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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.
St Peter’s was built in 1874 designed by well known Lancashire firm of Paley and Austin and won an…
38 Self catering dog friendly properties, from Lakeside to Woodland views. A romantic break for…
Escape the crowds and explore Lake Windermere at your own pace! Choose your adventure with…
The Arts Bar is a celebration of great food and perfectly crafted drinks in a building famed for…
Wednesday 31st December (NYE) Millie Mac Live, DJ Robin Kershaw & Sax 7pm - 1.30am ️ Tickets -…
We're thrilled to welcome Jon Dawes to The Swan on 30th December for a relaxing Twixmas evening of…
Christmas is fast approaching and Santa's Sleigh is nowhere to be found. Will Sprocket and Dibs be…
Nestled on the slopes of ancient woodland, Hill of Oaks is an award-winning 5 star holiday park…
Laik manages super-stylish holiday homes in some of the favourite spots in the Lake District…
Pay and display car park with a lovely view over Windermere Lake. Space for 22 vehicles, open 7…
Set in its own elevated grounds in jolly Bowness, The Angel Inn has far-reaching views across Lake…
At BAHA, we are all about bringing people together, through fun food, drink, and entertainment…
From its grandstand position overlooking Lake Windermere in Bowness, The Angel Inn is a must visit…
The multi-award winning, no.1 hotel for romance. Discover high-end luxury, designer decor, hot tubs…
As well as beautiful scenery, the Lake District is also famous for its associations with a large…
Join Green Man Survival for our most in depth and demanding survival challenge. You will spend 72…
A one day map reading course for beginners based in the Lake District. If you have never looked at…
John has been performing as Elvis Presley for many years & is well loved in the Furness area.…
Nestled on the shores of Lake Windermere, in the heart of the National Park, with Wainwrights walks…
In this hysterical, deranged and irreverent Austen parody that meditates on girlhood, romance and…
The Peter Rabbit Garden has proved tremendously popular with visitors who have delighted in the…
Located at the tranquil southern end of Lake Windermere, Lakeside Pier offers a different pace of…
Steam from the lake shore of Windermere along the heritage track to Haverthwaite Station, where you…
The Lake District is England's only true mountain area. It has the most beautiful scenery in the…


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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Cumbria
A family friendly ride from Windermere to Staveley on quiet roads with stunning views to the southern Lakeland Fells. In Staveley the workshops, galleries, brewery, plant nursery and eateries offer food for both eyes and appetite. Return along the…
Windermere
Since 1847 we’ve been committed to selling the best food and drink in attractive stores staffed with first class assistants. We take pride in working closely with local suppliers and producers from the Northern counties we call home: Lancashire,…
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
Sit back, relax, and get ready to be amazed as you journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Lake District, where you'll see the beauty of ten stunning lakes—including the iconic Windermere, the tranquil Brotherswater, the majestic…
Bowness on Windermere
Under 16's go free with a paying adult
16 strings, 8 dancing feet and 4 voices in 1 electrifying and hilarious musical show! Graffiti Classics are a comedy string quartet who never sit down, bursting the perceived elitist boundaries of…
Windermere
A very special festive Sunday at Merewood
Join us for our Santa Luncheon on Sunday, 14th December 2025, from 12:30pm to 4:00pm.
Settle into a specially decorated country house setting and get ready to indulge in a delightful three-course à la carte…
Bowness-on-Windermere
In this hysterical, deranged and irreverent Austen parody that meditates on girlhood, romance and everything in between, Lady Clementine has until her 27th birthday to find The One.
When her latest beau goes missing, she embarks on a hilariously…
Crag Brow, Bowness-on-Windermere
Just outside the front of the The World of Beatrix Potter™ Attraction is our boutique nursery Shop which will stock a huge range of ethical, sustainable and environmentally friendly clothing, gifts and accessories.
Bowness-on-Windermere
Discover the work of pioneering textile designer and entrepreneur Annie Garnett, a leading figure in the British Arts & Crafts Movement.
Step into the vibrant world of Annie Garnett, a pioneering textile designer and entrepreneur of the British…
Nr Ulverston
The Lake District is England's only true mountain area. It has the most beautiful scenery in the land, with its bewitching mix of rugged mountains, deep gylls, shimmering lakes, bouncing waterfalls and attractive stone-built villages. Our solos…
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…
Cumbria
A walk around the shores of Lake Windermere and over the wooded fells of Claife Heights to the villages of Sawrey and Hawkshead to take in the sights and sounds that inspired the works of Beatrix Potter. Along the way you will be able to walk…
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.
Lake Road, Windermere
Nestled on the slopes of ancient woodland, Hill of Oaks is an award-winning 5 star holiday park located in the heart of the Lake District National Park.
Bowness on Windermere
Founded in 2006 by Leonid Tritus, the Kammerphilharmonie Europa is an orchestra of talented young musicians from 18 European nations; nine of these musicians (seven strings, oboe and trumpet) join this exciting UK chamber music tour. The musicians…
Windermere
Step back in time with Townend's Victorian Christmas. The fire is roaring, the house decked with traditional festive foliage and the smells of Christmas fill the air. There is festive food on display to feast your eyes on and the gentle aroma of…
Bowness on Windermere
The animals have taken over the farm.
Fringe favourite Guy Masterson's globally acclaimed solo adaptation of George Orwell's barnyard masterpiece is now brought to life by riveting physical theatre performer, Sam Blythe. A timeless allegory that…
Bowness-on-Windermere
Opened summer 2021 on a quiet side street one step up from the lake in Bowness-on-Windermere. This former grande dame Victorian hotel has just had an £8 million makeover, and has re-emerged dressed for a night out and sporting a chic, city-slicker…
Newby Bridge
Join us on Friday 17th October for a performance by Socially Awkward.
Socially Awkward (also known as Lauren and Martin) are an acoustic duo based in The Lake District. They put their own stamp on acoustic covers across various eras spanning from…
Bowness-on-Windermere
Welcome 2026 in style with our New Year Gala Dinner, followed by our Abba tribute and dancing into the small wee hours with our resident DJ. Dinner served @ 19.45pm in our Lakeside Restaurant. Full pre payment at time of booking.
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL