Top Scenic Drives in the Lake District with Great Food Stops
- hollymcclary
- Jun 13
- 3 min read
The Lake District is home to some of the most breathtaking drives in the UK. From winding mountain passes and tranquil lakeside roads to hidden valleys and traditional villages, every journey offers something memorable.
Whether you're planning a day trip, a weekend break, or simply looking for a scenic route to explore, combining stunning landscapes with excellent food stops makes for the perfect Lake District adventure.
Here's our guide to some of the best scenic drives in the Lake District, along with recommended places to stop for a meal, coffee, or well-earned pint along the way.
1. Honister Pass Drive
Route: Keswick → Borrowdale → Honister Pass → Buttermere
Few roads in Britain rival the dramatic scenery of Honister Pass. Rising steeply from Borrowdale, this iconic mountain road offers spectacular views across rugged fells, slate landscapes, and winding valleys.
Along the route, you'll pass the famous Honister Slate Mine, one of the Lake District's most unique attractions, where visitors can enjoy mine tours, mountain adventures and panoramic viewpoints.
Highlights
Honister Pass viewpoints
Honister Slate Mine
Fleetwith Pike views
Buttermere Valley
Where to Eat
A short drive from Honister Pass, The Yew Tree Pub in Seatoller offers a welcoming stop for walkers, families and road-trippers alike.
Enjoy traditional pub favourites, locally sourced ingredients, seasonal specials and a carefully selected range of drinks in a historic Lake District setting.
Perfect for:
Evening meals after a day in the fells
Relaxing with a drink beside the fire
2. The Buttermere Circular Drive
Route: Keswick → Newlands Pass → Buttermere → Crummock Water → Lorton
This route showcases some of the most peaceful scenery in the northern Lake District. The drive winds through charming villages before opening into spectacular lake and mountain views around Buttermere and Crummock Water.
Highlights
Newlands Pass
Buttermere Lake
Crummock Water
Loweswater views
Food Stop Suggestions
Traditional pubs in Buttermere
Cafés overlooking Crummock Water
The Yew Tree Pub when returning towards Borrowdale and Keswick
3. The Kirkstone Pass Drive
Route: Ambleside → Kirkstone Pass → Patterdale → Ullswater
Kirkstone Pass is one of England's highest mountain roads and delivers unforgettable views throughout the journey.
The route descends towards Ullswater, often considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the Lake District.
Highlights
Kirkstone Pass summit
Brothers Water
Ullswater shoreline
Glenridding village
Food Stop Suggestions
Lakeside cafés in Glenridding
Traditional inns around Patterdale
Local tearooms with fell views
4. The Western Lakes Scenic Route
Route: Ravenglass → Wasdale
For visitors looking to escape the busiest tourist hotspots, the Western Lakes provide some of the most dramatic and peaceful scenery in the National Park.
Wastwater, England's deepest lake, is surrounded by towering mountains including Scafell Pike, creating one of the most photographed landscapes in the country. ,
Highlights
Ravenglass village
Wasdale Valley
Wastwater Screes spectacular views
Scafell Pike and Great Gable views
Wastwater shoreline
Food Stop Suggestions
Country inns in Wasdale
Traditional tearooms
Village pubs serving local produce
5. The Borrowdale Valley Drive
Route: Keswick → Grange → Rosthwaite → Seatoller
This shorter route is ideal for those wanting maximum scenery with minimal driving.
Following the River Derwent through ancient woodland and picturesque villages, Borrowdale offers some of the Lake District's most accessible beauty.
Highlights
Derwentwater viewpoints
Surprise View
Rosthwaite village
Seatoller Valley
Where to Eat
The Yew Tree Pub makes an ideal destination for this drive, offering a relaxed atmosphere and hearty meals in one of the most scenic valleys in the National Park.
Popular choices include:
Traditional Sunday roasts
Homemade desserts
Local ales
Seasonal specials
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most scenic drive in the Lake District?
Many visitors consider Honister Pass one of the most spectacular drives in the Lake District thanks to its dramatic mountain scenery, steep passes and panoramic views.
Which Lake District drive is best for photography?
Honister Pass, Kirkstone Pass and Wastwater all offer outstanding photography opportunities throughout the year.
Where can I stop for food near Honister Pass?
The Yew Tree Pub in Seatoller is one of the closest traditional pubs to Honister Pass and is a popular stop for visitors exploring the area.
Are these drives suitable year-round?
Most routes remain open throughout the year, although weather conditions can occasionally affect mountain passes during winter. Always check local travel conditions before setting out.
Plan Your Lake District Road Trip
Exploring the Lake District by car allows you to discover hidden valleys, dramatic
mountain passes and beautiful lakes at your own pace. Adding great food stops along the way transforms a scenic drive into a memorable day out.
If your journey takes you through Borrowdale, Seatoller or Honister Pass, make time to stop at The Yew Tree Pub for a relaxed meal, refreshing drink and authentic Lake District hospitality.
