.

Visiting the area without a car reduces your carbon impact and helps to look after this special place. By making a long weekend or midweek break of it, you also reduce the impact of your travel to and from the area (plus you can often get some bargainous mid-week offers!).

Start planning your Iconic Lakes escape at www.visitlakedistrict.com/carfree where you can download a suggested itinerary and route map.

You can find out more about the Low Carbon Lake District Project at https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/caringfor/policies/lowcarbonlakedistrict