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Windermere Lake Cruises, Bowness

Windermere Lake Cruises in the Lake District, Cumbria

The Promenade, Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3HQ

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Tel015394 43360

About

Nestled in the heart of the Lake District National Park, Bowness-on-Windermere is a picturesque village buzzing with tourism. The star attraction is undoubtedly Bowness Pier, the central hub for cruises on England's largest lake, Windermere.

Windermere Lake Cruises operates a range of boat trips from Bowness Pier, offering breathtaking scenery and a variety of experiences. Choose the Red Cruise (75mins) for a scenic journey to Ambleside with stunning mountain views, or choose the classic Yellow Cruise (90 mins), a round trip to the southern tip of the lake. For those who want to explore at their own pace, the Freedom of the Lake ticket grants unlimited boat hopping for 24 hours. For visitors short on time, the scenic Islands Cruise (45 mins) offers a brief tour of the central part of Windermere, complete with fascinating commentary. These cruises operate all year round, every day except Christmas Day.

During the summer months, Bowness Pier is home to the Cross Lake Shuttle that offers a convenient way to reach the quiet western shore and our Walkers Ticket route. In the warm, summer evenings, the Evening Cruise to catch the sunset (75 mins) and Buffet Cruise – 2 ½ hour cruise, meal and music are the best way to relax and watch the su setting behind the Lake District Fells.

Disembarking at Bowness Pier, there's plenty to keep visitors entertained. The village boasts charming shops, cafes, and traditional pubs, perfect for browsing or a leisurely lunch. Families will love the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, bringing the beloved author's characters to life. Adventurers can hire rowing boats or motor-boats for a self-guided exploration of the lake.

Just a stone's throw from the pier, you'll find some great walks and viewpoints. Take stroll along the waterfront promenade for panoramic lake vistas or take the 10 minute walk to National Trust Cockshott Point to see the beautiful Belle Isle and Belle Isle House. See the walks section of the Windermere Lake Cruise website for more ideas.

Bowness Pier is the perfect gateway to experiencing the beauty of Windermere and the surrounding Lake District. Whether you choose a relaxing cruise, a spot of souvenir shopping, or an action-packed day on the water, there's something for everyone in this vibrant corner of England.

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Guide Prices

We have a range of cruises to suit any itinerary or budget. Range of adult ticket prices listed.

Opening Times

Season (1 Jan 2026 - 31 Dec 2026)

* *Please note, between January 9th and February 3rd, services between Bowness and Lakeside operate at weekends only, with normal scheduled services between Bowness and Lakeside resuming from February 4th 2023.

Facilities

Other

Single level / Step-free
Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Booking & Payment Details

Credit cards accepted (no fee)

Catering

On-site catering
On-site light refreshments
Picnic site

Children

Baby changing facilities
Children welcome

Groups

Facilities for educational visits
Facilities for groups

Languages

French signs/guides
German signs/guides
Italian signs/guides
Spanish signs/guides

Meeting, Conference & Wedding Facilities

Facilities for conferencing
Facilities for corporate hospitality

Parking

Parking with charge

Property Facilities

Dogs Accepted
Gift shop
Postbox
Public toilets
Smoking not allowed

Site Features

Regional Tourist Board Member
Welcome Host

Target Markets

Accepts groups
Coach parties accepted

Access Information

PARKING

Designated accessible parking: Designated accessible parking is available within 50 metres of the main entrance or an alternative step-free entrance if applicable.

Parking within 50 metres of entrance: Parking is available within 50 metres of a customer entrance, either on-site or off-site, in a car park or on the street.

ACCESS TO KEY AREAS

Lift: There are lift(s) available. An evacuation chair should also be available in case of emergency.

Step-free access to all or most areas: There is step-free access to all or most areas. This may include access by ramp or lift. As a minimum, there is step-free access to an accessible toilet and at least one food and beverage outlet, where available.

RESTAURANT / DINING ROOM / BAR

Wheelchair-accessible food and beverage outlet: There is at least one wheelchair-accessible food and beverage outlet on site.

GENERAL

Assistive listening system: There is an assistive listening system available e.g. a hearing loop.

Disability awareness / equality training: Disability awareness / equality training is provided for staff.

Emergency alarm with flashing lights: There is an emergency alarm with flashing lights, to alert deaf guests to a fire or other emergency scenario.

Wheelchair-accessible toilet in public areas: A designated accessible toilet designed for wheelchair users, and others with visible and non-visible accessibility requirements, is available within the main public areas.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Additional detailed accessibility information:More information can be found online - https://www.windermere-lakecruises.co.uk/accessibility-policy

This information is self-assessed; therefore we accept no liability for its accuracy. Please contact the venue for further information.

TripAdvisor

Awards

Visit England VistEngland VAQAS Gold 2018
Cumbria Awards Member of Cumbria Tourism 2016

Map & Directions

Map Link

Click here to view map

Road Directions

To Bowness and Ambleside, follow A591.

Public Transport Directions

Accessible by Public Transport: Windermere station is 1 mile away.

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