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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.
The Queens Head features a cosy drinking area with newly-refurbished dining areas and 10…
There’s something quite special about being on England’s largest lake, and to see the surrounding…
The towns of Windermere and Bowness back onto a lovely little group of fells that extend east…
Southview Spa in Windermere offers luxury with a private chlorine-free spa, heated pool, cinema,…
Enjoy a superb traditional afternoon tea at Lindeth Fell which includes a selection of delicious…
Kankku has specially prepared 4x4 vehicles that you drive on rough and rocky scenic trails through…
Buses to and through Sawrey: Cross Lakes Shuttle 525 Bowness - Ferry House - Hawkshead - Grizedale…
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Yorkshire Dales National Park on a full-day tour from the…
A spectacularly located site on the quieter western shores of Windermere, England’s largest lake…
Lakeside Hotel, the best 4 star hotel on the shores of Windermere, offers you a unique location on…
Low Wood Watersports and Activity Centre, with it's large lake frontage and extensive range of…
A combined boat and bus ticket for travel between Bowness and Hawkshead/surrounding villages. The…
Linthwaite House is the latest addition to the portfolio of Leeu Collection, the manifestation of…
Hill of Oaks occupies a prime position on the shores of Windermere, making it extremely popular…
This tour visits Windermere's neighbouring villages of Staveley and Troubeck, making use of the…
TransPennine Express runs regular services to Carlisle, Penrith and Oxenholme for the Lake…
Upon issue of your survival kit you will be dropped into one of the densest most remote parts of…
We're delighted to welcome Becki Fishwick to The Swan this Boxing Day for an uplifting evening of…
We're thrilled to welcome Jon Dawes to The Swan on 30th December for a relaxing Twixmas evening of…
Windermere Ring – Walk the Fells and Valleys around Lake Windermere Full event details here:…
In the Michelin starred main restaurant, SOURCE, head chef Ollie Bridgwater (formerly of Heston…
Join Green Man Survival in our private woodland on the shores of Windermere to discover the ancient…
Welcome 2026 in style with our New Year Gala Dinner, followed by our Abba tribute and dancing into…
Situated on the picturesque River Leven at the southern tip of Lake Windermere, this 17th-century…


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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Longtail Hill, Bowness-on-Windermere
Ring in the New Year in style at our glittering Gala Dinner – the highlight of the festive season. Begin the evening with a welcoming drink before the piper calls dinner and we proudly 'address the Haggis.' Indulge in a sumptuous seven-course feast…
Sail Windermere with us, feel the wind ruffle your hair, and then the surge of the boat as the sails begin their work of converting breeze to smiles.
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…
Windermere
The brand-new way to enjoy the very best of Blue Smoke on the Bay, the wood-fired Afternoon Tea comprises 4 tiers of delicious, mouth watering Blue Smoke on the Bay goodness.
Near Hawkshead
Our pop-up canvas village is made up of sturdy pre-pitched bell tents that take the hassle out of pitching up, leaving you free to explore the local area or try out some of the activities available on site. How idyllic does this sound? Located on…
Troutbeck, Windermere
Nestled between Windermere and Ambleside, Broadoaks Country House Hotel is a hidden gem in the heart of the Lake District National Park. Our idyllic location provides a tranquil and private retreat from the hustle and bustle of tourist-heavy spots,…
Windermere
4 October 2025
9:45-12:30
The Armitt is excited to be running fungi walks once again this year.
To tie in with our exhibition focusing on "Beatrix Potter's summers in the Lake District", our walks will be taking place in some of those key…
Windermere
Escape to the Lake District whenever you choose by owning your own caravan holiday home at Park Cliffe. Set in a peaceful location in the fells above Windermere, you’ll get spectacular views, a great welcome and all the excellent amenities offered…
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…
Windermere
A stunning four star hotel set in 17 acres of grounds on the shores of Lake Windermere.
Windermere
Discover 200 years of Windermere’s boating history and the stories of the people involved - from wealthy owners to boat builders, inspired writers to ordinary Lakeland folk - at the Lake District’s new all-weather museum.
Bowness Upon Windermere
Performing the greatest hits from the golden age of the electric guitar with their own unique twist, this band's musical pedigree is undeniable.
The soulful vocals and stunning guitar of Jim Kirkpatrick (FM/Thea Gilmore), the prodigious axe…
Bowness-on-Windermere
Top Fun! is a roller coaster ride of laughter, surprise and genuine amazement. Hitting all the nostalgic 80s notes, this high energy show will challenge what you think about hypnotism. Matt will unlock the hidden talents of his willing participants…
Newby Bridge
We're bringing Bonfire Night back to The Swan with a (literal) bang this year!
From 5pm – 8pm on Sunday 2nd November enjoy a fully-stocked bar, delicious barbeque, pizza van, full firework display and, of course, a brilliant bonfire to keep you…
Bowness-on-Windermere
Take in the stunning views from our lakeside Restaurant whilst dining from our seasonal menu, we serve only the finest British cuisine in our restaurant.
Windermere
Charter a skippered yacht for a 2 hour sailing experience for up to 4 people, get involved and take control of the yacht or just sit back and enjoy the stunning scenery unfold around you.
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…
Blackwell - the Arts & Crafts house, Bowness-on-Windermere
Treat yourself or someone special to a mindful, hands-on experience crafting a luxurious wreath using sustainably grown and dried British foliage and festive florals. Guided by Ashley from The Floralistas, you'll create a wild and whimsical design…
Cumbria
The towns of Windermere and Bowness back onto a lovely little group of fells that extend east towards Staveley and Crook. None of the summits have a particularly memorable shape and only a few exceed the 250m contour. Regardless of their modest…
Lakeside
Relaxing with our afternoon tea experience, less than a stone's throw away from the water's edge of Lake Windermere.
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL