Lake WindermereWindermere is central to the Lake District’s tourism, and with lots to do in the town itself and in nearby Bowness-on-Windermere, you have loads to keep you busy when you stay in one of our Windermere cottages. With stunning uninterrupted views across Lake Windermere, the largest body of water in the
Lakes, you are sure to get the full impact that this popular region has to offer.
The small but perfectly formed town is a popular destination for holidaymakers heading to the Lake District National Park. Its prime location and views over Lake Windermere mean many people visit the area for the region’s walking trails and scenery.
One of Wainwright’s well known fell walks departs from Windermere. The Orrest Head Fell walk is an easy manageable walk for all abilities. Just a 20 minute walk to the top will reward you with stunning views across the town and lake. Choose to either walk back down the way you came, or continue onwards and enjoy a longer circular route that takes approximately 2 hours before arriving back to Windermere. You can also walk around the entire lake and soak up the views it has to offer from all angles on the Windermere Way. With plenty of stop-off points along the 45-mile route, the trail is perfect for walks both long and short.
Orrest Head Fell
Independent shops and boutiques fill the town’s streets. Chain stores such as Lakeland’s flagship headquarters expand the town into a must-visit shopping destination. The Lakeland store gets busy during the summer months but free parking is available for customers and they have a café on site for a delicious lunch when you’re tired out from browsing homewares.
Train and bus links frequent Windermere from all across the national park so you don’t need a car to visit, but if you are driving parking can be found in various spots throughout the town. There are also some free to park spots, but these are few-and-far between so during the busier months public transport is your best bet.
“Lake Windermere is the largest natural lake in England at 10.5 miles long and 1 mile wide.”
Just outside of the town you’ll find Brockhole-on-Windermere, the Lake District Visitor Centre, although it has more to offer than just tourist information. Onsite the Treetop Trek will delight all ages – as long as you have a head for heights. Strap onto the wires and climb with the guides through the trees at Brockhole. For children during the school holidays, the centre runs a number of activities from archery to boat hire, and even pony rides. The indoor exhibition on the history of the lakes is fascinating and a must-see for first time visitors to the area. With suggestions on where else to visit in the region it’s a perfect first day stop.
Nearby towns such as Bowness-on-Windermere, Lakeside and Ambleside all also offer great days out and should definitely be on your Lakes to do list.