How to spend an autumn day in The Lake District (without a car)
Golden fells, mirror-still lakes, and cosy cafes — autumn in the Lake District is pure magic. And the best part? You don’t need a car to enjoy it.
This one-day itinerary uses the Stagecoach 599 open-top bus (aka The Lakesider) to take in some of the Lake District’s best bits, hopping between Windermere, Ambleside, Rydal, and Grasmere. Expect gentle adventures, lots of gingerbread, and views you’ll think about all winter.
AM: Arrive by Train: Windermere Station
Start your day by taking the train to Windermere Railway Station — the most convenient hub for accessing the central Lakes without a car. Direct connections run from Manchester (around 1hr 40), with a simple change at Oxenholme if coming from further afield.
The 599 bus stop is right outside the station, so you can set straight off into your adventure. Tickets are £3 each way, or you can purchase a day rider for £10 which gives you access to all Stagecoach routes (useful for hopping on and off).
Hop on the 599 Lakesider Bus
The 599 open-top bus runs frequently between Windermere and Grasmere, via Bowness, Ambleside and Rydal. With panoramic views, clean-air electric buses, and front-row seats to autumn colours.
Tip: Sit upstairs if the weather behaves, you won’t regret it!
First Stop: Rydal Church — Rydal Cave & Loughrigg Fell
Hop off at Rydal Church for a quick hit of Lake District magic. From here, you can:
Walk to Rydal Cave — a short scenic stroll past waterfalls and mossy woodland.
Continue up Loughrigg Fell for sweeping views over Grasmere, Windermere and beyond.
Both are moderate walks that give a real taste of the fells, or can be tied into one walk.
Rydal Cave + Loughrigg Fell walk
Next Stop: Grasmere for lunch, gingerbread & Faeryland
Reboard the 599 and roll into Grasmere village — a postcard-perfect spot known for its literary links and legendary gingerbread.
Lunch: Choose from cosy pubs, tearooms or delis.
Grasmere Gingerbread: An absolute must. There’s a reason there’s always a queue to purchase this famous gingerbread. I stock up every time I visit (and the recipe is so good it’s locked in a secret vault!)
Faeryland: This whimsical lakeside tea garden offers dreamy views, rowing boats for hire, and a fairytale backdrop — especially with autumn mist on the water.
Optional Add-On: Helm Crag
Want to make a full day of the outdoors? Tackle this short but steep climb up Helm Crag, known for its rocky summit and incredible views back over Grasmere.
Heading home
Make your way back to Windermere via the 599 — or linger in Grasmere for dinner and catch a later bus. Just check the last return time in advance, especially outside peak season.
I love exploring The Lakes, and I’m usually exploring by car. This day we fancied a change, and it was so nice to ditch the four wheels:
No driving, no stress — just trains, trails and top-deck views.
A perfect mix of gentle walks, great food and cosy village vibes.
Autumn colours on full display — gold, orange, and deep green reflections in the lakes.
Wrapping up your Lake District adventure
This itinerary packs in the best of the central Lakes, all linked by one scenic bus route and a bit of legwork. Whether you're chasing caves, craving cosy cafes, or just want to feel the crunch of leaves underfoot, it’s the perfect way to spend an autumn day in The Lakes.
