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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.
A real Lakeland hidden treasure set in the beautiful village of Troutbeck, this 17thC solid stone…
Steam from the lake shore of Windermere along the heritage track to Haverthwaite Station, where you…
Nestled on the shores of Lake Windermere, in the heart of the National Park, with Wainwrights walks…
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Lake District. Travel through the…
Buses to and through Sawrey: Cross Lakes Shuttle 525 Bowness - Ferry House - Hawkshead - Grizedale…
It's been 17 years since the release of Elio's critically acclaimed debut album of his own songs,…
Guess who's back… back for good!✨ Our Summer Spa-rtys have returned — and this time it's all about…
Electric Bike Hire - E-Bikes delivered directly to your accommodation in the South Lakes by E-Bike…
Mark, once half of legendary radio double-act Mark and Lard, has been on the national airwaves…
Wray Pier offers a peaceful escape on Windermere’s western shore, giving visitors the chance to…
Paddleboarding will be back in 2026 Try something new and have a splashing time! We've again…
At Broadoaks, afternoon tea is served in the traditional manner on a three-tiered plate, featuring…
Tariff type: Multi Tariff. Public toilets on site.
A delicate restoration to the Grade 2 listed hall, Fallbarrow Hall celebrates its history while…
A full day's experience learning the key skills of bushcraft and survival with our expert…
Who likes to rock?! ACDC Black Ice Tribute Band - formed by brothers Gary (Angaz) Robertson as…
Parkland and Gothic Revival castle sitting on the west shore of Windermere providing an impressive…
Paddle Windermere to a remote shore, light fire and cook on open fire. We are an inclusive company…
Free car park with 15 spaces. Red Nab Car Park is a parking area on the west shore of…
Step into the world of James Herriot on the All Creatures Great and Small Tour, set against the…
Just outside the front of the The World of Beatrix Potter™ Attraction is our boutique nursery Shop…
Our pub is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day exploring the Lake District. We offer…
John Ruskin's Brasserie brings contemporary chic to Lakeside with an informal bustling atmosphere.…
Discover the history of the Wray estate on a 45‑minute Walk & Talk led by a knowledgeable member of…


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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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.
Ambleside
Summer of Play stretches across the school summer holidays at Wray.
Designed for families and children of all ages, Wray's outdoor spaces will become a hive of activity.
Let your imagination run wild with natural play at Wray this summer.…
Windermere
Located in the pretty Troutbeck Valley, you'll discover a relaxed park within some of England’s most beautiful scenery at Limefitt Holiday Park. Perfect for walkers, it's a great base for exploring the towns and villages of the Lake District.
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…
Windermere
Step into the glamour and intrigue of the roaring twenties for a night unlike any other at Merewood. Expect an evening of laughter, suspense and scandal as a thrilling murder mystery unfolds around you.
As you enjoy a delicious two-course…
Bowness-On-Windermere
ACDC Black Ice Tribute Band - formed by brothers Gary (Angaz) Robertson as Angus Young playing lead guitar and Mike Robertsonas Brian Johnson singing lead vocals.
The band formed in 2009 with Mike's two sons Ash and Elliott Robertson supplying the…
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.
Lakeside
Steam from the lake shore of Windermere along the heritage track to Haverthwaite Station, where you can visit the station tea room, gift shop, woodland playground, picnic area and engine shed. Steam trains running a seasonal daily service from…
Windermere
Nestled on the shores of Lake Windermere, in the heart of the National Park, with Wainwrights walks a stone’s throw away and the pretty Lakeland village of Ambleside a mile away, Low Wood Bay is the perfect base for relaxing and exploring the Lakes.
Windermere
Matson Ground Holiday Cottages offers four charming, self-catering cottages in the heart of the Lake District. A stay in one of our cottages supports conservation and biodiversity projects on our 500 hectare organic farm.
With two cottages…
Windermere
Our modern, fully furnished and equipped caravan holiday homes are situated in a quiet area, adjacent to the main touring park yet within easy reach of all the park amenities.
Windermere
The Winander Club embraces the Club experience offering exclusivity with a sense of personal service, alongside all the amenities of the resort on your doorstep.
Windermere
This Halloween, take an exclusive night time tour of Townend by candlelight, exploring the superstitious beliefs and macabre potions of the 17th century Browne family. £18pp (Suitable for children 11+)
This tour invites you to not only explore…
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
Molly Warburton, a UK Indie Pop singer-songwriter from Lancaster, will be joining us at The Swan on 25th September for a night of live music!
Previously featured on BBC Introducing, MusicCrowns, and Spotify Editorial Playlists, Molly's soulful…
Windermere is England's largest and most popular lake, stretching over 11 miles (18km) through the heart of the Lake District. Windermere has attracted visitors for centuries, and today it is still a great escape for water activities, boat rides,…
Cumbria
This tour visits Windermere's neighbouring villages of Staveley and Troubeck, making use of the network of back lanes and cycle paths that weave through the intervening fells.
Lake Road, Windermere
In an enviable position, perched on the shores of Windermere, The Waterbird Boathouse is an impressive lakefront apartment offering a truly memorable stay.
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…
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…
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL