Windermere: England’s Largest Natural Lake and Picturesque Lakeside Hub
Explore Windermere, England’s largest natural lake, where stunning landscapes meet vibrant lakeside charm and timeless cultural heritage.
Windermere, nestled in the heart of England’s Lake District National Park, is the largest natural lake in England, stretching over 16 km. Surrounded by rolling fells and charming villages like Bowness-on-Windermere, it offers a blend of serene natural beauty and vibrant tourist attractions. Visitors enjoy scenic lake cruises, watersports, historic museums, and tranquil walks with panoramic views, making Windermere a quintessential Lake District destination.
A brief summary to Windermere
- Windermere, GB
- Duration: 1 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Take a scenic cruise from Bowness Pier to enjoy panoramic views and visit nearby villages like Ambleside and Hawkshead.
- Visit the Windermere Jetty Museum to discover the rich boating history of the lake through interactive exhibits.
- Hike up Orrest Head for one of the easiest walks with rewarding panoramic views over Windermere and the surrounding fells.
- Explore Brockhole Visitor Centre for family-friendly activities including gardens, bike hire, and adventure playgrounds.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Train and Bus
Travelers can take a train to Windermere station from major cities such as Manchester or Oxenholme, with journey times ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 hours. From the station, local buses run frequently to Bowness-on-Windermere and lakeside areas. Tickets cost approximately £10–£20 depending on origin, and services operate year-round but may be less frequent in winter.
-
Car
Driving to Windermere is straightforward via the M6 motorway and A591 road, with typical travel times of 1.5 to 2 hours from Manchester or Liverpool. Parking is available in Bowness and Windermere but can be limited during peak seasons. Parking fees range from £3 to £8 per day.
-
Boat Cruise
For a scenic approach, take a Windermere Lake Cruise from Bowness Pier or Lakeside Pier. Cruises run frequently from spring to autumn, lasting from 30 minutes to several hours depending on the route. Prices range from £10 to £25 for standard tickets.
-
Walking
For nearby visitors, walking routes from Ambleside or Bowness to lakeside points are accessible and scenic, typically taking 30 to 60 minutes on well-maintained paths. Terrain is generally easy with some gentle inclines.
Windermere location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Windermere
A Majestic Natural Landmark at the Heart of the Lake District
Windermere holds the distinction of being England’s longest and largest natural lake, extending approximately 16 kilometers in length. Its waters are framed by the lush, undulating Cumbrian fells, creating a landscape of rugged yet inviting beauty. The lake’s vast expanse supports a variety of water-based activities including boating, sailing, paddleboarding, and even wild swimming, making it a dynamic playground for outdoor enthusiasts.The Vibrant Lakeside Community of Bowness-on-Windermere
On the eastern shore lies Bowness-on-Windermere, a bustling village that serves as the primary gateway for visitors. This lively hub offers an array of amenities such as quaint shops, traditional pubs, and eateries where travelers can savor local fare while enjoying views over the water. The village’s pier is a focal point for lake cruises, connecting visitors to other scenic spots around the lake and enhancing the experience of exploring the region by water.Rich Cultural and Historical Attractions Nearby
Windermere is surrounded by a wealth of cultural sites and museums that celebrate the region’s heritage. The Windermere Jetty Museum showcases the lake’s 200-year boating history through interactive exhibits and restored vessels. Nearby, the Lakeland Motor Museum presents an extensive collection of classic cars and memorabilia. For literary enthusiasts, the area is close to the homes of famed writers such as Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth, whose legacies are preserved in nearby historic cottages and museums.Scenic Walks and Panoramic Views
Beyond the water, Windermere offers numerous walking routes that cater to all levels of fitness. Orrest Head is a particularly popular vantage point, providing an accessible climb rewarded by sweeping views across the lake and surrounding fells. The combination of tranquil woodland paths and open hilltops invites visitors to immerse themselves in the natural splendor and peaceful ambience of the Lake District.Seasonal Activities and Family-Friendly Experiences
Throughout the year, Windermere hosts a variety of activities and events that appeal to families and solo travelers alike. Boat cruises operate seasonally, offering themed tours and stops at charming villages such as Ambleside and Hawkshead. Nearby attractions like Brockhole Visitor Centre provide gardens, adventure playgrounds, and bike hire, making the area a versatile destination for all ages.A Destination of Enduring Appeal and Natural Charm
Windermere’s blend of natural grandeur, cultural richness, and recreational opportunities ensures it remains a top destination within the Lake District. Whether seeking relaxation by the water, engaging in outdoor adventures, or exploring historic sites, visitors find Windermere an inspiring and memorable place to experience the essence of England’s famed lake country.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Blea Tarn, Lake District National Park
15.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Blea Tarn in the Lake District, a perfect spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts amidst stunning landscapes.
Kirkhead Tower / Summerhouse
15.9 km
Historic Kirkhead Tower offers stunning panoramic views over Morecambe Bay and the Lake District from its tranquil spot near Grange-over-Sands.
Wordsworth Grasmere
16.0 km
Explore the enchanting world of William Wordsworth at Wordsworth Grasmere, a museum nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of the Lake District.
Start Of Cumbria Way
16.3 km
Explore the Start of the Cumbria Way, where breathtaking landscapes and serene hiking trails await every adventurer in the heart of Ulverston.
Westmorland County Showground
16.5 km
Discover the essence of the Lake District at Westmorland County Showground, a vibrant hub for local culture, food, and crafts.
National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
16.9 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and rich literary history of Allan Bank and Grasmere, a must-visit destination in the heart of the Lake District.
Lake District National Park
18.6 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Lake District National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning landscapes, charming villages, and endless outdoor adventures.
Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae.
19.2 km
Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae, a remarkable fortress in the heart of the Lake District.
Leighton Hall Estate
20.4 km
Discover the charm and history of Leighton Hall Estate, a captivating destination in Carnforth featuring stunning gardens and rich heritage.
Stanley Ghyll Waterfall
22.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Stanley Ghyll Waterfall in Eskdale, a must-visit natural wonder in the Lake District National Park.
Eskdale Mill
22.7 km
Experience the rich history and stunning landscapes at Eskdale Mill, a heritage museum nestled in the heart of the Lake District.
Scafell Pike
22.9 km
England's highest peak: a challenging mountain adventure with war memorial significance and spectacular Lake District views.
Furness Abbey
25.7 km
Discover Furness Abbey, a historical landmark in Barrow-in-Furness showcasing stunning monastic architecture and rich heritage amidst beautiful landscapes.
The Westmorland Family
26.6 km
Discover comfort and local flavors at The Westmorland Family, a charming rest stop in Orton, Penrith, perfect for travelers exploring Cumbria.
Honister Slate Mine
27.0 km
Explore the thrilling adventures at Honister Slate Mine, where outdoor activities meet rich slate mining heritage in the stunning Lake District.
Unmissable attractions to see
Blackwell
3.5 km
Explore Blackwell, a stunning Arts & Crafts house near Windermere, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship, historic charm, and breathtaking Lake District views.
Stott Park Bobbin Mill
3.5 km
Explore the last working Lakeland bobbin mill, where Victorian industry and community come to life through authentic machinery and stories.
National Trust - Claife Viewing Station and Windermere West Shore
4.0 km
Discover panoramic Victorian views of Windermere from a charming lakeside folly with historic coloured glass and a welcoming café.
Lakes Aquarium
4.2 km
Discover the vibrant aquatic and terrestrial wildlife of the Lake District at Lakes Aquarium, nestled on the scenic shores of Windermere.
National Trust - Hill Top
4.2 km
Beatrix Potter's beloved farmhouse, frozen in time and filled with the inspiration for her timeless children's tales.
National Trust - Hill Top Beatrix Potter House
4.3 km
Step into Beatrix Potter’s enchanting Lake District home, where her stories and inspirations come vividly to life in a timeless 17th-century farmhouse and garden.
National Trust - Fell Foot
4.6 km
Discover lakeside calm, family fun, and historic charm at Fell Foot, Windermere’s welcoming National Trust park.
Go Ape Grizedale
5.3 km
Experience thrilling treetop adventures and soaring zip lines in the heart of Grizedale Forest, Lake District’s premier outdoor activity hub.
Lake District
5.4 km
Experience England’s largest lake with vibrant watersports, cultural treasures, and scenic beauty in Bowness-on-Windermere.
Grizedale
5.4 km
Explore Grizedale Forest’s blend of stunning Lake District scenery, captivating outdoor art, and thrilling outdoor adventures for all ages.
World of Beatrix Potter Attraction Shop
5.9 km
Step into the enchanting world of Beatrix Potter’s timeless tales in the heart of the Lake District with immersive exhibits and a charming garden.
The Wild Boar | Bar, Restaurant & Hotel
6.5 km
A luxurious Lake District inn blending rustic charm, gourmet dining, and tranquil woodland escapes near Kendal.
Queen Adelaide's Hill
7.5 km
Easily accessible hilltop with breathtaking 360° views of Lake Windermere, perfect for sunset and picnics in the Lake District.
The Lamplighter Dining Rooms
7.7 km
Cozy Victorian inn with British charm, local cuisine, and a prime Windermere location near the Lake District.
Latterbarrow
7.7 km
A scenic hill near Ambleside offering family-friendly walks and panoramic views across the Lake District’s iconic landscapes.
Essential places to dine
The Brown Horse Inn
4.1 km
A cozy and charming inn near Windermere offering hearty food, comfortable rooms, and a warm Lake District welcome.
The Ryebeck Hotel
4.2 km
Charming lakeside hotel with quirky style, fine dining, and stunning views over Lake Windermere in the heart of the Lake District.
Henrock
4.7 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern cuisine with tranquil garden views at Henrock, nestled in the luxurious Linthwaite House Hotel near Lake Windermere.
Boardwalk Bar and Grill
5.3 km
Relax by Lake Windermere with delicious grilled dishes and panoramic views at Boardwalk Bar and Grill, Bowness-on-Windermere’s lakeside favorite.
Lake View Garden Bar - Pub | Food | Live Music
5.6 km
Discover Lake View Garden Bar: A scenic pub offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and live music by beautiful Windermere.
The Lakeview Restaurant at Macdonald Old England Hotel
5.7 km
Modern British fine dining with stunning panoramic views of Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells in a refined lakeside setting.
Porto Restaurant
5.8 km
Experience modern British cuisine with locally sourced flavors in a warm, inviting setting just steps from Lake Windermere.
BAHA Bowness - Bar | Restaurant | Live Music
5.8 km
Experience vibrant Asian BBQ, live music, and nightlife across three lively floors in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Magic Roundabout
5.8 km
A vibrant café and bar in Bowness-on-Windermere offering diverse British cuisine, inclusive menus, and a lively atmosphere from morning to late night.
The Flying Pig Pub
5.8 km
Experience hearty Lakeland hospitality and classic English fare in the welcoming atmosphere of The Flying Pig Pub, Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Westmorland Inn
6.1 km
Rustic charm and hearty dining just steps from Lake Windermere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Punch Bowl Inn, Crosthwaite
6.3 km
Historic country inn in Lyth Valley offering acclaimed local cuisine, cozy boutique rooms, and timeless Lake District charm.
Hooked Seafood
7.4 km
Fresh, seasonal seafood served with warmth and elegance in the heart of Windermere’s charming Ellerthwaite Square.
The Tilly Bar and Kitchen
7.6 km
Casual British dining and drinks in the heart of Windermere village, featuring fresh homemade dishes and a welcoming dog-friendly atmosphere.
Applegarth Villa & Restaurant
7.6 km
A refined country house hotel and bistro-style restaurant in Windermere, offering elegant rooms, excellent food, and warm family-run hospitality with views of the Lake District fells.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Love the Lakes Bowness
5.7 km
Locally crafted gifts celebrating the spirit and beauty of England's Lake District.
Mountain Warehouse
5.8 km
Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment store in Bowness, offering quality gear for all your Lake District adventures.
Tesco Express
5.8 km
Your convenient, friendly supermarket stop in Bowness-on-Windermere, open daily with fresh local produce and essentials for every visit.
Lonsdale Galleries
5.8 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in a spacious, welcoming gallery at the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
LAKELAND Leather
5.9 km
Discover handcrafted leather elegance and timeless style at Lakeland Leather in Bowness-on-Windermere, where tradition meets the Lake District spirit.
Herdy Bowness
5.9 km
Whimsical Lake District gifts celebrating the beloved Herdwick sheep with quality, character, and charm.
Pretty Things
6.0 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and warm hospitality at Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Original Man Shop
6.0 km
A distinctive men's gift and fashion boutique offering style and charm in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Forget Me Not
7.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Forget Me Not, Windermere’s charming boutique in the heart of the Lake District.
Booths, Windermere
7.7 km
Explore Booths Windermere: a premier supermarket and café blending local flavors, quality produce, and community spirit in a historic setting.
Elephant Yard Shopping
13.2 km
Discover modern style and local charm at Elephant Yard Shopping, Kendal’s vibrant retail and community hub.
Waterstones
13.3 km
Discover a world of books and culture at Waterstones Kendal, your welcoming literary hub in the Westmorland Centre.
Blackhall Shopping Yard Kendal
13.3 km
Historic artisan shopping yard in Kendal's heart, home to independent specialists and local heritage.
Ryman Stationery
13.3 km
Your reliable source for quality stationery essentials in Kendal’s Westmorland Shopping Centre.
Kendal Indoor market
13.3 km
Historic Kendal Indoor Market blends traditional charm with local crafts and fresh produce in a vibrant covered shopping hub.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Boathouse | Bar & Restaurant
4.6 km
Stylish gastropub at Windermere Marina Village with scenic lake views, fresh seasonal menus, and a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.
Boaters Bar
5.2 km
Lake District’s premier lakeside bar offering craft beers, live entertainment, family fun, and stunning views over Lake Windermere.
Quayside Bowness
5.3 km
Lakeside bar and kitchen with stunning views, live sports, and vibrant nightlife across three lively floors in Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Lake View Bowness
5.5 km
A welcoming lakeside pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering stunning views, hearty fare, and classic English charm.
The Arts Bar
5.7 km
Creative cocktails and seasonal dishes served in a cozy, arts-inspired setting in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Village Inn Bowness-On-Windermere
5.7 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering local ales, hearty British fare, live sports, and a spacious beer garden.
The Easy Breeze
5.7 km
A vibrant bar and restaurant blending Lakeland charm, live music, and flavorful street food in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Lago
5.8 km
Lago is a lively bar in Bowness-on-Windermere known for its quality cocktails, sharing platters, and welcoming atmosphere near the heart of the Lake District.
The Fizzy Tarté
5.8 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and café in Bowness-on-Windermere serving stylish drinks and fresh afternoon tea in a lively, chic setting.
Hole in t' Wall
5.8 km
Historic Lakeland pub offering hearty food, cask ales, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Albert
5.8 km
A lively, traditional pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering local ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere year-round.
The Crafty Baa Windermere
7.6 km
A vibrant, quirky bar and tapas spot in Windermere, famed for its eclectic décor, craft drinks, and lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Live Music in The Lake District The Crafty Baa Windermere Every Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
7.6 km
A lively craft beer bar in Windermere with quirky decor, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the Lake District.
The Smallest Pub in The Lake District The Pie and Pint
7.6 km
Discover the cozy charm of The Smallest Pub in The Lake District, where craft ales meet homemade pies in Windermere’s most intimate setting.
The Windermere Speakeasy
7.7 km
A cozy, versatile cocktail bar and eatery in Windermere offering creative drinks, sharing platters, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Wheelhouse Nightclub
5.3 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
Windermere Social Club
7.1 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Lounge C9
28.8 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
Manhattans Nightclub
28.8 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
28.8 km
Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.
The loose moose
40.8 km
A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.
secret bridge
48.2 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.
Funny Girls
55.4 km
Discover the magic of Blackpool's Funny Girls, where dazzling performances meet delightful dining in an unforgettable night out.
Sanuk Nightclub
55.5 km
Experience Blackpool’s vibrant nightlife at Sanuk Nightclub, a premier venue with six rooms and a lively house music scene on the iconic promenade.
Garlands
55.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Garlands, Blackpool's premier gay bar and night club, filled with music, dance, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Club underground
55.5 km
Experience Blackpool’s authentic old-school basement club with vibrant music, friendly crowds, and late-night energy on Talbot Road.
Soul Suite
55.5 km
Experience the soulful heartbeat of Blackpool with classic tunes, lively dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere at Soul Suite.
Popworld - Blackpool
55.6 km
Experience retro pop hits and vibrant party vibes at Popworld Blackpool, the iconic two-floor nightclub on the Promenade.
Trilogy Nightclub
55.6 km
Experience Blackpool’s vibrant nightlife across three floors of music, lights, and energy at Trilogy Nightclub.
The Tache Rock Club
55.7 km
Blackpool’s spirited rock nightclub offering authentic music, friendly vibes, and late-night energy in a casual setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
