Walking

Windermere is an ideal base if you're planning on exploring the Lake District on foot. There are a number of paths which cross the Matson Ground Estate, including the Dales Way. Or hop on the Windermere Ferry and head to the west side of the lake for even more choice. If you are planning on heading into the Lake District Fells, we do recommend that you use an Ordnance Survey Landranger Map, and always take suitable clothing and waterproofs, even if it is fine. The weather can quickly change. Here are just a few sites to visit if you need some inspiration: 
 

https://www.davidhalllakedistrictwalks.co.uk/

https://www.where2walk.co.uk

https://www.leaney.org/

https://www.lakedistrictwalks.com/

https://www.10adventures.com/hikes/lake-district-national-park/ 

 

For more information, keep an eye on our blog where we often include information about our favourite walks. 
 

Boating

England's largest lake offers a host of options when it comes to enjoying the water. A great way to get to know the lake and the surrounding landscape is to take a trip on one of the Windermere Lake Cruises from Bowness. These sail north to Ambleside or south to Lakeside and offer a number of journey options, including a round lake trip, island tour and evening cruise. 

Click here for more information. 

Or try exploring the lake under your own steam. You can sail, kayak, canoe or even stand-up paddleboard. Self-drive options are also available. We also offer a range of Lake Adventures which can be arranged to suit all ages and abilities. From half day canoe trips to full expeditions, or just a day of fun games in a kayak, we will be able to tailor the day to suit you. For more information, please get in touch. Call 015394 45756 or visit the customise your stay pages.  
 

Adventure

For those looking for something a little more adrenalin-fuelled, our adventure partners offer a number of options, including ghyll scrambling, climbing and mountain biking. We've also included some links below to some local providers. 

 

Grizedale Forest Mountain Biking

Ambleside Climbing Wall

Kendal Climbing Wall

Go Ape Grizedale 

 

Eating and Drinking

Windermere and Bowness offer a seemingly endless choice of places to eat. From traditional Lakeland inns to boutique sandwich shops, tasty fish and chips to Michelin Star dining, there is something to suit every palate. If you need some inspiration, check our blog where we regularly post about our favourite places to eat and drink in Bowness and Windermere. 

 

Local Attractions

Drawn by the fresh air and the stunning scenery, people have been coming to the shores of Lake Windermere for almost two-hundred years, since the first trains steamed into Windermere Station. Nowadays, there is far more to the area than the breathtaking beauty of the landscape. You can venture into the world of the characters created by Beatrix Potter; take a trip back in time at Blackwell, arguably the UK's finest example of the Arts and Crafts movement; or enjoy a fun-packed day of activities at Brockhole Visitor Centre. We've included a few links below to some of our favourite Bowness and Windermere attractions. 

 

The World of Beatrix Potter

Blackwell The Arts and Crafts House

Windermere Jetty Museum

Brockhole Lake District Visitor Centre

Townend, Troutbeck

The Old Laundry Theatre

The Royalty Cinema 

And if you want to travel a little further afield, here are some more which we highly recommend. 
 

Lakeland Motor Museum

The Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway

Levens Hall

Sizergh Castle

Abbot Hall Art Gallery

Brewery Arts Centre, Kendal 

If you have something particular in mind and it's not on this list, please do get in touch. We are more than happy to help.