with an Auto-Trail Imala 615
Touring the Lake District by hiring a motorhome had been on our wish list for years. With its winding roads, dramatic passes, and mirror-like lakes, we knew it would be unforgettable—but only if we planned it carefully. Narrow lanes and steep gradients aren’t always motorhome-friendly, so we mapped out a relaxed clockwise loop that avoided the trickiest roads while still delivering the very best scenery. This is the exact Lake District Loop Itinerary which we followed, spread comfortably over six days, with motorhome-friendly campsites and honest driving tips along the way.
Day 1: Kendal to Windermere – Easing Into the Lakes
We started our loop in Kendal, stocking up on food and fuel before heading north on the A591. Almost immediately, the landscape changed—rolling hills gave way to wooded slopes and long lake views as Windermere came into sight.
We parked up and wandered around Bowness-on-Windermere, watching boats criss-cross the water. It was busy, but arriving mid-morning worked well before the day-trippers peaked.
What we learned
- The Auto-Trail Imala 615 is a dream in a motorhome—wide, smooth, and stress-free.
- Bowness gets hectic between late morning and mid-afternoon.
Where we stayed
- Windermere Camping & Caravanning Club Site
- Quiet, well-organised, and a perfect first stop.
Day 2: Windermere to Coniston – Forests, Villages & Still Water
Leaving Windermere, we took our time heading towards Hawkshead, one of the prettiest villages in the Lakes. We didn’t attempt to drive into the centre—parking outside and walking in was far easier and much less stressful.
From there, the drive through Grizedale Forest was one of our favourites so far. Sunlight filtered through the trees, and occasional viewpoints opened up across the valleys before Coniston Water appeared below us.
What we learned
- Hawkshead village streets are tight—definitely not motorhome territory.
- Take it slow through Grizedale; it’s narrow but manageable.
Where we stayed
- Coniston Park Coppice
- Peaceful woodland pitches with easy access to the lake.
Day 3: Coniston to Wasdale – The Long Way Round (And Worth It)
This was the day we’d planned most carefully. As tempting as Hardknott and Wrynose Passes looked on the map, we’d been warned—and rightly so. Instead, we took the longer but safer route via Broughton-in-Furness and Eskdale.
It was absolutely the right decision. The drive through Eskdale Valley was slow and scenic, and arriving at Wast Water felt like stepping into a postcard. Towering screes, deep reflections, and total silence once the crowds thinned.
What we learned
- Avoid Hardknott and Wrynose in a motorhome—no regrets.
- The longer route is calmer and far more enjoyable.
Where we stayed
- Eskdale Camping & Caravanning Club Site
- Easier access than Wasdale itself and a great base for walking.
Day 4: Wasdale to Keswick – Mountains to Market Towns
We woke up to mist hanging low over the fells before heading north towards Ennerdale. This stretch felt wilder and less touristy, and we made plenty of photo stops along the way.
By early afternoon, we rolled into Keswick, which felt lively after the quieter valleys. We stretched our legs around Derwentwater, one of our favourite lakes of the whole trip.
What we learned
- Roads improve significantly as you head toward Keswick.
- Arriving earlier in the day makes campsite life much easier.
Where we stayed
- Keswick Camping & Caravanning Club Site
- Well-run, spacious, and perfectly placed for exploring on foot.
Day 5: Keswick to Ullswater – Classic Lake District Scenery
This was pure Lake District magic. Before leaving Keswick, we visited Castlerigg Stone Circle, arriving early enough to enjoy it almost alone.
The drive to Ullswater was straightforward and incredibly scenic. We parked up near Glenridding, took a lakeside walk, and watched the steamers glide across the water as the sun dipped behind the hills.
What we learned
- Early mornings are gold in the Lakes.
- Stick to A-roads here and you’ll avoid most stress.
Where we stayed
- Park Foot Holiday Park
- Lakeside views that made staying in for the evening an easy choice.
Day 6: Ullswater to Penrith – A Gentle Farewell
Our final morning was slow and unhurried. From Ullswater, the drive to Penrith was refreshingly easy, giving us time to reflect on just how varied the loop had been.
Before heading home, we stopped at Lowther Castle and enjoyed one last wander—an unexpectedly perfect way to end the trip.
What We’d Do Again (And What We’d Avoid)
We’d definitely:
- Travel outside peak summer months
- Book campsites in advance
- Stick to a slow, steady pace
We’d avoid:
- Steep mountain passes
- Driving through villages at peak times
- Rushing the itinerary
Final Thoughts
The Lake District by motorhome isn’t about covering miles—it’s about slowing down. This loop gave us a perfect balance of famous sights and quiet corners, without ever feeling like the driving overshadowed the experience.
If you’re planning to hire a campervan or motorhome and want the ideal trip, then this route is one we’d happily do again—just as slowly, with just as many stops, and probably with even more cake along the way.
A big shout out to Easicampers, Preston for supplying the perfect vehicle, the Auto-Trail Imala 615