Would like to visit Highclerc Castle, York and the Lake District. We have 9 days. Rent a car or use the train system? Any suggestions?
For Highclere and the Lake District, to me a rental car makes more sense since public transportation may not run frequently to the places you want to get to, when you want to get to them. Somebody from that area will know better.
Have you checked the Highclere calendar?
https://highclerecastleshop.co.uk/categories/spring-public-opening-2025