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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.
Join us at Windermere Hire Boats and create unforgettable memories on England’s most beautiful lake…
Zip World Windermere is an award-winning high ropes adventure company with 2 fantastic outdoor…
Relaxing with our afternoon tea experience, less than a stone's throw away from the water's edge of…
Our pub is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day exploring the Lake District. We offer…
Christmas is fast approaching and Santa's Sleigh is nowhere to be found. Will Sprocket and Dibs be…
Open all day, seven days a week from 8am to 8pm. Pay by Phone code: 9575
Discover life on Windermere through the lens of award-winning artist Juliet Klottrup. This…
This ride circumnavigates Windermere's southern basin visitng a number of vantage points and…
Mountain Goat offers Airport Transfer Services to those traveling to and from South Lakes, the…
The Spa at Low Wood Bay will take you on a journey of indoor and outdoor thermal spaces, exquisite…
Nestled between Windermere and Ambleside, Broadoaks Country House Hotel is a hidden gem in the…
Yes, you can: Users of Mobility aids, Anyone who can sit with support, Users of Wheelchairs, Unsure…
Discover a wide array of local freshwater and marine species including menacing pike, carp and rays…
Short - Easy (6.2km)/ Off-road and Bridleway. Family Route
Wednesday 31st December (NYE) Millie Mac Live, DJ Robin Kershaw & Sax 7pm - 1.30am ️ Tickets -…
Windermere Jetty Museum is a vibrant, family-friendly visitor attraction dedicated to the boats,…
The Lyth and Winster valleys form a landscape of unspoilt pastoral delights - damson trees…
Our modern hard standing touring caravan and motorhome pitches have been tastefully landscaped into…
We're delighted to welcome Ash Nelson to The Swan on 29th December for a cosy Twixmas evening of…
For a special Lake District experience, enjoy a trip on a fully restored wooden heritage boat from…
Charter a skippered yacht for a 2 hour sailing experience for up to 4 people, get involved and take…
Join Green Man Survival for our most in depth and demanding survival challenge. You will spend 72…
Lakelovers is the self-catering company of choice for tens of thousands of holiday makers each year…
Travel in style with your own private driver to visit four of the best country pubs that surround…


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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Number of results: 302
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Windermere
Nestling in the hills of the Troutbeck Valley, a place for walkers and pilgrims to pause, reflect and find their eternal bearings.
One of only two churches in England dedicated as Jesus Church. Built to serve two settlements, yet sited in neither,…
Windermere
Green Man Survival provides survival and bushcraft training and experiences in the Lake District National Park. Our experiences are suitable for all including families, couples and friends, and we also offer group training courses that are suitable…
Newby Bridge
We're excited to welcome Rob Thompson to The Swan on 28th December for a laid-back Twixmas evening of live music.
Sink into the in-between-days bliss as Rob performs a mix of acoustic favourites, feel-good classics, and modern crowd-pleasers – the…
Bowness-on-Windermere
Whether you’re keen to try outdoor activities or just want to relax and unwind in a stunning location, you'll enjoy every moment spent on a holiday at Fallbarrow Holiday Park.
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.
Far Sawrey, Ambleside
Discover the art of creating your own essential oil blend, tailored to your unique preferences and therapeutic needs. You will be expertly guided through the technique and then learn how to make your own soap using your bespoke blend. Elevate your…
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…
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.
Bowness on Windermere
Listen and watch the Hatter as he tells the story of Alice's journey in Wonderland through puppets, beautiful painted scenery, music , song and of course hats!
Along the way meet some strange and magical creatures, get to wear one of the Hatter's…
Bowness
"The best of British theatre on a cinema screen near you"
Showtimes
Sunday 5 October 2025
19:30
Thursday 9 October 2025
19:30
Oscar-nominated Rosamund Pike (Gone Girl, Saltburn) is Jessica in the much-anticipated next play from the team behind…
Bowness on Windermere
Directors: Stanley Donen, Gene Kelly. Starring: Gene Kelly, Debby Reynolds, Donald O'Connor, Jean Hagen, Cyd Charisse
Originating from a plan to make use of MGM's large back catalogue of songs from the twenties, a simple story of two silent…
Windermere
Escape the crowds and explore Lake Windermere at your own pace! Choose your adventure with Windermere Lake Cruises self-drive boat hire. Whether you crave the quiet charm of a classic rowboat or the effortless glide of an electric motorboat, we've…
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…
Newby Bridge
Time: 7.00pm
Location: Begins in The Ballroom, The Swan Hotel
Join us for a spine-chilling evening of live storytelling, inspired by real Cumbrian legends and historic horrors. This immersive experience unfolds across several locations in and…
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.
Blackwell - the Arts & Crafts house, Bowness-on-Windermere
Enjoy a fun festive day out with the family at Blackwell – the Arts & Crafts house on Saturday 20 December!
Throughout the day, you can enjoy cheerful storytelling with Taffy Thomas MBE, live folk music, creative hands-on activities and a sprinkle…
Bowness on Windermere
Martyn Joseph is a completely unique and mind-blowing artist. Take everything you think you know about singer songwriters and rip it up. For one man and a guitar he creates a performance with a huge far-reaching sound that is energetic, compelling,…
Windermere
Enjoy a superb traditional afternoon tea at Lindeth Fell which includes a selection of delicious home made sandwiches and sweets along with a selection of leaf teas. Licensed bar. Wi-Fi. Parking.
Bowness
Step into the world of Fleetwood Nick'd—where timeless hits, rich harmonies, and '70s rock & roll collide.
Fleetwood Nick'd is more than just a tribute—they're a full-bodied revival of the magic and mystique of Fleetwood Mac.
Lose yourself in a…
Windermere
Sit back, relax, and get ready to be amazed as you journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Lake District, where you'll see the beauty of ten stunning lakes—including the iconic Windermere, the tranquil Brotherswater, the majestic…
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL