Windermere Lake Cruises, Bowness

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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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