You are here: Home > Explore Cumbria > 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.
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.
Nestled between Windermere and Ambleside, Broadoaks Country House Hotel is a hidden gem in the…
Brunch, Lunch & Afternoon Teas in Bowness-on-Windermere. Located just opposite the World of Beatrix…
There’s something quite special about being on England’s largest lake, and to see the surrounding…
The brand-new way to enjoy the very best of Blue Smoke on the Bay, the wood-fired Afternoon Tea…
Visit BAHA and enjoy LIVE MUSIC on Fridays & Saturdays all year round!
Escape the crowds and explore Lake Windermere at your own pace! Choose your adventure with…
The multi-award winning, no.1 hotel for romance. Discover high-end luxury, designer decor, hot tubs…
Join us for our very first NYE celebration as we welcome 2026 in fine style. Late Nite Fiasco Fuse…
Glide silently along the river and past the steam trains at the speed of paddle as we head south…
Unlock the secrets of essential oils as you learn to create your very own blend, uniquely tailored…
Since 1847 we’ve been committed to selling the best food and drink in attractive stores staffed…
Yes, you can: Users of Mobility aids, anyone who can sit with support, wheelchair users, unsure or…
Join us at our secluded woodland camp on the shores of Windermere for a bushcraft brunch to die…
From its grandstand position overlooking Lake Windermere in Bowness, The Angel Inn is a must visit…
We have a pay and display parking system here at Brockhole. We make every effort to accommodate all…
Nestling in the hills of the Troutbeck Valley, a place for walkers and pilgrims to pause, reflect…
38 Self catering dog friendly properties, from Lakeside to Woodland views. A romantic break for…
A one day map reading course for beginners based in the Lake District. If you have never looked at…
With stylish decor overlooking the lake, Blue Smoke is the perfect place to catch up with friends…
Celebrate 25 years of ceramic art by Edinburgh-based Frances Priest in Motif | Line | Colour. The…
This experience combines two of our most popular activities. We’ve designed a 2-hour experience…
Linthwaite House is the latest addition to the portfolio of Leeu Collection, the manifestation of…
The Lyth and Winster valleys form a landscape of unspoilt pastoral delights - damson trees…
Relaxing with our afternoon tea experience, less than a stone's throw away from the water's edge of…


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
.jpg)
Number of results: 299
, currently showing 21 to 40.
Blackwell - the Arts & Crafts house, Bowness-on-Windermere
Experience two of Britain's most celebrated Arts & Crafts houses in one inspiring afternoon. Begin at Broad Leys, a private Voysey-designed masterpiece, then make your way to Blackwell – the Arts & Crafts house, a beautifully preserved architectural…
Rayrigg Road, Windermere
oin us at Windermere Jetty Museum on Wednesday 3 December, 10:30am–1:30pm, for a joyful, hands-on workshop creating your own fresh, luxurious festive wreath with the guidance of Ashley from The Floralistas.
Spend a relaxing morning immersed in the…
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.
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
We're thrilled to welcome Helen Miller to The Swan on 27th December for a soulful evening of live music.
Keep the festive feeling going as Helen performs a beautiful mix of contemporary favourites, easy-listening classics, and laid-back acoustic…
Newby Bridge
Susannah Clegg is a Lancaster-based singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist known for her work with indie-rock band Sidley Park and bluegrass group The Long Nights Band. As a solo artist, she blends powerful vocals, thoughtful lyrics, and…
Windermere
Merewood Country House Hotel is the quintessential, English country house hotel. Located on the side of a hill overlooking Windermere, Merewood boasts stunning views of the Lake District fells and beyond.
Merewood dates back to 1812 and with…
Bowness-on-Windermere
The Arts Bar is a celebration of great food and perfectly crafted drinks in a building famed for creativity. If you are looking for somewhere cosy, quirky, characterful & unique then look no further.
Rayrigg Rd, Bowness-on-Windermere
Join us this festive season for hands-on family fun at Windermere Jetty Museum. Whether you're solving clues, decorating a keepsake, or building something brilliant in our interactive play space, there's plenty to keep young explorers busy during…
Windermere Marina Village, Bowness-on-Windermere
Perfect for your work Christmas party, or a seasonal catch-up with family and friends. Whether you're a group of 4 or a party of 100, we've got the space to celebrate in style!
Choose from our ticketed festive party nights or create bespoke food…
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…
Bowness-on-Windermere
Standing at the centre of the town of Bowness-on-Windermere, this Grade I listed church boasts medieval architecture, awe-inspiring stained glass windows, and a long and varied history spanning over 800 years. The earliest records of a church at…
Bowness-on-Windermere
Soul Survivors are Cumbria's leading Soul and Motown band, playing all the classics from Wilson Pickett to Jackie Wilson, Van McCoy and many more.
This magnificent 10 piece band from Barrow-In-Furness consist of many well known local musicians and…
Windermere
Our choice of 4 self-catered apartments range from sleeping 2-8, are incredibly spacious and filled with plush furnishings, modern amenities, premium appliances and bespoke décor. We also offer EV-parking and pet-friendly stays.
Newby Bridge
Join us on Friday 17th October for a performance by Socially Awkward.
Socially Awkward (also known as Lauren and Martin) are an acoustic duo based in The Lake District. They put their own stamp on acoustic covers across various eras spanning from…
A591, Windermere
A family experience for the bravest of participants is coming to Zip World Windermere this October as Arachnophobia takes over Treetop Nets from 25 – 31 October 2025.
This Halloween encounter for all the family will see eight-legged monsters crawl…
Bowness-on-Windermere
At BAHA, we are all about bringing people together, through fun food, drink, and entertainment experiences that you can share with loved ones, leaving everlasting memories you’ll cherish.
Newby Bridge
Hosted by Laura, of the Good Mood Club, we welcome you to start your weekend the right way with a calming 90-minute gentle yoga flow and breathwork session, designed for all levels – whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned yogi…
Bowness on Windermere
Take the "Highway to the Hypno-zone"! Grab your day-glo, big hair & Rubik's Cube as the must-see fest fave brings an 80s twist to his brand new show Top Fun! Laugh along, sing along or even star in the show (always your choice!) – we're gonna…
Windermere Marina Village, Bowness-on-Windermere
Saturday 13th December
11am
Join us for our annual Breakfast with Santa!
Enjoy a festive morning filled with fun, games, and a hearty breakfast with Santa himself.
Each child's ticket includes:
A breakfast barm
A soft drink
A festive gift
✨…
Receive all the latest news, special offers and information from the Lake District, Cumbria
Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL