Nestled in the heart of the Lake District, the Cumbrian town of Windermere is renowned for its iconic lake and mountain scenery. During your visit, you’ll find yourself close to some of England’s best peaks, accessible by steamboats across Windermere Lake – the largest in England. Alternatively, some of Britain’s most famous hiking trails, once navigated by Wainwright himself, with routes taking you to the likes of Orrest Head and Wray Castle, where you’ll be able to spot deer and enjoy parochial views of the lake below.
During your time in Windermere, you’ll find yourself in a prime location to visit stately homes once owned by important figures of the Victorian era. After spending a morning in a traditional tea room, head to National Trust sites like Sizergh Castle, Brantwood or Hill Top, the former home of Beatrix Potter. Alternatively, visit Lake Coniston – the location of Donald Campbell’s famous water-speed record, where you can enjoy kayaking and hikes up the Old Man – a famous mountain offering views of the Blackpool Tower.
Historically part of Westmoreland, Windermere has been a popular tourist destination ever since 18th century industrialists looked to escape the pollution of the city and settle in the country. Windermere lake itself was formed over 17,000 years ago when the British and Irish glaciers melted, while the name of the town has Germanic origins dating back to the 12th century. Today, the town benefits significantly from its train station and motorway links, attracting tourists from across Europe.
Tonight
From £203 per night
This weekend
From £528 per night
Next weekend
From £324 per night
Most popular time to visit | October–December |
Cheapest time to visit | January–March |
Local currency | GBP |
Language | English |
Average weekend price | £149 per night |
Average weekday price | £145 per night |
Typical stay | 2 nights |
Windermere was beautiful.
21 May 2024
Windermere was beautiful. We didn't realise before coming that down by the lake is classed as Bowness, which is much busier and touristy. So staying in Windermere really suited us as we could get down to the Lake easily enough, but liked being in a quieter location with some lovely independent places to eat.
Windermere & the lake district is just stunning with...
20 May 2024
Windermere & the lake district is just stunning with even more incredible views around every corner. There is so so much to do from pottering around the gorgeous villages to swimming, kayaking, hiking & Alpaca walks! It's so easy to see where Beatrix Potter & Wordsworth got their inspiration.
Ideally located and handy as a base for exploring.
13 May 2024
Ideally located and handy as a base for exploring. Traffic always snarls up towards Ambleside, so be patient it does clear. Get up early and get out there of you want to get somewhere The cafe at Brantford does amazing brunch and for those Beatrix fans, Hill Top is great. The pub though is something else, the landlord is a treasure chest of information.
The countryside is absolutely stunning.
13 May 2024
The countryside is absolutely stunning. Luckily for us the weather was beautiful just the right temperature for us and the sun was shining. We picked a good time of year as in the summer I would imagine it would be extremely busy. It's like every other old town narrow streets needing a bit of navigating. We visited the Beatrix Potter Museum which was great. We drove to Ravenglass and went on a steam train. Plenty of lovely cafes and restaurants in both Windermere and Bowness.
Windermere was a lovely little town and great as a home base...
12 May 2024
Windermere was a lovely little town and great as a home base to see other areas around the Lake District. There are many Bars, Restaurants and Cafes around the area great to start the day or finish the day with a Pint. Many beautiful walks around for all fitness levels. Highly recommend these cafe's eateries.. Toast, HomeGround, The Crafty Baa and The Elleray does a great Chicken Burger!
So much to see with excellent bus service that can take you...
12 May 2024
So much to see with excellent bus service that can take you virtually anywhere. There are boats that take scenic cruises to various spots around the lake. Wish I had more time because the variety of places to visit I would say can take at least a week.
Windermere, United Kingdom
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Windermere, United Kingdom
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Windermere, United Kingdom
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Windermere, United Kingdom
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