Located in the heart of the Lake District, Windermere is a beautiful destination that offers a range of stunning sights and activities. Whether you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, or you’re simply keen to explore the great outdoors, this charming town has something for everyone. With so many wonderful places to visit, it can be hard to decide where to explore first. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the top 5 day trips in Windermere, so you can make the most of your time in this picturesque part of England. From breathtaking natural wonders to quaint market towns, read on to discover the very best that Windermere has to offer.
The 5 Best Day Trips in Windermere
- 8 Lakes and Magnificent Scenery – Afternoon Half Day Tour
- William Wordsworth – Full Day – Up to 4 People
- William Wordsworth – Full Day – Up to 8 People
- Lakeland Literary – Full Day – Up to 4 People
- Lakeland Literary – Full Day – Up to 8 People
The 5 Best Day Trips in Windermere
1. 8 Lakes and Magnificent Scenery – Afternoon Half Day Tour
Explore the beauty of Lake District on this half-day driving tour. With a relaxed and friendly small-group of no more than 7 guests, discover the breathtaking scenery of 8 lakes, including the largest in the area, Lake Windermere. Visit the Neolithic Castlerigg Stone Circle, Ashness Bridge, chart the Kirkstone Pass, and much more. Learn all about the national park and its history from your professional guide’s commentary. The vehicle transit allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the views without any hassle. All entrance fees for locations on the itinerary are included in the tour. Join this tour to explore the stunning lakes and magnificent scenery of the Lake District.
2. William Wordsworth – Full Day – Up to 4 People
This full-day tour is perfect for fans of William Wordsworth who want to immerse themselves in the world of one of England’s greatest poets. With pickup from various locations, including hotels with 48 hours notice, you and up to three companions will be taken in a private, air-conditioned vehicle to sites that played an important role in Wordsworth’s life.
Explore Dove Cottage, where Wordsworth lived for eight years and wrote many of his most famous poems, and the Wordsworth Museum, dedicated to the poet’s life and work. You’ll also visit Rydal Mount, the poet’s home for the last 37 years of his life, and Grasmere, the picturesque village where he is buried at St. Oswald’s Church.
Throughout the day, you’ll have the chance to take in the stunning Lake District scenery that inspired Wordsworth and walk in the same places he did. Entry fees to all attractions and food and drink are included in the price of the tour.
Please note that infant seats are available, but the tour is not wheelchair accessible. Most travelers can participate, and this is a private tour, so only your group will be involved.
Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. Cancelling less than 24 hours before the start time or making changes less than 24 hours before the start time will result in a non-refundable fee.
3. William Wordsworth – Full Day – Up to 8 People
Explore the picturesque landscapes of England’s largest National Park through a full-day guided tour of William Wordsworth’s life and work. Your air-conditioned vehicle will pick you up from your selected pickup point at 09:30 AM, and you will venture out on an adventure with up to 8 people.
You will visit the main attractions of Wordsworth’s life in Lake District, including visits to Rydal Mount, Dove Cottage, and the bustling towns of Ambleside and Grasmere. With all attraction entry fees and food & drink included in this tour, you can relax and enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of your surroundings.
Please note that confirmation will be received at the time of booking, and infant seats are available. Service animals are allowed, but the tour is not wheelchair accessible. Most travelers can participate.
This tour operates solely by Lakeside Travel Services, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour’s start time, the amount paid will not be refunded. With this private tour/activity, only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience to cherish for a lifetime.
Book your tour now and soak in the lovely views of Lake Windermere, Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top, the Parish Church of St. Mary, and many more attractions in this unforgettable tour of the Lake District.
4. Lakeland Literary – Full Day – Up to 4 People
Explore the literary side of the Lake District with this full-day tour. Travel in comfort with your group of up to 4 people in a private, air-conditioned vehicle. The tour includes all attraction entry fees, parking fees, and even food and drink.
Start your tour at 9:30 AM with pickup from your chosen location. You can even arrange for hotel pickup with 48 hours notice.
Throughout the day, you’ll visit several of the Lake District’s most significant literary landmarks. See William Wordsworth’s former home, Dove Cottage, where the poet lived for 8 years. Explore the picturesque village of Grasmere, where Wordsworth is buried. Visit Rydal Mount, Wordsworth’s final home where he spent the last 37 years of his life.
Also on the itinerary is the Beatrix Potter Gallery in Hawkshead. Step back in time and explore the charming 17th-century building that once served as Beatrix Potter’s solicitor’s office.
Finally, visit Hill Top, the 17th-century farmhouse where Potter wrote many of her beloved stories. Step inside and see the author’s own furnishings and decorations still in place just as she left them.
Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, and infant seats are available. Please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be eligible for a refund.
5. Lakeland Literary – Full Day – Up to 8 People
Explore the picturesque landscapes that inspired many famous writers on the Lakeland Literary tour. This full-day private tour for up to 8 people includes air-conditioned transportation with parking fees and attraction entry fees, as well as food and drink.
The tour starts at 9:30 AM and pickup can be arranged from select points or your hotel with 48 hours notice. Throughout the day, you’ll visit various literary landmarks like Dove Cottage, William Wordsworth’s former home, and Rydal Mount, where William and Dorothy Wordsworth lived for nine years. You’ll also take a scenic cruise on Lake Windermere and see the mock-Gothic Wray Castle that inspired Beatrix Potter’s work.
Confirmation will be received at time of booking, and infant seats are available for families traveling with young children. Service animals are allowed, but the tour is not wheelchair accessible. Most travelers can participate in this private tour, with only your group involved.
Cancellation policy allows for a full refund when canceled at least 24 hours in advance of the experience’s start time. Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience are subject to availability.
The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Windermere
Windermere is a beautiful town located in the heart of England’s Lake District National Park. It is known for its stunning natural scenery, pristine lakes, and historical landmarks. If you’re planning to visit Windermere soon, you might have a few questions that you’d like answers to before you go. In this article, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Windermere.1. What Is The Best Time To Visit Windermere?
The best time to visit Windermere depends on your preferences. The most popular time to visit is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the busiest time of the year, so you’ll need to book accommodations well in advance. If you prefer quieter crowds, then visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring or autumn may be more ideal for you.2. What Are The Top Attractions In Windermere?
Windermere is home to many exciting attractions that are worth visiting. Some of the top attractions include:- Windermere Lake Cruises – Take a boat tour of the stunning lake and admire the surrounding mountains.
- Bowness Bay Marina – A picturesque marina where you can rent boats and kayaks.
- The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction – A museum showcasing the life and work of Beatrix Potter, the famous author and illustrator.
- Hill Top – The former home of Beatrix Potter, which is now open to the public.
- Orrest Head – A hill that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
3. How Do I Get To Windermere?
Windermere is well-connected to major cities and towns in the UK. The nearest airports are Manchester and Liverpool, both of which are approximately a two-hour drive away. From there, you can take a train to Windermere station.If you’re traveling by car, Windermere is located off the M6 motorway. There is ample parking available in the town center, although it can get busy during peak tourist season.4. What Are The Best Accommodations In Windermere?
Windermere offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. Some of the top-rated accommodations in Windermere include:- The Samling Hotel – A luxurious hotel set in a restored Victorian mansion.
- The Cranleigh Boutique – A stylish, adults-only hotel in the heart of Windermere.
- The Cedar Manor Hotel and Restaurant – A charming hotel with stunning countryside views and award-winning dining.
- Linthwaite House – A luxurious hotel set in 14 acres of landscaped gardens and woodlands.
- The Hideaway at Windermere – An intimate and romantic guesthouse with just 12 rooms.
5. What Are The Best Restaurants In Windermere?
Windermere offers a diverse range of cuisine to suit every taste. Some of the best restaurants in Windermere include:- Porto Italian Restaurant – A family-run Italian restaurant serving authentic dishes and homemade pasta.
- The Angel Inn – A traditional British pub serving classic pub fare such as fish and chips and steak and ale pie.
- Burn How Garden House Hotel Restaurant – An elegant and sophisticated restaurant serving modern European cuisine using locally sourced ingredients.
- Hooked – A seafood restaurant serving fresh and sustainably caught fish and seafood.
- Spice of Bengal – An Indian restaurant serving classic and modern Indian dishes.
6. What Outdoor Activities Can I Do In Windermere?
Windermere is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, with an abundance of activities to keep you busy. Some of the top outdoor activities in Windermere include:- Hiking – There are countless trails and paths to explore in the surrounding Lake District countryside.
- Mountain Biking – Rent a bike and explore some of the challenging mountain biking trails in the area.
- Water Sports – Take to the lake for some kayaking, paddleboarding, or even wild swimming.
- Fishing – Windermere is home to a variety of fish species and is a popular spot for anglers.
- Golf – The Windermere Golf Club offers stunning views and a challenging course for golf enthusiasts.
7. What Is The Weather Like In Windermere?
Windermere has a temperate maritime climate, which means that it is mild and wet all year round. The summers are warm and pleasant, with temperatures averaging around 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit). Winters are cold and wet, with temperatures averaging around 5 degrees Celsius (41 degrees Fahrenheit). It’s always a good idea to bring layers and rain gear, even in the summer.Conclusion
We hope this article has answered some of your most frequently asked questions about Windermere. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, delicious food, or exploring the local history and culture, Windermere has something to offer everyone. No matter when you choose to visit, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in this stunning part of the UK. Don’t forget to take advantage of the many attractions and accommodations that Windermere has to offer.Table of Contents
