The Ultimate Visitor Guide to Newby Bridge
Newby Bridge UK is a small hamlet that perfectly captures the charm of the southern Lake District. Sitting at the point where Windermere lake meets the River Leven, it’s an ideal base for exploring the area’s natural beauty, historic attractions, and scenic walking routes.
But what exactly do you need to know about Newby Bridge before you visit? Are there good places to stay? Where are the local walks? And what about restaurants and places to eat?
If you’re not sure where to start, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or a longer Lake District holiday, this article covers everything you need to know to make the most of your trip.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- Why visit Newby Bridge: Newby Bridge is a charming gateway to the southern Lake District, offering scenic lakeside views, heritage attractions, and easy access to walks.
- Things to do in Newby Bridge: Enjoy lakeside walks, boat trips, paddleboarding, steam train rides, and family-friendly attractions like the Lakes Aquarium and Lakeland Motor Museum.
- Local dining: From cosy nearby pubs to elegant lakeside restaurants, Newby Bridge offers a variety of dining experiences featuring traditional Cumbrian dishes and locally sourced ingredients.
- Where to stay: Staying in a Coppermines Cottage offers a comfortable, self-catering base for exploring Newby Bridge and neighbouring areas – ideal for exploring the South Lakes at your own pace.
Where is Newby Bridge?
Newby Bridge is a small village located at the southern tip of Windermere in the Lake District, UK. It sits right at the base of Windermere, making it a natural gateway to the southern Lake District.
Geographically, it’s:
- About six miles south of Windermere town
- Around five miles south west of Coniston village
- Approximately eight miles from Ulverston, a quaint market town in Cumbria
Here’s a map of Newby Bridge to help you visualise its location:
How to get to Newby Bridge
There are a few different ways to get to Newby Bridge, including by car, train, and bus.
Let’s take a look at these options in more detail:
- By car. Newby Bridge is easily accessible via the A590 from the M6 motorway. From junction 36, take the A590 west towards Ulverston and follow signs around the southern shores of Windermere to reach the village. The drive is incredibly scenic, passing rolling fells, open countryside, and lakeside views.
- By bus. Local bus services connect Newby Bridge to Windermere, Ulverston, and other nearby villages, providing a convenient option if you prefer public transport.
- By train. The closest railway stations to Newby Bridge are Windermere, Ulverston, and Grange-over-Sands. Hop on a bus from these stations to get to Newby Bridge, or arrange a short taxi ride.
Arriving by car is probably the easiest option given that Newby Bridge doesn’t have a train station. However, buses are pretty frequent and make regular stops at Newby Bridge, making it accessible by public transport.
3 scenic walks near Newby Bridge
From gentle lakeside strolls to longer circular walks, there are plenty of Newby Bridge walks for all abilities. These walks not only offer spectacular views, but also give visitors a chance to connect with the natural beauty of the southern Lake District.
Here are some of our top walks around Newby Bridge:
1. Newby Bridge circular walk (including High Dam)
Distance: 10.57 km (6.57 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Woodlands, farm fields, High Dam, lakeside scenery, and birdwatching opportunities.
Best for: A varied, scenic walk combining natural beauty and gentle hills, suitable for most walkers.
Starting in Newby Bridge, this looped trail passes through forests, farmland, and along lakeside paths. The trail offers a mix of tranquil and panoramic views, making it the perfect choice for a varied day out.
You’ll also visit High Dam, a local tarn set in peaceful woodland. It’s a great spot for a swim and a picnic (if the weather is on your side). However, in autumn and winter months, prepare for the water to be bitingly cold!
2. Gummer’s How loop
Distance: 2.5 km (1.43 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Panoramic lake views, stone summit, wildflowers in summer.
Best for: A rewarding, relatively quick hike with a stunning payoff.
This relatively short, iconic climb provides breathtaking, far-reaching views over Lake Windermere and the surrounding landscape.
This route is one of the most rewarding low-level climbs in the Lake District. From the summit, you’ll see across the length of the lake to the central fells. On a clear day, you can even spot Morecambe Bay!
Note: This route starts from the Gummer’s How car park, which you can reach in a short three-minute drive from Newby Bridge. You can also reach Gummer’s How from Staveley-in-Cartmel (just across the river from Newby Bridge). However, the walk is a little longer and with more elevation. Here’s the full route.
3. Fell Foot Park circular
Distance: 2.6 km (1.6 miles)
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Lakeside paths, historic boathouses, picnic areas, dog-friendly trails.
Best for: A gentle, accessible walk, perfect for relaxing with lake views.
If you’re looking for family walks near Newby Bridge, add this route to your list! Located at the southern tip of Lake Windermere, this beautiful National Trust park features Victorian lawns, picnic areas, and delightful views of the lake.
The trails are well-maintained and easy to follow, making it a great choice for a family day out. Stop at the Boathouse Café for lunch and you’re golden!
Note: The route is accessible by car or bus, but is also within walking distance of Newby Bridge if you fancy making the route a little longer!
Top water activities in Newby Bridge
As the gateway to Windermere, water activities are a big draw for visitors in Newby Bridge. Here are some of the water activities we recommend:
Head onto the lake with Windermere boat hire
Hiring a boat gives you the freedom to explore quieter corners of Windermere, stop for lakeside picnics, or simply enjoy the views from the water without following a fixed route. Windermere Lake Cruises offer self-driving boat hires and are a stone’s throw from Newby Bridge.
Take boat trips from Newby Bridge
Lake Windermere cruises let you enjoy panoramic views of the lake and surrounding fells. Some cruises include stops at nearby villages or cafes along the shore. Windermere Lake Cruises also offer these trips, so take a look at their website to see what’s available.
Hop on a paddle board or kayak
Stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking are fun, active ways to experience Windermere’s waters. Beginners can take lessons, while confident water-sport enthusiasts can head out and explore bays, inlets, and islands. Stoked Watersports (located near Fell Foot) offers Windermere kayak and paddleboard hire near Newby Bridge.
Test your fishing skills
Fishing in Windermere is a popular activity in the area, with trout, char, and pike among the species you can catch. Angling spots are dotted around the lake, and permits are easy to arrange through local providers. Find out more about the necessary fishing licenses here.
If fishing sounds like something you want to do, there are a few considerations to think about beforehand.
Fishing isn’t allowed at Fell Foot from April to October. Plus, the majority of the Windermere shoreline is privately owned, limiting access for people who want to fish.
The good news is that you can hire a boat to take you onto the lake for fishing! Take a look at Fishing Windermere to see what trips are available.
What to do in Newby Bridge: 3 must-see attractions
Newby Bridge has a variety of attractions suitable for families, history enthusiasts, and culture seekers:
1. The Lakeland Motor Museum
Why it’s worth a visit: Home to one of the most eclectic car collections in the Lakes, with rare classics from Rolls-Royces to quirky microcars.
Explore a collection of classic and vintage cars, motorbikes, and memorabilia at the Lakeland Motor Museum in Backbarrow. Also known as the Newby Bridge Motor Museum, the museum offers a fascinating journey through vehicle history.
2. The Lakes Aquarium
Why it’s worth a visit: Offers a rare look beneath Windermere’s surface, with otters, freshwater fish, and reptiles up close.
The Lakes Aquarium is a small but fascinating marine centre showcasing local freshwater species. Visitors can explore walk-through tanks, interactive exhibits, and displays that highlight the ecology and conservation of Windermere and other Lake District waterways.
3. The Lakeside Railway Newby Bridge steam train
Why it’s worth visiting: A living slice of heritage where restored steam engines pull vintage carriages through Lake District scenery.
The Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway takes guests on a 3.5-mile steam train ride. The trip starts at Haverthwaite with a stop at Newby Bridge before heading to the shoreline of Windermere.
Along the way, passengers enjoy views of woodlands, rivers, and rolling countryside, with opportunities to spot local wildlife. At Haverthwaite station, visitors can explore the engine sheds and a small museum showcasing the history of the railway!
Top tip: Combine a steam train ride with a trip to the Lakes Aquarium. The final stop takes you directly to the aquarium on the shore of Windermere, and you can buy joint tickets for both to save yourself a bit of money.
You can also buy tickets for a ferry to Bowness, Ambleside, and entrance to The World of Beatrix Potter.
Read the full Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway fare list here.
Places to eat near Newby Bridge
Newby Bridge offers a wide range of dining experiences, from welcoming pubs to elegant hotel restaurants.
Here are some of our top recommendations for restaurants in Newby Bridge:
The Swan Hotel Newby Bridge
The Swan at Newby Bridge Hotel offers traditional Lake District cuisine in a charming lakeside setting. The hotel has three different eating venues, all serving hearty local dishes that are freshly prepared using regional ingredients.
Afternoon tea is a popular option, and the lakeside terrace provides scenic views of the river. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxed lunch or dinner while exploring the area.
Lakeside Hotel and Spa Newby Bridge
The Lakeside Hotel Newby Bridge offers elegant meals and more casual options in a tranquil lakeside setting. It’s ideal for a treat after a day of walking, sightseeing, or steam train rides, with menus that feature locally sourced ingredients and seasonal dishes.
Village pub food near Newby Bridge
There aren’t any pubs in Newby Bridge itself, but there are some nearby that make delicious food:
- Anglers Arms, Haverthwaite. A traditional Cumbrian pub with a cosy atmosphere, offering classic pub dishes and a selection of local beers. Its riverside setting is perfect for a relaxing lunch or evening meal.
- Masons Arms, Strawberry Bank. Known for its welcoming vibe and freshly prepared seasonal menu, the pub features locally sourced ingredients and provides a charming countryside experience.
- Manor House, Oxen Park. A historic inn with a rustic interior, serving generous portions of traditional food and drinks.
There are also restaurants near Newby Bridge that are worth visiting. Head into local towns like Ulverston, Grange-over-Sands, or Windermere for a wider variety of cuisines.
Accommodation in Newby Bridge: Where should you stay?
Newby Bridge accommodation suits different budgets and preferences, from hotels and self-catering cottages to B&Bs and campsites.
Choosing the right type depends on your priorities – whether it’s privacy, convenience, comfort, or a connection with nature.
Self-catering accommodation and cottages in Newby Bridge
For those seeking privacy and flexibility, Newby Bridge holiday cottages are an ideal option. Staying in a self-catering cottage allows you to come and go as you please, prepare your own meals, and enjoy a peaceful retreat after a busy day.
Take a look at Grange Cottage as an example. Located just north of Newby Bridge and on the shore of Lake Windermere, this cottage offers guests a peaceful woodland setting.
This accommodation is perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking for a stay where they can relax at their own pace.
Newby Bridge hotels
A quick online search shows that there are plenty of hotels in Newby Bridge. These hotels are perfect for people looking for convenience and ready-made services. For example, on-site dining, housekeeping, and reception support.
Bed and breakfast (B&B)
B&Bs provide a friendly, personal experience with hearty breakfasts and local insight into nearby attractions. They’re a great choice for first-time visitors, solo travelers, or those who enjoy meeting hosts and other guests.
Camping and caravan sites
Camping or staying at a caravan site lets visitors immerse themselves in nature. Newby Bridge campsites provide scenic pitches with easy access to lakeside paths and walking trails.
Newby Bridge FAQs
What is Newby Bridge known for?
Newby Bridge is known for its scenic lakeside views, access to walking trails, and heritage experiences – such as steam train rides on the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway. The hamlet is also known for its historic 17th-century bridge, which crosses the River Leven.
Is Newby Bridge a town?
No, Newby Bridge is a small hamlet in Cumbria, located at the southern tip of Lake Windermere. The area serves as a hub for tourists exploring the southern Lake District.
Is Newby Bridge worth visiting?
In our opinion, yes! For lakeside walks, heritage railways, local museums, water activities, and charming nearby pubs, Newby Bridge is a great spot for day-trippers and longer stays.
What river runs through Newby Bridge?
The River Leven flows through Newby Bridge, connecting Lake Windermere to Morecambe Bay.
What is the history of the Swan Inn Newby Bridge?
The Swan Newby Bridge dates back to the late 17th or early 18th century as a coaching inn, providing lodging and services for travellers. Over the years, it expanded and underwent renovations, becoming a renowned hotel that preserves traditional Lake District architecture and historic charm.
What’s the weather in Newby Bridge?
Much like the rest of the Lake District, Newby Bridge weather includes mild summers, cool winters, and a lot of rainfall. Conditions are ideal for walking and sightseeing in spring and summer, but visitors should prepare for changeable weather!
Discovering Newby Bridge and beyond
Newby Bridge is a charming village with something for everyone. From scenic walks and lakeside activities to traditional pubs and cottages, it offers the perfect mix of natural beauty, local character, and convenience.
While Newby Bridge is a great hub for exploring the South Lakes, neighbouring areas also offer fun adventures.
Coniston village boasts stunning fells and lakeside trails while Hawkshead is rich in history and quaint streets. Both of these places offer alternative shopping and dining options, and are generally less busy than Windermere.
The Duddon Valley is also perfect for peaceful riverside walks. There really is something for everyone in the Lake District.
For those looking to explore these destinations while enjoying comfort and flexibility, Coppermines Cottages provides self-catering accommodation across all these locations! Relax in cosy, well-equipped accommodation while being perfectly placed to access walks, lakes, pubs, and local attractions.
Take a look at our full list of Lake District holiday cottage locations.
