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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…
Pay & Display car park (NT members free)with 24 spaces. A narrow, single track lane leads to this…
Welcome to Aquatic Quays Windermere. We are the U.K.s largest importer and distributor for Bayliner…
The Arts Bar is a celebration of great food and perfectly crafted drinks in a building famed for…
Offering a traditional Afternoon Tea in the heart of the Lake District.
Relaxing with our afternoon tea experience, less than a stone's throw away from the water's edge of…
The River Room Brasserie restaurant at The Swan Hotel offers a sophisticated dining experience for…
Our Cycling Route’s guide of the Lake District provides a broad range of cycle routes for all…
Sit back, relax, and get ready to be amazed as you journey through the breathtaking landscapes of…
Tariff type: Multi Tariff. Public toilets on site.
Superb luxury bed & breakfast overlooking Lake Windermere. 14 individually designed bedrooms &.…
Join Green Man Survival for our most in depth and demanding survival challenge. You will spend 72…
The house is in an elevated position with views of the Langdales in the distance. Shops are within…
Join us on a exclusive guided tour of Hill Top Farm, Near Sawrey renowned as the first farm owned…
Free car park with 20 spaces. Open 7 days a week.
Experience two of Britain's most celebrated Arts & Crafts houses in one inspiring afternoon. Begin…
Dorothy’s place is a beautiful one bedroom apartment, set in beautiful grounds overlooking lake…
Unlock the secrets of essential oils as you learn to create your very own blend, uniquely tailored…
Dinner is the highlight of any stay here at Lakeside, with two superb restaurants. In our Lakeview…
Lakeside Hotel, the best 4 star hotel on the shores of Windermere, offers you a unique location on…
Storrs Gate House has a five star grading with Visit Britain. Susann and Glenn welcome you to our…
The Fizzy Tarté serves a luxurious range of Champagne, Afternoon Teas & Cocktails in the Heart of…
Charter a skippered yacht for a two hour sailing experience for up to four people.
Set in its own elevated grounds in jolly Bowness, The Angel Inn has far-reaching views across Lake…


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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Number of results: 298
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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.
Windermere
Located down a quiet country lane close to Windermere village. Personally owned by Richard & Lisa Gornall.
Bowness-on-Windermere
Hardwicke Circus - Live in Concert @ The Royalty (Bowness)- 21 March 2026
Get ready for one of the most exciting live bands in Britain today. Hardwicke Circus bring an irresistible mix of energy, soul, and swagger — drawing comparisons to The E…
Windermere
The Grill offers a relaxed, welcoming dining experience with a menu created by Head Chef Ambrus Kipke, proudly rooted in classic English cuisine. Think crowd-pleasing favourites like traditional fish and chips, juicy sirloin steaks, and a tempting…
Windermere
Offering a traditional Afternoon Tea in the heart of the Lake District.
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
A real Lakeland hidden treasure set in the beautiful village of Troutbeck, this 17thC solid stone and slate house sits imposingly on the hillside, its huge chimneys typical of the area.
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 for Wild Swim Club! Experience the incredible benefits of this exhilarating activity as our expert guide, Karen, leads you through the session in the picturesque River Leven.
Session Details:
Dates & Times: Thursday 11th June, 6-7pm
What…
Bowness-on-Windermere
"The difference between a Lady and flower girl isn't how she behaves, but how she is treated"
Eliza Doolittle is a Cockney flower girl with big dreams.
Henry Higgins is a brash Professor of Speech with a big ego.
When a chance encounter sparks a…
Windermere
Our choice of 4 self-catered apartments range from sleeping 2-8, are incredibly spacious and filled with plush furnishings, modern amenities, premium appliances and bespoke décor. We also offer EV-parking and pet-friendly stays.
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…
Newby Bridge
Staying at The Swan this Easter? Why not join us on Sunday 5th April, for our very own swanderful Easter egg hunt!
Lots of fun to be had for your little ones as they search for our hidden chocolate eggs.
The egg hunt begins at 2pm, please meet in…
Newby Bridge
We're looking forward to welcoming Amy Anderson Walmsley to The Swan on the 24th April for an evening of live music.
Join us for a night to remember.
015395 31681
Friday 24th April
6pm – 8pm
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
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…
Newby Bridge
Evie is a singer-songwriter from the Lake District. Evie has built up a vast repertoire of songs, with a special interest in jazz 'n' blues. Her soulful vocals and jazzy piano styles make her live performances a great experience.
We're looking…
Cumbria
Cycle out from Windermere and explore the lanes in this quiet corner to the south east of Lake Windermere. Finish the ride at Fell Foot park on the lake shore and let the Bike Bus bring you back to Windermere.
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…
Newby Bridge
Join us as we welcome Leon Knight to The Swan for a special performance from 6pm – 8pm on the 22nd May.
Enjoy sunshine on the terrace, live music, fantastic food and a lively atmosphere. We can't wait to welcome you with some spring time cheer!
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL