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Fell Foot: Lakeside Tranquillity at Windermere’s Southern Tip

Discover lakeside calm, family fun, and historic charm at Fell Foot, Windermere’s welcoming National Trust park.

4.6

Fell Foot is a picturesque National Trust country park located at the southern tip of Lake Windermere in Cumbria. It offers sweeping lawns, gentle lakeside walks, watersports, and family-friendly amenities including a children’s play area and the Boathouse Café. The park is renowned for its stunning views, accessible paths, and historic boathouses, making it an ideal spot to relax, explore nature, and enjoy outdoor activities year-round.

A brief summary to National Trust - Fell Foot

  • Ulverston, Newby Bridge, LA12 8NN, GB
  • +441539531273
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 9 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-8 pm
  • Friday 9 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early on weekends or sunny days to secure parking, as spaces fill quickly due to popularity.
  • Try the Active Base facility for changing rooms and lockers if you plan on enjoying watersports.
  • Explore the accessible short lakeside loop for gentle walking and excellent photographic opportunities.
  • Visit the Boathouse Café for locally sourced meals with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the lake.
  • Participate in or watch the Saturday Parkrun for a lively community experience in beautiful surroundings.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from Windermere town center takes about 15-20 minutes via A592 and B5285. Parking is available on-site with free access for National Trust members; non-members pay £6 for up to 2 hours or £9.50 for all-day parking. Parking can be limited during busy periods.

  • Bus

    Bus services connect Ulverston and Windermere to Newby Bridge, with a 15-minute walk to Fell Foot. Buses run approximately every 30-60 minutes depending on the day. Tickets cost around £3-5 one way. Check local timetables for seasonal variations.

  • Train + Walk

    The nearest train station is Ulverston, about 6 km away. From there, a taxi or local bus can be taken to Newby Bridge, followed by a 15-minute walk to Fell Foot. Train journeys from major cities like Manchester or Lancaster take 1.5-2 hours.

National Trust - Fell Foot location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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A Serene Lakeside Retreat with Rich Heritage

Nestled at the southernmost point of Lake Windermere, Fell Foot presents a tranquil escape framed by panoramic water views and lush greenery. Historically, the parkland was part of a grand estate, with its Gothic revival boathouses restored and opened to the public in recent years, adding a touch of architectural charm. The heritage buildings and carefully maintained grounds reflect the Victorian era’s love of lakeside leisure, inviting visitors to step back in time while enjoying modern amenities.

Expansive Grounds for Leisure and Exploration

Fell Foot’s sweeping lawns provide ample space for picnics, games, and relaxation. Visitors can stroll along well-marked paths that trace the lakeshore, offering photographic vistas of the surrounding fells and the Fairfield Horseshoe ridge. The park features a variety of walking routes, from an accessible short loop ideal for all abilities to a longer 1.6-mile trail that meanders through wildflower meadows, reedbeds, and heritage sites. Benches are thoughtfully placed along the way to pause and soak in the scenery.

Water Activities and Family-Friendly Facilities

The park’s easy access to Lake Windermere makes it a hub for watersports such as canoeing, paddleboarding, and rowing, with equipment hire available seasonally. The Active Base facility enhances the visitor experience by offering showers, changing rooms with underfloor heating, and secure lockers. Families appreciate the outdoor play area near the south car park, equipped with swings, climbing frames, and a slide, perfect for children to enjoy the outdoors safely.

Conservation and Wildlife Highlights

Fell Foot is committed to preserving its natural environment, with areas managed under countryside stewardship agreements supporting rare breeds like blue Albina cattle. The wildflower meadows bloom in cycles, attracting pollinators and offering seasonal bursts of color. Birdwatchers may spot elusive water rails among the reedbeds, adding to the park’s rich biodiversity. Conservation efforts ensure that the park remains a haven for wildlife and a peaceful nature escape for visitors.

Accessible and Welcoming for All Visitors

While the lakeside terrain presents some challenges, the National Trust has made significant strides to improve accessibility. Wheelchair-friendly pathways, accessible toilets including a Changing Places facility, and a mountain trike for hire make the park welcoming to visitors with mobility needs. The Boathouse Café offers level access and both indoor and outdoor seating, serving locally sourced meals and refreshments throughout the day.

Community and Events at Fell Foot

Fell Foot hosts regular events such as the Saturday Parkrun, drawing local runners and visitors alike to enjoy fitness amidst stunning scenery. Orienteering courses created with Lakeland Orienteering Club provide engaging activities for all ages. Seasonal events and conservation activities invite participation, fostering a sense of community and connection to the landscape. The park’s blend of natural beauty, heritage, and facilities makes it a cherished destination year-round.

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