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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.
Laik manages super-stylish holiday homes in some of the favourite spots in the Lake District…
Join Green Man Survival in our private woodland on the shores of Windermere to discover the ancient…
A free Exhibition at the first floor of Windermere Library which tells the heritage of pioneering…
Kankku has specially prepared 4x4 vehicles that you drive on rough and rocky scenic trails through…
Enjoy a superb traditional afternoon tea at Lindeth Fell which includes a selection of delicious…
Discover a wide array of local freshwater and marine species including menacing pike, carp and rays…
Our three warm and cosy pods are situated behind the main farm steading in a quiet setting away…
Our modern, fully furnished and equipped caravan holiday homes are situated in a quiet area,…
Discover life on Windermere through the lens of award-winning artist Juliet Klottrup. This…
We're thrilled to welcome Jon Dawes to The Swan on 30th December for a relaxing Twixmas evening of…
Victoria Wood remains one of Britain's most cherished entertainers – a comic genius whose work…
Set in the heart of the Lake District, this intimate theatre shares a building in Bowness with the…
Ring in the New Year in style at our glittering Gala Dinner – the highlight of the festive season.…
A stunning four star hotel set in 17 acres of grounds on the shores of Lake Windermere.
Discover the art of creating your own essential oil blend, tailored to your unique preferences and…
Matson Ground Holiday Cottages offers four charming, self-catering cottages in the heart of the…
Join Green Man Survival in our private woodland on the shores of Windermere to discover the ancient…
A family friendly ride from Windermere to Staveley on quiet roads with stunning views to the…
✨ Santa's Grotto Experience – Just £10 per Child! (Adults go free!) Step into the magic of…
For a special Lake District experience, enjoy a trip on a fully restored wooden heritage boat from…
Windermere Ring – Walk the Fells and Valleys around Lake Windermere Full event details here:…
Paddle Windermere to a remote shore, light fire and cook on open fire. We are an inclusive company…
Sit back, relax, and get ready to be amazed as you journey through the breathtaking landscapes of…
Southview Spa in Windermere offers luxury with a private chlorine-free spa, heated pool, cinema,…


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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Our Cycling Route’s guide of the Lake District provides a broad range of cycle routes for all levels of cycling. Whether you are an avid cyclist wanting to do some of the most challenging rides in the Lake District, or gentle leisure rides with…
Ambleside
Taking inspiration from Beatrix Potter, this years Fungi walks will take place at key locations that Potter visited during her time in the Lake District.
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.
Bowness-on-Windermere
This unique Lake District hotel only two minutes stroll from Lake Windermere and the village of Bowness, is an oasis of peace and tranquillity.
Cumbria
Cycle out from Windermere and explore the lanes in this quiet corner to the south east of Lake Windermere. Finish the ride at Fell Foot park on the lake shore and let the Bike Bus bring you back to Windermere.
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, Windermere
Linthwaite House is the latest addition to the portfolio of Leeu Collection, the manifestation of founder Analjit Singh’s vision for sophisticated escapes and unique travel experiences.
Windermere
Offering a traditional Afternoon Tea in the heart of the Lake District.
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,…
Lake Road, Windermere
Hill of Oaks occupies a prime position on the shores of Windermere, making it extremely popular with people looking for lakeside holiday homes. The park is nestled in an ancient woodland of mature oak trees, offering over a mile of private…
Far Sawrey, Ambleside
Discover the art of creating your own essential oil blend, tailored to your unique preferences and therapeutic needs. You will be expertly guided through the technique and then learn how to make your own soap using your bespoke blend. Elevate your…
Windermere
Sit back, relax, and get ready to be amazed as you journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Lake District, where you'll see the beauty of ten stunning lakes—including the iconic Windermere, the tranquil Brotherswater, the majestic…
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.
Hawkshead, Lake Windermere
This experience combines two of our most popular activities. We’ve designed a 2-hour experience that combines one-hour of 4x4 off-road driving with a mini bushcraft session.
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…
Bowness-on-Windermere
The Oaks Country Estate - self catering properties to accommodate groups of friends and families. Our properties sleep from 2 people to 25 and all include a log burner, hot tub and all the home comforts needed to have fun, relax and make special…
Graythwaite
There’s something quite special about being on England’s largest lake, and to see the surrounding landscape from the water provides a different perspective.
Bowness on Windermere
A musical comedy packed with puns, puppetry & a spook-tastic singalong!
'An acclaimed madcap musical comedy for children aged 3 – 10, featuring puppetry and witty original songs!'
Cumbria
As well as beautiful scenery, the Lake District is also famous for its associations with a large number of poets, novelists and essayists. This lovely, 36-mile walk takes you through some of the Lake District’s best-loved areas, visiting many of the…
Bowness-on-Windermere
A one day introduction to navigation and map reading suitable for beginners. If you have never looked at a map or would like to learn more about planning and following a route using paths and tracks then this is the course for you.
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL