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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.
Set in the heart of the Lake District, in Bowness-on-Windermere, The Victoria Wood Theatre presents…
Laik manages super-stylish holiday homes in some of the favourite spots in the Lake District…
Hill of Oaks occupies a prime position on the shores of Windermere, making it extremely popular…
The family run Lamplighter Dining Rooms offers the very best in accommodation in the Lake District.
Zip World Windermere is an award-winning high ropes adventure company with 2 fantastic outdoor…
Discover a wide array of local freshwater and marine species including menacing pike, carp and rays…
Choices Health Club Windermere is a unique experience in the Lakes. A large gym, indoor swimming…
Escape to the Lake District whenever you choose by owning your own caravan holiday home at Park…
An intimate and luxury spa that cherishes special time together with private experiences just for…
Brockhole offers charging for electric vehicles, at a cost of £1 per 30 minutes. The charging point…
Set in its own elevated grounds in jolly Bowness, The Angel Inn has far-reaching views across Lake…
A short walk from the centre of Bowness is Cockshot Point on the lake shore. It’s the perfect place…
This ride circumnavigates Windermere's southern basin visitng a number of vantage points and…
Park Cliffe is an award-winning holiday park set in 25 acres of beautiful, unspoilt countryside,…
Nestled on the slopes of ancient woodland, Hill of Oaks is an award-winning 5 star holiday park…
We deliver everything you need to your accommodation, or to your designated preferred location (…
Superb luxury bed & breakfast overlooking Lake Windermere. 14 individually designed bedrooms &.…
The Fizzy Tarté serves a luxurious range of Champagne, Afternoon Teas & Cocktails in the Heart of…
The towns of Windermere and Bowness back onto a lovely little group of fells that extend east…
A spectacularly located site on the quieter western shores of Windermere, England’s largest lake…
Take in the stunning views from our lakeside Restaurant whilst dining from our seasonal menu, we…
38 Self catering dog friendly properties, from Lakeside to Woodland views. A romantic break for…
This November, the much-loved Winter Craft Fair returns to Blackwell – the Arts & Crafts house and…
Festive Quiz Night - Gather your friends, family, or colleagues and put your knowledge to the test…


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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Number of results: 223
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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.
Ambleside
Wray Pier offers a peaceful escape on Windermere’s western shore, giving visitors the chance to explore this tranquil corner of the lake by boat.
Windermere Lake Cruises offers sight-seeing tours every day except Christmas Day.
Lake Rd, Bowness-on-Windermere
Our pub is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day exploring the Lake District. We offer a wide selection of real ales, wines, and spirits, as well as a delicious menu of pub classics. Our friendly staff are always happy to chat and offer…
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…
Hawkshead, Lake Windermere
Adjacent to our clay pigeon shooting site, nestled in the heart of Graythwaite Estate, is where our archery and axe throwing adventures takes place. Enjoyed as individual experiences or bookable together with the chance to exercise your archery…
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…
Bowness on Windermere
Cumbria's biggest comedy club, Planet Mirth (est 2010) returns to Windermere!
Featuring four award-winning, Edinburgh Fringe-storming, prime time TV-smashing acts;
Dana Alexander
As seen on Russell Howard's Good News
"Painfully Funny" – The…
Rayrigg Rd, Bowness-on-Windermere
At 11am, gather round in the Boathouse for festive storytelling. Father Christmas' friendly elves will also be on hand to help and share cosy hot chocolates with children, adding an extra festive treat to the experience.
Father Christmas will…
Ulverston
Cycle route around the Cartmel Peninsula starting and finishing at Fell Foot.
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.
Cumbria
The towns of Windermere and Bowness back onto a lovely little group of fells that extend east towards Staveley and Crook. None of the summits have a particularly memorable shape and only a few exceed the 250m contour. Regardless of their modest…
Newby Bridge
The River Room Brasserie restaurant at The Swan Hotel offers a sophisticated dining experience for those looking for something truly special. With its 3-course menu, crafted by the hotel’s talented head chef, each dish is a work of art, made with…
Lake Road, Windermere
Hill of Oaks occupies a prime position on the shores of Windermere, making it extremely popular with people looking for lakeside holiday homes. The park is nestled in an ancient woodland of mature oak trees, offering over a mile of private…
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.
Bowness-on-Windermere
The multi-award winning, no.1 hotel for romance. Discover high-end luxury, designer decor, hot tubs and exclusive guest extras at the Cranleigh Boutique in Bowness-on-Windermere.
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.
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.
Far Sawrey, Ambleside
Unlock the secrets of essential oils as you learn to create your very own blend, uniquely tailored to your therapeutic needs and personal preferences. You'll then embark on the journey of infusing your aromatic blend into a natural soy wax candle.…
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…
Hawkshead, Lake Windermere
Nestled in the heart of Graythwaite Estate, on the southwest shore of Windermere, is our shooting site where we love to welcome first timers and experienced shots alike. We specialise in running relaxed sessions in a fun and informative environment.…
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL