Top 10 Things to do in Windermere and Bowness
Windermere and Bowness may officially be separate places with quite different personalities but their proximity means visitors to the region can enjoy a wide choice of attractions. Our top 10 things to do in Windermere and Bowness include:
A heady view
First on our top 10 things to do in Windermere and Bowness include a view from Orrest Head. Perched high above Windermere is probably the best viewpoint over the lake. On a clear day you can enjoy 360 degree views of the Langdales and Troutbeck Valley. Orrest Head was Alfred Wainwright’s first climb and the same stunning views remain the same.
Relaxing Spa Hotels
Stay in a Windermere Spa Hotel where you can be pampered to within an inch of your life. Book a hotel where you can relax and rejuvenate with a range of spa treatments and hot tub suites. Just what you need after a hard day out walking the fells.
Eating out
After a day out, there’s plenty of places to quench your thirst and satisfy your appetite in both Bowness and Windermere. Whether you want to sample a pint or two of real ale, dig in to some delicious pub grub and Cumbrian specialities such as local lamb, pies and sausages or you want fine dining, you will find it all in Windermere and Bowness. Also plenty of cosy cafes where you can enjoy home-made cakes and pastries.
Blackwell, the Arts and Crafts House
One of Britain’s finest houses, Blackwell survived from the turn of the last century with almost all of its original furnishings intact. The period rooms are well worth a look and the stunning garden, designed by Thomas Mawson, attracts visitors from all over the world.
The Old Laundry Theatre
There’s always a lively season of music, theatre, comedy and film at The Old Laundry Theatre. Launched with the support of friend and playwright Alan Ayckbourn. Over the years they have attracted many stars and continue to stage a wide range of clever productions.
The World of Beatrix Potter
Beatrix Potter once lived and worked in the Lake District and the Beatrix Potter Attraction is testament to her life and work. See her children’s tales come to life in a magical indoor recreation of the Lakeland countryside complete with sights, sounds and smells. You can even meet Peter Rabbit and have tea with him at organised events.
Windermere Cruises
This popular attraction offers lake cruises from 45 minutes to 3 hours in length depending where you want to go and there is no better way to explore Windermere. Cruises start from Bowness, Ambleside and Lakeside and take you past stunning scenery and beautiful lakeside houses.
Afternoon Tea in Windermere
Many local cafes offer afternoon tea with freshly cut sandwiches, home-made pastries and a scones with jam and clotted cream. Choose a restaurant or café with views over Windermere.
Brockhole, the Lake District Visitor Centre
Stop off at Brockhole and you won’t be disappointed. Visitors can take in the scenic views and gardens which stretch down to the shores of the lake, browse round the shop or look around the free exhibitions. There’s a soft play area for the children and a new aerial woodland adventure, Treetop Trek and wildlife experience Predator Park, so plenty for everyone young or old to see and do.
Bowness Shopping
Bowness offers a vast choice of quirky shops selling handmade goods and local produce which both make great souvenirs. Windermere offers several independent boutiques. Watch out for the local markets where you can bag a bargain! Windermere Market is held every Wednesday!
Book a spa hotel suite with your own private hot tub at Aphrodites Lodge.