Skipton to Grasmere

If you prefer the train you can come back down the main line from Carlisle to Oxenholme, then the branch line to Windermere and a short bus ride to Grasmere.
Or you can take a train from Skipton to Lancaster, then a short hop to Oxenholme and as above. You should be able to do Skipton to Windermere in 2 hours on this route.

Skipton to Carlisle on the train is a straight shot. At the moment I'm not advising changing at Carlisle into a bus, apart from the 104. There is a lot of construction, and getting round the city centre on foot is a nightmare with routes changing every few days. I have no idea when the work will finish with a constantly sliding deadline.
For the 554 currently, to Keswick, I would advise taking the coast line to Wigton and catching it there.
The 563 from Appleby is a great idea. The only thing is that it is a steep downhill walk to the stop at the Sands. The positive is that you may get the chance to explore the town- really worth doing.
The 563 starts back at Kirkby Stephen station - so an easier change point.I

On a Friday there is another option from Kirkby Stephen- the S5 to Kendal, also the S1 on Tuesday and Friday. Both are Community buses on very scenic routes. Then the 555 to Grasmere.
On various days of the week you can also change into the Fellrunner Community bus at Lazonby, Langwathby or Armathwaite to go to Penrith.

Johnew52

Thanks for the reply. I definitely do prefer trains, especially as I will be traveling on a Britrail pass. And the main goal besides getting to Grasmere eventually, is to ride the Settle-Carlisle Railway and see a much of it as makes logistical sense. The Carlisle-Oxenholme-Windermere route with a short bus ride is something I will definitely look into.

Stuart

Thanks again for your assistance. I now see the Skipton to Carlisle with no changes. I think the 104 just goes from Carlisle to Penrith? I'd rather spend less time and money on the bus so that makes the Appleby route more appealing. I will have my trekking poles (and my partner) so I think I'd rather negotiate a short hill than get off the train in Kirby Stephen. Does that make sense?

Katie,

Yes the 104 is Penrith and Center Parcs

I've just been checking as I wasn't sure how well the new 563 timetable synchronised with the trains.
And Westmorland Council have done a good job.
The 0826 from Skipton, arrive Appleby 0947, bus departs the Sands 1021
The 0958 from Skipton, arrive Appleby 1119, bus departs 1143.

That 0958 is the train which should have a live guide on, also the refreshment/souvenir trolley- both join the train at Settle. Both the guide and trolley are run by one of the line's supporter groups (based at Appleby) with all profits supporting preservation work on the line.

BTW all bus fares will still be £3 next year, no matter the distance.

Stuart

Thanks! Great information. I feel confident I will get to ride the Settle Carlisle Railway AND make it to Grasmere.

Interesting about the guide and trolley on the 0958 but I imagine we will want to leave Skipton as early as possible depending on when breakfast is served :)

Oh, yeah. I forgot about the £3 maximum fare next year.