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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.
Dedicate a Forget Me Not this summer and support your local hospice. Available in two colours…
Short - Easy (6.2km)/ Off-road and Bridleway. Family Route
There’s something quite special about being on England’s largest lake, and to see the surrounding…
Our exquisite AA Rosette awarded Belsfield Restaurant offers unrivalled, unique and spectacular…
Discover the epitome of luxury with ‘Posh Scran’ afternoon tea at Gilpin Lake House. Enjoy freshly…
A 2-hour session with a foraging expert, including ID work, finding and tasting wild ingredients,…
The Swan Inn, nestled within The Swan Hotel, is a charming pub that serves as the heart of our…
A magical indoor attraction that brings to life all 23 Beatrix Potter's Peter Rabbit tales. Meet…
This tour visits Windermere's neighbouring villages of Staveley and Troubeck, making use of the…
Escape to the Lake District whenever you choose by owning your own caravan holiday home at Park…
Hop to your seats, join in the fun and watch with delight as your favourite characters are brought…
Nestled in the heart of the Lake District National Park, Bowness-on-Windermere is a picturesque…
Nestled in the heart of Graythwaite Estate, 5,000 acres of managed woodland, parkland and lake…
Thursday 17- Saturday 19 April Why not join twenty somethings Sally, Nat and Kyle in this…
Wheatlands Lodge is a family run guest house situated just minutes from the beautiful village of…
Let's unite in music and mystery as the stage is set for a killer performance! You'll need to pitch…
Cafe treats – freshly baked & delicious! Our café is open for you to enjoy delicious treats,…
Get behind the wheel with this brilliant 4x4 experience with Graythwaite Adventure. With careful…
Steam from the lake shore of Windermere along the heritage track to Haverthwaite Station, where you…
Friday 2 May The Mumford & Sons Story recreates the incredible tale of the floor-stomping…
Evie is a singer-songwriter from the Lake District. Evie has built up a vast repertoire of songs,…
The Winander Club embraces the Club experience offering exclusivity with a sense of personal…
Storrs Gate House has a five star grading with Visit Britain. Susann and Glenn welcome you to our…
The Sheep Dog Trials run all day and also there are 3 hound trails (1pm, 2.15pm and 2.45pm), a dog…
The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
Number of results: 252
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Blackwell - the Arts & Crafts house, Bowness-on-Windermere
Make this Mother’s Day unforgettable with a special afternoon tea at Blackwell – the Arts & Crafts house. With spectacular views of Windermere, this architecturally stunning historic house offers an exceptional setting to celebrate the special…
Ambleside Rd, Windermere
With stylish decor overlooking the lake, Blue Smoke is the perfect place to catch up with friends and family.
Newby Bridge
We developed our bespoke canoe sailing boats to make an easily accessible boat for people with mobility difficulties - but everyone loves them. Fast light and you are a solo sailor from the very start. If you want a friend or carer in the boat to…
Bowness-on-Windermere
Bowfell Cottage is admirably situated fronting a private drive just off A5074, Lyth Valley Road, above eastern shore of the lake about 1 mile south of Bowness Bay and set in 0.5 acre of wooded ground and gardens. Excellent parking.
Crag Brow, Bowness-on-Windermere
Just outside the front of the The World of Beatrix Potter™ Attraction is our boutique nursery Shop which will stock a huge range of ethical, sustainable and environmentally friendly clothing, gifts and accessories.
Windermere
Join Green Man Survival in our private woodland on the shores of Windermere to discover the ancient art of archery. We will learn a little about the history of this primitive skill and have the chance to experience how tricky it must have been for…
Windermere
Specialist bike hire for everyone from 3 great locations around Lake Windermere. Electric bikes. Mountain bikes. Kid's bikes. Kid's seats and trailers. We have planned routes for you available as maps and downloads.
Electric Bike Hire - E-Bikes delivered directly to your accommodation in the South Lakes by E-Bike Safaris. Experience cycling through the Cumbrian countryside, visiting all the attractions and having the comfort of the electric assistance.
Windermere
Delightful recently refurbished cottages in a quiet location, yet a stroll from Windermere & Bowness. Abbey Coach House Cottages are set within extensive gardens & ideally based for exploring the Lakes. Pets welcome & bike storage available
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…
Glebe Rd, Bowness-on-Windermere
Soak up the magic of a summer evening on England's finest lake!
Enjoy live music, a delicious buffet, and breathtaking views as you cruise the full length of Windermere.
What's Included?
• Full Lake Cruise – A 2½ hour journey showcasing the best of…
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…
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…
Bowness on Windermere
This is a journey through the astonishing highs and lows of one of Britain's most famous men from history. But there's so much you don't know…
Father, husband, writer, poet, adventurer, philosopher, soldier, tyrant, egotist, lover, traitor,…
Bowness-on-Windermere
Top Fun! is a roller coaster ride of laughter, surprise and genuine amazement. Hitting all the nostalgic 80s notes, this high energy show will challenge what you think about hypnotism. Matt will unlock the hidden talents of his willing participants…
Bowness-on-Windermere
Memories have never been easier! Freedom Boat Club takes care of everything – maintenance, cleaning, repairs and storage. All you have to do is book your boat, relax and revel in time spent with family and friends. We’ve taken every step to make…
Cumbria
A walk around the shores of Lake Windermere and over the wooded fells of Claife Heights to the villages of Sawrey and Hawkshead to take in the sights and sounds that inspired the works of Beatrix Potter. Along the way you will be able to walk…
Ulverston
A 5-hour course with a foraging expert, which includes tasting wild ingredients and a wild-inspired picnic near Windermere.
Windermere
This private 4×4 driving experience offers a wide variety of vantage points including, lakes, mountains, caves, waterfalls, rivers and streams. An ideal activity for those with an adventurous nature and passion for the outdoors. The tour is customer…
Windermere
Located in the pretty Troutbeck Valley, you'll discover a relaxed park within some of England’s most beautiful scenery at Limefitt Holiday Park. Perfect for walkers, it's a great base for exploring the towns and villages of the Lake District.
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL