Although technically two separate towns, Windermere and Bowness-on-Windermere merge into one bustling hub that serves as the Lake District's most popular tourist destination. With fantastic accessibility, a huge range of attractions, and the magnificent lake itself, it's the perfect base for first-time visitors and seasoned travellers alike.
Things to Do & Getting There
Key Attractions
Explore the Lake: The main draw is, of course, the lake. Take a cruise with Windermere Lake Cruises from Bowness Bay to Ambleside or Lakeside, or hire your own motorboat, kayak, or paddleboard to explore at your own pace.
The World of Beatrix Potter: A magical attraction in Bowness that brings the famous characters to life. It's an enchanting experience for all ages.
Walk to Orrest Head: This famous viewpoint is a relatively short and easy walk from Windermere village, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and surrounding fells. It was the first summit Alfred Wainwright ever climbed.
Getting There & Around
By Car: Exit the M6 at Junction 36 and follow the A591. Parking in Bowness can be very busy, especially in summer. Consider using the Park and Ride service or arriving early.
By Train: Windermere has its own train station, with a branch line connecting to the West Coast Mainline at Oxenholme. It's the most accessible town in the Lakes by rail.
Getting Around: Once here, you can easily explore using local buses. The 555 and 599 (open-top) services are particularly useful. The Windermere Car Ferry also connects Bowness to the quieter western shore near Hill Top.
Where to Eat
For Pub Classics: The Angel Inn and The Hole in t' Wall in Bowness are historic pubs offering great food and local ales in a traditional setting.
For a Lakeside View: Many lakeside hotels offer terrace dining with stunning views. The Bluebird Café at Coniston is another famous nearby option.
For Something Special: The area is home to several Michelin-starred and highly-rated restaurants, perfect for a celebratory meal. Booking is essential.
Where to Stay
Holiday Cottages: Self-catering cottages and apartments are plentiful, giving you the flexibility and a home-from-home base to explore the area.
Hotels: You'll find some of the Lake District's most luxurious spa hotels here, many with incredible lake views and fine dining restaurants.
Guesthouses: From chic boutique guesthouses to traditional, family-run B&Bs, there are hundreds of options offering a warm Cumbrian welcome.
Walks from Windermere & Bowness
Orrest Head
This famous viewpoint is a relatively short and easy walk from Windermere village, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and surrounding fells. It was the first summit Alfred Wainwright ever climbed.
Explore Orrest HeadSkelghyll Woods & Jenkin Crag
Starting just outside Ambleside but easily reached from Windermere, this beautiful woodland walk offers a peaceful escape and culminates in the stunning viewpoint of Jenkin Crag, providing a magnificent vista over Lake Windermere.
Discover the WalkTarn Hows
A short drive or bus ride away, Tarn Hows offers an accessible and picturesque circular walk around a beautiful tarn. With stunning views of the Langdale Pikes, it's perfect for families and is accessible for wheelchairs.
Visit Tarn HowsTours from Windermere & Bowness
As the Lake District's main transport hub, Windermere is the starting point for countless tours. It's the perfect way to explore the National Park without a car, with expert guides ready to show you the most famous sights and hidden gems.