You are here: Home > Things to Do > Bownessie
When you visit Lake Windermere, keep your eyes peeled… you might just catch a glimpse of Bownessie, the Lake District’s very own legendary lake creature. Reported in sightings for over 100 years, Bownessie has become a much-loved part of local folklore – a mystery that blends perfectly with the beauty of the lakes and mountains.
🛶 Go Bownessie-spotting – take a walk along the lakeshore, book a boat trip, or simply sit by the water and see if you can spot unusual ripples or shapes moving across Windermere.
📖 Read the story – discover more in The Mystery of Windermere, the official guide and storybook that brings Bownessie’s legend to life and introduces Bownessie as a character for all ages.
🎭 Experience the folklore – from local tales to art, events, and storytelling, Bownessie is becoming part of the Lake District’s cultural heritage, just like Peter Rabbit and Herdy.
✨ Whether you believe in the legend or just love a good mystery, searching for Bownessie is a magical way to explore Windermere and the Lake District.
Windermere is England's largest and most popular lake, stretching over 11 miles (18km)…
Windermere Jetty Museum is a vibrant, family-friendly visitor attraction dedicated to the…
The Peter Rabbit Garden has proved tremendously popular with visitors who have delighted…
A magical indoor attraction that brings to life all 23 Beatrix Potter's Peter Rabbit…
Standing at the centre of the town of Bowness-on-Windermere, this Grade I listed church…
A free Exhibition at the first floor of Windermere Library which tells the heritage of…
Recently Viewed
Glamping
Nestled beneath dramatic Lake District mountains, the Coniston Shepherd Hut Lodges are located on…
Church
A lovely church in a remote setting.
Known locally as Ninekirks, St Ninian's stands remote…
Halloween Event
A family experience for the bravest of participants is coming to Zip World Windermere this October…
Receive all the latest news, special offers and information from the Lake District, Cumbria
Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL