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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.
Ursula Leveaux, bassoon | Martin Hughes, violin Fay Sweet, viola | Deborah Findley, cello …
Lakeside Hotel, the best 4 star hotel on the shores of Windermere, offers you a unique location on…
An intimate and luxury spa that cherishes special time together with private experiences just for…
Specialist bike hire for everyone from 3 great locations around Lake Windermere. Electric bikes.…
Shakespeare found dozens of different ways to kill off his characters, but how realistic are these…
The sport of rock climbing was essentially born here, and the Lake District has a rich heritage of…
Our three warm and cosy pods are situated behind the main farm steading in a quiet setting away…
Electric Bike Hire - E-Bikes delivered directly to your accommodation in the South Lakes by E-Bike…
Set in the heart of the Lake District, this intimate theatre shares a building in Bowness with the…
This experience combines two of our most popular activities. We’ve designed a 2-hour experience…
Discover the epitome of luxury with ‘Posh Scran’ afternoon tea at Gilpin Lake House. Enjoy freshly…
Lindeth Howe’s restaurant is as popular with residents of nearby Bowness-on-Windermere, as it is…
Take in the stunning views from our lakeside Restaurant whilst dining from our seasonal menu, we…
Cycle out from Windermere and explore the lanes in this quiet corner to the south east of Lake…
A combined boat and bus ticket for travel between Bowness and Hawkshead/surrounding villages. The…
Join us for hands-on family fun this February half term at Windermere Jetty Museum. Perfect for all…
We provide services for coach and group operators. Ideal for coach drivers days off. Our 16 seater…
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Lake District. Travel through the…
Directed by double Olivier Award nominee Daniel Clarkson Fresh from an acclaimed, award-winning…
Our Lake District E-Bike tours are designed to suit all fitness levels (age 14+ years), for leisure…
Set within the contemporary country house hotel Linthwaite House, Henrock opened its doors in…
British and continental menu served up in contemporary, colourful, and classy surroundings.
John Ruskin's Brasserie brings contemporary chic to Lakeside with an informal bustling atmosphere.…
Zip World Windermere is an award-winning high ropes adventure company with 2 fantastic outdoor…


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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Number of results: 236
, currently showing 121 to 140.
Bowness-on-Windermere
From its grandstand position overlooking Lake Windermere in Bowness, The Angel Inn is a must visit for excellent food and drink. Newly opened following an exciting refurb, take in the views with a glass of frothy real local ale or settle back with a…
Bowness-on-Windermere
Every hospital, medical-based, Doctors-and-Nurses cliche-ridden drama onstage in a comedy mash-up spoof!
It's Dr Ann Fleming's first day at St David's, where her unfortunately-named mentor Dr Death, is determined to show her who's boss. As medical…
Troutbeck, Windermere
At Broadoaks, afternoon tea is served in the traditional manner on a three-tiered plate, featuring a selection of handmade cakes and sandwiches, meticulously prepared by our accomplished team of chefs. Each bite is a testament to our commitment to…
Newby Bridge
Glide silently along the river and past the steam trains at the speed of paddle as we head south while everyone gets the hang of handling their boats in the sheltered water. When we are ready we turn round and explore the wider Lake Windermere as…
Kendal
The Lyth and Winster valleys form a landscape of unspoilt pastoral delights - damson trees clustered in small orchards close to white-washed farmhouses, broadleaved woodlands brimming with bluebells and peaceful green undulating pastures.
Windermere
Escape the crowds and explore Lake Windermere at your own pace! Choose your adventure with Windermere Lake Cruises self-drive boat hire. Whether you crave the quiet charm of a classic rowboat or the effortless glide of an electric motorboat, we've…
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
A real Lakeland hidden treasure set in the beautiful village of Troutbeck, this 17thC solid stone and slate house sits imposingly on the hillside, its huge chimneys typical of the area.
Bowness-on-Windermere
Western – True Grit (2010)
The Coen Brothers' reimagining of the classic Western tale. A determined young girl hires a grizzled U.S. Marshal to hunt down her father's killer, leading to an unforgettable journey across rugged frontier country…
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.
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…
ULVERSTON
Yes, you can: Users of Mobility aids, anyone who can sit with support, wheelchair users, unsure or low confidence walkers, visually impaired people, people with auditory impairments, people with learning difficulties, people with autism, people with…
Ambleside
Parkland and Gothic Revival castle sitting on the west shore of Windermere providing an impressive backdrop of turrets, towers, informal grounds and miles of lakeshore paths.
Ambleside
Nestled on the peaceful western shore of Lake Windermere, Wray Pier offers a tranquil entry point to this iconic National Park location. Windermere Lake Cruises provides visitors with the opportunity to arrive at this historic spot in style, on…
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
Cumbria's biggest comedy club, Planet Mirth (est 2010)!
Featuring four award-winning, Edinburgh Fringe-storming, prime time TV-smashing acts.
MICK FERRY –
A great comedian – John Bishop
As seen on Michael McIntyre's Roadshow
CHRISTIAN REILLY
"Funny…
Bowness-on-Windermere
Set in its own elevated grounds in jolly Bowness, The Angel Inn has far-reaching views across Lake Windermere and the fells of Claife Heights and Latterbarrow beyond.
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…
Ambleside
Beatrix Potter's iconic house, full of her personal possessions, with traditional cottage garden. Her paintings of the House and garden were used to illustrate many of her tales.
Cumbria
Buses to and through Windermere:
Coniston Rambler 505 Windermere - Ambleside - Hawkshead - Coniston.
Langdale Rambler 516 Windermere - Ambleside - Dungeon Ghyll.
555 Lancaster - Kendal - Windermere - Ambleside - Grasmere - Keswick - Carlisle…
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL