Bowness-on-Windermere is a picturesque town nestled on the shores of Lake Windermere, the largest natural lake in England. Renowned for its stunning landscapes, charming atmosphere, and abundance of outdoor activities, Bowness-on-Windermere is a popular destination for visitors from all over the world. Here are five of the top attractions in this idyllic town:
Windermere Lake Cruises offer a fantastic way to explore the beauty of Lake Windermere and its surrounding landscapes. Visitors can choose from a variety of cruises, ranging from short scenic trips to longer journeys that take you to different parts of the lake. Whether you want to relax and enjoy the stunning views or learn more about the history and wildlife of the area from the onboard commentary, Windermere Lake Cruises provide an unforgettable experience. Additionally, some cruises offer the option to hop on and off at different piers, allowing you to explore charming lakeside villages such as Ambleside and Lakeside.
Fans of Beatrix Potter's beloved children's books will delight in a visit to The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction in Bowness-on-Windermere. This enchanting attraction brings Potter's timeless tales to life through interactive exhibits, 3D displays, and beautifully recreated scenes from her stories. Visitors can step into the world of Peter Rabbit, Jemima Puddle-Duck, and other beloved characters as they wander through the charming garden, explore Mr. McGregor's garden, and immerse themselves in the magic of Beatrix Potter's imagination. The attraction also features a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and gifts inspired by Potter's characters.
Bowness Bay is a picturesque stretch of shoreline along Lake Windermere, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and tranquil waters. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, relax on the pebble beach, or enjoy a picnic while soaking up the scenic beauty. The bay is also a popular spot for water-based activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. Additionally, Bowness Bay is home to a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of this charming lakeside town.
Located in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere, The Old Laundry Theatre is a cultural hub that hosts a diverse range of performances, including plays, musicals, comedy shows, and live music concerts. Housed in a beautifully restored Victorian building, the theatre offers an intimate and atmospheric setting for audiences to enjoy top-quality entertainment. In addition to its regular program of events, The Old Laundry Theatre also hosts workshops, talks, and community events, making it a vibrant and dynamic part of the local arts scene. Whether you're a theatre enthusiast or simply looking for a fun night out, The Old Laundry Theatre has something for everyone to enjoy.
Situated just a short drive from Bowness-on-Windermere, Blackwell, The Arts & Crafts House is a masterpiece of architectural design and craftsmanship. Designed by renowned architect M.H. Baillie Scott in the early 20th century, the house is a stunning example of the Arts and Crafts movement, featuring intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, and beautiful interior design. Visitors can explore the house at their leisure, admiring its elegant rooms, tranquil gardens, and panoramic views of Lake Windermere and the surrounding countryside. In addition to its permanent collections, Blackwell also hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing the work of contemporary artists and designers, ensuring that there's always something new and exciting to discover at this cultural gem.
Step into another century as you experience William Wordsworth’s life at Dove Cottage. Wordsworth and his family lived in this humble Lake District cottage from 1799 to 1808.
Today, Dove Cottage has been brought back to life and the sights, sounds and smells evoke memories of over 200 years ago. Little moments taken from the Wordsworths’ poems, journals and letters have been recreated, telling the story of their life here. In this time of ‘plain living and high thinking’, the everyday mixed with the extraordinary. It was whilst living here, amongst the hustle and bustle of daily life, that Wordsworth wrote many of his greatest poems and his sister Dorothy kept her fascinating Grasmere journal.
Wray Castle sits on the west shore of Lake Windermere. With church-like interiors, turrets, towers, informal grounds and miles of lakeshore paths, Wray Castle provides the perfect backdrop for a day exploring outdoors in the Lakes.
There are three way marked trails through the estate woodlands, where you can see some rare and champion trees, and lakeshore bays, which make perfect stone skimming and paddling spots.
The ground floor of the castle is open, but as the castle came to the National Trust without its contents, you will not see a ‘typical’ historic house full of paintings, furniture and antiques with an accompanying owner-family history through the ages.
You can start the day on the water and arrive at Wray Castle by Windermere Lake Cruise boat, which runs until the end of October. The west shore path with endless lake views is bike and walking friendly.
The team in the cosy café make everything fresh on site, and it’s the perfect place for a warming drink and treat after a day’s exploring.
Location: West shore of Windermere, near Ambleside.
Low Wray, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 0JA
Go on a journey of underwater discovery! Set on Windermere lakeshore, this award-winning attraction has the UK's largest collection of freshwater fish. You can arrive at the aquarium by boat, from Bowness or Ambleside with Windermere Lake Cruises. And you can catch a steam train with the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway. There are a café and shop on site, and entry for children under three is free.
Location: Lakeside, the southwestern shore of Windermere.
Lakeside, Newby Bridge, Cumbria, LA12 8AS
Rheged is a gallery, café, cinema, shopping venue, workplace and creative space on the edge of the Northern Lakes. A place where friends, family and colleagues can share a meal, watch a film, hold a meeting, see an exhibition, buy a gift or catch up over coffee. A flexible space for getting together or enjoying time alone with a book or notepad; a place where stories are told, ideas are sparked and the Cumbrian landscape is a constant source of inspiration.
Getting around the Lake District by bus is easy, relax, take a break from driving and explore the tranquil waters and outstanding scenery of this World Heritage Site.
Enjoy unlimited all-day travel in the central Lakes from as little as £10.00, or hop on for a single journey for just £2!* The easiest way to buy your Lake District bus tickets is on the Stagecoach App.
The Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway. Join us on a stunning seven-mile journey from Ravenglass, the only coastal village in the UNESCO World Heritage site, The Lake District National Park. Travel across the estuary, through the hills, past seven request stops, en route to our final destination, Dalegarth for Boot station.
At Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway, travel back in time when you climb aboard our steam train. A distant memory of bygone years for some and a new experience for others, it’s a unique day out for all.
Established in 1973 The Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway is a family run business in the heart of the Lake District.
Steam engines haul traditional 1950’s carriages through the countryside scenery of the Leven Valley, leisurely transporting passengers to Lakeside Station, where connections are available with Windermere Lake Cruises.
The quaint surroundings at Haverthwaite Station entice guests to stay a while. At the Victorian Station you will find… a Tea Room, Gift Shop, Engine Shed, Woodland Playground and Walk.
The station welcomes dogs and they can even ride the train for FREE!