The Area / Local Attractions

Bowness-on-Windermere is the main tourist centre in the south of the Lake District. It is situated on the eastern middle shores of Lake Windermere, England's largest lake.

Apart from just taking in the natural beauty of the lake and fells, there is plenty to do in the town. Windermere Lake Cruises, with its steamers and passenger boats, is one of the top tourist destinations in the country, you can sail north up to Ambleside which is very popular with fell walkers or south to Lakeside to visit the aquarium or travel on the Lakeside to Haverthwaite steam railway. Rowing boats and small motor boats are available for hire on the lake. Water skiing is also a pastime enjoyed by many. The Beatrix Potter attraction is popular with all ages and St. Martin's church (close to Aunty Val's Tea Rooms) is a must. The Lakeland Steamboat Museum is also worth a visit. The shopping is very good with a variety of shops ranging from outdoor clothing to presents to take home.

If you wish to take the car ferry at Bowness to the west side of the lake, you can travel to Hill Top at Sawrey and past Esthwaite Water to the idyllic village of Hawkshead or the Tarn Hows beauty spot for a picnic. You could travel south to the Furness peninsula, the seaside town of Grange-over-Sands or Cartmel with its historical priory. Travelling north from Bowness, Windermere village, Ambleside, Rydal and Grasmere, with their Wordsworth connections, are popular venues within easy reach, in fact the whole of the National Park and lakes are within easy travelling distance by car. There is also a good public transport system in the summer and local mini coach firms offering excursions to even the most inaccessible beauty spots.

For those wishing to explore the Lake District on foot, the National Park Authority have organised walks to suit all, ranging from leisurely walks to those for experienced fell walkers, or if you wish to go it alone, the fells allow you to enjoy the beauty of the area in a very different and stimulating way, with views and experiences beyond your imagination. Pony Trekking is also a relaxing way to enjoy the area.

As well as the Lake District National Park, the Yorkshire Dales National Park is not too far away to the east. It encompasses different but equally enjoyable countryside. The area has natural outstanding beauty, with breathtaking views and scenery and also provides many activities and attractions to suit all ages and tastes. Bowness is an ideal place for a holiday or just for a day visit.

Further information and professional advice is available at the National Park Information Centre in Bowness or the Tourist Information Centre in Windermere.