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.
Cycle route around the Cartmel Peninsula starting and finishing at Fell Foot.
Experience the adventure. Glamping is one of the best ways to stay close to nature without…
A magical indoor attraction that brings to life all 23 Beatrix Potter's Peter Rabbit tales. Meet…
We deliver everything you need to your accommodation, or to your designated preferred location (…
Renew your mind, body and soul with our calming evening ritual at Lakeside Hotel, designed to help…
Cycle out from Windermere and explore the lanes in this quiet corner to the south east of Lake…
For a special Lake District experience, enjoy a trip on a fully restored wooden heritage boat from…
Get ready for a huge night of stadium-sized rock at The Royalty! Two powerhouse tributes: EMUS &…
Founded by the visionary Lionel Black, Regatta Great Outdoors was designed to help everyone make…
Sit back, relax, and get ready to be amazed as you journey through the breathtaking landscapes of…
Steam from the lake shore of Windermere along the heritage track to Haverthwaite Station, where you…
Join Green Man Survival in our private woodland on the shores of Windermere to discover the ancient…
This tour visits Windermere's neighbouring villages of Staveley and Troubeck, making use of the…
Paddleboarding will be back in 2026 Try something new and have a splashing time! We've again…
Marina View in Bowness is a relaxed waterfront restaurant where great food meets stunning scenery.…
Pack your clothes along with your sense of adventure and escape for a couple of days to the woods…
Although Wray Castle is only 180 years old it is a grand and imposing building on the west shores…
Surrounded by spectacular Lakeland views, indulge in one of the finest British traditions and take…
SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel is a one Michelin Star restaurant located near Windermere. Headed-up by Head…
A half day's experience learning the core skills of bushcraft and survival with our expert…
Blackwell – the Arts & Crafts house is a rare architectural gem in the heart of the Lake District…
The cycle track sandwiched between the lake edge and the steep flanks of Claife Heights gives a…
Lakeside Hotel, the best 4 star hotel on the shores of Windermere, offers you a unique location on…
British and continental menu served up in contemporary, colourful, and classy surroundings.


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
.jpg)
Number of results: 240
, currently showing 101 to 120.
Ambleside
Although Wray Castle is only 180 years old it is a grand and imposing building on the west shores of Windermere. The Tramper gives access to the wonderful and varied grounds of the Castle.
There are beautiful views over Lake Windermere as well as…
TransPennine Express runs regular services to Carlisle, Penrith and Oxenholme for the Lake District, from Manchester Airport, Manchester, Liverpool, Preston, Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Bowness-On-Windermere
ROYALTY SOUL - NORTHERN SOUL & MOTOWN
Are you ready for another unforgettable night of Tamla Motown, Northern Soul, Rare Soul, Modern Soul and 70s & 80s classics?
The Soul Spirit of Morecambe comes to the Royalty Theatre, reliving the legendary…
Far Sawrey, Ambleside
Unlock the secrets of essential oils as you learn to create your very own blend, uniquely tailored to your therapeutic needs and personal preferences. You'll then embark on the journey of infusing your aromatic blend into a natural soy wax candle.…
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…
Windermere
Laik manages super-stylish holiday homes in some of the favourite spots in the Lake District.
Local, flexible and friendly, Laik goes that bit extra with their homes and hospitality to make sure your stay in The Lakes turns out just perfect…
Bowness-on-Windermere
The Fizzy Tarté serves a luxurious range of Champagne, Afternoon Teas & Cocktails in the Heart of Bowness on Windermere, in the Lake District.
Newby Bridge
Saturday – Sprint races held on the River Leven at the Swan Hotel Marina – On the water 10-12.30 and then 14.00 – 16.00
This event will take place only in and around the marina.
Sunday – Distance Race from the Swan Hotel Marina to Storrs…
Windermere
Mountain Goat Tours has over 50 years’ experience and recognises itself as the No.1 Lake District tour specialist. Mountain Goat has rightfully made its mark of distinction and continues to hols Visit Britain Quality Assured status as a Visitors…
Windermere
Nestled on the shores of Lake Windermere, in the heart of the National Park, with Wainwrights walks a stone’s throw away and the pretty Lakeland village of Ambleside a mile away, Low Wood Bay is the perfect base for relaxing and exploring the Lakes.
Windermere is England's largest and most popular lake, stretching over 11 miles (18km) through the heart of the Lake District. Windermere has attracted visitors for centuries, and today it is still a great escape for water activities, boat rides,…
Cumbria
Short - Easy (6.2km)/ Off-road and Bridleway. Family Route
Windermere
Superb luxury bed & breakfast overlooking Lake Windermere. 14 individually designed bedrooms &. stunning gardens. Extensive breakfast menu. Full Afternoon Tea, Lunch, and Dinner menus available. Licensed bar. Wi-Fi. Parking.
Windermere
A cross lake boat service between Bowness - Ash Landing on the western shore of Windermere, near Hawkshead.
The Cross Lake Shuttle operates daily throughout the summer, from 23 May 2026 to 27 September 2026. It's a great way to reach places like…
Crag Brow, Bowness on Windermere
Our third season of classic films highlights the exciting film career of Victoria Wood - writer, director and star in a wide variety of fascinating films showcasing her amazing talent. Each screening will be introduced, and you're invited to join…
Windermere
A luxury estate with seven self catering properties set in the picturesque Lake District.
Windermere
Located down a quiet country lane close to Windermere village. Personally owned by Richard & Lisa Gornall.
Windermere
We provide services for coach and group operators. Ideal for coach drivers days off. Our 16 seater minibuses make the inaccessible accessible.
Group rates: on request.
Established in 1972, Mountain Goat today are renowned for their exciting and…
ULVERSTON
St Peter’s was built in 1874 designed by well known Lancashire firm of Paley and Austin and won an award for its design as a ‘mountain chapel’.
Windermere
Our Langdale Club bar and lounge offers a relaxed, informal dining experience whilst surrounded by a chic interior that takes infomal dining to refreshing new heights, sleek and elegant and designed to impress. The Club lounge is the perfect place…
Receive all the latest news, special offers and information from the Lake District, Cumbria
Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL