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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 Tours has over 50 years’ experience and recognises itself as the No.1 Lake District…
British and continental menu served up in contemporary, colourful, and classy surroundings.
This Halloween, take an exclusive night time tour of Townend by candlelight, exploring the…
Our Lake District E-Bike tours are designed to suit all fitness levels (age 14+ years), for leisure…
Matson Ground Holiday Cottages offers four charming, self-catering cottages in the heart of the…
Who likes to rock?! ACDC Black Ice Tribute Band - formed by brothers Gary (Angaz) Robertson as…
Based on the novel by Michael Morpurgo After captivating audiences worldwide, Private Peaceful…
One of the largest Lake District Hotel’s, located in the best village to discover the beautiful…
Discover the tales of Townend on our daily 45-minute guided tour at 3pm. Led by knowledgeable…
Step into the world of James Herriot on the All Creatures Great and Small Tour, set against the…
Our Langdale Club bar and lounge offers a relaxed, informal dining experience whilst surrounded by…
We offer 7 different glamping options at Park Cliffe so you’ll find one that perfectly suits your…
The Queens Head features a cosy drinking area with newly-refurbished dining areas and 10…
Take your seats and join the fun as Peter Rabbit and his friends hop from page to stage in a…
Cycle route around the Cartmel Peninsula starting and finishing at Fell Foot.
This tour visits Windermere's neighbouring villages of Staveley and Troubeck, making use of the…
The 5* Langdale Chase is a Luxury. exclusive, Lake District Hotel with unbeatable Windermere views.…
The family run Lamplighter Dining Rooms offers the very best in accommodation in the Lake District.
Buses to and through Windermere: Coniston Rambler 505 Windermere - Ambleside - Hawkshead -…
Tariff type: Multi Tariff. Public toilets on site.
A full day's experience learning the key skills of bushcraft and survival with our expert…
Situated on the picturesque River Leven at the southern tip of Lake Windermere, this 17th-century…
We deliver everything you need to your accommodation, or to your designated preferred location (…
Yes, you can: Users of Mobility aids, Anyone who can sit with support, Users of Wheelchairs, Unsure…


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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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
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
A stunning four star hotel set in 17 acres of grounds on the shores of Lake Windermere.
Tower Wood, Windermere
Lake District self-catering near Windermere, 10 minutes from Bowness. Ideal for couples, with walks from the doorstep, Fell Foot nearby and stunning Lake Windermere views.
Windermere
Canoe, Paddleboard, Kayaking in Windermere, Lake District. Tailored made courses from sea to surf, lakes to rivers, adults to children.
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…
Victoria Street, Windermere
Mountain Goat offers Airport Transfer Services to those traveling to and from South Lakes, the Furness Peninsula and North Lancashire. Single and return services are available from all main UK airports and ports throughout the year.
Windermere
Windermere Jetty Museum is a vibrant, family-friendly visitor attraction dedicated to the boats, people and the rich history of Windermere, England’s largest natural lake.
Newby Bridge
We're looking forward to welcoming Reuben Tighe to The Swan on the 11th September for an evening of live music.
Reuben Tighe fingerpicks his way through an eclectic mix of blues, foot stomping folk and original music, delivering a euphonious…
Ambleside
Although Wray Castle is only 180 years old it is a grand and imposing building on the west shores of Windermere. The Tramper gives access to the wonderful and varied grounds of the Castle.
There are beautiful views over Lake Windermere as well as…
Our Lake District E-Bike tours are designed to suit all fitness levels (age 14+ years), for leisure cyclists with flexible daily itineraries and timings. Choose one of our Day Tours or Multi-Day Holidays, or let E-Bike Safaris tailor-make your tour…
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
Windermere Ferry takes people, vehicles, horses and cycles across the lake. It links the busy eastern shore of the lake and the peaceful countryside between Windermere and Coniston on the west, where there are many attractions and facilities for…
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…
Bowness-On-Windermere
Brand new Free house British pub, serving home made classic British pub food, real fires, real ale and dog friendly.
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 13th August,…
Hawkshead, Lake Windermere
Get behind the wheel with this brilliant 4x4 experience with Graythwaite Adventure. With careful planning and consideration for the natural landscape, we’ve designed the Lake District’s only off-road course with BORDA (British Off Road Driving…
Bowness-on-Windermere
Dorothy’s place is a beautiful one bedroom apartment, set in beautiful grounds overlooking lake Windermere. A stone's throw away from Bowness bay, with plenty to do. Also secluded and private for a romantic getaway. Dorothy’s is self check-in, but…
Kendal Rd, Bowness-on-Windermere
Founded by the visionary Lionel Black, Regatta Great Outdoors was designed to help everyone make the most of time spent in the great outdoors. Regatta offers a wide selection of waterproof jackets, fleeces, walking trousers, footwear and…
Windermere
At Gilpin Hotel all 30 bedrooms have lovely Lakeland views, most leading directly onto the gardens – All 6 Junior Suite and 6 Garden Suites have decked or slate patios with their own outdoor hot tubs, 5 Spa Lodges have their own ensuite spa…
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL