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  • Saturday9am - 1pm
  • SundayClosed
  • Bank HolidaysClosed

Hassness Country House at Christmas - Scenic strides in the Lake District

The English Lake District is one of the most beautiful and dramatic walking areas in this country. A compact area of mountainsides, summits and ridges, lakes and lakeside paths. We offer a wide range of guided trails to suit all walking abilities.

  • Lake District

  • Full Board (excluding one evening meal)
  • Landscape

    Mountains

  • Dec

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7 Nights

From

£1,339
Without flights
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Classic Collection

Thoughtfully designed, meticulously planned, carefully graded, and expertly guided walking tours and hiking holidays along well-loved and off-the-beaten-track footpaths.

Overview

Holiday Highlights

  • Discover the less visited Western Lakes in 7 nights.
  • Magnificent Lake District scenery.
  • Wide variety of guided walks for people of all abilities, with an experienced leader(s).
  • Classic climbs and routes on Haystacks, High Stile, Red Pike and Rannerdale Knotts.
  • Leisurely walks in Buttermere Valley and nearby in Borrowdale and around Keswick.
  • New itineraries for 2026 - more walks, more choice.

The English Lake District is one of the most beautiful and dramatic walking areas in this country. A compact area of rugged mountainsides, high summits and open ridges, lakes and lakeside paths, it provides a great variety of wonderful walks for everyone. It caters for both the gentle rambler simply seeking beautiful days out alongside the lakes and on gentler valley paths as well as energetic and adventurous high peak hiker seeking a real challenge. You’ll be walking amongst the Wainwrights, the 214 fells listed in the iconic pictorial guides to the hills and mountains of the Lake District written by the great Alfred Wainwright to document his experiences in the hills and to encourage others to discover the landscape for themselves.

You’ll visit some of the more quintessential mountains but also those off the well worn path. Peaks with intriguing names can be reached from the house and are often the more memorable experiences of the walking programme. You won’t run out of incredible walking options, magnificent views or panoramic skylines. There are gentle strolls around the valley floor and Buttermere, Crummock Water and Loweswater, as well as some more strenuous and exhilarating days on the summits and ridges of the Western Fells. You’ll get to some of the well-known places, see or ascend the famous peaks, walk the valley floors or high ridges, wander the lakesides and discover hidden tarns.

New for 2026 – four inspiring new itineraries, each designed to suit different walking styles and seasons.

Scenic Strides in the Lake District
A relaxed way to explore the beauty of the Lakes. This moderate-grade itinerary, at the gentler end of our holiday scale, is available mainly at the start and close of the season.

Introduction to the Lake District
Perfect for first-time visitors to Hassness Country House. Each day offers a choice between a moderate-paced walk or a more challenging route - the ideal way to begin your Lakeland walking adventure.

Favourite Walks in the Lake District
Hand-picked by both our leaders and guests, these routes are loved for their charm and variety. Enjoy the flexibility of two daily options; moderate or challenging, and experience the very best of the Lakes.

Conquering the Lake District
For seasoned walkers seeking a challenge, this itinerary offers two levels of demanding walks each day, taking in renowned peaks and rewarding you with the most breath-taking views in Lakeland.


*We also operate festive breaks from Hassness Country House over the Christmas and New Year periods (please note that all meals are included on these tours)*

  • Comfortable double, twin and single rooms, most en suite
  • Cooked or Continental breakfast each morning
  • Three course evening meals (except on Wednesday)
  • Packed lunches on each organised walk day
  • Complimentary tea & coffee always available and cake after each walk day
  • Renowned Hassness House hospitality
  • All public bus fares necessary to / from the trailheads
  • Services of a Classic Tour Leader
  • One evening meal per week - the house manager's day off is on Wednesday. Please see the Holiday Information Sheet for your departure for more information.
  • Entrance fees to some museums and historic buildings (unless otherwise specified)
  • Personal expenses (such as your bar bill)
  • Discretionary tips
  • Optional excursions
  • Travel insurance

Holiday Information

Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.

NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen

View Holiday Information Sheet

Tour Codes

70120

Itinerary & Travel

Itinerary Details

Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival day

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

We wish you a very warm welcome to Hassness Country House. 

Your hosts will be there to welcome you and ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible. Your holiday starts upon arrival at Hassness Country House in Buttermere where you are welcome to arrive from 3pm. Your evening meal will be served at 6.30pm. If you anticipate arriving after this time, we kindly request that you telephone Hassness Country House to confirm your expected arrival time.

Days 2 to 7

SCENIC STRIDES IN THE LAKE DISTRICT

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Your holiday includes five days of guided walking plus a free day in the beautiful English Lake District.

Below is a selection of walking trails commonly experienced on our Hassness Country House holidays. This will give you an indication of the nature of the walking terrain and the format for your chosen holiday. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list and other walks are available depending on the local weather conditions at the time.

Grade 4 Walks

  • Rannerdale and Buttermere - no trip to the valley would be complete without a walk taking in a visit to the site of the fabled Battle of Rannerdale.  We start at Lanthwaite, at the northern end of Crummock Water, and make our way down through Lanthwaite Wood to the lake.  Heading south by the lakeside we cross over the road and enter lower Rannerdale, where bluebells grow in profusion in May. At all times of the year the hills are a patchwork of greens and browns with the grey of the rock and boulders and the white tumbling water of the Rannerdale Beck. Crossing the footbridge we make our way back to Crummock Water where the path rises over Hause Point then descends to pass through woodland and pastures at the end of the lake.  The watering hole of Buttermere Village, with its pubs, tea room and ice cream shop soon comes into view.  There is a short direct route back to Hassness from here but our more interesting route takes us anti clockwise round the lake on what Julia Bradbury’s 2018 Britain’s Favourite Walks poll was voted number 7 in the country.  Reaching Gatesgarth at the southern end of the lake it is a short walk back to Hassness. Total distance covered: 8.4 miles (120m ascent).


  • Crummock Water and Loweswater Village - no trip to the valley would be complete without a visit to the little village of Loweswater. We start at Lanthwaite and make our way down to Crummock Water. Crossing its outflow, the River Cocker, we follow footpaths up to Loweswater Village and the famous Kirkstile Inn. We may take lunch here or in the quiet churchyard. After lunch we head back southwards along the western shore of Crummock Water. When we come to footbridges over Scale Beck, which flows down from Scale Force waterfall, the highest in the Lake District, it may be possible to walk up to inspect the Falls if time allows. The improving track then takes us to Scale Bridge and a lane leading back to Buttermere Village and Hassness. Total distance covered: 7.4 miles (70m ascent).


  • Haystacks from Honister - this walk takes us to the top of Haystacks, favourite fell of Alfred Wainwright, and the resting place for his ashes. Starting from Honister Pass we ascend the track of an old mining tramway to the Drumhouse, then follow the quaintly named Moses Trod, here part of the Coast to Coast long distance footpath, onto the side of Brandreth and Grey Knotts. We see Haystacks over to our right, and hopefully enjoy views over Buttermere and Crummock Water to the Solway Coast and beyond to Scotland. Turning down below Great Round How we pass the sheltered Blackbeck Tarn, and then Innominate Tarn where Wainwright's ashes are scattered. The summit of Haystacks (597m) soon follows where we can admire the views below. Retracing our steps past the tarns we cross Warnscale Beck and come to Dubs Hut, recently renovated with financial assistance from The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust. After inspecting the Hut, we follow the Miners Road back down to Honister. Total distance covered: 5.5 miles (525m ascent).


  • Ennerdale and Black Sail - this walk starts at Honister and ascends the old Miners’ Tramway, following the Coast to Coast long distance footpath across Fleetwith and down Loft Beck into Ennerdale, a remote valley undergoing an extensive rewilding programme. At Black Sail Youth Hostel, the most remote in England, there is a chance for a break before climbing up to Scarth Gap, where views of Buttermere and Hassness Country House open up before us.  The well made path down to the lake leads to Gatesgarth and Hassness Country House. Total distance covered: 5.8 miles (360m ascent).


  • Loweswater Circuit - we start at the north eastern end of Crummock Water and make our way down through Lanthwaite Wood to the Lake. Crossing the river we follow footpaths up to Loweswater Village and the famous Kirkstile Inn. We may take a break here or in the quiet churchyard. After lunch we head west to Maggie’s Bridge and the shores of Loweswater. After a stroll through the oak woods by the lakeside we rise through walled pastures to a scenic elevated return route along the Coffin Road back to Loweswater Village and Lanthwaite. Total distance covered: 10.1 miles (375m ascent).

Day 8

Departure day

Meals

Breakfast

After a hearty breakfast, your hosts wave you goodbye when you'll leave with memories from your Lake District experience. Check out is by 10am. 

We hope you enjoyed your Christmas break and we look forward to welcoming you again soon.

We wish you a very happy New Year!

From (GBP)£1,339 Without flights

Departure dates for your selected tour

22nd Dec 2026 - 29th Dec 2026 (7 Nights)

Travel Details

Private coach transport to and from the trailheads, if necessary, is included. 

See our Holiday Information Sheet for more details on how to reach Hassness Country House by car or public transport. 

Nearest railway station: Penrith (approx. 28 miles)

Nearest bus station: Keswick (approx. 9 miles)

Parking is available at Hassness County House. If driving, please note that there is no opportunity to fuel vehicles in the immediate Buttermere area, so please ensure you have enough fuel to get you to the house and away on your return journey. The nearest filling station is in Keswick or Cockermouth. There is no electric charge point at the property. 

If you are travelling by train, we offer a taxi transfer service from Penrith Railway Station on your arrival day at 16:45 and on your departure day at 09:30. To add the transfers to your booking, please telephone our Sales & Reservations Team on 01707 331133.

Accommodation

Accommodation information

Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.

Hassness Country House

 

Hassness Country House, beautifully located in its own extensive grounds on the shores of Buttermere in the Western Lake District, provides a welcoming and peaceful atmosphere for each and every guest.  

You can find sheep grazing and red squirrels scurrying around just outside the door. This is one of the remotest parts of the Lake District and has been recognised as offering some of Britain’s finest views.

Accommodation is in twins, doubles and single rooms, accommodating 19 people in total, with 7 out of 11 bedrooms having en-suite facilities. All bedrooms are lakeside with many overlooking the lake and the fells beyond. Some of the rooms have a garden view. All rooms are very comfortable, either with en-suite facilities or sharing high-powered shower rooms and toilets, which are located across the hall from the bedrooms. Tea and coffee making facilities are available in each room as well as locally sourced, natural and handmade bathroom toiletries. Towels are provided for each guest and hairdryers are also available in the bedrooms.  

All of our bedrooms have stunning views; whether it be of the rugged and imposing hillsides across the water, garden views or views of the lake itself.

The lounge is a delightful place to relax, with a large picture window looking out across the lake. Comfortable and welcoming, it’s a great place to enjoy your own company or that of your fellow guests, to read a book or simply enjoy one of the most dramatic vantage points in the world. It’s also a perfect starting point for some truly remarkable days in the hills.

Hassness Country House offers a retreat from today’s always connected world. There's no TV, no phones in the bedrooms, and very little mobile reception in this sparsely populated valley of West Cumbria. If you do need to contact the outside world there is a payphone available and Wi-Fi is also available throughout the property (including the bedrooms). At Hassness Country House you’ll take a step back from the frantic world beyond the fells. It’s far enough away yet convenient for the main tourist hubs of Keswick; this is a quieter, less trodden part of the Lake District with dramatic and tranquil scenery. Our friendly managers will make you feel welcome.

Hassness Country House has a small licensed bar which offers a selection of red and white wines, beer and a small assortment of spirits at reasonable prices. You can walk the mile into Buttermere village (a tiny hamlet) for a drink or something to eat at one of the two pubs, but otherwise you can just get away from it all. The madding crowds don’t come anywhere nearby, and the surrounding hills are generally less well stomped than the more readily accessible peaks.

Trip Information

All the details you need

Walks & Excursions

Local Transport Costs

In the holiday cost, we have included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.

Optional Excursions

At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.

Spending Money

Holiday Budgeting

As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.

Tipping

In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.

Tour Leaders & Local Guides

Tour Leaders

Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations.  Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.

Leader's Evening Briefing

Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.

Your Travel Details

Personal Details Check

To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.

Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.

You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.

Footwear & Kit List

Travel Documents Checklist

Documents and Information to take with you:

  • Holiday money
  • Credit or debit cards (and separate details of who to call if lost)
  • Car parking ticket and car park directions (if prebooked)
  • Coach or rail travel tickets (if prebooked)
  • Holiday booking confirmation document
  • Travel insurance details (if applicable)
  • Details of any medical condition or allergy your holiday leader should know about

Maps, Guidebooks & Other Information

The Map Shop

If you cannot find the maps or books locally, we recommend:

The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England

Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk

If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.

Weather

You may wish to look at the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination; BBC weather or MyWeather2. 

Staying Healthy On Holiday

Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Health Advice for United Kingdom

No compulsory immunisations are required for holidays in the UK although you should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended for life in Britain. Tetanus immunisation is recommended.

Further Travel Advice

For further advice please visit:

You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.

Travel Insurance

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses, mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

In the event that you fail to obtain suitable travel insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.


Personal Safety

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.

When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!

Cultural Awareness

Responsible Travel

We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust

Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust is passionate about making the outdoors more accessible for more people from all communities. We grant funds to many organisations and have recently partnered with Mind Over Mountains, Adaptive Grand Slam, and other groups to create an enduring impact on people’s lives and to support them to enjoy the outdoors. In addition, the Trust makes many small grants to local organisations such as Ramblers Groups, Walkers are Welcome, My kind of Books and recently provided a small grant, via his scouting group, to enable a young man whose family had fallen on hard times to complete his DofE Gold award.

Patron of the Trust is the renowned explorer, Mark Wood. Over 20 years Mark has undertaken expeditions to some of the most remote parts of our planet. Our shared values make for an exciting partnership, and we believe that by standing shoulder to shoulder we can encourage people from all communities to enjoy being active outdoors in whatever way suits them best.

For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.

Staying In Touch

Mobile Phones

Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilise this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.

Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en-route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last minute updates concerning your travel plans.

In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or try to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimise the use of mobile devices. Your co-operation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.

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