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Just over a mile from England’s largest lake, Windermere, stands Windermere town. While not on the lake shores itself, it combines with the nearby lakeside town of Bowness-on-Windermere to form one urban area.
Windermere enjoys easy access to lake Windermere, whether by foot; car; bike; or bus. This stunning lake, surrounded by rolling hills, offers a serene escape for water activities, leisure boat rides, and lakeside strolls.
Windermere’s rich history is reflected in its historic roots and the growth spurred by the Victorian era. The arrival of the town’s train station in 1847 boosted tourism to the area; today, it is popular thanks to its location, and the abundance of places to eat, drink, and visit.
Indulge in the diverse offerings Windermere presents, from enjoying local food and drink in welcoming establishments to discovering local attractions and experiences. There are excellent accommodation options nearby as well, whether you’re looking for a cosy inn or a luxurious spa hotel.
Built in 1483, this is one of the earliest surviving churches in Cumbria. Its spacious interior with hand-painted biblical texts on the walls and roof beams immediately captures attention. The magnificent east window contains remnants of stained glass from Cartmel Priory (brought here after the Dissolution of the Monasteries) and is believed to be among the oldest surviving traces of stained glass in Britain.
Step into the world of Beatrix Potter in this 17th century farmhouse, which provided the inspiration for 13 of her books including The Tale of Tom Kitten and The Tale of Jemima Puddleduck. It remains much the same as when she lived here, with many of her paintings, furniture and china on view.
The short walk to Orrest Head is well worth the uphill effort, for at the top is an outstanding panoramic view of the lake and surrounding mountains. There are a number of ways of getting to the top all passing through Elleray Woods, noted for its varied bird and insect life (booklet available from the Tourist Information Centre in Windermere).
The gardens at Brockhole, stretching down to the shores of Windermere, were laid out by Thomas Mawson, the internationally acclaimed landscape gardener from Windermere. A wide variety of interesting trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants can be seen against the dramatic backdrop of the lake.
An attractive walk that starts at Ilkley in West Yorkshire and finishes in Bowness-on-Windermere following ancient trackways and riverside paths and passing through many interesting villages on its 80 mile (129 km) route and taking in the best of the natural enviroment along the way.
This 17-acre hillside garden, managed by the Lakeland Horticultural Society since 1971, has been transformed from an abandoned rock garden into a ‘garden for all seasons', with specimen trees, a walled garden with herbaceous borders and displays of alpine plants.
An imposing mock Gothic castle built by James Dawson in the 1840s. Beatrix Potter stayed here in 1882 while on holiday with her parents.
William Wordsworth came here in 1779. His adolescent experience of the natural world had a lasting effect, and was recalled in his poetry of later years.
Beatrix Potter’s traditional Lakeland farm at Hill Top was a special place for Beatrix, and was the inspiration for the setting in many of her books.
In earlier times it was the custom to call for a rowing boat when one was required. One stormy night, a call was answered by a ferryman who rowed across the lake to Bowness only to return in a state of shock. The next morning he developed a rapid fever and died. Thereafter, on stormy nights whenever there were strange calls for a boat from Ferry Nab, no-one would dare go. Eventually a priest exorcised the Crier of Claife to a quarry on Claife Heights, but occasionally the ghostly calls for a boat can still be heard.
Mountain Goat offers Airport Transfer Services to those traveling to and from South Lakes, the…
The Winander Club embraces the Club experience offering exclusivity with a sense of personal…
We deliver everything you need to your accommodation, or to your designated preferred location (…
Take in the stunning views from our lakeside Restaurant whilst dining from our seasonal menu, we…
Choices Health Club Windermere is a unique experience in the Lakes. A large gym, indoor swimming…
Paddleboarding will be back in 2026 Try something new and have a splashing time! We've again…
Pay and display car park with a lovely view over Windermere Lake. Space for 22 vehicles, open 7…
Sheep Dog Trials running all day along with an open dog show, hound trail races, craft stalls, bar…
Standing at the centre of the town of Bowness-on-Windermere, this Grade I listed church boasts…
A gripping neo-noir crime drama set in 1950s Los Angeles. Three very different cops uncover…
Paddle Windermere to a remote shore, light fire and cook on open fire. We are an inclusive company…
Step into the world of James Herriot on the All Creatures Great and Small Tour, set against the…
Lindeth Howe’s restaurant is as popular with residents of nearby Bowness-on-Windermere, as it is…
Car park with 94 general spaces and 7 disabled spaces. Motorcycle spaces: Can use any of the…
The house is in an elevated position with views of the Langdales in the distance. Shops are within…
Hardwicke Circus - Live in Concert @ The Royalty (Bowness)- 21 March 2026 Get ready for one of…
At Broadoaks, afternoon tea is served in the traditional manner on a three-tiered plate, featuring…
Pay and display car park with 56 spaces.Beech Hill car park is situated on the A592, midway between…
Unlock the secrets of essential oils as you learn to create your very own blend, uniquely tailored…
Hill of Oaks occupies a prime position on the shores of Windermere, making it extremely popular…
Our pub is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day exploring the Lake District. We offer…
The Lyth and Winster valleys form a landscape of unspoilt pastoral delights - damson trees…
Zip World Windermere is an award-winning high ropes adventure company with 2 fantastic outdoor…
Join Green Man Survival for our most in depth and demanding survival challenge. You will spend 72…


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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Number of results: 244
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Bowness-on-Windermere
Brunch, Lunch & Afternoon Teas in Bowness-on-Windermere. Located just opposite the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, the Peter Rabbit™ Café is a perfectly themed, memorable & completely unique Peter Rabbit™ dining experience with a good dose of…
Bowness-on-Windermere
Bowfell Cottage is admirably situated fronting a private drive just off A5074, Lyth Valley Road, above eastern shore of the lake about 1 mile south of Bowness Bay and set in 0.5 acre of wooded ground and gardens. Excellent parking.
Our Cycling Route’s guide of the Lake District provides a broad range of cycle routes for all levels of cycling. Whether you are an avid cyclist wanting to do some of the most challenging rides in the Lake District, or gentle leisure rides with…
Troutbeck, Windermere
At Broadoaks, afternoon tea is served in the traditional manner on a three-tiered plate, featuring a selection of handmade cakes and sandwiches, meticulously prepared by our accomplished team of chefs. Each bite is a testament to our commitment to…
TransPennine Express runs regular services to Carlisle, Penrith and Oxenholme for the Lake District, from Manchester Airport, Manchester, Liverpool, Preston, Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Windermere
If you can't decide which one of our kick ass experiences to choose, don't, and just do them all! This experience includes fire lighting using natural materials and sparks along with how to build a shelter with materials provided by nature in our…
Windermere
Park Cliffe is an award-winning holiday park set in 25 acres of beautiful, unspoilt countryside, right in the heart of the Lake District, only 3 miles from Bowness-on-Windermere. We have two camping areas.
Windermere
Step into the world of James Herriot on the All Creatures Great and Small Tour, set against the stunning backdrop of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. This tour takes you deep into Herriot country, where you’ll discover the charming villages and…
Windermere
A combined boat and bus ticket for travel between Bowness and Hawkshead/surrounding villages.
The Cross Lakes Experience operates daily throughout the summer, from Saturday 24th May 2025 until Sunday 28th September 2025. This service connects…
Bowness-on-Windermere
Join Ratty, Mole, Toad, and Badger on a delightful, family-friendly adventure by the riverside in this lively and engaging theatrical production. This charming show brings Kenneth Grahame's beloved classic, The Wind in the Willows, to life. Packed…
Bowness-on-Windermere
This unique Lake District hotel only two minutes stroll from Lake Windermere and the village of Bowness, is an oasis of peace and tranquillity.
Newby Bridge
Join us for a half-day guided woodland walk in the South Lakes, learning some bushcraft essentials on the way. An enjoyable morning to be had by the whole family!
Newby Bridge
Join us at The Swan for a beautifully immersive candle making experience led by local artisans Pure Lakes, inspired by the natural beauty of the Lake District.
Known for their dedication to harnessing the power of nature, Pure Lakes invite you to…
Cumbria
As well as beautiful scenery, the Lake District is also famous for its associations with a large number of poets, novelists and essayists. This lovely, 36-mile walk takes you through some of the Lake District’s best-loved areas, visiting many of the…
Windermere
Our relaxed 2 AA Rosette restaurant, Gilpin Spice has an open kitchen serving a pan-Asian menu inspired by countries along the spice trail and guided by fantastic Cumbrian and British ingredients. Dishes are fun and flavourful with a story behind…
Windermere
Southview Spa in Windermere offers luxury with a private chlorine-free spa, heated pool, cinema, and more. Just minutes from shops and a short walk to Lake Windermere, it’s the perfect blend of comfort and tranquillity.
Lakeside
Lakeside Hotel, the best 4 star hotel on the shores of Windermere, offers you a unique location on the water's edge. It is a classic traditional Lakeland Hotel, personally owned and managed and in a delightful setting.
Windermere
Back for its 13th Year, join us at Windermere Golf Club on Friday 3rd July 2026 for a wonderful day of competition in aid of St John's Hospice in our 40th Anniversary Year.
To enter a team of 4 or to find out more, visit our website or contact the…
Bowness-on-Windermere
Storrs Gate House has a five star grading with Visit Britain. Susann and Glenn welcome you to our luxury family run country guest house, situated opposite lake Windermere.
We deliver everything you need to your accommodation, or to your designated preferred location ( including railway station’s) with tailor-made routes. Experience the pleasure of cycling through the Lake District countryside on Electric Bikes, around…
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL