A new Cumbria Travel Pass has been launched, offering unlimited travel across trains, buses, and select boat services in the Lake District and surrounding areas for individuals seeking to explore the region. The pass costs £40 for a one-day ticket and £99 for a three-day pass, with discounts available for children and Railcard holders. Tickets can be purchased from vending machines, station ticket offices, and online.
The initiative aims to make it easier for both visitors and residents to explore Cumbria's diverse landscapes, including its lakes, towns, villages, and coastlines, without relying on cars. This approach supports local businesses and encourages visitors to discover less crowded areas within the national park.
As tourist interest in the Lake District grows, particularly during the summer months, the pass provides an opportunity to access areas that often see fewer visitors. These include Loweswater, known for its serene atmosphere and local inns like the Kirkstile Inn. The Eskdale Valley is highlighted for its peaceful ambiance, with the Woolpack Inn and the historic Boot Inn offering accommodations and dining.
Clappersgate, a village on the outskirts of Ambleside, is noted as a tranquil base for exploring the South Lakes, featuring historic structures such as Clappersgate Bridge. The Great Langdale valley, with its imposing mountain scenery, offers attractions like the Old Dungeon Ghyll hotel and its Climbers Bar.
Bassenthwaite Lake, the only lake in the region officially named 'Lake,' is presented as an alternative to more crowded areas like Derwentwater. Nearby attractions include Mirehouse country house and the 14th-century St Bega’s Church. The east side of Ullswater is recommended for its quieter stretches, offering scenic walks from Pooley Bridge to Patterdale.
For those seeking solitude, Ennerdale Water, the most westerly lake, is described as a secluded valley with a sense of wilderness, notably lacking a road along its shore. The nearby village of Ennerdale Bridge offers pubs like the Fox & Hounds and The Gather community center.