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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.
Lakeside Hotel, the best 4 star hotel on the shores of Windermere, offers you a unique location on…
Nestling in the hills of the Troutbeck Valley, a place for walkers and pilgrims to pause, reflect…
Discover the epitome of luxury with ‘Posh Scran’ afternoon tea at Gilpin Lake House. Enjoy freshly…
Canoe, Paddleboard, Kayaking in Windermere, Lake District. Tailored made courses from sea to surf,…
Just outside the front of the The World of Beatrix Potter™ Attraction is our boutique nursery Shop…
Located at the tranquil southern end of Lake Windermere, Lakeside Pier offers a different pace of…
Nestled between Windermere and Ambleside, Broadoaks Country House Hotel is a hidden gem in the…
A warm welcome awaits you at Lindeth Howe, a property once owned by Beatrix Potter. Set in 6 acres…
Cycle out from Windermere and explore the lanes in this quiet corner to the south east of Lake…
Pay and display car park with 56 spaces.Beech Hill car park is situated on the A592, midway between…
We're excited to welcome Rob Thompson to The Swan on 28th December for a laid-back Twixmas evening…
TransPennine Express runs regular services to Carlisle, Penrith and Oxenholme for the Lake…
We offer 7 different glamping options at Park Cliffe so you’ll find one that perfectly suits your…
Opened summer 2021 on a quiet side street one step up from the lake in Bowness-on-Windermere. This…
Our relaxed 2 AA Rosette restaurant, Gilpin Spice has an open kitchen serving a pan-Asian menu…
Glide silently along the river and past the steam trains at the speed of paddle as we head south…
Zip World Windermere is an award-winning high ropes adventure company with 2 fantastic outdoor…
Steam from the lake shore of Windermere along the heritage track to Haverthwaite Station, where you…
4 October 2025 9:45-12:30 The Armitt is excited to be running fungi walks once again this year…
Escape to the Lake District whenever you choose by owning your own caravan holiday home at Park…
Welcome 2026 in style with our New Year Gala Dinner, followed by our Abba tribute and dancing into…
With stylish decor overlooking the lake, Blue Smoke is the perfect place to catch up with friends…
At Broadoaks, afternoon tea is served in the traditional manner on a three-tiered plate, featuring…
Charter a skippered yacht for a two hour sailing experience for up to four people.


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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Number of results: 301
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Windermere
Our modern, fully furnished and equipped caravan holiday homes are situated in a quiet area, adjacent to the main touring park yet within easy reach of all the park amenities.
Newby Bridge
Situated on the picturesque River Leven at the southern tip of Lake Windermere, this 17th-century coaching inn is full of character and charm, but also offers well-equipped rooms, first-class leisure facilities and a fabulous new Holte Spa. Enjoy…
Windermere
Southview Spa in Windermere offers luxury with a private chlorine-free spa, heated pool, cinema, and more. Just minutes from shops and a short walk to Lake Windermere, it’s the perfect blend of comfort and tranquillity.
Bowness on Windermere
Hauntings is a spellbinding evening of three classic ghost stories. The award-winning Gerard Logan will take you to world of invisible, but terrifyingly present, spirits.
The evening includes MR James' Oh, Whistle and I'll Come to You, My Lad in…
Longtail Hill, Bowness-on-Windermere
Please come along and support the Windermere Food Bank and of course some amazing local crafters.
We are very happy to announce we will be hosting local crafters who will be selling handmade items that will make the most wonderful Christmas gifts,…
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.
Newby Bridge
Join us for a half-day guided woodland walk in the South Lakes, learning some bushcraft essentials on the way. An enjoyable morning to be had by the whole family!
Windermere Marina Village, Bowness-on-Windermere
Wednesday 31st December (NYE)
Millie Mac Live, DJ Robin Kershaw & Sax
7pm - 1.30am
️ Tickets - https://buytickets.at/marinaview/1855407
We're ringing in the New Year with another huge lineup of live music and entertainment!
We kick off the…
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.
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.
Newby Bridge
Get ready to jingle all the way at our Santa's Spa-rty!
Celebrate the season in style at our Christmas Spa Party Nights! For just £65 per person, immerse yourself in festive cheer from start to finish. Upon arrival, enjoy a festive drink that sets…
Newby Bridge
Located on the peaceful River Leven, The Swan Hotel & Spa is the closest mooring available to the A590 and M6, with these links being closer than Windermere Marina. It’s the perfect location for those who love to travel by water! We have excellent…
Cumbria
A walk around the shores of Lake Windermere and over the wooded fells of Claife Heights to the villages of Sawrey and Hawkshead to take in the sights and sounds that inspired the works of Beatrix Potter. Along the way you will be able to walk…
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Buses to and through Sawrey:
Cross Lakes Shuttle 525 Bowness - Ferry House - Hawkshead - Grizedale - Coniston - seasonal.
Newby Bridge
Evie is a singer-songwriter from the Lake District. Evie has built up a vast repertoire of songs, with a special interest in jazz 'n' blues. Her soulful vocals and jazzy piano styles make her live performances a great experience.
We're looking…
Windermere
Mountain Goat Tours has over 50 years’ experience and recognises itself as the No.1 Lake District tour specialist. Mountain Goat has rightfully made its mark of distinction and continues to hols Visit Britain Quality Assured status as a Visitors…
Newby Bridge
Discover a wide array of local freshwater and marine species including menacing pike, carp and rays. Plus discover creatures from around the world including piranha, otters and clownfish.
Newby Bridge
Paddle Windermere to a remote shore, light fire and cook on open fire. We are an inclusive company and welcome people of all abilities.
Windermere
Located in the pretty Troutbeck Valley, you'll discover a relaxed park within some of England’s most beautiful scenery at Limefitt Holiday Park. Perfect for walkers, it's a great base for exploring the towns and villages of the Lake District.
Newby Bridge
We're looking forward to welcoming Rob Young to The Swan on the 3rd October for an evening of live music.
Enjoy the longer evenings with the Rob – a singer songwriter, purveyor of roots acoustic blues, ragtime, the old-time banjo sounds of…
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL