If you’re planning a trip to the Lake District, Windermere is a destination you won’t want to miss. This charming town situated at the heart of England’s largest lake boasts incredible landscapes and plenty of activities for every type of traveler. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a lover of literature, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, you’ll find plenty of attractions and things to do in Windermere to keep you entertained throughout your visit. In this post, we’ll guide you through some of the best things to see and do in Windermere, so you can make the most of your trip to this beautiful corner of England.
The 4 Best Things To Do Around Windermere
- Windermere Winter Tour of Haworth and the Brontes
- Stunning Lake District Tours
- Private Beatrix Potter Tour in a 16 Seater Minibus
- Stunning Lake District 8 Hour Tour
The 4 Best Things To Do Around Windermere
1. Windermere Winter Tour of Haworth and the Brontes
This tour takes you on a journey through three counties to the village of Haworth, where the Bronte family lived. Set in the bleak and beautiful moorland landscape of North Yorkshire, you’ll drive through the stunning scenery of the Yorkshire Dales for a stop in the timeless village of Clapham. Here, you’ll see the infamous school attended by the Bronte sisters, which served as the inspiration for Lowood school in Jane Eyre.
Following in the footsteps of Charlotte Bronte, you’ll visit the idyllic village of Wycoller, with its ruinous hall serving as the model for Ferndean Manor in Jane Eyre. This will allow you to discover the places the Bronte family knew and the landscape that inspired them.
Your tour will then continue to the Bronte Parsonage Museum, where Charlotte, Emily, Anne, and Branwell lived. You’ll explore the museum and graveyard, followed by a guided walk around Haworth, which has remained largely unchanged since the Brontes’ time. Finally, you’ll visit a typical Yorkshire Dales village, rounding out a day of history and natural beauty.
2. Stunning Lake District Tours
Stunning Lake District Tours allows you to design your own itinerary and explore the sites of your choice in comfort without worrying about the transportation arrangements. The tour is entirely private, so you will have the undivided attention of your own guide who will provide you with information and insights that you can miss if traveling on your own. You can customize your itinerary based on your interests and choose from a wide range of lakes, waterfalls, and other attractions such as Hilltop, Stock Ghyll, and Coniston. The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle and soda/pop, but entrance fees for the attractions are not included in the price. You can head directly to the meeting point or request a pickup from your location. The tour meets at Bowness Pier, in Bowness-on-Windermere.
3. Private Beatrix Potter Tour in a 16 Seater Minibus
Take off on an adventure around the winding country lanes of the Lake District and explore the landscapes that once inspired Beatrix Potter. Your journey begins with a hassle-free hotel pick-up and drop-off in Kendal, Bowness, Ambleside or Grasmere. Throughout the tour, your knowledgeable driver/guide will provide live commentary, and you’ll have many stops on route for photographs.
See Tarn Hows, a beauty spot that Beatrix Potter left in her will to the National Trust, and explore Hawkshead, a historic village in the mountains. The tour includes a visit to Hill Top Farm, where Beatrix Potter once resided. Trips to Hill Top Beatrix Potter’s home and a lake cruise can be added to this tour for an extra fee.
This private and intimate way to explore the Lake District will allow you to hear Beatrix Potter’s stories as you visit the fells, lakes, and valleys she loved and featured in her books. Lunch and refreshments are included in the tour.
4. Stunning Lake District 8 Hour Tour
This full-day Lake District tour takes you through picturesque landscapes of mountains, forests, and emerald-green lakes. With a local guide, explore the region’s most notable landmarks including Lake Windermere and Clai. You’ll also take breaks for walks, shopping, and snacks, with the chance to sample the famous gingerbread. Ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time, this private tour ensures personalized attention and includes hotel pickup and drop-off. Please note that the tour price doesn’t include attraction entrance fees, lunch, or alcoholic drinks, which are payable by the customer. Meeting at Bowness Pier – Windermere Lake Cruises at 9 am, this unforgettable tour ends back at the starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions About Windermere: Your Ultimate Tour Guide
If you’re looking to experience the natural beauty of the English Lake District, Windermere is unquestionably the place to be. It’s hard to find a more picturesque location anywhere in the country, with the awe-inspiring lake and rolling hills creating a breath-taking spectacle for visitors of all ages.However, as with any tourist destination, there are always questions that need answering. In this blog post, we’ve endeavoured to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Windermere, giving you everything you need to know to make your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible.1. What’s the best way to get to Windermere?
Windermere can be accessed by both road and rail, depending on your preferred method of transport. If you’re travelling by car, there are a number of routes you can take, depending on your starting location. The M6 motorway runs within reach of Windermere, so it’s an accessible destination regardless of where you’re starting from.Alternatively, if you prefer to travel by rail, you can take a direct train to Windermere station from Manchester Airport, which takes around 2 hours.2. What are the best things to do in Windermere?
There are so many fantastic things to do in Windermere, so we’ve picked out some of the most popular attractions to give you a flavour of what the area has to offer:2.1 Take a Boat Trip
A popular activity with tourists visiting Windermere is taking a boat trip on the lake itself. There are a number of different operators offering routes that vary in length, so whether you’re looking for a quick jaunt or a more extended voyage around the lake, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for.2.2 Visit the World of Beatrix Potter
If you’re travelling with children, the World of Beatrix Potter is a must-visit attraction. Located in Bowness-on-Windermere, the museum brings the beloved children’s stories to life through intricate 3D displays and engaging exhibits. It’s a great way to spend a couple of hours and is sure to delight both children and adults.2.3 Head to the Top of Orrest Head
The views from the top of Orrest Head are arguably the most spectacular in the Lake District. The summit can be reached by a gentle 20-minute walk from Windermere station, and the 360-degree views of the surrounding fells and lake are simply breath-taking.3. Are there any good places to eat in Windermere?
There are a host of excellent dining options to choose from in Windermere, no matter what your budget or tastes might be. Here are a few of our top recommendations:3.1 The Pig
The Pig is one of the most highly-regarded restaurants in Windermere, serving up a delicious range of locally-sourced dishes in a charming, rustic setting. With an emphasis on quality ingredients and great service, it’s a must-visit eatery for foodies visiting the Lake District.3.2 Homeground Coffee + Kitchen
If you’re in search of a hearty breakfast or light lunch, look no further than Homeground Coffee + Kitchen. The cafe is known for its delicious cakes, freshly brewed coffee and brunch menu, making it a firm favourite with both locals and tourists alike.3.3 Francine’s
For an upscale dining experience in Windermere, Francine’s is hard to beat. The menu is contemporary British with a European twist, and the restaurant has a relaxed, intimate ambience that makes for a memorable meal out.4. Where are the best places to stay in Windermere?
Windermere is home to a wide range of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are three of our top picks:4.1 The Cedar Manor Hotel
The Cedar Manor Hotel is a stylish, boutique hotel located just a short stroll from Windermere station. The rooms are beautifully decorated and come equipped with all modern amenities, making for a truly luxurious stay.4.2 The Samling Hotel
The Samling Hotel is set in 67 acres of private grounds, offering a tranquil retreat for visitors to Windermere. The 11 rooms in the hotel are elegantly designed, and there’s an award-winning restaurant on-site, making it a great choice for foodies.4.3 The Windermere Suites
The Windermere Suites is a boutique hotel that places a special emphasis on luxury and relaxation. Each suite comes with its own hot tub, and the hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from Windermere village, making it the perfect base for exploring the area.5. When is the best time of year to visit Windermere?
The Lake District is known for its changeable weather, so the answer to this question largely depends on your personal preferences. However, in general, the summer months (June-August) tend to be the most popular time to visit Windermere, as the weather is warm and the days are long.However, if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, you might want to consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November). The scenery is still stunning, and there are fewer tourists around, making for a more peaceful and relaxed experience.In conclusion, Windermere is a fantastic destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of the Lake District. With its spectacular lake, rolling hills, and charming villages, it’s no surprise that millions of tourists flock to the area each year. We hope that this guide has helped to answer any questions you might have had about Windermere, so that you can plan your trip with confidence and enjoy all that this amazing part of the world has to offer.How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Windermere
Windermere is a picturesque town located in the Lake District region of England. With its stunning lakes, lush green surroundings, and fascinating history, it has become a favorite destination for tourists looking for a relaxing getaway.
If you’re planning a trip to Windermere, but you’re not sure what to do or where to go, don’t worry. In this article, we will give you some tips on how to spend your time in Windermere, so you can have an enjoyable and unforgettable trip.
1. Take a Boat Trip on Lake Windermere
Lake Windermere is the largest natural lake in England and one of the main attractions in Windermere. Taking a boat trip on the lake is a unique way to explore its beauty and charm.
You have several options when it comes to boat trips, from a 45-minute pleasure cruise to a full-day tour that takes you all around the lake. You can also opt for a private charter if you want something more intimate and personalized.
2. Visit the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
If you’re a fan of children’s literature, a visit to the World of Beatrix Potter attraction is a must. This museum is dedicated to the life and work of Beatrix Potter, a famous author and illustrator who lived in the Lake District.
At the museum, you can see life-sized models of the characters from her books, including Peter Rabbit, Jemima Puddle-duck, and Tom Kitten. You can also learn about Potter’s life and the inspiration behind her stories.
3. Walk Along the Windermere Shoreline
Windermere has a beautiful shoreline that is perfect for a leisurely walk. You can start at Bowness-on-Windermere, a popular tourist town on the edge of the lake, and follow the path that takes you all the way to Lakeside Pier.
Along the way, you can enjoy the stunning views of the lake and the surrounding hills. You can also stop at some of the cafes and restaurants that line the path and enjoy a cup of tea or a meal.
4. Visit Hill Top House
Hill Top House is a historic house that once belonged to Beatrix Potter. The house is now a museum, and visitors can see the room where Potter wrote many of her famous stories.
You can also see some of Potter’s personal belongings, including her writing desk, her walking stick, and her collection of antique china. The museum is located in the village of Near Sawrey, which is a short drive from Windermere.
5. Explore the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway
The Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway is a heritage railway that runs between Haverthwaite and Lakeside. The train takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of the Lake District, including picturesque villages and stunning countryside.
You can choose from several different classes of travel, including first-class, standard-class, and buffet-class. The railway also offers special events throughout the year, such as steam train galas and murder mystery evenings.
6. Visit the Blackwell Arts and Crafts House
The Blackwell Arts and Crafts House is a beautiful historic property that showcases the Arts and Crafts movement. The house was designed by famous architect M.H. Baillie Scott, and it features many beautiful examples of Arts and Crafts furniture and design.
The house is located on the edge of Lake Windermere and offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. The house is open to visitors throughout the year and hosts exhibitions and events that showcase the best of the Arts and Crafts movement.
7. Hike to Orrest Head
Orrest Head is a small hill located near Windermere that offers some of the best views of the Lake District. The hike to the top of the hill is relatively easy, and it takes about an hour to complete.
Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Lake Windermere, the surrounding hills, and the distant mountains. It’s the perfect place to pack a picnic and spend a lazy afternoon enjoying the scenery.
Book Your Tour Now
Windermere is a beautiful town with lots of things to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, literature, art, or nature, you’re sure to find something that interests you in Windermere.
So, pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and head to Windermere for a holiday you’ll never forget!
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