Discover Windermere | A Visitor's Introduction to Windermere

Why is Windermere Worth a Visit?

Windermere is worth visiting for its combination of lake-side charm, accessible adventure, and cultural richness. It's ideal for first-time visitors to the Lake District, with easy access to boat trips, hill walks, historic houses, and some of the region's best-loved attractions. The bustling town of Bowness-on-Windermere, right on the water’s edge, contrasts with the quieter, higher village of Windermere a mile inland. The area thrives year-round, welcoming everyone from romantic couples and families to seasoned walkers and international tourists.

Whether you're seeking the thrill of a kayak paddle on the lake, the tranquillity of a fellside picnic, or a deep dive into literary history, Windermere offers a well-rounded and thoroughly enjoyable Lake District experience.

Windermere Highlights: Things to See and Do in Windermere

Lake Windermere

Lake Windermere is undoubtedly the star attraction. Stretching over ten miles from Ambleside in the north to Newby Bridge in the south, it provides a magnificent setting for boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and cruising. Windermere Lake Cruises operate year-round and are a scenic way to explore the lake’s length, with stops at key locations such as Bowness, Ambleside, and Lakeside.

The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction

Located in Bowness-on-Windermere, this charming attraction brings the beloved characters of Beatrix Potter’s books to life. It’s a must-visit for families with young children and fans of the author’s work, offering interactive exhibits, recreated scenes, and a lovely tea room.

Orrest Head

For a short but rewarding walk, Orrest Head offers one of the best panoramic views in the Lake District. The climb starts just opposite Windermere railway station and takes about 20–30 minutes. At the top, you'll be treated to sweeping vistas over Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells—a great way to get your bearings.

Bowness-on-Windermere

This lively lakeside town is the hub of visitor activity, filled with restaurants, gift shops, boat rental outlets, and galleries. Stroll along the promenade, feed the ducks, or enjoy a lakeside coffee with superb views. In the evening, you can catch a play at The Old Laundry Theatre or enjoy live music in one of the many pubs.

Brockhole on Windermere

This family-friendly visitor centre sits on the eastern shore between Bowness and Ambleside. It has adventure playgrounds, gardens, a treetop trek, and various activities like archery and ziplining. There’s also a pier where lake cruises stop, and a café with lakeside seating.

Windermere Jetty Museum

A modern and beautifully designed museum right on the lake, the Windermere Jetty Museum showcases the history of boating on the lake, with steam launches, sailing yachts, and other vessels. The museum also has a working heritage boatyard and a waterside café that’s well worth a visit.

Holehird Gardens

Just outside Windermere, these peaceful gardens are maintained by volunteers from the Lakeland Horticultural Society. They include alpine beds, a walled garden, and stunning views towards the Langdale Pikes. A lesser-known gem, ideal for plant lovers or anyone looking for a tranquil escape.

Claife Viewing Station

On the western shore of Windermere near Far Sawrey, Claife Station is a Victorian-era viewpoint recently restored by the National Trust. It offers colourful framed views of the lake and a great place to pause while walking or cycling along the Windermere West Shore path. There's also a cosy café nearby.

Fell Foot Park

Situated at the southern end of Lake Windermere, Fell Foot is a National Trust property with large lawns, boat hire, wild swimming spots, and a café. It's perfect for families and those wanting easy access to the water in a scenic and relaxed setting.

Blackwell – The Arts & Crafts House

An architectural delight, Blackwell is a fine example of the Arts and Crafts movement, perched above the eastern shore of the lake. Visitors can explore the house’s elegant interiors, enjoy art exhibitions, and relax in its garden terrace overlooking Windermere.

Rayrigg Meadow and Millerground

For a quieter lakeside stroll, Rayrigg Meadow and the adjacent Millerground area offer picnic spots, a small beach, and excellent views. It’s a lovely walk from Bowness and often missed by the tourist crowds.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

Windermere is one of the most accessible parts of the Lake District. There’s a train station in Windermere village, with direct services from Oxenholme (on the West Coast Main Line) that link to London, Manchester, and Glasgow. From the station, it’s a short bus or taxi ride to Bowness and other nearby attractions.

Drivers can approach from the M6 via Kendal and the A591. The road between Windermere and Ambleside is particularly scenic and well-signposted.

Parking

There are numerous pay-and-display car parks in both Windermere village and Bowness, though these fill quickly in peak season. Rayrigg Road, Braithwaite Fold, and Quarry Mount are some of the main car parks. Park and Ride services are available in the summer months to ease congestion.

Dining

The area is packed with places to eat, from lakeside pubs to fine dining spots. In Bowness, The Angel Inn, Porto Restaurant, and The Flying Pig are popular choices. For fine dining, Henrock by Simon Rogan at Linthwaite House offers a Michelin-standard menu with lake views.

Windermere village features Francine’s, known for seafood, and Homeground Coffee + Kitchen for brunch and artisan coffee. Don’t miss an afternoon tea at The Wild Boar Inn, just outside the town.

Shopping

Windermere and Bowness have a good mix of independent shops, outdoor retailers, bookshops, and artisan boutiques. Highlights include Peter Hall & Son for fine woodcraft, Booths supermarket for local food and drink, and Love the Lakes for gifts and souvenirs.

When to Visit

Windermere is a year-round destination. Summer offers the fullest range of activities, boat trips, and events, but it can be crowded. Spring and autumn provide milder weather, beautiful colours, and fewer tourists—ideal for walking and photography. Winter brings a quieter atmosphere, festive markets, and sometimes snow-dusted fells.

Local Events

Notable events include the Windermere Boat Show (usually held in May), showcasing luxury boats and watersports gear. The Great North Swim, held in June, is one of the UK’s largest open-water swimming events. In December, Bowness hosts a Christmas market with local crafts, music, and festive food.

Exploring Beyond Windermere

Ambleside, just a 15-minute drive north, is another Lake District gem, known for its waterfalls and walking routes. Grasmere, with its links to Wordsworth, is only half an hour away. For a more remote adventure, head over Kirkstone Pass to Ullswater. Hawkshead and Tarn Hows to the west are accessible via the car ferry from Bowness and make excellent day trips.