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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.
Although Wray Castle is only 180 years old it is a grand and imposing building on the west shores…
Paddle Windermere to a remote shore, light fire and cook on open fire. We are an inclusive company…
The Winander Club embraces the Club experience offering exclusivity with a sense of personal…
From its grandstand position overlooking Lake Windermere in Bowness, The Angel Inn is a must visit…
Hill of Oaks occupies a prime position on the shores of Windermere, making it extremely popular…
The Fizzy Tarté serves a luxurious range of Champagne, Afternoon Teas & Cocktails in the Heart of…
Join us at the historic Townend Lakeland barn in Troutbeck, Windermere to design and create your…
Short - Easy (6.2km)/ Off-road and Bridleway. Family Route
Take in the stunning views from our lakeside Restaurant whilst dining from our seasonal menu, we…
Set in its own elevated grounds in jolly Bowness, The Angel Inn has far-reaching views across Lake…
Nestled on the slopes of ancient woodland, Hill of Oaks is an award-winning 5 star holiday park…
A one day introduction to navigation and map reading suitable for beginners. If you have never…
Choices Health Club Windermere is a unique experience in the Lakes. A large gym, indoor swimming…
Cycle out from Windermere and explore the lanes in this quiet corner to the south east of Lake…
This November, the much-loved Winter Craft Fair returns to Blackwell – the Arts & Crafts house and…
Family Day Out – Walk the lakeshore, hop on a boat cruise, or enjoy a picnic by the water while the…
Mountain Goat offers Airport Transfer Services to those traveling to and from South Lakes, the…
Kankku has specially prepared 4x4 vehicles that you drive on rough and rocky scenic trails through…
A full day's experience learning the key skills of bushcraft and survival with our expert…
Welcome to Herdy in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere, where you’ll find a cheerful little shop…
Wake District is a family-run watersports business on Lake Windermere offering wakeboarding,…
Brockhole offers charging for electric vehicles, at a cost of £1 per 30 minutes. The charging point…
Zip World Windermere is an award-winning high ropes adventure company with 2 fantastic outdoor…
Since 1847 we’ve been committed to selling the best food and drink in attractive stores staffed…


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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Number of results: 249
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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.
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…
Ambleside Rd, Windermere
The UK's first-ever Gingerbread House Festival is an innovative and creative national event, competition and collaboration between Grasmere Gingerbread® and
Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa. The first-ever national celebration and bold reimagining of a…
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
The Queens Head features a cosy drinking area with newly-refurbished dining areas and 10 comfortable en-suite guest bedrooms providing the perfect base for guests to Cumbria and, of course, their four-legged companions.
Windermere
Our three warm and cosy pods are situated behind the main farm steading in a quiet setting away from the road and next to a small beck. The pods all have underfloor heating so you are guaranteed to be warm no matter the season. Unfortunately we…
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
Experience this stunning new show, featuring Amy's original Guitarist, Robin Banerjee, for what is set to be an unforgettable experience for fans of all ages.
Having already captured the heart of the internet with countless viral videos and…
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.
Ecclerigg, Windermere
The 5* Langdale Chase is a Luxury. exclusive, Lake District Hotel with unbeatable Windermere views. At Langdale Chase, you can do as much as you wish, or kick back and fine tune the art of doing absolutely nothing either on your own, as a couple,…
Newby Bridge
Long distance swimming isn't just about being in the water, it's about the journey. Swimming the length of the most iconic and longest lake in the country from one end to the other guarantees legendary status with the knowledge that the highly…
Windermere
Superb luxury bed & breakfast overlooking Lake Windermere. 14 individually designed bedrooms &. stunning gardens. Extensive breakfast menu. Full Afternoon Tea, Lunch, and Dinner menus available. Licensed bar. Wi-Fi. Parking.
Bowness-on-Windermere
A one day introduction to navigation and map reading suitable for beginners. If you have never looked at a map or would like to learn more about planning and following a route using paths and tracks then this is the course for you.
Bowness-on-Windermere
A warm welcome awaits you at Lindeth Howe, a property once owned by Beatrix Potter. Set in 6 acres of beautiful grounds, with stunning views over lake Windermere and to the fells beyond. The hotel boasts beautiful bedrooms, cosy lounges, a well…
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.
Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere
Soak up the magic of a summer evening on England's finest lake!
Enjoy live music, a delicious buffet, and breathtaking views as you cruise the full length of Windermere.
What's Included?
• Full Lake Cruise – A 2½ hour journey showcasing the best…
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
Delightful recently refurbished cottages in a quiet location, yet a stroll from Windermere & Bowness. Abbey Coach House Cottages are set within extensive gardens & ideally based for exploring the Lakes. Pets welcome & bike storage available
Newby Bridge
Family-friendly park with green lawns sloping down to the lakeshore. Just the place to enjoy access to Lake Windermere with picnic areas, boat hire and tea room.
Bowness-on-Windermere
The Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa stands right on the shore of Windermere and boasts unrivalled views of England's largest lake.
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL