You are here: Home > Explore Cumbria > Windermere & Bowness
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.
Nestled on the slopes of ancient woodland, Hill of Oaks is an award-winning 5 star holiday park…
Steam from the lake shore of Windermere along the heritage track to Haverthwaite Station, where you…
Brand new Free house British pub, serving home made classic British pub food, real fires, real ale…
As well as beautiful scenery, the Lake District is also famous for its associations with a large…
Join Green Man Survival in our private woodland on the shores of Windermere to discover the ancient…
Unlock the secrets of essential oils as you learn to create your very own blend, uniquely tailored…
A family friendly ride from Windermere to Staveley on quiet roads with stunning views to the…
Adjacent to our clay pigeon shooting site, nestled in the heart of Graythwaite Estate, is where our…
Relaxing with our afternoon tea experience, less than a stone's throw away from the water's edge of…
Welcome to Herdy in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere, where you’ll find a cheerful little shop…
Experience two of Britain's most celebrated Arts & Crafts houses in one inspiring afternoon. Begin…
Evie is a singer-songwriter from the Lake District. Evie has built up a vast repertoire of songs,…
Welcome to Aquatic Quays Windermere. We are the U.K.s largest importer and distributor for Bayliner…
BAHA stands over three tiers and is one of the finest bars in Bowness on Windermere, nestled back…
SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel is a one Michelin Star restaurant located near Windermere. Headed-up by Head…
With stylish decor overlooking the lake, Blue Smoke is the perfect place to catch up with friends…
Charter a skippered yacht for a 2 hour sailing experience for up to 4 people, get involved and take…
Parkland and Gothic Revival castle sitting on the west shore of Windermere providing an impressive…
Join Green Man Survival in our private woodland on the shores of Windermere to discover the ancient…
Dorothy’s place is a beautiful one bedroom apartment, set in beautiful grounds overlooking lake…
From its grandstand position overlooking Lake Windermere in Bowness, The Angel Inn is a must visit…
Based on the novel by Michael Morpurgo After captivating audiences worldwide, Private Peaceful…
The Queens Head features a cosy drinking area with newly-refurbished dining areas and 10…
Set within the contemporary country house hotel Linthwaite House, Henrock opened its doors in…


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
.jpg)
Number of results: 255
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Windermere
Flying Displays by the replica Waterbird, the original of which first flew at the lake on 25 November 1911, and a modern seaplane the Aviat Husky; subject to Permission from the Lake District National Park Authority.
Waterbird is the only…
Windermere
Join Green Man Survival in our private woodland on the shores of Windermere to discover the ancient art of archery. We will learn a little about the history of this primitive skill and have the chance to experience how tricky it must have been for…
Rayrigg Rd, Bowness-on-Windermere
For a special Lake District experience, enjoy a trip on a fully restored wooden heritage boat from the Windermere Jetty Museum collection. Hop aboard our 30 minute cruise to experience the peaceful calm of the lake.
Newby Bridge
Guess who's back… and this time we're heading straight to the White Isle. ☀️
Our Summer Spa-rtys are returning — bigger beats, bigger energy, and full Ibiza House vibes.
Join us on 21st August, 6–9pm for our Ibiza House Spa-rty — an evening of…
Graythwaite, Ulverston
38 Self catering dog friendly properties, from Lakeside to Woodland views. A romantic break for two, an adventurous family vacation or an elaborate celebration, we have accommodation fit for all occasions.
Windermere
The house is in an elevated position with views of the Langdales in the distance. Shops are within walking distance. Bikes can be stored in the garage. Dogs are welcome.
Crag Brow, Bowness on Windermere
Mark, once half of legendary radio double-act Mark and Lard, has been on the national airwaves since the early nineties and currently hosts the Radio 2 Folk Show and weekend breakfast on 6Music with Stuart Maconie. He was the leader of folk-rock…
Windermere
Escape the crowds and explore Lake Windermere at your own pace! Choose your adventure with Windermere Lake Cruises self-drive boat hire. Whether you crave the quiet charm of a classic rowboat or the effortless glide of an electric motorboat, we've…
Bowness-on-Windermere
The Fizzy Tarté serves a luxurious range of Champagne, Afternoon Teas & Cocktails in the Heart of Bowness on Windermere, in the Lake District.
Lakeside
A spectacularly located site on the quieter western shores of Windermere, England’s largest lake and with stunning views our Lakeside site has it all in spades. Each of our yurts here have stunning lake views and are a hop, skip and a splosh away…
Hawkshead, Lake Windermere
Nestled in the heart of Graythwaite Estate, 5,000 acres of managed woodland, parkland and lake frontage, is our magical bushcraft base where we love to welcome those seeking a real outdoor experience.
Windermere
BounceFest is a high-energy inflatable play experience for children aged 3–12 years, filled with giant bouncy castles, thrilling slides, obstacle courses and interactive games. Families book timed sessions where children can bounce, climb, race and…
Windermere
Nestled on the shores of Lake Windermere, in the heart of the National Park, with Wainwrights walks a stone’s throw away and the pretty Lakeland village of Ambleside a mile away, Low Wood Bay is the perfect base for relaxing and exploring the Lakes.
Windermere
Located down a quiet country lane close to Windermere village. Personally owned by Richard & Lisa Gornall.
Sail Windermere with us, feel the wind ruffle your hair, and then the surge of the boat as the sails begin their work of converting breeze to smiles.
Windermere
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Lake District. Travel through the breathtaking Langdale Valley before tackling the dramatic Wrynose and Hardknott Passes, where you'll have time to take in the extraordinary scenery. Our…
Windermere
Mountain Goat Tours has over 50 years’ experience and recognises itself as the No.1 Lake District tour specialist. Mountain Goat has rightfully made its mark of distinction and continues to hols Visit Britain Quality Assured status as a Visitors…
Bowness-on-Windermere
From its grandstand position overlooking Lake Windermere in Bowness, The Angel Inn is a must visit for excellent food and drink. Newly opened following an exciting refurb, take in the views with a glass of frothy real local ale or settle back with a…
Blackwell - the Arts & Crafts house, Bowness-on-Windermere
This November, the much-loved Winter Craft Fair returns to Blackwell – the Arts & Crafts house and for 2026, there's even more to enjoy as the fair takes place across two consecutive weekends!
Whether you're searching for a one-of-a-kind gift,…
Windermere
Located in the pretty Troutbeck Valley, you'll discover a relaxed park within some of England’s most beautiful scenery at Limefitt Holiday Park. Perfect for walkers, it's a great base for exploring the towns and villages of the Lake District.
Receive all the latest news, special offers and information from the Lake District, Cumbria
Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL