Don't Miss

Windermere & Bowness The Lake District, Cumbria
Windermere & Bowness The Lake District, Cumbria
Windermere & Bowness The Lake District, Cumbria

You are here: Home > Explore Cumbria > Windermere & Bowness

Windermere & Bowness

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.

See & Do

Visit St Mary’s Church: Here, you’ll find St. Mary's Church, standing proudly since 1848. This architectural gem, adorned with stained glass windows, reflects the town's Victorian legacy.
Walk up Orrest Head: this short, popular walk can be enjoyed from the centre of Windermere town. It takes you along a clearly signposted path to the top of Orrest Head Fell, where you’ll find a viewpoint with panoramic views over Windermere and the central fells. It is also one of 50 accessible ‘Miles Without Stiles’ routes as part of an initiative by the Lake District National Park Authority (LDNPA).
Eat & Drink: Windermere is home to a wide variety of great places to eat and drink - from excellent cafes to pubs and restaurants. You can also pick up local produce and cooking equipment, and enjoy some retail therapy.

Nearby Towns

Ambleside: Nestled on the northern shores of Lake Windermere, Ambleside is a picturesque town renowned for its charming streets, great walking opportunities, vibrant local shops, and fantastic food and drink.
Bowness-on-Windermere: Adjacent to Windermere, Bowness offers a lively atmosphere with lakeside attractions, diverse dining options, and opportunities for boat trips on the lake.
Grasmere: Known for its idyllic setting and as the final resting place of poet William Wordsworth, Grasmere invites visitors to explore its literary and natural wonders.

Surrounding Areas

Orrest Head: Hike to the summit of Orrest Head for breathtaking vistas of the Lake District, a vantage point that inspired Alfred Wainwright.
Troutbeck: Immerse yourself in the charm of Troutbeck, a quintessential Lakeland village with ancient stone buildings and scenic walking routes.

Getting Here

By car: Windermere is located along the A591, which runs through the central lakes from Kendal to Keswick and provides easy access by car to this Lakeland town.
By bus: Several buses serve the town of Windermere, including the Stagecoach 555, 505, 599, 755, and 6 bus services.
By train: Windermere Train Station is centrally located, and is served by Northern Rail services from Manchester; connections are also available from locations across the country via Oxenholme The Lake District train station

Did you know?

ST MARTIN'S CHURCH

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.

HILL TOP

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.

ORREST HEAD

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).

BROCKHOLE

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.

THE DALES WAY

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.

HOLEHIRD GARDENS

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.

WRAY CASTLE

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

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

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.

THE CRIER OF CLAIFE

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.

Highlights

Windermere Canoe Kayak

Canoe, Paddleboard, Kayaking in Windermere, Lake District. Tailored made courses from sea to surf,…

M H Baillie Scott: Architect & Designer

To celebrate 125 years of Blackwell, Lakeland Arts will be showcasing a major exhibition of works…

Windermere Jetty Museum

Windermere Jetty Museum is a vibrant, family-friendly visitor attraction dedicated to the boats,…

Afternoon Tea at Cedar Manor

Offering a traditional Afternoon Tea in the heart of the Lake District.

Cece Monsoon presents Bold As Brass

INTERNATIONAL DRAG ROYALTY Direct from prestigious theatres and luxury cruise ships around the…

Long Valley Yurts - Windermere - Lakeside

A spectacularly located site on the quieter western shores of Windermere, England’s largest lake…

Low Wood Watersports Centre

Low Wood Watersports and Activity Centre, with it's large lake frontage and extensive range of…

Heritage Boat Trips at Windermere Jetty Museum

For a special Lake District experience, enjoy a trip on a fully restored wooden heritage boat from…

Beech Hill Car Park

Pay and display car park with 56 spaces.Beech Hill car park is situated on the A592, midway between…

Afternoon Tea at Gilpin Lake House

Discover the epitome of luxury with ‘Posh Scran’ afternoon tea at Gilpin Lake House. Enjoy freshly…

Dorothy's Place

Dorothy’s place is a beautiful one bedroom apartment, set in beautiful grounds overlooking lake…

E-Bike Safaris - Cycling Holidays in the Lake District

Our Lake District E-Bike tours are designed to suit all fitness levels (age 14+ years), for leisure…

The Hideaway at Windermere

Located down a quiet country lane close to Windermere village. Personally owned by Richard & Lisa…

Windermere Marina Village

Experience a truly indulgent getaway at Windermere Marina Village, where our luxury holiday…

Inclusive Canoeing on Windermere with Anyone Can

Yes, you can: Users of Mobility aids, Anyone who can sit with support, Users of Wheelchairs, Unsure…

Lindeth Howe

A warm welcome awaits you at Lindeth Howe, a property once owned by Beatrix Potter. Set in 6 acres…

Fallbarrow Hall - Parkdean Resorts

A delicate restoration to the Grade 2 listed hall, Fallbarrow Hall celebrates its history while…

Private Peaceful

Based on the novel by Michael Morpurgo After captivating audiences worldwide, Private Peaceful…

Roman How

The house is in an elevated position with views of the Langdales in the distance. Shops are within…

St. Martin's Church, Bowness-on-Windermere

Standing at the centre of the town of Bowness-on-Windermere, this Grade I listed church boasts…

Building detectives walking tour

On the tour you'll take a close look at the exterior features of Townend, the unique 17th century…

All Creatures Great and Small from Windermere with Mountain Goat Tours

Step into the world of James Herriot on the All Creatures Great and Small Tour, set against the…

Two Day Wilderness Escape with Green Man Survival

Pack your clothes along with your sense of adventure and escape for a couple of days to the woods…

Hill Top, Beatrix Potter’s farmhouse retreat

Beatrix Potter's iconic house, full of her personal possessions, with traditional cottage garden.…

The Lake District Where modern tourism was born

Accommodation
Things to Do
What's On
Food & Drink
Towns & Villages

Things to Do

What's On

Food & Drink

Things to Do

What's On

Food & Drink

Towns & Villages

Number of results: 249

, currently showing 141 to 160.

Sort By A-Z Low to High A-Z High to Low

High to Low

Live Music at The Swan - Molly Warburton

Address

Conferences, Weddings & Events at The Swan Hotel & Spa, The Swan Hotel & Spa, Newby Bridge, Cumbria, LA12 8NB

Telephone
015395 31681

events@swanhotel.com

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…

More Details

More Details
Tour of Lake Windermere.

Address

Windermere, Cumbria

Cumbria

This ride circumnavigates Windermere's southern basin visitng a number of vantage points and returning via a ride across it on the car ferry.

More Details

More Details
Lake District Photography Experiences

Address

The Glebe, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3HJ

Telephone
07763771798

info@focusonphotographers.co.uk

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…

More Details

More Details
Afternoon Tea at Merewood Country House Hotel

Address

Ecclerigg, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 1LH

Telephone
015394 46484

info@merewoodhotel.co.uk

Windermere

Surrounded by spectacular Lakeland views, indulge in one of the finest British traditions and take Afternoon Tea at Merewood.

More Details

More Details
M H Baillie Scott: Architect & Designer

Address

Blackwell – the Arts & Crafts House, Blackwell, Blackwell - the Arts & Crafts house, Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3JT

Telephone
015394 46139

info@lakelandarts.org.uk

Blackwell - the Arts & Crafts house, Bowness-on-Windermere

To celebrate 125 years of Blackwell, Lakeland Arts will be showcasing a major exhibition of works by its architect, the Arts & Crafts designer Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott (1865-1945).
This exhibition brings together significant works by Baillie…

More Details

More Details
E-Bike Safaris - Electric Bike Hire & Tours

Address

Cumbria

Telephone
07930 869351

info@ebikesafaris.com

Whether you would like to rent an Electric Bike or join a Bike Tour or Holiday, we organise everything and provide self-guided tours with tailored routes to suite you.

More Details

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
81 reviews
More Details
Elio Pace Live

Address

The Victoria Wood Theatre, The Victoria Wood Theatre, Crag Brow, Bowness on Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3BX

Telephone
01539440872

tickets@victoriawoodtheatre.com

Crag Brow, Bowness on Windermere

It's been 17 years since the release of Elio's critically acclaimed debut album of his own songs, 'A Seat At My Table'. The wait is over!
Taking a break from his smash hit, award-winning 'The Billy Joel Songbook' tours, which continue to soar to…

More Details

More Details
Summer of Play at Wray

Address

Wray, Low Wray, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 0JA

Telephone
015394 33250

wraycastle@nationaltrust.org.uk

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.…

More Details

More Details
BAHA - Live Entertainment

Address

BAHA Bowness - Bar | Restaurant | Live Music, 18 Ash St, Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3EB

Telephone
01539 277515

enquiries@bahabowness.com

Bowness-on-Windermere

Visit BAHA and enjoy LIVE MUSIC on Fridays & Saturdays all year round!

More Details

More Details
Heritage Boat Trips at Windermere Jetty Museum

Address

Windermere Jetty Museum - Stories of boats and steam, Jetty Museum, Rayrigg Rd, Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 1BN

Telephone
01539 637940

info@lakelandarts.org.uk

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.

More Details

Tourism For All

More Details
Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway - Lakeside Pier

Address

Lakeside, Lakeside, Cumbria, LA12 8AS

Telephone
015395 31594

info@lakesiderailway.co.uk

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…

More Details

Tourism For All

More Details
St. Peter's Church, Finsthwaite

Address

Finsthwaite, ULVERSTON, Cumbria, LA12 8BJ

Telephone
01539 531735

ULVERSTON

St Peter’s was built in 1874 designed by well known Lancashire firm of Paley and Austin and won an award for its design as a ‘mountain chapel’.

More Details

More Details
Wurlitzer Organ Afternoon Tea Dance

Address

Lake Road, Windermere, Bowness On Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3BJ

Telephone
07821 888969

royaltybowness@gmail.com

Bowness On Windermere

Cream tea included in the ticket price, if you would like more refreshments they are available at the kiosk or bar at extra cost.
Come and join in with our vintage afternoon tea dance with Ian Midgley playing the Wurlitzer. Dancing is not…

More Details

More Details
The Hideaway at Windermere

Address

The Hideaway, Phoenix Way, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 1DB

Telephone
01539 443070

eatandstay@thehideawayatwindermere.co.uk

Windermere

Located down a quiet country lane close to Windermere village. Personally owned by Richard & Lisa Gornall.

More Details

More Details
Storrs Gate House

Address

Storrs Gate House, Longtail Hill, Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3JD

Telephone
015394 43272

enquiries@storrsgatehouse.co.uk

Bowness-on-Windermere

Storrs Gate House has a five star grading with Visit Britain. Susann and Glenn welcome you to our luxury family run country guest house, situated opposite lake Windermere.

More Details

More Details
Arboreal at Merewood Country House Hotel

Address

Merewood Country House Hotel, Ecclerigg, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 1LH

Telephone
015394 46484

info@merewoodhotel.co.uk

Windermere

Arboreal is our Two AA Rosette fine dining restaurant, offering an unforgettable seven-course tasting menu. Inspired by Head Chef Ambrus' philosophy of using the finest seasonal, fresh produce, each dish is designed to let the ingredients shine.…

More Details

More Details
The Survivor - A Half Day Bushcraft and Survival Training Experience with Green Man Survival

Address

Newby Bridge, Cumbria, LA12 8NP

Telephone
07946841772

contact@greenmansurvival.co.uk

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.

More Details

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
70 reviews
More Details
Facilities

Beyonk Online Booking
- Bookable Product
Long Valley Yurts - Windermere - Lakeside

Address

Newby Bridge, Lakeside, Cumbria, LA12 8BD

Telephone
01539 267030

glamping@long-valley-yurts.co.uk

Lakeside

A spectacularly located site on the quieter western shores of Windermere, England’s largest lake and with stunning views our Lakeside site has it all in spades. Each of our yurts here have stunning lake views and are a hop, skip and a splosh away…

More Details

More Details
Buses to and through Sawrey

Address

Sawrey, -

Telephone
0871 200 22 33

website@cumbriatourism.org

-

Buses to and through Sawrey:
Cross Lakes Shuttle 525 Bowness - Ferry House - Hawkshead - Grizedale - Coniston - seasonal.

More Details

More Details
Alfie Moore- Acopalypse Now

Address

The Victoria Wood Theatre, The Victoria Wood Theatre, Crag Brow, Bowness on Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3BX

Telephone
01539440872

tickets@victoriawoodtheatre.com

Crag Brow, Bowness on Windermere

The Four Horsemen of Rising Crime, Global Warming, AI and Culture Wars are galloping towards us. Are we on the road to hell? And can we avoid the potholes? In his brand new tour show 'Fair Cop' Alfie has the antidote to the breakdown of law and…

More Details

More Details

Don't Miss

Summer

Subscribe to our Newsletter

My Planner

Windermere & Bowness

See & Do

Nearby Towns

Surrounding Areas

Getting Here

Did you know?

ST MARTIN'S CHURCH

HILL TOP

ORREST HEAD

BROCKHOLE

THE DALES WAY

HOLEHIRD GARDENS

WRAY CASTLE

WILLIAM WORDSWORTH

BEATRIX POTTER

THE CRIER OF CLAIFE

Highlights

Address

Telephone

Address

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Tourism For All

Address

Telephone

Tourism For All

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Facilities

Beyonk Online Booking

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

You may also like

Bookable Experiences

Download Guide

Gift Vouchers

Itineraries

E-newsletter Sign Up

Blog