Top 13 Lakes around Windermere

The lakes around Windermere offer many family-friendly activities. You can enjoy a scenic route along the western edge of Lake Windermere on the Windermere West Shore Gravel Trail, which is suitable for various ages and abilities. Bowness Bay provides a lovely spot to eat ice cream, feed ducks, and hire a boat. Additionally, the Windermere Ferry is a fun way to cross the lake with children and bicycles, offering a different perspective of the surroundings.

Yes, the Windermere West Shore Gravel Trail is known for its good paths suitable for all ages and abilities, offering a peaceful route through woodland with open lake views. For more options, you can explore easy hiking routes in the area, such as the 'High Wray Bay Boathouses – Wray Castle loop from The Lakes School' which is an easy 5.4 km hike. Find more details on Hiking around Windermere.

For stunning views, consider the Windermere West Shore Gravel Trail, which offers open views of the lake through lush woodland. The Windermere Ferry Crossing and the Windermere Ferry itself provide unique perspectives from the water, allowing you to see both eastern and western shores. Bowness Bay also offers a pleasant promenade along the waterfront.

Yes, the Windermere Ferry carries people and bicycles between the eastern and western shores. There is a small additional fee for bicycles, typically £2.00. The crossing takes around 10 minutes. It's advisable to check the ferry's status on their website or Twitter for up-to-date departure information and any service interruptions.

The area around Windermere is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including waterfall hikes, with options ranging from easy to difficult. There are also dedicated running trails and cycling routes. For more information on specific routes, explore guides like Waterfall hikes around Windermere, Running Trails around Windermere, and Hiking around Windermere.

Near Bowness Bay, you'll find plenty of refreshment options, shops, and facilities. Similarly, at Low Wood Bay Marina (Waterhead), there are boats, hotels, cafes, and tourist shops available. These areas serve as hubs for visitors seeking amenities.

Visitors particularly appreciate the peaceful and scenic routes, such as the Windermere West Shore Gravel Trail, which offers opportunities for spotting wildlife. The ability to take a boat trip or hire one from places like Bowness Bay is also highly rated. The unique experience of crossing the lake on the Windermere Ferry is also a highlight for many.

Yes, Bowness Bay is a popular starting point for boat trips and hiring boats. From Low Wood Bay Marina (Waterhead), steamers and launches sail daily throughout the year to Bowness and Lakeside, offering a comprehensive way to explore the lake's length.

The Lake District National Park, including Windermere, is beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer warmer weather ideal for water activities and longer daylight hours for hiking. Autumn brings stunning foliage, while winter can provide a tranquil, often snowy, landscape. The Windermere Ferry and lake cruises operate throughout the year, though service may be affected by poor weather or maintenance, so checking ahead is always recommended.

Beyond the Windermere Ferry, which connects the eastern and western shores, you can also experience the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Steam Railway from Lakeside, which is accessible via lake cruises from Low Wood Bay Marina. A horse-drawn carriage also operates between Waterhead Pier and the center of Ambleside.

The region is characterized by its glacial valleys, fells, and extensive bodies of water. You'll encounter large natural lakes, smaller tarns, and bays, offering diverse aquatic environments. The Windermere West Shore Gravel Trail, for example, passes through lush woodland with open views of the lake, perfect for spotting local wildlife.