Famed for its good food, discover the heritage of the world renowned produce of Bologna, walk in the Apennine hills and enjoy the historic cities of Parma, Modena, Ravenna and Bologna.
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Discover the Lake District at its most colourful on this gentle themed walking holiday, exploring ancient woodlands, flower-rich valleys and sparkling lakeshores. Timed for spring, the tour showcases spectacular bluebells, woodland wildflowers and some of Cumbria's most beautiful landscapes.
Lake District
Landscape
Apr
Average group size: 12-14
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
Usually, your walk will take up the whole day at a moderate pace. Terrain will often be hilly and paths generally good. Note that on holidays in mountainous areas, expect some rougher paths. An average walk length is 6 miles but expect this to vary from as little as 3 miles on a sightseeing day and up to 10 miles on a full day dependant on the amount of ascent and decent required.
Usual daily walks - Distance: 6 miles; Ascent/Descent 500m; Terrain: sometimes hilly and undulating on good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Day walks.
The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s key walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".
Meticulously curated, guided walking holiday itineraries that delve into the culture, wildlife, cuisine, and rich history of the world.
Overview
Experience the magic of spring in the Lake District on this carefully curated eight-day walking holiday, designed to showcase the National Park's finest wildflower displays alongside some of its most celebrated scenery. Based at the beautifully situated Hassness Country House in the Buttermere Valley, the tour combines moderate daily walks with expert interpretation of the region's rich botanical heritage.
The holiday takes place during one of the most enchanting times of year, when ancient woodland floors are transformed by carpets of bluebells, wood anemones, primroses and wild garlic. The Lake District's unique blend of native oak woodland, traditional meadows, lakeshores and upland valleys creates ideal conditions for an extraordinary variety of spring flowers, making it a paradise for walkers, photographers and nature lovers alike.
Highlights begin with an exploration of Buttermere and the famous Rannerdale Valley, home to one of Britain's most spectacular bluebell displays. Here, thousands of native bluebells spread across the open fellside, creating a remarkable sea of violet-blue unlike the woodland bluebell displays found elsewhere in the country. Ancient woodland surrounding Buttermere adds further botanical interest, with oak woods rich in spring blooms.
The tour continues into Borrowdale, one of the Lake District's most important habitats for native woodland flora. Ancient oak woods lining the River Derwent provide exceptional opportunities to observe bluebells, greater stitchwort, wood anemones, herb paris and wild garlic in their natural setting. The combination of woodland flowers, rushing rivers and dramatic fells creates one of the most rewarding walking experiences in the National Park.
A circular walk around peaceful Loweswater reveals a quieter side of Lakeland. Woodland paths, lakeshore tracks and traditional pastoral landscapes support a diverse range of species, including marsh marigolds, cuckooflower and early buttercups. The area's relative tranquillity offers excellent wildlife-watching opportunities and a chance to experience the National Park away from the busier visitor centres.
Further botanical discoveries await in Lanthwaite Wood beside Crummock Water, where extensive bluebell displays flourish beneath ancient oak canopies. The woodland is also well known for its birdlife and occasional sightings of red squirrels, adding an extra dimension to the day's exploration.
A relaxing leisure day provides a change of pace, beginning with a scenic boat journey across Derwentwater. Guests can then enjoy a leisurely walk to Lingholm Kitchen and Walled Gardens, famous for their connection to Beatrix Potter, before indulging in afternoon tea and returning to Keswick by bus.
The final walking day ascends the celebrated summit of Haystacks from Honister Pass. One of Alfred Wainwright's favourite fells, Haystacks delivers spectacular panoramic views across the western Lake District and provides a fitting finale to a week immersed in Lakeland's natural beauty.
Combining outstanding scenery, fascinating flora, comfortable accommodation and rewarding walks, this holiday offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the Lake District's springtime splendour at its very best.
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
70297
Itinerary & Travel
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.
Meals
Accommodation
Day 1 - Arrival at Hassness
Arrive independently at Hassness Country House, beautifully located in the heart of the Buttermere Valley. After settling into your accommodation, there will be time to explore the grounds or enjoy a gentle stroll along the lakeshore. Meet your fellow walkers before dinner and receive an introduction to the week's programme and the remarkable spring flora of the Lake District.
Overnight: Hassness Country House
Day 2 - Buttermere & Rannerdale Knotts
Distance: 12.4 km
Today's walk explores one of the Lake District's most celebrated wildflower locations. Leaving Hassness, we follow the shores of Buttermere through Burtness Wood, an ancient oak woodland rich in spring flowers. Before the woodland canopy fully closes, the forest floor comes alive with bluebells, wood anemones, wild garlic, primroses and delicate dog violets.
Continuing around Crummock Water, we reach the famous Rannerdale Valley. In late spring, the valley is transformed by one of Britain's finest displays of native bluebells. Unlike traditional woodland bluebell displays, these flowers spread across the open fellside, creating a spectacular expanse of colour framed by dramatic Lakeland scenery.
After taking time to enjoy the blooms and views, we ascend Rannerdale Knotts for breathtaking panoramas across Buttermere, Crummock Water and the surrounding fells before returning to Hassness.
Highlights
Day 3 - Borrowdale Woodland Walk
Distance: 13.8 km
Borrowdale is renowned for its ancient Atlantic oak woodland, much of which is internationally important for wildlife. Following paths beside the River Derwent, we explore a landscape rich in biodiversity and spring colour.
The woodlands around Johnny Wood are particularly rewarding during May, with extensive displays of bluebells, wood anemones and greater stitchwort. Careful observation may also reveal the distinctive herb paris, a somewhat elusive species that thrives in these undisturbed ancient woods. The scent of wild garlic often fills the air along shaded paths and riverbanks.
Throughout the day there are opportunities to enjoy beautiful views of the Borrowdale Valley, framed by some of the Lake District's most dramatic mountain scenery.
Highlights
Day 4 - Loweswater Circuit
Distance: 16.3 km
Today we discover the quieter western reaches of the National Park on a circular walk around Loweswater. This peaceful valley offers a wonderful contrast to the more famous lakes and provides excellent opportunities to appreciate both wildflowers and traditional Lakeland landscapes.
Woodland sections around the lake are rich with spring colour, while damp meadows and waterside habitats support marsh marigolds and cuckooflower. As the season progresses, early buttercups begin adding yellow tones to the landscape.
The route follows lakeshore paths, old drove roads and country tracks through a patchwork of woodland, pasture and open countryside, with beautiful reflections across the lake and regular views towards Mellbreak and the surrounding fells.
Highlights
Day 5 - Lanthwaite Wood & Crummock Water
A shorter day dedicated to one of the area's finest woodland habitats. Lanthwaite Wood occupies a beautiful position at the northern end of Crummock Water and is renowned for its extensive spring bluebell displays.
Beneath majestic oak trees, look for carpets of bluebells interspersed with primroses and wood sorrel. The woodland is also an excellent location for wildlife, offering opportunities to spot red squirrels, nuthatches and a variety of woodland birds.
The walk combines woodland exploration with scenic sections along the shores of Crummock Water, providing magnificent views towards Grasmoor and the surrounding mountains.
Highlights
Day 6 - Leisure Day: Derwentwater & Lingholm
A relaxing day to enjoy the Lake District at a slower pace.
Travel to Keswick and board the scenic launch across Derwentwater to Hawes End. From here, enjoy a gentle lakeside walk to Lingholm Estate, famous for its beautiful walled gardens and connections with Beatrix Potter, who spent family holidays here.
Spend time exploring the gardens and grounds before enjoying a traditional afternoon tea at Lingholm Kitchen. There is free time to relax by the lake, browse Keswick's shops or visit local attractions before returning by bus.
Highlights
Day 7 - Haystacks from Honister Pass
Distance: Approx. 10-11 km
The final walking day takes us to one of the Lake District's most beloved fells. Starting from Honister Pass, we follow mountain paths to the summit area of Haystacks, famously described by Alfred Wainwright as his favourite fell.
The route passes tarns, rocky outcrops and unique upland habitats. Although the floral focus differs from the woodland walks earlier in the week, spring still brings colour to the fellside, while the views become increasingly spectacular with height.
From the summit, enjoy outstanding panoramas across Buttermere, Ennerdale, Crummock Water and the western fells before descending via a circular route back to Honister.
Highlights
Day 8 - Departure
After breakfast, depart Hassness and begin your journey home, taking with you wonderful memories of spring flowers, dramatic landscapes and some of the Lake District's most beautiful walking routes.
Please note: These are suggested walks that may be switched or amended depending on the flowers
From (GBP)£1,149 Without flights
Departure dates for your selected tour
30th Apr 2027 - 7th May 2027 (7 Nights)
Private or public 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
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.
Trip Information
Usually, your walk will take up the whole day at a moderate pace. Terrain will often be hilly and paths generally good. Note that on holidays in mountainous areas, expect some rougher paths. An average walk length is 6 miles but expect this to vary from as little as 3 miles on a sightseeing day and up to 10 miles on a full day dependant on the amount of ascent and decent required.
Usual daily walks - Distance: 6 miles; Ascent/Descent 500m; Terrain: sometimes hilly and undulating on good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Day walks.
The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s key walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".
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.
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
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.
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
Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good, moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are strongly recommended and may be essential for some walks.
General Kit List
Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.
If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:
This list is not exhaustive, and every walker is different and may have their own preference.
Travel Documents Checklist
Documents and Information to take with you:
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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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