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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.
Cycle route around the Cartmel Peninsula starting and finishing at Fell Foot.
Nestled between Windermere and Ambleside, Broadoaks Country House Hotel is a hidden gem in the…
Pure Lakes is an award winning, natural skincare company based in the heart of the English Lake…
Pack your clothes along with your sense of adventure and escape for a couple of days to the woods…
Experience the adventure. Glamping is one of the best ways to stay close to nature without…
John has been performing as Elvis Presley for many years & is well loved in the Furness area.…
Bowfell Cottage is admirably situated fronting a private drive just off A5074, Lyth Valley Road,…
Parkland and Gothic Revival castle sitting on the west shore of Windermere providing an impressive…
One of the premier bars and restaurants in Windermere, located in the heart of the Lake District…
Canoe, Paddleboard, Kayaking in Windermere, Lake District. Tailored made courses from sea to surf,…
A combined boat and bus ticket for travel between Bowness and Hawkshead/surrounding villages. The…
Musical – Tommy (1975) Ken Russell's flamboyant rock opera follows a "deaf, dumb and blind" boy who…
Wednesday 31st December (NYE) Millie Mac Live, DJ Robin Kershaw & Sax 7pm - 1.30am ️ Tickets -…
Taking inspiration from Beatrix Potter, this years Fungi walks will take place at key locations…
Lakelovers is the self-catering company of choice for tens of thousands of holiday makers each year…
Choices Health Club Windermere is a unique experience in the Lakes. A large gym, indoor swimming…
A one day map reading course for beginners based in the Lake District. If you have never looked at…
Escape the crowds and explore Lake Windermere at your own pace! Choose your adventure with…
Step back in time with Townend's Victorian Christmas. The fire is roaring, the house decked with…
Zip World Windermere is an award-winning high ropes adventure company with 2 fantastic outdoor…
If you can't decide which one of our kick ass experiences to choose, don't, and just do them all!…
A one day introduction to navigation and map reading suitable for beginners. If you have never…
This unique Lake District hotel only two minutes stroll from Lake Windermere and the village of…
Family-friendly park with green lawns sloping down to the lakeshore. Just the place to enjoy access…


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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Our Lake District E-Bike tours are designed to suit all fitness levels (age 14+ years), for leisure cyclists with flexible daily itineraries and timings. Choose one of our Day Tours or Multi-Day Holidays, or let E-Bike Safaris tailor-make your tour…
Newby Bridge
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 around The Swan — from candlelit rooms to riverside paths and…
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…
Windermere
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Lake District. Travel through the breathtaking Langdale Valley before tackling the dramatic Wrynose and Hardknott Passes, where you'll have time to take in the extraordinary scenery. Our…
Longtail Hill, Bowness-on-Windermere
A Christmas Carol – Live Reading by Graham Tyson
Step into the timeless world of Charles Dickens as Graham Tyson brings A Christmas Carol to life in our cosy festive setting. With over eight years of captivating performances, Mr Tyson's reading is…
Bowness on Windermere
Dylan Thomas' wonderful festive story and other magical works brought vividly to life!
Written by Dylan Thomas | Performed by Guy Masterson
Centred around Dylan's seasonal masterpiece A CHILD'S CHRISTMAS IN WALES, Masterson also gives us two other…
Cumbria
The cycle track sandwiched between the lake edge and the steep flanks of Claife Heights gives a gentle out and back introduction to this quiet corner of the Lake District.
Newby Bridge
The Native Cult have been casting their sunshine on the North West of the UK since 2019, Starting off with their organic folk sound and slowly adapting to a tribal rhythm with djembes and rolling percussion, eventually leading to their modern sound:…
Newby Bridge
Our reality-based 2 day survival training course will give you the skills to be self-sufficient in any wilderness environment. Immerse yourself in the challenge.
Windermere
Surrounded by spectacular Lakeland views, indulge in one of the finest British traditions and take Afternoon Tea at Merewood.
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
Windermere Jetty Museum is a vibrant, family-friendly visitor attraction dedicated to the boats, people and the rich history of Windermere, England’s largest natural lake.
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…
Bowness-on-Windermere
Set within the contemporary country house hotel Linthwaite House, Henrock opened its doors in October 2019.
Henrock is an informal restaurant that serves an à la carte menu using local, seasonal ingredients, inspired by flavours and techniques…
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…
Windermere
This private 4×4 driving experience offers a wide variety of vantage points including, lakes, mountains, caves, waterfalls, rivers and streams. An ideal activity for those with an adventurous nature and passion for the outdoors. The tour is customer…
Bowness-on-Windermere
The Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa stands right on the shore of Windermere and boasts unrivalled views of England's largest lake.
Windermere Marina Village, Bowness-on-Windermere
Piano Pete joins us from 7pm playing the best sing-along hits on the piano, the perfect soundtrack to your evening meal.
Windermere
The Grill offers a relaxed, welcoming dining experience with a menu created by Head Chef Ambrus Kipke, proudly rooted in classic English cuisine. Think crowd-pleasing favourites like traditional fish and chips, juicy sirloin steaks, and a tempting…
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…
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL