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For many visitors, the Lake District is synonymous with Windermere, which is both the largest lake in England and its most popular. It’s been a major tourist centre since 1847, when the trains first steamed into town carrying passengers eager for the fresh air and stunning scenery, and it’s been pretty much the same ever since. Transport options have improved, and there’s a broader choice of leisure activities both on and off the water. Access to the lake is from Bowness-On-Windermere, which is just a short hop from Windermere town.
There are 14 islands in the lake, the largest of which is Belle Isle (formerly known as Longholme). In 1250 it was the seat of the Lord of the Manor and a Royalist stronghold during the Civil War. In 1774 an unusual circular house was erected on the island, which was sold (along with the island) to the wealthy Curwen family who renamed the island after their daughter, Isabella.
The lake has long been used as a highway for the transport of stone, minerals, charcoal and woollen cloth. A ferry service has operated across the narrowest point of the lake (Bowness to Ferry House on the western shore) since the 15th century.
The earliest craft were large rowing boats that carried people and animals, with passengers expected to help with the rowing. In 1870 the first ferry to run on underwater cables was introduced; a 20-minute service now provided by the modern Mallard ferry.
By the 19th century, wealthy businessmen from the urban areas began to regard the Lakes as a haven of scenic tranquillity, acquiring grand country retreats. Belsfield (now a hotel) was bought by the iron magnate, Henry William Schneider, in 1869 as a commuter home (he built a jetty at the bottom of the garden so he could sail to Lakeside in his steamboat, Esperance).
Storrs Hall was acquired by John Bolton in 1806 on proceeds from the slave trade. Brockhole, built in the late 1880s by Henry Gaddum, a wealthy silk merchant from Manchester, became a convalescent home before opening as the National Park Visitor Centre in 1969.
And lastly, Blackwell, an architectural gem from the Arts and Crafts era, was commissioned by Sir Edward Holt, a wealthy brewer from Manchester.
Bowness-on-Windermere is one of the most popular holiday locations in the Lake District and the easiest way to access the lake, most notably by steamer. It is an excellent base for water activities, including boating and leisurely water attractions, as well as boat hire or family watersports.
Newby Bridge - At the southern end of Lake Windermere adjoining the River Leven, Newby Bridge is a small village, with a selection of hotels and B&B's. It got its name from the five-arched stone bridge built across the river in 1651. The famous Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway connects you to Haverthwaite on a 3.5 mile journey, there is also the Lakes Aquarium to visit at Lakeside.
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No visit to The Lake District, Cumbria, would be complete without a visit to England’s largest…
Brand new Free house British pub, serving home made classic British pub food, real fires, real ale…
Join us for an extra special tour of Townend to learn how the Browne's dealt with the supernatural…
A chance to see a pantomime version of this 'Tale as old as time', with singing, dancing and…
Relax in luxury in our Lakeview Spa, unique in that whether you are in the indoor pool, the…
Whether you're looking for the perfect spot to take a break from shopping or needing some fuel for…
A one day introduction to navigation and map reading suitable for beginners. If you have never…
If you can't decide which one of our kick ass experiences to choose, don't, and just do them all!…
Kirkwood Guest House in the Lake District is ideally positioned for exploring The Lakes. Situated…
Tariff type: Multi Tariff. Public toilets on site.
Follow Alice on her remarkable journey, from her fleeting encounters with the White Rabbit to her…
Our reality-based 2 day survival training course will give you the skills to be self-sufficient in…
We provide services for coach and group operators. Ideal for coach drivers days off. Our 16 seater…
England's Small Hotel of the Year, family owned and run since 1988, is a member of Relais &…
Learn how to mix it up! With our expertly trained, globally recognised mixologists. Discover a…
Join Green Man Survival in our private woodland on the shores of Windermere to discover the ancient…
Lindeth Howe’s 2AA rosette restaurant is as popular with residents of nearby Bowness-on-Windermere,…
Linthwaite House is the latest addition to the portfolio of Leeu Collection, the manifestation of…
Judith and Gerald look the perfect couple – he's a successful businessman, she's an aspiring…
Car park with 136 spaces including long stay, short stay and multi-tariff facilities depending on…
The Peter Rabbit Garden has proved tremendously popular with visitors who have delighted in the…
Refurbished in 2021, Lakes Hostel is a hidden gem in the heart of Windermere. Available to book as…
Buses to and through Windermere: Coniston Rambler 505 Windermere - Ambleside - Hawkshead -…
Storrs Gate House has a five star grading with Visit Britain. Susann and Glenn welcome you to our…
The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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Rayrigg Rd, Bowness-on-Windermere
Marvel Comics published Amazing Fantasy #15 in August 1962. Written by Stan Lee and drawn by Steve Ditko, it contained a story that was destined to change the world of comics forever. That story is called Spider-Man.
Ditko's original ink art…
Windermere
Blackwell – the Arts & Crafts house is a rare architectural gem in the heart of the Lake District and offers a perfectly preserved snapshot of early 20th-century living.
Bowness-on-Windermere
Glamping PODs in the heart of the Lake District National Park above Lake Windermere. Nestled in a woodland with great walks and mountain bike routes from the door. Dogs welcome in some PODs. Heated facilities and on-site parking. Great for…
Bowness on Windermere
Set in the heart of the Lake District, this intimate theatre shares a building in Bowness with the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction. The Theatre produces a lively programme of professional drama, music, folk, comedy, lectures and film.
Windermere
The Queens Head features a cosy drinking area with newly-refurbished dining areas and 10 comfortable en-suite guest bedrooms providing the perfect base for guests to Cumbria and, of course, their four-legged companions.
Near Hawkshead
We may be biased but genuinely believe that we run watersports from one of the best locations in the Lake District; Grubbins Point on Windermere. From this sheltered bay situated on a private stretch of shoreline we offer both instructed sessions…
Windermere
Arboreal is our two AA rosette fine dining restaurant which boasts a eight-course taster menu.
Bowness-on-Windermere
Judith and Gerald look the perfect couple – he's a successful businessman, she's an aspiring counsellor, they live in a stylish suburban home and it seems nothing can spoil their happy marriage… that is until Jo and Ashley arrive on the…
Bowness-on-Windermere
Join Halima Cassell for an insightful and intimate talk about her practice and exhibition Reflections at Blackwell – the Arts & Crafts house with Lakeland Arts' Head of Curatorial, Helen Stalker.
The talk will delve into topics such as sources…
Bowness-on-Windermere
Set within the contemporary country house hotel Linthwaite House, Henrock opened its doors in October 2019.
Henrock is an informal restaurant that serves an à la carte menu using local, seasonal ingredients, inspired by flavours and techniques…
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.
Windermere
No visit to The Lake District, Cumbria, would be complete without a visit to England’s largest lake, Windermere; And what better way to experience it than from onboard a world-famous Windermere Lake Cruises ‘steamer’? Steamers and launches sail…
Newby Bridge
Our reality-based 2 day survival training course will give you the skills to be self-sufficient in any wilderness environment. Immerse yourself in the challenge.
Windermere
The Fairfield is a charming late Georgian house set in quiet secluded grounds with its own car park and located in a quiet cul-de-sac close to the centre of Bowness bay. Provides a quiet child free environment to relax.
Windermere
British and continental menu served up in contemporary, colourful, and classy surroundings.
Windermere
Our three warm and cosy pods are situated behind the main farm steading in a quiet setting away from the road and next to a small beck. The pods all have underfloor heating so you are guaranteed to be warm no matter the season. Unfortunately we…
Windermere
We are proud to promote the stunning dark skies which the Lake District offers and have resources and equipment to help our guests enjoy the night’s sky with an evening of stargazing. We have two stargazing rucksacks available for guests to use…
Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere
Afternoon Tea at The Belsfield is a quintessentially English experience, offering delicious Afternoon Tea with amazing views of Lake Windermere. The Belsfield is situated in 6-acres of gardens overlooking Lake Windermere and the Cumbrian hills…
Windermere
Nestled on the shores of England’s longest and most beautiful lake you will find Cragwood Country House Hotel, set in its own twenty-acre estate of beautiful landscaped gardens and woodland, with stunning views overlooking Lake Windermere
Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere
Murder at the Moulin Rouge!
Arrive to a glass of fizz and enjoy a 3 course dinner as you watch the drama unfold.
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL