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155 kmThings to do
2 days in Lake Windermere
Day 1
- MorningTake a lake cruise from Bowness to Ambleside and back.
- AfternoonWalk up Orrest Head, Wainwright's first fell, for the view over the lake.
- EveningHave dinner in Bowness or Ambleside.
Day 2
Visit Grasmere, or Beatrix Potter's farmhouse, Hill Top.
What to eat
Cumberland sausage and sticky toffee pudding.
Local tips
Make the most of Lake Windermere
Beat the crowds
Summer weekends and school holidays are very busy. Weekdays outside summer are calm.
Best photo spot
The lake from Orrest Head, a short walk from Windermere station.
Getting there
Trains run to Windermere from Oxenholme on the main line.
Don't miss nearby
Beatrix Potter's Hill Top farm and the village of Hawkshead.
Good to know
Lake steamers link Lakeside, Bowness and Ambleside. Orrest Head was Alfred Wainwright's first view of the fells.
Secret spots
2 secret spots near Lake Windermere
Our most hidden places around Lake Windermere: fewer people, same wow. Unlock them with a route in Google Maps and a PDF guide of Lake Windermere to take with you.
leax reaevlvl12 km away
eluhml racvcu92 km awayPlan your visit
Getting to Lake Windermere
At a glance
Questions
Lake Windermere: good to know
Is Lake Windermere worth visiting?
Yes, especially if you like nature. England's largest lake, surrounded by green fells.
How many days do you need in Lake Windermere?
Plan 1 night. Our free 2-day plan above shows how to spend your time.
When is the best time to visit Lake Windermere?
You can visit all year. Summer weekends and school holidays are very busy. Weekdays outside summer are calm.
How do you get to Lake Windermere?
The nearest airport is Teesside Airport (MME), about 95 km away. Trains run to Windermere from Oxenholme on the main line.
What is there to see near Lake Windermere?
Nearby hidden places include Durham (97 km), Liverpool (108 km) and Manchester (109 km).