Spring is the perfect time to discover the Lake District, and we’re inviting everyone across Cumbria and Lancashire to make the journey with us, by bus.
Travelling by bus is not only convenient and affordable, but also one of the best ways to sit back, relax and soak up the stunning scenery as you explore this world-famous region.
Our Lakes by Bus Summer Guide connects you to the area’s highlights, offering flexible and scenic routes that let you enjoy every moment of your spring adventure without the worry of parking or traffic. Plan and by bus tickets for your perfect day out using the Stagecoach Bus app 📱
Bluebird K7 Festival in Coniston
Bus route: 505
A week-long celebration from 11-17 May at the Coniston Boating Centre, Lake Road, Coniston marking the 70th anniversary of Donald Campbell's first water speed record on Coniston Water. The event will feature the jet-powered hydroplane, Bluebird K7, returning to the water for demonstration runs - weather permitting. More info here
Photo credit: DonaldCampbellsBluebirdK7
Keswick Mountain Festival
Bus route: 77/77A, 78, 509, 553/554, 555, X4/X5 to Keswick
Keswick Mountain Festival returns from 15-17 May, bringing a weekend packed with outdoor adventure and entertainment. The festival blends mountain sports, live music, inspirational speakers, leading outdoor brands, and a wide range of food and drink. With 16 sporting events including trail running, hiking, open water swimming, road cycling, triathlon and adventure racing, there’s something to suit every level of adventurer. More info here
Photo credit: PaulMitchell
Bus & Boat Adventures
Bus route: Various routes into Bowness-on-Windermere, Coniston, Keswick and Ullswater
For a relaxing way to explore, hop aboard one of the iconic steamers or launches across four of the Lake District’s most beautiful waters. Combined bus and boat tickets from Stagecoach Group are available for Coniston Water, Derwentwater, Ullswater and Lake Windermere, making it easy to enjoy a scenic day out. More info here
Photo credit: KeswickLaunchCompany
Fell Foot National Park
Bus route: 6 or X6
So much to do at Fell Foot National Trust park this spring, visit the boathouse cafe, enjoy watersports including rowboat, kayak or paddleboard hire, take part in a Parkrun or explore the many nature trails. More info here
Photo credit: HarryAtkinson
Lakeland Motor Museum in Backbarrow, Ulverston
Bus route: 6 & X6
Explore this unique collection of 30,000 exhibits including 140 classic cars and motorbikes. But the Museum isn’t just about cars - there are also period shop and history displays, fashion, a 1920s garage and a 1950s cafe. More info here
Photo credit: JonLow
Castlerigg Stone Circle
Bus route: 77/77A, 78, 509, 553/554, 555, X4/X5 to Keswick
One of the most famous sights in Cumbria, this landmark is a must visit for anyone coming to the county this month. The ring of 38 standing stones, dating back around 4,500 years ago, is set against the stunning backdrop of Helvellyn and High Seat. More info here
Photo credit: English Heritage
Rookin House
Bus route: 509
This adventure venue is the only one in the Lake District National Park who offer such a wide variety of activities including horse riding, quad biking and clay pigeon shooting plus more unusual ones including human bowling and the Argo Cat Off Road Experience. More info here
Photo credit: RookinHouse
Honister Slate Mine
Bus route: 77 & 77A
Looking for some adventure this spring? Test your nerve on the Infinity Bridge at Honister Slate Mine, or step things up with the Via Ferrata Classic or Extreme. Best suited to families with older children, the site also offers underground mine tours, combining history with high-energy challenges for a memorable day out. More info here
Photo credit: VisitLakeDistrict
Whinlatter Forest
Bus route: 77 & 77A
Give orienteering a go at Whinlatter this spring - a map-reading challenge for all abilities. The aim is to navigate between control points using an orienteering map, with competitive participants racing to complete the course in the fastest time. Routes range from easy ones around the visitor centre to more challenging courses heading deeper into the forest. More info here
