Stagecoach Cumbria and North Lancashire partnered with Age UK South Cumbria to provide an unforgettable Grand Day Out to the heart of the Lake District.

On Friday, September 12, they took 33 older people on a special scenic journey to the charming village of Grasmere.

The latest trip is part of The Grand Day Out initiative which enables groups aged 50 and over to travel free on their older persons’ concessionary travel cards, to places of interest across Cumbria.

Tom Waterhouse, managing director of Stagecoach Cumbria and North Lancashire, said: “I’m always delighted to hear that the pensioners enjoyed their Grand Day Out.

“Our partnership with Age UK South Cumbria demonstrates our commitment to serving our community beyond regular bus services. Public transport should connect people not just to destinations, but to experiences and memories.”

While Suzanne Ambrose, Social Engagement Officer at Age UK South Cumbria, said: “Isolation and limited mobility can prevent older adults from accessing the countryside they love.

“Partnerships like this with Stagecoach are vital in maintaining our clients’ connection to the wider world.

“The social aspect is equally important too – many of our members enjoyed chatting to different people and forming new friendships during the journey.”

The aim of the Grand Day Out is to boost the confidence of older people to explore the region by bus, enabling them to visit places they might not otherwise see, combat social isolation and loneliness, and improve health and wellbeing.

The group enjoyed a specially arranged gin and vodka tasting tour at the Grasmere Distillery, where they learned about the craft distilling process and sampled premium spirits. 

The distillery experience provided fascinating insights into traditional distilling methods and the unique flavours created by the pristine Cumbrian environment.

One of the group Gill Tyson said: “We had a lovely day out today. The day was arranged by Stagecoach and it was absolutely fabulous. I was so pleased I was able to go.

“It was a truly good day, making new friends; listening to Paul Abbot at Grasmere Distillery who was so interesting and kept us all engaged, not to mention the sampling; and the meal at Tweedies was so good.

“Thank you again to Stagecoach for putting on such a memorable day.” 

Following the tour, the group enjoyed a delicious lunch at Tweedies Bar and Lodge, a popular local establishment known for its hearty Cumbrian fare and warm hospitality. The meal provided an excellent opportunity for the group to socialise.