A group of pensioners enjoyed a grand day out touring the Lake District and Keswick courtesy of Stagecoach, Cumbria’s main bus operator.

The party of 15, who are all members of Age UK’s West Cumbria Pensioners Lunch Club, were picked up from Workington bus station on the X5 bus bound for Keswick.

On arrival they were welcomed to Keswick by Mayor Steve Harwood. They were then given discounted entry to Keswick Museum. 

A number of local businesses also offered the group generous discounts on food and drink. 

After lunch, the pensioners took part in a Cumbrian-themed quiz, complete with prizes. 

The event was organised by Stagecoach Cumbria and North Lancashire, which has been working with businesses in towns around the county to organise days out for pensioners as part of its Grand Day Out initiative. 

The days out are intended to encourage pensioners to make the most of their free bus passes, as well as promoting local businesses and attractions.

Pensioner, Bill Reville, 86, of Ashmore Gardens, Workington, who was one of those to join the tour, said: “I’ve had a wonderful day today. It’s been great to get out and about and socialise with other members of the lunch club and see Keswick, which is a really nice place to visit. 

“I’d recommend other pensioners make the most of their free bus pass and get out and about on the buses and see what Cumbria has to offer. Thanks again to Stagecoach for arranging today.”

Workington pensioner David West, 78, of Clay Street, added: “This is my third visit to the Age UK lunch club, but the first time we’ve been out on a day trip. 

“I thoroughly enjoyed today. It’s been great to get out with the group and not only enjoy each other’s company, but also enjoy Keswick, which is a really nice town and has lots to offer.

“It’s great to get out and about again, especially after lockdown, and enjoy the many great places Cumbria has on offer. Thanks to Stagecoach for putting on today for us.”

Lynn Martin, Reconnecting Cumbria community worker for Age UK West Cumbria, said: “It was wonderful to travel though our beautiful countryside making the most of the view. When the X5 bus pulled into Keswick we all felt like celebrities being met off the bus by the press and the mayor. What a welcome!”

Rob Jones, managing director of Stagecoach Cumbria, said: “One of the great pleasures of our job is helping people get out and explore our wonderful county, while socialising and having fun at the same time. 

“Excursions like this show how bus travel has an important part to play in encouraging others to make the most of their free bus passes

“I’m really happy to hear the group from Age UK had a good time in Keswick and looking forward to hearing more about their bus adventures around Cumbria in the near future.”

You can plan your bus trip to Keswick and the surrounding area here.

More information about the Age UK West Cumbria lunch club can be found here.