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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.
Discover the epitome of luxury with ‘Posh Scran’ afternoon tea at Gilpin Lake House. Enjoy freshly…
Brockhole offers charging for electric vehicles, at a cost of £1 per 30 minutes. The charging point…
Located on the peaceful River Leven, The Swan Hotel & Spa is the closest mooring available to the…
Steam from the lake shore of Windermere along the heritage track to Haverthwaite Station, where you…
Free car park with 20 spaces. Open 7 days a week.
Standing at the centre of the town of Bowness-on-Windermere, this Grade I listed church boasts…
Choices Health Club Windermere is a unique experience in the Lakes. A large gym, indoor swimming…
TransPennine Express runs regular services to Carlisle, Penrith and Oxenholme for the Lake…
A walk around the shores of Lake Windermere and over the wooded fells of Claife Heights to the…
Renew your mind, body and soul with our calming evening ritual at Lakeside Hotel, designed to help…
Discover the art of creating your own essential oil blend, tailored to your unique preferences and…
Nestled in the heart of the Lake District National Park, Bowness-on-Windermere is a picturesque…
The sport of rock climbing was essentially born here, and the Lake District has a rich heritage of…
Set in the heart of the Lake District, in Bowness-on-Windermere, The Victoria Wood Theatre presents…
One of the largest Lake District Hotel’s, located in the best village to discover the beautiful…
Specialist bike hire for everyone from 3 great locations around Lake Windermere. Electric bikes.…
Mountain Goat offers Airport Transfer Services to those traveling to and from South Lakes, the…
Relaxing with our afternoon tea experience, less than a stone's throw away from the water's edge of…
Tariff type: Multi Tariff. Public toilets on site.
Join us for a special evening of music, film and spoken word as we come together to mark Armistice…
A Wimbledon line judge for 20 years, comedian Pauline Eyre is ready to spill the Pimms on tennis…
Nestled between Windermere and Ambleside, Broadoaks Country House Hotel is a hidden gem in the…
Make memories, not just snapshots with a private photography experience in the Lake District…
A delicate restoration to the Grade 2 listed hall, Fallbarrow Hall celebrates its history while…


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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Number of results: 227
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Lakeside
Dinner is the highlight of any stay here at Lakeside, with two superb restaurants. In our Lakeview Restaurant every meal feels like a special occasion, including our famous breakfasts.
Bowness-on-Windermere
One of the largest Lake District Hotel’s, located in the best village to discover the beautiful Lake District, with the most exciting variety of experiences on your doorstep and views of Lake Windermere, just a short stroll from the bustling village…
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…
Windermere
Choices Health Club Windermere is a unique experience in the Lakes. A large gym, indoor swimming pool, luxury spa and fitness classes all under one roof. Bring the whole family down for a swim, use us to keep up with your home fitness routine whilst…
Bowness-on-Windermere
The Oaks Country Estate - self catering properties to accommodate groups of friends and families. Our properties sleep from 2 people to 25 and all include a log burner, hot tub and all the home comforts needed to have fun, relax and make special…
Lakeside
Lakeside Hotel, the best 4 star hotel on the shores of Windermere, offers you a unique location on the water's edge. It is a classic traditional Lakeland Hotel, personally owned and managed and in a delightful setting.
Crag Brow, Bowness on Windermere
Our third season of classic films highlights the exciting film career of Victoria Wood - writer, director and star in a wide variety of fascinating films showcasing her amazing talent. Each screening will be introduced, and you're invited to join…
Ulverston
Cycle route around the Cartmel Peninsula starting and finishing at Fell Foot.
Kirkland, Kendal
Enjoy some creative, festive family activities at Abbot Hall this winter!
Festive Cardmaking
Self-led activity available throughout December in the Creative Space/Coffee Bar
Stamp, trace, draw and decorate a greetings card to give to a loved…
Windermere
Make memories, not just snapshots with a private photography experience in the Lake District.
Perfect for couples, families and groups, these relaxed and enjoyable experiences combine exploration, creativity and practical photography tips in some…
Kendal
The Lyth and Winster valleys form a landscape of unspoilt pastoral delights - damson trees clustered in small orchards close to white-washed farmhouses, broadleaved woodlands brimming with bluebells and peaceful green undulating pastures.
Lake Rd, Bowness-on-Windermere
Join St John's Hospice for our Bowness-on-Windermere Light Up A Life Remembrance and Celebration Event.
Enjoy an evening of readings from staff, volunteers and family members with music provided by the Windermere & Bowness Community Choir and the…
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.
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.
Bowness-on-Windermere
A delicate restoration to the Grade 2 listed hall, Fallbarrow Hall celebrates its history while leaving ensuring it’s equipped to host a modern, 21st century get together for up to 36 people. Located in Fallbarrow Holiday Park, relax and unwind in…
Newby Bridge
Get into the festive spirit with our Christmas Luxury Wreath Workshop, hosted by the talented team at Bluebell & Ivy.
Create your own luxurious Christmas wreath using a beautiful selection of seasonal foliage, festive decorations and natural…
Bowness-on-Windermere
Big news – Trenchers Bowness on Windermere has officially arrived! Building on over four decades of tradition, this exciting new location will bring their award-winning fish and chips and seafood to the heart of the Lakes.
Newby Bridge
A half day's experience learning the core skills of bushcraft and survival with our expert instructors, including fire, shelter, water sourcing and more.
Newby Bridge
Pack your clothes along with your sense of adventure and escape for a couple of days to the woods on this fully catered, immersive experience, with some wild camping accommodation thrown in. You may be learning some survival skills, but don’t be…
Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere
Linthwaite House is the latest addition to the portfolio of Leeu Collection, the manifestation of founder Analjit Singh’s vision for sophisticated escapes and unique travel experiences.
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL