Windermere
Tours

Our most recommended things to do in Windermere

From Manchester: Lake District Bus Tour & Windermere Cruise

From Manchester: Lake District Bus Tour & Windermere Cruise

Discover the wonderful scenery of the Lake District on a guided tour from Manchester. Take a scenic boat cruise on Lake Windermere, with visits to the charming villages of Bowness, Hawkshead, and Grasmere. Set off from Manchester and enjoy a comfortable ride to the Lake District. Your first stop of the day is at Bowness, which sits on the shores of Windermere. Board a leisurely cruise on the lake or wander around the town, which offers beautiful views. Then continue your journey down narrow country lanes towards Grasmere, a place Wordsworth described as “the loveliest spot that man hath found." Enjoy free time to visit Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage, taste the legendary gingerbread, or soak up the peace and tranquility of the Wordsworth Daffodil Garden by the River Rothy. Travel around the southern tip of Windermere and towards Coniston Water. Marvel at the views across the water before arriving in the picturesque conservation village of Hawkshead, the place where famous poet William Wordsworth attended Grammar School. After exploring the cozy village, you return to Manchester in the early evening.

From Windermere: Ten Lakes Full-Day Tour of Lake District

From Windermere: Ten Lakes Full-Day Tour of Lake District

The Lake District is renowned for being the most beautiful corner of England and this full-day tour introduces you to just that; magnificent scenery of mountains, valleys and lakes from the south to the north. From within the circle, get picture-perfect views of some of the Lake District’s highest peaks. Travel over the famous Kirkstone and Honister passes whilst enjoying some spectacular mountain scenery. From beautiful valleys to waterfalls and traditional Lakeland villages, enjoy plenty of stops for admiring the views and taking photographs.  Eat lunch at the market town of Keswick, where you can try a typical pub lunch, or seek out a charming restaurant.

Liverpool: Lake District Tour with Lake Cruise & Cream Tea

Liverpool: Lake District Tour with Lake Cruise & Cream Tea

Experience a day in the spectacular Lake District National Park with a cruise on England's largest lake Windermere, and a locally-sourced cream tea at the historic Lindeth Howe Hotel in Bowness-on-Windermere. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes that make the National Park so special. Lake cruise and cream tea included. Itinerary Departing Manchester we'll make our way towards the spectacular Lake District. On arrival enjoy some free-time in the lakeside town Bowness-on-Windermere. Explore the shops, cafes, and unrivaled views of the iconic lake. Windermere Lake Cruise: Relax on a beautiful lake cruise, taking in the panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding fells. Tarn Hows: After joining your driver-guide at Ambleside Pier you will make your way along the winding country roads to the tranquil Tarn Hows, an iconic spot known for its breathtaking views and connections to Beatrix Potter. The medieval village of Hawkshead: Explore the charming village of Hawkshead, famous for its connections to Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth. Here you can enjoy a pub lunch or some Grasmere Gingerbread which can be found in the village. Cream Tea: Afterward a scenic drive through the Cumbrian countryside we'll arrive at Lindeth Howe for cream tea. here you can warm yourself by the fire or admire the views out onto lake Windermere. This is only available until the 31st March 2025. Experience the timeless beauty and heritage of the Lake District, gaining insights from our expert guide and enjoying the unique opportunity to explore this iconic landscape up close. Attractions included: The tour includes a cruise on Lake Windermere and a locally-sourced cream tea collectively worth £20. From the April 1st 2025 - 31st October 2025 passengers will enjoy a Windermere Lake Cruise followed by a journey through Leven Valley at the southern end of Lake Windermere on a heritage Steam Train. Cream Tea is only available until the 31st march 2025.

Manchester: Lake District Tour with Lake Cruise & Cream Tea

Manchester: Lake District Tour with Lake Cruise & Cream Tea

Experience a day in the spectacular Lake District National Park with a cruise on England's largest lake Windermere, and a locally-sourced cream tea at the historic Lindeth Howe Hotel in Bowness-on-Windermere. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes that make the National Park so special. Lake cruise and cream tea included. Itinerary Departing Manchester we'll make our way towards the spectacular Lake District. On arrival enjoy some free-time in the lakeside town Bowness-on-Windermere. Explore the shops, cafes, and unrivaled views of the iconic lake. Windermere Lake Cruise: Relax on a beautiful lake cruise, taking in the panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding fells. Tarn Hows: After joining your driver-guide at Ambleside Pier you will make your way along the winding country roads to the tranquil Tarn Hows, an iconic spot known for its breathtaking views and connections to Beatrix Potter. The medieval village of Hawkshead: Explore the charming village of Hawkshead, famous for its connections to Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth. Here you can enjoy a pub lunch or some Grasmere Gingerbread which can be found in the village. Cream Tea: Afterward a scenic drive through the Cumbrian countryside we'll arrive at Lindeth Howe for cream tea. here you can warm yourself by the fire or admire the views out onto lake Windermere. This is only available until the 31st March 2025. Experience the timeless beauty and heritage of the Lake District, gaining insights from our expert guide and enjoying the unique opportunity to explore this iconic landscape up close. Attractions included: The tour includes a cruise on Lake Windermere and a locally-sourced cream tea collectively worth £20. From the April 1st 2025 - 31st October 2025 passengers will enjoy a Windermere Lake Cruise followed by a journey through Leven Valley at the southern end of Lake Windermere on a heritage Steam Train. Cream Tea is only available until the 31st march 2025.

From Liverpool: Lake District Sightseeing Adventure Day Trip

From Liverpool: Lake District Sightseeing Adventure Day Trip

The tour departs from Liverpool and drives out of the city heading north to connect to the M6 Motorway. Listen to a partially narrated journey as we head to Bowness on Windermere for our first views of one of the many Lakes that give this area its name. You will have the opportunity to hop on one of Windermere's boats (at own cost - but ticket from driver/guide) on a one way journey to Ambleside. On a pleasant day, use your time to shop for a picnic that we can have when we are in the open air of the Langdales. On colder, more overcast days, you can take lunch at Ambleside in one of the many eateries. On to the Langdales, we travel through Little Langdale to Blea Tarn where we spend time exploring the area. At the end of our walk, we head out through Great Langdale and on to the picturesque village of Grasmere. The final stop of the day, you can wander around and see why it has been voted England's most beautiful village on a number of occasions. You may wonder what that delicious aroma is and follw the scent to the Grasmere Gingerbread Shop like so may travellers who have been here before you!

Lake District: Beatrix Potter Half-Day Tour

Lake District: Beatrix Potter Half-Day Tour

Surround yourself with the scenery that inspired Beatrix Potter's enchanting tales during a half-day tour of the Lake District National Park. Visit the author's home and explore the medieval Hawkshead and the scenic Tarn Hows. Start by making your way to Hill Top, the 17th-century home that Beatrix Potter used as an artistic retreat. Stroll through the charming garden, home to various flowers and which featured in several of her little stories. ~Please note, Hill Top House is closed on Fridays out of the UK school holidays and from November-February. In this case you will visit the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction in Bowness, here you will discover more of the authors life and about the characters she created. After exploring Miss Potter’s extraordinary house, continue to the medieval village of Hawkshead, and get some time to explore the fascinating village. Drive through the renowned beauty spot of Tarn Hows. Conclude with a lake cruise offering unrivaled views of the mountains. Note: The tour includes a £32.50 worth of attractions, Lake Cruise RRP £17.50 and Hill Top £15

Lake District: Six Lakes Morning Tour from Windermere

Lake District: Six Lakes Morning Tour from Windermere

Start off by travelling over the famous Kirkstone Pass which is the highest mountain road in the Lakes, before making your way down to take in the beautiful Ullswater. You’ll have the chance to stretch your legs at Castlerigg Stone Circle, taking in the panoramic views of the fells. The tour returns travelling south along the vast Thirlmere whilst learning all about its interesting story. There is then time to wander around the historic village of Grasmere before travelling back to Windermere. This half-day tour is perfect for those who are short on time but want to see as much of this beautiful area as possible.

From Windermere: High Adventure Landscapes & Legends Tour

From Windermere: High Adventure Landscapes & Legends Tour

Embark on a full-day adventure exploring the Western Lake District’s hidden gems and captivating scenery. Drive over the stunning Wrynose Pass, with its steep, winding route and spectacular views. Your driver-guide will share fascinating insights as we navigate one of Britain’s steepest mountain roads. Then, prepare for the legendary Hardknott Pass, another of Britain’s most challenging roads. Along the route, you’ll pass Hardknott Roman Fort, perched 1,000 feet up on the fells. After descending into the Eskdale Valley, you’ll arrive at Muncaster Castle, where a delicious lunch awaits. Enjoy the castle’s magnificent grounds and historic charm, adding a special touch to your day. The afternoon takes you to Wast Water in Wasdale Valley, renowned as “Britain’s Favourite View.” Framed by peaks including Scafell Pike, Red Pike, and Great Gable, Wast Water is England’s deepest lake, known for its striking beauty and dramatic atmosphere.

From London: Lake District Tour with Cream Tea & Cruise

From London: Lake District Tour with Cream Tea & Cruise

Head to London Euston station to enjoy a relaxing train journey to Oxenholme in the spectacular Lake District National Park. On arrival at Oxenholme you will be met by a local guide, who will take you on your tour of the Lake District. This tour is the ideal way to explore the best of the Lake District, which is famous for its Beatrix Potter and Wordsworth connections.  Enter the National Park and travel north alongside Lake Windermere to the medieval village of Hawkshead. Explore this fascinating village where Wordsworth went to school. Visit Hawkshead and Hill Top the famous lakeland home of Beatrix Potter. (The property is not open Fridays outside of the UK school holidays or between November - February). When Hill Top is closed we will visit the World Of Beatrix Potter in Bowness to learn more about the author and the characters she created. Continue on towards the renowned beauty spot of Tarn Hows for a photo stop before driving through Yewdale, passing Yew Tree Tarn, used in the film Miss Potter. Next journey into the famous mountainous valleys of the Langdales, which have been carved by glaciers to form spectacular u-shaped valleys. Arriving at the lakeside village of Waterhead you will join a lake cruise on England’s largest lake, Windermere, and sit back and enjoy the views of the Lakeland Fells (local word for mountains). Arriving at Bowness Bay, enjoy a cream tea at the Lindeth Howe Country House Hotel, once owned by Beatrix Potter. You will then be taken back to Oxenholme Station for the train back to London.

From Manchester: Lake District Sightseeing Day Trip

From Manchester: Lake District Sightseeing Day Trip

The tour departs from Manchester Airport and bypasses the city heading into the luscious surrounding countryside. Admire the views as you travel to the UK’s largest national park, the Lake District, stopping at the underground Rheged Discovery Center along the way. During the partially narrated 2-hour journey to the Lake District, the tour also stops by the famous Castlerigg Neolithic Stone Circle where you can feel ancient mythical energy flowing around you. Continue on to Grasmere Village, which boasts an array of beautiful 19th century architecture as well as the grave of well-known poet William Wordsworth. Afterwards, let your nose lead the way to Sarah Nelson’s Gingerbread Shop, where you can taste a selection of traditional sweet treats from the region. After you have filled up on gingerbread, it is time to explore the national park and navigate through the Langdales, also known as “Little Switzerland”. As you wander around the park, marvel at the breath-taking views that sprawl across the landscape, which offers some of the most dramatic and diverse scenery in the UK. Throughout the tour there is plenty of stops both on and off the bus to make the most of your trip to the Lake District. One of the highlights of the day includes an amble around Blea Tarn before a stop at Ambleside where you can get lost in the maze of twisting streets or shop at a selection of picturesque stores.

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Our most recommended things to do in Windermere

From Manchester: Lake District Bus Tour & Windermere Cruise

From Manchester: Lake District Bus Tour & Windermere Cruise

Discover the wonderful scenery of the Lake District on a guided tour from Manchester. Take a scenic boat cruise on Lake Windermere, with visits to the charming villages of Bowness, Hawkshead, and Grasmere. Set off from Manchester and enjoy a comfortable ride to the Lake District. Your first stop of the day is at Bowness, which sits on the shores of Windermere. Board a leisurely cruise on the lake or wander around the town, which offers beautiful views. Then continue your journey down narrow country lanes towards Grasmere, a place Wordsworth described as “the loveliest spot that man hath found." Enjoy free time to visit Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage, taste the legendary gingerbread, or soak up the peace and tranquility of the Wordsworth Daffodil Garden by the River Rothy. Travel around the southern tip of Windermere and towards Coniston Water. Marvel at the views across the water before arriving in the picturesque conservation village of Hawkshead, the place where famous poet William Wordsworth attended Grammar School. After exploring the cozy village, you return to Manchester in the early evening.

From Windermere: Ten Lakes Full-Day Tour of Lake District

From Windermere: Ten Lakes Full-Day Tour of Lake District

The Lake District is renowned for being the most beautiful corner of England and this full-day tour introduces you to just that; magnificent scenery of mountains, valleys and lakes from the south to the north. From within the circle, get picture-perfect views of some of the Lake District’s highest peaks. Travel over the famous Kirkstone and Honister passes whilst enjoying some spectacular mountain scenery. From beautiful valleys to waterfalls and traditional Lakeland villages, enjoy plenty of stops for admiring the views and taking photographs.  Eat lunch at the market town of Keswick, where you can try a typical pub lunch, or seek out a charming restaurant.

Liverpool: Lake District Tour with Lake Cruise & Cream Tea

Liverpool: Lake District Tour with Lake Cruise & Cream Tea

Experience a day in the spectacular Lake District National Park with a cruise on England's largest lake Windermere, and a locally-sourced cream tea at the historic Lindeth Howe Hotel in Bowness-on-Windermere. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes that make the National Park so special. Lake cruise and cream tea included. Itinerary Departing Manchester we'll make our way towards the spectacular Lake District. On arrival enjoy some free-time in the lakeside town Bowness-on-Windermere. Explore the shops, cafes, and unrivaled views of the iconic lake. Windermere Lake Cruise: Relax on a beautiful lake cruise, taking in the panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding fells. Tarn Hows: After joining your driver-guide at Ambleside Pier you will make your way along the winding country roads to the tranquil Tarn Hows, an iconic spot known for its breathtaking views and connections to Beatrix Potter. The medieval village of Hawkshead: Explore the charming village of Hawkshead, famous for its connections to Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth. Here you can enjoy a pub lunch or some Grasmere Gingerbread which can be found in the village. Cream Tea: Afterward a scenic drive through the Cumbrian countryside we'll arrive at Lindeth Howe for cream tea. here you can warm yourself by the fire or admire the views out onto lake Windermere. This is only available until the 31st March 2025. Experience the timeless beauty and heritage of the Lake District, gaining insights from our expert guide and enjoying the unique opportunity to explore this iconic landscape up close. Attractions included: The tour includes a cruise on Lake Windermere and a locally-sourced cream tea collectively worth £20. From the April 1st 2025 - 31st October 2025 passengers will enjoy a Windermere Lake Cruise followed by a journey through Leven Valley at the southern end of Lake Windermere on a heritage Steam Train. Cream Tea is only available until the 31st march 2025.

Manchester: Lake District Tour with Lake Cruise & Cream Tea

Manchester: Lake District Tour with Lake Cruise & Cream Tea

Experience a day in the spectacular Lake District National Park with a cruise on England's largest lake Windermere, and a locally-sourced cream tea at the historic Lindeth Howe Hotel in Bowness-on-Windermere. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes that make the National Park so special. Lake cruise and cream tea included. Itinerary Departing Manchester we'll make our way towards the spectacular Lake District. On arrival enjoy some free-time in the lakeside town Bowness-on-Windermere. Explore the shops, cafes, and unrivaled views of the iconic lake. Windermere Lake Cruise: Relax on a beautiful lake cruise, taking in the panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding fells. Tarn Hows: After joining your driver-guide at Ambleside Pier you will make your way along the winding country roads to the tranquil Tarn Hows, an iconic spot known for its breathtaking views and connections to Beatrix Potter. The medieval village of Hawkshead: Explore the charming village of Hawkshead, famous for its connections to Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth. Here you can enjoy a pub lunch or some Grasmere Gingerbread which can be found in the village. Cream Tea: Afterward a scenic drive through the Cumbrian countryside we'll arrive at Lindeth Howe for cream tea. here you can warm yourself by the fire or admire the views out onto lake Windermere. This is only available until the 31st March 2025. Experience the timeless beauty and heritage of the Lake District, gaining insights from our expert guide and enjoying the unique opportunity to explore this iconic landscape up close. Attractions included: The tour includes a cruise on Lake Windermere and a locally-sourced cream tea collectively worth £20. From the April 1st 2025 - 31st October 2025 passengers will enjoy a Windermere Lake Cruise followed by a journey through Leven Valley at the southern end of Lake Windermere on a heritage Steam Train. Cream Tea is only available until the 31st march 2025.

From Liverpool: Lake District Sightseeing Adventure Day Trip

From Liverpool: Lake District Sightseeing Adventure Day Trip

The tour departs from Liverpool and drives out of the city heading north to connect to the M6 Motorway. Listen to a partially narrated journey as we head to Bowness on Windermere for our first views of one of the many Lakes that give this area its name. You will have the opportunity to hop on one of Windermere's boats (at own cost - but ticket from driver/guide) on a one way journey to Ambleside. On a pleasant day, use your time to shop for a picnic that we can have when we are in the open air of the Langdales. On colder, more overcast days, you can take lunch at Ambleside in one of the many eateries. On to the Langdales, we travel through Little Langdale to Blea Tarn where we spend time exploring the area. At the end of our walk, we head out through Great Langdale and on to the picturesque village of Grasmere. The final stop of the day, you can wander around and see why it has been voted England's most beautiful village on a number of occasions. You may wonder what that delicious aroma is and follw the scent to the Grasmere Gingerbread Shop like so may travellers who have been here before you!

Lake District: Beatrix Potter Half-Day Tour

Lake District: Beatrix Potter Half-Day Tour

Surround yourself with the scenery that inspired Beatrix Potter's enchanting tales during a half-day tour of the Lake District National Park. Visit the author's home and explore the medieval Hawkshead and the scenic Tarn Hows. Start by making your way to Hill Top, the 17th-century home that Beatrix Potter used as an artistic retreat. Stroll through the charming garden, home to various flowers and which featured in several of her little stories. ~Please note, Hill Top House is closed on Fridays out of the UK school holidays and from November-February. In this case you will visit the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction in Bowness, here you will discover more of the authors life and about the characters she created. After exploring Miss Potter’s extraordinary house, continue to the medieval village of Hawkshead, and get some time to explore the fascinating village. Drive through the renowned beauty spot of Tarn Hows. Conclude with a lake cruise offering unrivaled views of the mountains. Note: The tour includes a £32.50 worth of attractions, Lake Cruise RRP £17.50 and Hill Top £15

Lake District: Six Lakes Morning Tour from Windermere

Lake District: Six Lakes Morning Tour from Windermere

Start off by travelling over the famous Kirkstone Pass which is the highest mountain road in the Lakes, before making your way down to take in the beautiful Ullswater. You’ll have the chance to stretch your legs at Castlerigg Stone Circle, taking in the panoramic views of the fells. The tour returns travelling south along the vast Thirlmere whilst learning all about its interesting story. There is then time to wander around the historic village of Grasmere before travelling back to Windermere. This half-day tour is perfect for those who are short on time but want to see as much of this beautiful area as possible.

From Windermere: High Adventure Landscapes & Legends Tour

From Windermere: High Adventure Landscapes & Legends Tour

Embark on a full-day adventure exploring the Western Lake District’s hidden gems and captivating scenery. Drive over the stunning Wrynose Pass, with its steep, winding route and spectacular views. Your driver-guide will share fascinating insights as we navigate one of Britain’s steepest mountain roads. Then, prepare for the legendary Hardknott Pass, another of Britain’s most challenging roads. Along the route, you’ll pass Hardknott Roman Fort, perched 1,000 feet up on the fells. After descending into the Eskdale Valley, you’ll arrive at Muncaster Castle, where a delicious lunch awaits. Enjoy the castle’s magnificent grounds and historic charm, adding a special touch to your day. The afternoon takes you to Wast Water in Wasdale Valley, renowned as “Britain’s Favourite View.” Framed by peaks including Scafell Pike, Red Pike, and Great Gable, Wast Water is England’s deepest lake, known for its striking beauty and dramatic atmosphere.

From London: Lake District Tour with Cream Tea & Cruise

From London: Lake District Tour with Cream Tea & Cruise

Head to London Euston station to enjoy a relaxing train journey to Oxenholme in the spectacular Lake District National Park. On arrival at Oxenholme you will be met by a local guide, who will take you on your tour of the Lake District. This tour is the ideal way to explore the best of the Lake District, which is famous for its Beatrix Potter and Wordsworth connections.  Enter the National Park and travel north alongside Lake Windermere to the medieval village of Hawkshead. Explore this fascinating village where Wordsworth went to school. Visit Hawkshead and Hill Top the famous lakeland home of Beatrix Potter. (The property is not open Fridays outside of the UK school holidays or between November - February). When Hill Top is closed we will visit the World Of Beatrix Potter in Bowness to learn more about the author and the characters she created. Continue on towards the renowned beauty spot of Tarn Hows for a photo stop before driving through Yewdale, passing Yew Tree Tarn, used in the film Miss Potter. Next journey into the famous mountainous valleys of the Langdales, which have been carved by glaciers to form spectacular u-shaped valleys. Arriving at the lakeside village of Waterhead you will join a lake cruise on England’s largest lake, Windermere, and sit back and enjoy the views of the Lakeland Fells (local word for mountains). Arriving at Bowness Bay, enjoy a cream tea at the Lindeth Howe Country House Hotel, once owned by Beatrix Potter. You will then be taken back to Oxenholme Station for the train back to London.

From Manchester: Lake District Sightseeing Day Trip

From Manchester: Lake District Sightseeing Day Trip

The tour departs from Manchester Airport and bypasses the city heading into the luscious surrounding countryside. Admire the views as you travel to the UK’s largest national park, the Lake District, stopping at the underground Rheged Discovery Center along the way. During the partially narrated 2-hour journey to the Lake District, the tour also stops by the famous Castlerigg Neolithic Stone Circle where you can feel ancient mythical energy flowing around you. Continue on to Grasmere Village, which boasts an array of beautiful 19th century architecture as well as the grave of well-known poet William Wordsworth. Afterwards, let your nose lead the way to Sarah Nelson’s Gingerbread Shop, where you can taste a selection of traditional sweet treats from the region. After you have filled up on gingerbread, it is time to explore the national park and navigate through the Langdales, also known as “Little Switzerland”. As you wander around the park, marvel at the breath-taking views that sprawl across the landscape, which offers some of the most dramatic and diverse scenery in the UK. Throughout the tour there is plenty of stops both on and off the bus to make the most of your trip to the Lake District. One of the highlights of the day includes an amble around Blea Tarn before a stop at Ambleside where you can get lost in the maze of twisting streets or shop at a selection of picturesque stores.

Frequently asked questions about Windermere

What are the best day trips and excursions from Windermere?

The best day trips and excursions from Windermere are:

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What people are saying about Windermere

Overall rating

4.8
(773 reviews)

I had an amazing day! The views were absolutely stunning, and the nature was breathtaking. I couldn’t get enough of it! Tim was such a great guide and driver. He shared lots of interesting stories and fun facts. He’s super friendly, energetic, and went out of his way to take great photos and videos for everyone. What surprised me the most was how he turned moments when we couldn’t see certain views (due to the weather) into something positive with his great sense of humor. Overall, I highly recommend this experience!

This day trip was fantastic! The views were spectacular and stunning, even though the weather wasn’t perfect. The guide, Mark, was knowledgeable and enthusiastic. I highly recommend this trip if you have the chance to visit the area.

Despite the heavy cloud cover, the views were still breathtaking! 🤍 Our guide, Rob, was fantastic—funny, friendly, and provided great commentary!

The views were incredible and our guide, Derek, was incredibly knowledgeable and completely brilliant.

Visiting the different villages and the countryside -- it was a picture perfect day.