Things to do in Windermere
Found at the heart of the Lake District, the charming area of Windermere has beckoned travellers since Victorian times. Offering convenient proximity to the lakeshore and commanding vistas of both the lake and the encircling fells, this region retains its timeless allure and continues to captivate visitors to this day.
At just over half an hour’s drive away, Windermere and its neighbours Bowness and Ambleside should be among your first ports of call if you’re staying at our Lakeland Leisure Park. Below, we’ve compiled the top things to do in the Windermere area, ensuring that you’re well-planned enough to fill your visit with unforgettable experiences.
Cruise on Lake Windermere
Address: Winander House, Glebe Rd, Bowness-on-Windermere LA23 3HE
Your Windermere adventure should start with the lake itself, and what better way to experience it than on the deck of a cruise boat? Lake Windermere is the largest natural lake in England and is surrounded by stunning scenery to complement its glassy waters.
Several cruise operators such as Windermere Lake Cruises provide a variety of options, from leisurely sightseeing cruises to romantic sunset excursions. Whether you want to relax on the deck or explore the lake's surroundings, a cruise is a must.
Bowness-on-Windermere
Address: Crag Brow, Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere LA23 3BX
Bowness-on-Windermere, often simply referred to as Bowness, is the bustling heart of Windermere's tourist activity. Here, you'll find charming streets lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Take a leisurely stroll along the lakefront promenade, explore local boutiques, and enjoy a meal with a view at one of the many eateries. Bowness is also home to the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, perfect for families.
Windermere Jetty Museum
Address: Jetty Museum, Rayrigg Rd, Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere LA23 1BN
For a dose of history and a closer look at the area's maritime heritage, Windermere Jetty Museum is a must-visit. This informative museum reopened in March 2019 after 12 years' closure and redevelopment work.
It now showcases an impressive collection of boats, steam launches, and other water machinery. You can learn about the history of boating on Lake Windermere and even take a ride on a fully restored wooden heritage boat from the Windermere Jetty Museum collection.
Lakeland Motor Museum
Address: Old Blue Mill, Backbarrow, Ulverston LA12 8TA
Car enthusiasts both young and old will appreciate a visit to the Lakeland Motor Museum, located in Backbarrow, which is conveniently located on the way from our Lakeland Leisure Park to Windermere.
The museum boasts 30,000 exhibits with an extensive collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, and classic automobiles. It's a fun and informative experience with many quirky items such as pedal cars and century-old electric cars. For those who are less fascinated by automobiles, you can also enjoy the vibes at the wonderful recreation of a 1950s cafe to enjoy some refreshments.
Beatrix Potter's Hill Top House
Address: Near Sawrey, Ambleside LA22 0LF
Fans of the beloved children’s author Beatrix Potter can explore her former home, Hill Top House, located in Near Sawrey, a short drive from Windermere. This charming cottage is where Potter wrote many of her famous stories, including "Peter Rabbit."
The house and its gardens are open to the public and provide a glimpse into her creative world, making it an unmissable experience for those who grew up with her works.
Water Sports @ Leigh Groves Building
Address: Leigh Groves Building, Rayrigg Rd, Windermere LA23 1BP
Lake Windermere is not only for cruising; it's also a hub for water sports enthusiasts. You can try your hand at kayaking, paddleboarding, water skiing, or even windsurfing. Rental shops and water sports centres such as Windermere Outdoor Adventure Centre, can be found around the lake, offering equipment and lessons for beginners.
Wray Castle
Address: Low Wray, Ambleside LA22 0JA
Wray Castle, located on the western shore of Lake Windermere, is a historic and picturesque attraction. Although it's not a traditional castle, this Victorian neo-gothic mansion is known for its captivating architecture and beautiful grounds. The unique National Trust property is particularly family-friendly, with interactive exhibits and plenty of space for children to play both inside and out.
Lake District festivals
If your visit to Windermere coincides with one of the many Lake District festivals, consider attending. These festivals celebrate everything from literature and music to food, beer and the great outdoors. They often feature live performances, workshops, and tastings that can add an extra layer of enjoyment to your holiday.
Brockhole on Windermere
Address: Lake District National Park, Visitor Centre, The, Windermere LA23 1FF
Operated by the Lake District National Park, the visitor centre at Brockhole on Windermere offers an amazing amount to do. From treetop treks and archery to boat hire and mini-golf, there's something to keep every family member entertained. Its beautiful gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and its lakeside cafe serves up delicious treats with stunning views. What more could you need?
Orrest Head
Address: Windermere LA23 1AW
In this picturesque part of the world, you don’t need a strenuous hike to find incredible views. Take a gentle walk from Windermere village through lovely woodland paths to a viewpoint at Orrest Head that offers panoramic vistas of Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells. It's a short and sweet climb, perfect for families or anyone looking for a bit of fresh air and stunning scenery. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the top, or simply take in the views and snap some photos.
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Pre-owned holiday homes from £14,995 – UPDATED 29 September 2025
*Holiday home price is based on a pre-owned holiday home and includes siting,connections and standard accessories.
Price excludes 2025 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 29 September 2025, price is available at Blue Dolphin, Church Farm, Cleethorpes Beach, Combe Haven, Craig Tara, Doniford Bay, Far Grange, Golden Sands, Hafan Y Mor, Haggerston Castle, Lakeland, Littlesea, Marton Mere, Quay West, Presthaven, Primrose Valley, Reighton Sands, Rockley Park, Skegness, The Orchards, Thornwick Bay, Wild Duck and Weymouth Bay. Price can be withdrawn at any time.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL.
Brand new holiday homes from £268 per month - UPDATED 29 September 2025
Offer is applicable to new customer purchases made through Haven from 14th July 2025, completing by 31 December 2025.
Representative finance example. Holiday home cash price £29,995, less deposit of £8,998.50, gives a loan amount of £20,996.50. 120 monthly payments of £268.34. Total charge for credit £11,191.13. Total amount payable £41,186.13 which includes the deposit amount. The interest rate is 5.33% fixed / 9.6% APR (representative).
Offer available at the following parks: Blue Dolphin, Yorkshire Cleethorpes Beach, Lincolnshire Combe Haven, Sussex Church Farm, Sussex Craig Tara, Scotland Doniford Bay, Somerset Haggerston Castle, Northumberland Hafan y Mor, North Wales Lakeland, Lake District, Marton Mere, Blackpool, Orchards, Essex Presthaven, North Wales Primrose Valley, Yorkshire, Reighton Sands, Yorkshire Thornwick Bay, Yorkshire Weymouth Bay, Dorset Golden Sands, Lincolnshire, Littlesea, Dorset, Quay West, South Wales, Rockley Park, Dorset, Skegness, Lincolnshire and Wild Duck, Norfolk.
Price excludes 2025 site fee, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status & availability. Bourne Leisure Limited, Company registration no 040 660, whose registered office address is 1 Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP2 4YL. Bourne Leisure is a credit broker and not a lender.
Nearly-new Willerby Ellerton models - Now £4k off – UPDATED 25 August 2025
£4k off is based on the price difference between brand new and nearly-new 2025 or 2026 Willerby Ellerton holiday homes. Representative prices shown are based on nearly-new 2025 or 2026 Willerby Ellerton holiday homes and and include siting, connections, and standard accessories. All prices exclude 2025 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Reduced prices subject to status and availability. Offer available on a limited number of units at selected parks, as of 25 August 2025. Holiday homes cannot be used as a permanent residence. See haven.com/ownership for full details
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL.
New holiday homes from £34,995 – UPDATED 29 September 2025
*Holiday home price is based on a pre-owned holiday home and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
Price excludes 2025 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 29 September 2025, price is available at Kent Coast, Burnham-On-Sea, Berwick, Caister-on-Sea, Cala Gran, Cardigan View, Devon Cliffs, Greenacres, Hopton, Perran Sands and Seton Sands. Price can be withdrawn at any time.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL.
Pre-owned holiday homes from £19,995 – UPDATED 29 September 2025
*Holiday home price is based on a pre-owned holiday home and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
Price excludes 2025 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 29 September 2025, price is available at Kent Coast, Burnham-On-Sea, Berwick, Caister-on-Sea, Cala Gran, Cardigan View, Devon Cliffs, Greenacres, Hopton, Perran Sands and Seton Sands. Price can be withdrawn at any time.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL.
Let2offset - make no site fee payments until 2032
Let2offset is a contractual lettings product that offers eligible owners a guaranteed letting income at a preferential rate (calculated each year) in exchange for a stipulated number of letting breaks. It also allows eligible owners to pay their site fees and receive their letting income in 12 equal monthly instalments; the monthly site fee amount charged by Haven will be after deduction of the letting income.
‘Make no site fee payments until 2032 when using Let2offset’ is available at 33 Haven parks excluding Burnham, Cardigan View, Far Grange, Garreg Wen, Lydstep Beach, Riviere Sands and Seaview. The letting income received will vary by make, model and location. The monthly site fee payment does not include running costs e.g. utilities, rates & insurance.
“Make no site fee payments until 2032 when using Let2offset” is applicable to new and existing customer purchases of new Victory Ashberry 3 Bed or equivalent grade holiday home purchases made through Haven where customers have also signed up to Haven’s Let2offset contract. It is not applicable to private sales and cannot be used in conjunction with our free Site Fee promotion. An example of how “Make no site fee payments until 2032 when using Let2offset” operates under Let2offset is the purchase of a Victory Ashberry 3 Bed holiday home at Seton Sands with a monthly site fee of £667.08 (includes purchasing discount of £17.08) and monthly letting income of £673.17. The monthly difference equates to £23.17, which will be credited to the owner's account. Both letting income and site fees are subject to yearly pricing reviews and inflation. The monthly site fee costs and letting income shown in the example are based on 2025 figures. Modelled assumptions on expected annual site fee and letting income charges over the 7-year lettable life of the Victory Ashberry 3 Bed indicate that under Let2offset it is anticipated that these customers will continue to receive a monthly credit during this period, however, this is not guaranteed. The modelled assumptions are based on the historical performance of Haven over the past 5 years of trading as of 2024. Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times. Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL.