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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.
Pay and display car park with 56 spaces.Beech Hill car park is situated on the A592, midway between…
Our modern, fully furnished and equipped caravan holiday homes are situated in a quiet area,…
The cycle track sandwiched between the lake edge and the steep flanks of Claife Heights gives a…
John Ruskin's Brasserie brings contemporary chic to Lakeside with an informal bustling atmosphere.…
Get behind the wheel with this brilliant 4x4 experience with Graythwaite Adventure. With careful…
Steam from the lake shore of Windermere along the heritage track to Haverthwaite Station, where you…
The family run Lamplighter Dining Rooms offers the very best in accommodation in the Lake District.
Windermere is England's largest and most popular lake, stretching over 11 miles (18km) through the…
A half day's experience learning the core skills of bushcraft and survival with our expert…
Taking THE ROC's unique 5 stage triathlon format into the Lake District, one of the most inspiring…
Experience the adventure. Glamping is one of the best ways to stay close to nature without…
Laik manages super-stylish holiday homes in some of the favourite spots in the Lake District…
Delightful recently refurbished cottages in a quiet location, yet a stroll from Windermere &…
The 5* Langdale Chase is a Luxury. exclusive, Lake District Hotel with unbeatable Windermere views.…
The Queens Head features a cosy drinking area with newly-refurbished dining areas and 10…
Brand new Free house British pub, serving home made classic British pub food, real fires, real ale…
Whether you would like to rent an Electric Bike or join a Bike Tour or Holiday, we organise…
Pay and display car park (free for National Trust members) with 71 spaces. Park at Wray Castle for…
Mountain Goat Tours has over 50 years’ experience and recognises itself as the No.1 Lake District…
Canoe, Paddleboard, Kayaking in Windermere, Lake District. Tailored made courses from sea to surf,…
Useful/Beautiful marks 25 years of contemporary craft at Blackwell – the Arts & Crafts house,…
A spectacularly located site on the quieter western shores of Windermere, England’s largest lake…
The towns of Windermere and Bowness back onto a lovely little group of fells that extend east…
British and continental menu served up in contemporary, colourful, and classy surroundings.


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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Number of results: 255
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Windermere
An intimate and luxury spa that cherishes special time together with private experiences just for two.
Troutbeck, Windermere
At Broadoaks, afternoon tea is served in the traditional manner on a three-tiered plate, featuring a selection of handmade cakes and sandwiches, meticulously prepared by our accomplished team of chefs. Each bite is a testament to our commitment to…
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.
Windermere
Join Green Man Survival for our most in depth and demanding survival challenge. You will spend 72 hours surviving in our private woodland learning a wealth of skills and knowledge that will enable you to thrive in this stunning habitat.
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.
Windermere
If you can’t decide which one of our kick ass experiences to choose, don’t, and just do them all! This experience includes fire lighting using natural materials and sparks along with how to build a shelter with materials provided by nature in our…
Winderemere
Windermere Art Society Annual Exhibition
Windermere
Nestled in the heart of the Lake District National Park, Bowness-on-Windermere is a picturesque village buzzing with tourism. The star attraction is undoubtedly Bowness Pier, the central hub for cruises on England's largest lake, Windermere.
Staveley
Sheep Dog Trials running all day along with an open dog show, hound trail races, craft stalls, bar and food.
Windermere
Lakelovers is the self-catering company of choice for tens of thousands of holiday makers each year and with lots of luxury properties, pets staying for free, exclusive discounts when you are here.
Bowness On Windermere
★★★★★ "Doctors should prescribe it as an antidepressant" – Broadway Baby
★ SELL-OUT show at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2024 ★
Toronto-based singer-songwriter Duane Forrest presents his captivating, award-winning music-storytelling show to…
Far Sawrey, Ambleside
Pure Lakes is an award-winning natural skincare company based in Far Sawrey, near Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top in the heart of the English Lake District.
Inspired by their surroundings, they create sustainable skincare using the highest-quality natural…
Windermere
Charter a skippered yacht for a two hour sailing experience for up to four people.
Lake Rd, Bowness-on-Windermere
Our pub is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day exploring the Lake District. We offer a wide selection of real ales, wines, and spirits, as well as a delicious menu of pub classics. Our friendly staff are always happy to chat and offer…
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…
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.
WINDERMERE
Tariff type: Multi Tariff.
Public toilets on site.
Cumbria
Car park with 94 general spaces and 7 disabled spaces.
Motorcycle spaces: Can use any of the spaces with consideration
No height restrictions. Open 7 days a week including bank holidays. Charges apply between 8am and 8pm.
Public toilets located…
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.
WINDERMERE
A short walk from the centre of Bowness is Cockshot Point on the lake shore. It’s the perfect place for a family picnic and a paddle in the lake.
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL