Nestled in the Lake District, Windermere is knowing for its literary connections and an annual stone throwing competition.
Located in the heart of the Lake District, Windermere has long been a magnet for tourists. Windermere is England's largest natural lake, spanning 17 km in length. Originally formed by two glaciers, the lake is split into two sections. The lake features 14 islands, the largest of which is Belle Isle.
In 2019, the All England Stone Skimming Championships were held at Fell Foot, Newby Bridge. The longest throw of the day skimmed 98m (321ft). But Windermere has more to offer than lake-themed events.
Things to do
One of the main things to do in Windermere is enjoy a boat trip. Windermere Lake Cruises operates over 100 daily scheduled sailings on the lake at the height of the summer and they vary between 30 minutes and 90 minutes. The Yellow Cruise is perfect for exploring the southern half of Windermere where visitors can find the Lakeland Motor Museum, Lakes Aquarium and Lakeside & Haverthwaite Steam Railway.
Holiday hack to get 48 days off by booking just 19 days of annual leave in 2023
Windermere has a railway station and can be reached from London in just over three hours, Birmingham in two hours and 45 minutes and Manchester in an hour-and-a-half (scu)Continuing with the theme of boating, Windermere is also home to the Windermere Jetty Museum, which explores the town's 200-year boating history. An annual pass, for an adult, costs £12.
For those wanting to explore the destination's link to literature, there is the World of Beatrix Potter. This vibrant family attraction brings Beatrix Potter’s enchanting stories to life. The exhibition features favourite characters from the famous books, an award-winning outdoor Peter Rabbit Garden, a character-themed café and world-famous gift shop. Admission costs £10.50 per adult.
If willing to travel a little further afield, the Lakes Distillery offers the perfect adult-only excursion. Established in 2011, the distillery offers a range of whiskies, gins and vodka. Visitors can enjoy tours of the state-of-the-art distillery and tastings of its award-winning spirits.
Or simply just enjoy nature and the surroundings by heading out on one of many walks the area has to offer.
Places to eat
Family-ran The Lamplighter Dining Rooms has built a reputation for serving quality produce. It is a traditional British restaurant, specialising in locally sourced meat and fresh fish from Fleetwood. They also serve Sunday lunch, which was noted by The Guardians' Jay Rayner as “a nostalgic sort of happiness”.
Alternatively, for visitors wanting to venture away from traditional British cuisine there is Gilpin Spice. This open kitchen serves a pan-Asian menu inspired by countries along the spice trail.
For great coffee, head to Homeground Coffee + Kitchen. Rated as the number one coffee shop in Windermere on TripAdvisor, this small café is known for having a pretty interior, friendly staff and an amazing coffee and breakfast menu. Brunch dishes range from £6 to £13.50.
Places to stay
One place to stay in Windermere is Lindeth Howe — the house was once owned by Beatrix Potter. Featuring a logo in her handwriting, the 34 bedroom hotel offers a lounge and bar area to relax in following a long day exploring the Lake District National Park.
Brit tourist chased and shot dead while on holiday at luxury villa in Jamaica
Alternatively, set in 21 acres, is the Gilpin Lake House and Hotel. The Gilpin hotel features 30 bedrooms, an onsite spa, two restaurants (one of which is Gilpin Spice), a champagne bar, lounge, terraces and resident llamas, alpacas and pot-bellied pigs. Twenty-two of the rooms also feature their own hot tubs. Prices start from £335.
Just a mile away from Gilpin Hotel you will find Gilpin Lake House, set on 100 acres of private grounds with its own private lake. There are just 6 bedrooms which share a boat house, spa treatment room, hot tubs, saunas, and swimming pool.
Getting there
Windermere has a railway station and can be reached from London in just over three hours, Birmingham in two hours and 45 minutes and Manchester in an hour-and-a-half.
Check out by signing up to our free weekly newsletter.
Read more similar news:
Comments:
comments powered by Disqus
