Top tips for cheaper trips in the Lake District this summer

With the increased cost of fuel we are all thinking of ways we can save fuel and money this summer. Here, our Lead Strategy Adviser for Sustainable Transport shares her top five tips to make travel kinder on your pocket, kinder to the planet and kinder to the Lake District:

1. Use a shuttle bus

This summer there are free shuttle buses running from Cockernouth to Buttermere, from Ravenglass, Gosforth and Netherwasdale to Wasdale Head and there is a new low cost shuttle from Keswick to the foot of Cat Bells, letting you to see more and relax on your day out.

2. Make the most of discount tickets

There are lots of special offers out there. During July and August bus operator Stagecoach is halving the cost of their Borrowdale and Ullswater Day Rider Group tickets to just £17 for a days unlimited travel on all buses in the zones, including the stunning open top bus trip, for up to 5 people. That’s just £3.40 each! Check out other bargain Explorer and group tickets on the buses.

3. Fresh air is free on a walk or cycle

There are so many possibilities there is sure to be something near to where you are staying or living. Check out our Miles without Stile accessible walking routes, the Ullswater Way and our family cycling routes. Even if going on short trips to the shops, pub, or to a visitor attraction - could you enjoy a walk or cycle there? We've got three locations where you can hire a mountain bike or even an electric bike to make the ride a little bit easier. You can use the money you save to treat yourself to an ice cream!

4. Fill up those spare seats by sharing lifts

If travelling to the Lake District why not post on Facebook to see if a group of friends want to travel together or set up a Whatsapp group of like-minded friends or members of a club who travel regularly? Alternatively www.liftshare.com will help you find or offer lifts.

5. Drive safely and save fuel

If you need to drive there are lots of things you can do to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. These include choosing the best route, keeping your speed down, driving smoothly without excessive acceleration, switching off your engine as soon as you stop, maintaining good tyre pressure, and avoiding using air conditioning unless really necessary. Fuel saving  tips from the RAC. And if you have the opportunity to use an electric vehicle (EV) do so, their running costs are much lower.

We hope these ideas help you have a great time in the place you love!

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