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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.
Storrs Gate House has a five star grading with Visit Britain. Susann and Glenn welcome you to our…
Based on the novel by Michael Morpurgo After captivating audiences worldwide, Private Peaceful…
Low Wood Watersports and Activity Centre, with it's large lake frontage and extensive range of…
Lakeside Hotel, the best 4 star hotel on the shores of Windermere, offers you a unique location on…
Lake District self-catering near Windermere, 10 minutes from Bowness. Ideal for couples, with walks…
Nestled on the slopes of ancient woodland, Hill of Oaks is an award-winning 5 star holiday park…
Sail Windermere with us, feel the wind ruffle your hair, and then the surge of the boat as the…
This car park lies to the west of the foot of Windermere, north of Finsthwaite village. It is a…
Dinner is the highlight of any stay here at Lakeside, with two superb restaurants. In our Lakeview…
Yes, you can: Users of Mobility aids, anyone who can sit with support, wheelchair users, unsure or…
Tariff type: Multi Tariff. Public toilets on site.
Pay and display car park with a lovely view over Windermere Lake. Space for 22 vehicles, open 7…
BAHA stands over three tiers and is one of the finest bars in Bowness on Windermere, nestled back…
Join Green Man Survival in our private woodland on the shores of Windermere to discover the ancient…
A warm welcome awaits you at Lindeth Howe, a property once owned by Beatrix Potter. Set in 6 acres…
As well as beautiful scenery, the Lake District is also famous for its associations with a large…
Family Day Out – Walk the lakeshore, hop on a boat cruise, or enjoy a picnic by the water while the…
A walk around the shores of Lake Windermere and over the wooded fells of Claife Heights to the…
A delicate restoration to the Grade 2 listed hall, Fallbarrow Hall celebrates its history while…
An intimate and luxury spa that cherishes special time together with private experiences just for…
One of the largest Lake District Hotel’s, located in the best village to discover the beautiful…
Marina View in Bowness is a relaxed waterfront restaurant where great food meets stunning scenery.…
Nestled in the heart of Graythwaite Estate, on the southwest shore of Windermere, is our shooting…
Free car park with 15 spaces. Red Nab Car Park is a parking area on the west shore of…


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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Number of results: 249
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Bowness on Windermere
Set in the heart of the Lake District, in Bowness-on-Windermere, The Victoria Wood Theatre presents an outstanding year-round programme of drama, classical music, folk, comedy and film.
Windermere
Family Day Out – Walk the lakeshore, hop on a boat cruise, or enjoy a picnic by the water while the kids keep watch for the creature. It’s a magical way to make a family walk or boat trip even more exciting. A Lake District Character – Bownessie…
Windermere
A real Lakeland hidden treasure set in the beautiful village of Troutbeck, this 17thC solid stone and slate house sits imposingly on the hillside, its huge chimneys typical of the area.
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.…
Electric Bike Hire - E-Bikes delivered directly to your accommodation in the South Lakes by E-Bike Safaris. Experience cycling through the Cumbrian countryside, visiting all the attractions and having the comfort of the electric assistance.
Windermere
Discover the tales of Townend on our daily 45-minute guided tour at 3pm. Led by knowledgeable volunteers, this small-group tour offers a deeper exploration into the fascinating history of the people and objects connected to the home where one family…
Bowness-on-Windermere
Blackwell – the Arts & Crafts house is a rare architectural gem in the heart of the Lake District and offers a perfectly preserved snapshot of early 20th-century living.
A591, Windermere
Zip World Windermere is an award-winning high ropes adventure company with 2 fantastic outdoor experiences, Treetop Trek and Treetop Nets. If you’re looking for an unforgettable day out with friends or family, there is an outdoor adventure for…
Windermere
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Yorkshire Dales National Park on a full-day tour from the Lake District, where rolling green hills stretch as far as the eye can see, framed by iconic dry-stone walls and quaint country lanes. Immerse yourself…
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.…
TransPennine Express runs regular services to Carlisle, Penrith and Oxenholme for the Lake District, from Manchester Airport, Manchester, Liverpool, Preston, Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Yes, you can: Users of Mobility aids, Anyone who can sit with support, Users of Wheelchairs, Unsure or low confidence walkers, All people with visual impairments, People with Auditory impairments, People with learning difficulties, People with…
Kendal
Discover the epitome of luxury with ‘Posh Scran’ afternoon tea at Gilpin Lake House. Enjoy freshly made delicacies in a serene setting, complemented by fine teas, coffee or Champagne, with breathtaking views of Knipe Tarn.
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,…
We deliver everything you need to your accommodation, or to your designated preferred location ( including railway station’s) with tailor-made routes. Experience the pleasure of cycling through the Lake District countryside on Electric Bikes, around…
Lake Rd, Bowness-on-Windermere
Welcome to Herdy in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere, where you’ll find a cheerful little shop inspired by the characterful Herdwick sheep that have roamed the Lake District fells for generations.
Step inside our Bowness-on-Windermere store and…
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.
Ambleside Rd, Windermere
With stylish decor overlooking the lake, Blue Smoke is the perfect place to catch up with friends and family.
Windermere
Our Langdale Club bar and lounge offers a relaxed, informal dining experience whilst surrounded by a chic interior that takes infomal dining to refreshing new heights, sleek and elegant and designed to impress. The Club lounge is the perfect place…
Blackwell - the Arts & Crafts house, Bowness-on-Windermere
This November, the much-loved Winter Craft Fair returns to Blackwell – the Arts & Crafts house and for 2026, there's even more to enjoy as the fair takes place across two consecutive weekends!
Whether you're searching for a one-of-a-kind gift,…
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL