Summer in the Lake District brings to mind long, hazy days, walks by the lakeside, sailing on the Windemere and ice-creams by the pier! Perhaps owing to the school holidays and the favourable weather, summer is by far the busiest season for tourists. If you're planning to visit the Lakes this summer, it's well worth doing a little research before your trip to make sure you get the most out of your holiday.

Booking a professionally led tour or two will help to make sure you don't miss the sights you want see. What's more, you'll learn a thing or two along the way as well! However, with so many tour options available, it can be difficult to decide what to see first! To help you start planning your trip, here are just a few of the area's leading summer tours for your consideration:

Best of the Lakes – The Mountain Goat

If you are only spending one day in the Lake District, but want to see as much as possible, Best of the Lakes is the tour for you! Starting in the Southern Lake District, you'll take a ride through the impressive Langdale Valley. You'll spend much of the morning on the famous Hardknott and Wrynose passes before moving ahead to the remote Western parts of the Lake District. Along the way, you'll have a chance to take in the sights at Wastwater, which is England's deepest lake and cited by many as 'Britain's favourite view'.

The afternoon includes a visit to Castlerigg Stone Circle, an impressive ancient monument believed to be older than Stonehenge, a stop at Lake Windemere and a journey over Kirkstone Pass.

Tickets are available from as little as £50, representing excellent value for money! You can find more information on this tour here www.mountain-goat.co.uk/Daily-Tours/Best-of-the-Lakes.

Yellow Cruise from Bowness to Lakeside – Windemere Lake Cruises

This scenic 90 minute lake cruise on one of the lake's steamers takes you on a round trip from Bowness to Lakeside. Along the way, you'll see many wonderful period homes, immaculately kept gardens and tranquil woodlands. Commentary will be provided throughout, giving you a fascinating insight into the area's rich and varied historic and cultural heritage. This cruise runs every day during the summer.

Adult tickets cost £10.80 and a you can pick up a family ticket (for 2 adults and up to 3 children) for just £30. With a Yellow Cruise, you can see the sights without breaking the bank. Children under 5 travel free and dogs are welcome at no extra charge. Cyclists can bring their bike on board for an additional fee of £1 (subject to availability). More details can be found here:  www.windermere-lakecruises.co.uk/cruises-fares/yellow-cruise.

Lakeland Visitours

If you wish to delve even deeper into the Lake District's history, heritage and scenery, you can book a bespoke guided walk or coach tour with Chris Wright of Lakeland Visitours. Chris is a qualified Blue Badge Guide and has led tours across the Lake District, the UK and beyond for more than 40 years. He is a friendly, personable host with an extensive knowledge of this beautiful region. Whether you have an area of specialised interest in mind, or would simply like to discover more, Chris can tailor a tour to suit your requirements.

If you would like to enquire about our tours or make a booking, please get in touch on 01539 533282 or 07713 171811. It is advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment. An availability calendar can be found here tourslakedistrict.co.uk/availability-fees.

NB: A standard day tour runs for up to eight hours; a half day tour runs for up to four hours.  Summer tours often conclude by 6pm, although these hours can be extended if required. Winter tours will usually end by 4pm due to limited daylight.