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

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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

Candle Masterclass Experience at Pure Lakes

Unlock the secrets of essential oils as you learn to create your very own blend, uniquely tailored…

Rayrigg Meadow Car Park

Tariff type: Multi Tariff. Public toilets on site.

The Bowman - A Family Friendly Woodland Archery Experience with Green Man Survival

Join Green Man Survival in our private woodland on the shores of Windermere to discover the ancient…

Windermere Western Shore

The cycle track sandwiched between the lake edge and the steep flanks of Claife Heights gives a…

Peter Rabbit Cafe

Brunch, Lunch & Afternoon Teas in Bowness-on-Windermere. Located just opposite the World of Beatrix…

High Dam Car Park, near Windermere

This car park lies to the west of the foot of Windermere, north of Finsthwaite village. It is a…

Broadoaks Country House

Nestled between Windermere and Ambleside, Broadoaks Country House Hotel is a hidden gem in the…

Becoming Victoria Wood

Victoria Wood remains one of Britain's most cherished entertainers – a comic genius whose work…

Lake District Sheep Dog Trials

Sheep Dog Trials running all day along with an open dog show, hound trail races, craft stalls, bar…

TransPennine Express

TransPennine Express runs regular services to Carlisle, Penrith and Oxenholme for the Lake…

Aquatic Quays Windermere

Welcome to Aquatic Quays Windermere. We are the U.K.s largest importer and distributor for Bayliner…

48 - Two Day Wilderness Survival Training Course with Green Man Survival

Our reality-based 2 day survival training course will give you the skills to be self-sufficient in…

Long Valley Yurts - Windermere - Lakeside

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

Hill of Oaks - Waterbird Boathouse

In an enviable position, perched on the shores of Windermere, The Waterbird Boathouse is an…

'The Second Best Bed'

When Shakespeare died, he famously left his wife Anne only one thing – the second best bed. This…

Booths Windermere

Since 1847 we’ve been committed to selling the best food and drink in attractive stores staffed…

Teechers

New Year. . . same problems! It is the end of term and Godber's hilarious comedy masterpiece has…

Troutbeck and Staveley

This tour visits Windermere's neighbouring villages of Staveley and Troubeck, making use of the…

Windermere and Crook

The towns of Windermere and Bowness back onto a lovely little group of fells that extend east…

Storrs Gate House

Storrs Gate House has a five star grading with Visit Britain. Susann and Glenn welcome you to our…

Cross Lake Shuttle - Windermere Lake Cruises

A combined boat and bus ticket for travel between Bowness and Hawkshead/surrounding villages. The…

Harrowslack Car Park (National Trust), Windermere West Shore

Pay & Display car park (NT members free)with 24 spaces. A narrow, single track lane leads to this…

Hammarbank Car Park, Windermere

Pay and display car park with a lovely view over Windermere Lake. Space for 22 vehicles, open 7…

Cedar Manor

Situated in the midst of all the beauty and grandeur of the English Lake District, the Cedar Manor…

The Lake District Where modern tourism was born

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Aquatic Quays Windermere

Address

Glebe Road, Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3HE

Telephone
015394 42121

marisa@aquaticboatcentres.com

Windermere

Welcome to Aquatic Quays Windermere. We are the U.K.s largest importer and distributor for Bayliner boats located on the beautiful shores of Lake Windermere, Cumbria.

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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…

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Graythwaite Estate

Address

Graythwaite Estate, Estate Office, Graythwaite, Ulverston, Cumbria, LA12 8BA

Telephone
01539531248

estate@graythwaite.com

Graythwaite, Ulverston

38 Self catering dog friendly properties, from Lakeside to Woodland views. A romantic break for two, an adventurous family vacation or an elaborate celebration, we have accommodation fit for all occasions.

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Spa Space at Gilpin Hotel

Address

Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Crook Rd, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3NE

Telephone
015394 88818

hotel@thegilpin.co.uk

Windermere

An intimate and luxury spa that cherishes special time together with private experiences just for two.

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Tourism For All

Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
2415 reviews
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Rides from the Bike Bus, Windermere to Fell Foot.

Address

Windermere, Cumbria

info@windermereinfo.co.uk

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.

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Marina View

Address

Marina View, Windermere Marina Village, Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3JQ

Telephone
015394 22785

eat@marinaviewwindermere.co.uk

Bowness-on-Windermere

Marina View in Bowness is a relaxed waterfront restaurant where great food meets stunning scenery. Our menu features fresh, seasonal dishes, weekly specials, and our famous Sunday roast — all served with warm, friendly service. With indoor and…

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Screen Classics Musical: Tommy - Cheese & Wine Film Evening

Address

Crag Brow, Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3BX

Telephone
015394 40872

boxoffice@worldofbeatrixpotter.com

Bowness-on-Windermere

Musical – Tommy (1975)
Ken Russell's flamboyant rock opera follows a "deaf, dumb and blind" boy who becomes a pinball prodigy and spiritual icon. Featuring music by The Who and star turns from Roger Daltrey, Elton John, and Ann-Margret.
Director:…

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Bowfell Cottage

Address

Middle Entrance Drive, Storrs Park, Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3JY

Telephone
01539 444835

annetomlinson45@btinternet.com

Bowness-on-Windermere

Bowfell Cottage is admirably situated fronting a private drive just off A5074, Lyth Valley Road, above eastern shore of the lake about 1 mile south of Bowness Bay and set in 0.5 acre of wooded ground and gardens. Excellent parking.

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Rides from the bike bus Cartmel Loop

Address

Fell Foot, Newby Bridge, Ulverston, Cumbria, LA12 8NN

Telephone
015394 63811

amy.froggatt@nationaltrust.org.uk

Ulverston

Cycle route around the Cartmel Peninsula starting and finishing at Fell Foot.

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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…

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Sailing Windermere

Address

Holly Road, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 2AF

Telephone
07928373326

info@sailingwindermere.co.uk

Windermere

Charter a skippered yacht for a two hour sailing experience for up to four people.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
232 reviews
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Total Adventure Bike Hire

Address

Total Adventure Bike Hire, 9 Church St, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 1AQ

Telephone
015394 43151

office@total-adventure.co.uk

Windermere

Specialist bike hire for everyone from 3 great locations around Lake Windermere. Electric bikes. Mountain bikes. Kid's bikes. Kid's seats and trailers. We have planned routes for you available as maps and downloads.

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February half term family activities

Address

Windermere Jetty Museum, Windermere Jetty, Rayrigg Road, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 1BN

Telephone
015394 46139

info@lakelandarts.org.uk

Rayrigg Road, Windermere

Join us for hands-on family fun this February half term at Windermere Jetty Museum. Perfect for all ages, our drop-in activities are inspired by boats, sailing and life on the lake.

Build a Boat with MakeDo tools
Using recycled cardboard and…

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Lakeside Hotel & Spa

Address

Lakeside Hotel & Spa, Newby Bridge, Lakeside, Cumbria, LA12 8AT

Telephone
015395 30001

reservations@lakesidehotel.co.uk

Lakeside

Lakeside Hotel, the best 4 star hotel on the shores of Windermere, offers you a unique location on the water's edge. It is a classic traditional Lakeland Hotel, personally owned and managed and in a delightful setting.

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Hammarbank Car Park, Windermere

Address

Priory Gardens, WINDERMERE, Cumbria, LA23 1JF

WINDERMERE

Pay and display car park with a lovely view over Windermere Lake. Space for 22 vehicles, open 7 days a week, no height restrictions.Charges apply every day, 9am to 6pm. There is often an ice cream van located in the car park, so go on, treat…

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Boat Hire from Aquatic Quays Windermere

Address

Glebe Road, Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3HE

Telephone
07957862277

hireboats@aquaticboatcentres.com

Windermere

Join us at Windermere Hire Boats and create unforgettable memories on England’s most beautiful lake. Whether you're a local resident or a visiting tourist, we are excited to welcome you aboard for a fantastic boating experience.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
170 reviews
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Beech Hill Car Park

Address

Newby Bridge Road, WINDERMERE, Cumbria, LA23 3PR

WINDERMERE

Pay and display car park with 56 spaces.Beech Hill car park is situated on the A592, midway between Bowness and Newby Bridge on the east side of Windermere. Beech Hill Hotel is next door.

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Ferry Nab Car Park

Address

Windward Way, WINDERMERE, Cumbria, LA23 3BF

WINDERMERE

Tariff type: Multi Tariff.
Public toilets on site.

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Glebe Road Car Park, Bowness-on-Windermere

Address

Glebe Road, Bowness-on-Windermere, WINDERMERE, Cumbria, LA23 3HE

WINDERMERE

Car park with 136 spaces including long stay, short stay and multi-tariff facilities depending on the particular location. No height restrictions.
Public toilets located at the entrance to the car park, next to the touirst information centre.

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Quarry Mount Car Park

Address

Fern Bank, Bowness-on-Windermere, WINDERMERE, Cumbria, LA23 3EH

WINDERMERE

Tariff type: Multi Tariff.
Public toilets on site.

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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

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