Great days out near Windermere

Days out

Step into Windermere...

And explore this famous Lake District gem. Bustling Bowness boasts spectacular views of the distant mountains as well as a host of visitor attractions. Sit back and relax on a scenic train ride, take a leisurely cruise, or discover the fascinating world of Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth. Just up the road lies quieter Windermere village, welcoming visitors with an array of independent shops, restaurants, and more. Windermere lake beckons water sports enthusiasts and scenic walkers alike, and if that doesn’t tempt you, why not sample the local cuisine and tipple in the many pubs.

Ullswater 'Steamers'

Stunning cruises connecting some of the most famous walking routes, including the Ullswater Way.

Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway

From the coast to the mountains, take a trip on one of the oldest and longest narrow gauge railways in England.

Lakeland Motor Museum

100 years of motoring heritage all under one roof, they even have a café for light refreshments.

Gondola

Now lovingly restored by the National Trust, experience Coniston from the waves.

Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway

Beautiful steam trains taking you along the lake for an 18 minute ride with stops along the way.

Wray Castle

A great rainy day place to visit with something for everyone from dressing up to giant foam brick building.

Best for dog-friendly

With easy access to the Lake District’s fells, dogs will be pawing to go, keen to sniff out all the exciting walking routes of which there are plenty. There are challenging hikes for the most active of dogs who, with the wind in their fur, want nothing more than to run up the fells. Or for those dogs with a more leisurely outlook, there are some lovely gentle strolls.

Fun for all the family

The Lake District is jam-packed with brilliant days out for all the family. For the active, there's an opportunity to run, jump, sail, slide, splash, and zip-wire around the Lake District, while for those seeking a more chilled experience, there are just as many activities that won't have you swinging through the trees! For families keen to don their walking boots and fine-tune their map reading skills, there are hundreds of hikes that will have you wondering if you've booked enough nights. From lower level walks that circumnavigate the lakes to challenging climbs that venture into England's highest mountains. However you choose to spend your time, there's enough to keep both little people and big people happy!

Go Ape Grizedale

Explore the forest canopy via a treetop rope course, not for the faint hearted!

Lakes Aquarium

Learn about the diverse ecology of the Lake District.

Hire a Canoe/Kayak

Many places around Windermere offer rental services for your very own boat ride.

Take a stroll

If the kids are in tow, we recommend shorter flatter walks like those around Fell Foot Park.

Lakeland Miniature Village

This hidden gem features buildings made from Coniston slate including famous Cumbrian homes like Hilltop.

World of Beatrix Potter

Hop into the world of Peter Rabbit and experience the enchanting stories in this magical recreation of Beatrix Potter's work.

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