Things to do around Windermere in the Lake District
The largest lake in the Lake District, Windermere is a popular spot to head to on a visit to the Lakes. But what to do once you get there? Read our blog to find out some great things to do and days out around this iconic stretch of water.
Go on a lake cruise
No holiday in the Lake District is complete without a trip on Windemere Lake Cruises. What better way to see the stunning views than from one of their heritage steamers; Swan, Teal, Tern or Swift, or from one of their modern launches. Cruises run all year round and you can choose to hop on and off at piers including at Lakeside, Bowness and Ambleside or you can relax on a full lake cruise the entire length of Lake Windermere and back. You can find more information on Windermere Lake Cruises website
Take a hike
there are lots of popular walks around Lake Windermere. Whether it be a short stroll of a long hike, you’re guaranteed stunning scenery and incredible views. Our favourite walks around Windermere include, Gummer’s How at the southern end of Lake Windermere, Wansfell Pike from Ambleside, Brant Fell from Bowness and Orrest Head from Windermere village. For a longer hike the favourite, Fairfield Horseshoe offers incredible views of the Lake District mountains as well as Lake Windemere.
Visit Beatrix Potter’s Hilltop Farm at Near Sawrey and World of Beatrix Potter in Ambleside
Beatrix Potter and her charming animal tales have become synonymous with the Lake District. So visiting her former home at Hilltop Farm at Near Sawrey, the literary birth place of Peter Rabbit and his mischievous band of furry and feathered friends, is a must for lovers of her enduring works. For families, a visit to the World of Beatrix Potter at Ambleside at the northern tip of Lake Windermere is a must. This indoor attraction features scenes from her famous stories brought to life, and is a wonderful way to introduce her tales to a new generation of readers.
Explore Wray Castle and Grounds
Situated on the western shores of Windermere, Wray Castle is a Victorian neo-gothic building in the style of a medieval castle. It has played am important role in the history of its current owners, The National Trust, including being the first place a young Beatrix Potter holidayed in on a visit to the Lakes with her parents when she was but 16.While the castle itself is currently closed until 2027 for refurbishment, there is still much to do and explore including walking trails, a café and a shingle beach on the lake shore.
Visit Brockhole on Windemere
Perfect for families of all ages there’s plenty to see and do at Brockhole. A huge adventure playground, archery, gardens, historic house, Treetop Treks and Treetop Nets, boat hire and axe throwing to name but a few guarantee a fun day out for all. Find out more, including booking info for certain activities, at Brockhole’s website
Go for a swim at Fellfoot
The National Trust’s Fellfoot park at the southern end of Lake Windermere near Lakeside is a lakeshore country park with café, play park, water sports hire and beaches for swimming. Pack a picnic and spent the day in the beautiful grounds with views across the lake to the Lakeland fells and mountains.
Hire a boat
Enjoy the freedom of exploring England’s largest lake on your own small boat. Rowing boats and powered self-drive boats can be hired by the hour from the Windemere’s Lake Cruises boating centre at Bowness, at Bowness Bay Marina, at Brockhole-on-Windermere and at various other places along the lake.
Take afternoon tea
What more pleasant way to replace those calories lost in the fells than with an afternoon tea with a view. There are heaps of afternoon tea options alongside and nearby to Lake Windermere to choose from. Enjoy a classic Lake District afternoon tea overlooking the lake at Storrs Hall, a modern and fun twist on an afternoon tea at The Fizzy Tarte or a hearty and contemporary take on the traditional afternoon tea at The Wild Boar. When it comes to partaking in this quintessentially English pastime, you’ll be spoilt for choice around Windermere.
