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15 Best Things to Do in Windermere (Cumbria, England)

Both the largest natural lake in England and the name of the small town on its east shore, Windermere is a coveted summer holiday escape and arguably one of the most beautiful places in the UK. Tourists began to arrive in the mid-19th century when the Kendal and Windermere Railway opened.

One person who was always besotted with Windermere was the children’s author Beatrix Potter, who moved into the mansion near the west shore in 1906 and wove the building into her illustrations.

Pack a good pair of walking shoes to fully appreciate the landscape from the Lakeland fells that ring the lakeshore.

Windermere the town is in a loose conurbation with Bowness-on-Windermere where you can catch a ferry to the lake’s west shore and embark on a steamboat trip.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Windermere :

1. Windermere Lake

The largest natural lake in England, Windermere was born some 13,000 years ago when water from melting glaciers was held in place by moraine rock that the glaciers had deposited during the Ice Age.

The lake is more than ten miles long, and a mile across at its widest point, with a surface flecked with 18 islands.

When tourism arrived in Victorian times, entrepreneurs built themselves lavish homes in gardens, down the east shore.

Many of these are now posh hotels, while several gardens are open to the public.

The scale of Windermere brings in crowds of yachters and paddleboarders in summer.

The raw beauty of the fells (hills) around the shore, and the swirling cloudy skies will keep you transfixed on walks.

2. Lake Cruise

Many of the activities on this list require a pair of walking shoes or getting wet in the lake, but you could spend an unforgettable couple of hours on Windermere without having to move a muscle.

The company Windermere Lake Cruises has a busy timetable of trips on old-fashioned steamers or modern sightseeing vessels.

If you just need an introduction to the lake, 45-minute cruises depart the pier at Bowness every half hour in summer.

But if you can’t get enough of those mountain vistas and wooded islands, there are longer journeys from Bowness to Lakeside at the lake’s southern shore (90 minutes).

3. Orrest Head

One of the great things about staying in Windermere is that even short circular walks will deliver you to glorious viewpoints with minimal effort.

That’s the story at Orrest Head, which requires a short burst of energy on a 20-minute hike to the hilltop where you’re met by an awesome panorama.

There’s an orientation table up here, detailing all of the summits and ranges you can see, like the Old Man of Coniston, Fairfield, Great Gable, Scafell Pike and the Langdale Pikes.

After leaving this summit, the walk continues on through the bucolic St Catherine’s Wood and High Hay Wood, back to Windermere.

4. World of Beatrix Potter

The much-loved children’s author and illustrator had close ties with the Lake District, holidaying at Holehird near Windermere, and buying a house at Hill Top on the lake’s west shore.

This themed attraction in the middle of Bowness is suffused with the spirit of her books and has all of her beloved characters, like Jemima Puddle-Duck and Peter Rabbit.

At the start there’s a brief film introducing Potter’s work and life, and in the seven areas that follow are 3D representations of her characters, using ambient sound, scents and lighting.

You can also go on a virtual tour through the places in the Lake District that inspired her, comparing real life places to her illustrations.

5. Blackwell

The Manchester brewing magnate Sir Edward Holt ordered this house as a holiday retreat at a lookout on the edge of Bowness-on-Windermere at the turn of the 20th century.

The architect was Baillie Scott, a luminary of the Arts and Crafts movement, and the house has come through the last 120 years with all of its fittings and furniture in place.

The level of detail in Scott’s design never ceases to surprise, and shines through in the peculiar window catches, leaf-shaped door handles, stained glass and a wealth of decoration produced by the leading Art and Crafts studios of the day.

The fireplaces are especially creative, like the one in the front room, flanked by benches.

The garden was designed by Arts and Crafts landscaper Thomas Mawson, on a gorgeous flight of terraces oriented towards the Coniston Fells.

6. Holehird Gardens

A mile north of Windermere the town, Holehird Gardens is a demonstration garden and the seat of the Lakeland Horticultural society.

The garden has plants that do well in the Lake District’s stony soils and damp climate, and has Alpine houses, rock and heather gardens and a lovely walled garden noted for its herbaceous borders.

Thomas Mawson was also involved here at the end of the 19th century, enlarging the Walled Garden, which had first been built in 1870. There are national collections of plystichum ferns, astilbes and hydrangeas, as well as an array of azaleas and rhododendrons.

The view from Holehird Gardens is touted as one of the best in Lakeland.

In the 1890s Beatrix Potter was a regular at Holehird House, now used by a healthcare charity.

7. St Martin’s Church

On a sightseeing tour in Bowness you can take a look around this historic church.

St Martin’s dates for the most part to the end of the 15th century and was restored in the 1870s.

The walls are slate rubble, with sandstone door and window dressings, while interior is notable for its use of plaster.

During the restoration painted inscriptions that had been covered up for centuries were rediscovered.

On the spandrels between the arches in the nave are texts from a catechetical book published at the end of the 16th century.

In front of the lectern you can also read a small poem written to give thanks for the failure of the Gunpowder Plot, written in 1629.

8. Brant Fell Above the Bustle

Cresting behind Bowness-on-Windermere, Brant Fell is 192 metres high and has a wonderful prospect of the lake.

As the name tells you, this 3.5-mile circular walk leads you away from the busy lakefront in summer.

The climb can be quite stiff in places, through woodland and open fields to a bare summit, stopping at a viewpoint at Post Knott along the way.

The top of Brant Fell is covered with rocky outcrops, up to three metres high, and you’ll want to pause for photos of this magical setting before heading back down to Bowness.

9. Boating and Watersports

When the weather’s warm you couldn’t pick a better place for water activities than Windermere.

With magnificent Lakeland Fells for scenery, you can hire a variety of boats (a 10-mile an hour speed limit applies) and master the art of sailing.

You can hire equipment for stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing, and try waterskiing and wakeboarding.

The Low Wood Bay Resort and Spa, 10 minutes from Windermere village, has its own watersports centre providing all of these experiences.

But there’s also a roll-call of companies operating throughout the Lake District, ready to pick you up at your accommodation.

10. Hill Top

At Bowness-on-Windermere you can catch a ferry across the lake to Far Sawrey on the west shore.

From there it’s a simple walk, bike ride or drive to this National Trust Property and former home of Beatrix Potter.

Hill Top dates to the 1600s and was bought as a writing retreat in 1906. The house has been kept as Potter would have remembered it, even reproducing the wallpaper that she put up when she moved in.

If you know Potter’s illustrations well, you may recognise the furnishings in the entrance hall, like the 18th-century longcase clock, the 17th-century oak press cupboard, an 18th-century dresser and Chippendale-style chairs, which all featured in her illustrations.

More than 1,400 objects were left to the National Trust by Potter at Hill Top, and you can follow up with a trip to the Beatrix Potter gallery a couple of miles away in Hawkshead.

11. Grizedale Forest

You can use that ferry to spend a few hours ambling through this 2,500-hectare forest between Windermere and Coniston Water.

The Grizedale Forest is woven with waymarked footpaths and mountain biking tracks, as well as a sculpture trail with around 90 works made from natural materials like wood and stone.

Also in the forest is a ropes course along the main trail, and boasting Tarzan swings, rope bridges and zip-lines for adults and children aged 10 and up.

A visitor centre is tucked deep in the forest and has an exhibition space and cafe.

12. Claife Viewing Station

While on the west shore of Windermere you can hike up from the ferry terminal to this scenic lookout with an intriguing past.

Claife Station was built as a mock ruin at the end of the 18th century, and became a landmark for tourists in the 1830s and 40s.

It was cherished for the windows in its “Drawing Room”, which have (newly restored) stained glass in different shades, to allow you to see what Windermere looks like in different seasons and in different lights.

Claife Viewing Station is run by the National Trust and has a cafe and picnic area.

13. Fell Foot Park

An excursion to the south end of Windermere, Fell Foot Park is a waterfront Victorian garden that used to belong to a mansion that was demolished in 1907. The idea had been to construct a larger house in these seven-hectare grounds, now cloaked with mature pines and oaks, but the owner passed away and the garden was acquired by the National Trust in 1948. Fell Foot Park has beautiful vistas up the length of Windermere, and a few Grade II-listed buildings, like a workshop, manager’s house and a set of boathouses, one of which has been converted into a cafe.

You can hire a rowing boat from the cafe or even take a swim from these grassy banks if the weather is warm enough.

14. Lakeland Motor Museum

Ten miles south of the village of Windermere, and not far from the southern shore of the lake, the Lakeland Motor Museum has a collection of more than 30,000 objects relating to vehicles, both motorised and human-powered.

Some of the noteworthy cars in a fleet of 140 include a Willys MB Jeep from the Second World War, a Star 15.9 from 1913, a Jaguar XK140 and a Bentley 4¼ Litre from 1936. This was owned by Donald Campbell, who held both the world land and water speed records in 1964. It’s one of a host of exhibits relating to both Donald and his father Malcolm, also a record-breaker on land and water.

There are full-size replicas of the 1967 jet hydroplane Bluebird K7, a Blue Bird Boat K4 from 1939 and a Blue Bird car from 1935.

15. Rydal Water

Hardly five minutes from the top of Windermere is Rydal Water, another hauntingly beautiful lake, partly managed by the National Trust.

Boating is prohibited to the public, but Rydal Water deserves your attention for its links to the Romantic poet William Wordsworth.

His work is treasured for its rather melancholic treatment of the brooding Lakeland scenery.

Wordsworth lived in two properties around the lakeshore, at Dove Cottage and then Rydal Mount.

Both are open to the public as museums.

From the western shore of Rydal Water you can climb steps to the viewpoint at Wordsworth’s Seat, believed to be the poet’s favourite perspective of the lake.

15 Best Things to Do in Windermere (Cumbria, England):

• Windermere Lake
• Lake Cruise
• Orrest Head
• World of Beatrix Potter
• Holehird Gardens
• St Martin's Church
• Brant Fell Above the Bustle
• Boating and Watersports
• Grizedale Forest
• Claife Viewing Station
• Fell Foot Park
• Lakeland Motor Museum
• Rydal Water

Windermere Tourist Information Centre

Visit Windermere, it is the perfect Lakeland destination all year round. With the shores of the lake so close, you are never short of fantastic scenery or leisure activities. Several local viewpoints offer panoramic views of both the lake and more distant mountains.

Bustling with shops and different dining experiences to suit everyone you will be spoilt for choice.

The towns of Windermere and Bowness are at the heart of the Lake District and have been a magnet for visitors for centuries. With easy access to the lakeshore and panoramic views of the lake and surrounding fells, it’s easy to see why the area is so popular. Access to the lake is actually made 1 mile further from Windermere town centre at Bowness-On-Windermere.

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Top Attractions

in Windermere

If you’re looking for a range of attractions, things to do and ways of getting around the Lake District then look no further. The Lake District is the adventure capital of the UK so you can guarantee when you visit you will find a new experience. If adventure isn’t your thing then fear not we have attractions for everyone from the Windermere Jetty to a cruise on Lake Windermere and stepping into the World of Beatrix Potter, Windermere alone has attractions to suit everyone even on the rainy days!

If you fancy seeing more of the Lake District but want to arrive but train or want to leave the car parked. Get off the beaten track with Mountain Goat sightseeing tours of the Lake District by far the best way to see the stunning scenery.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Lake District.

Mountain Goat

Windermere Lake Cruises

World of Beatrix Potter

Windermere Jetty Museum of Boats, Steams and Stories

Visitor experiences.

What visitors are saying about Windermere

We have visited Lake Windermere numerous times and it never fails to impress. It is absolutely stunning, we always go on the boat to Ambleside. Always friendly and very informative...

Julie T - Heywood, United Kingdom

Memories forever

Such a wonderful, tranquil. peaceful, picturesque place. We walked 5 miles along the lake in awe of its beauty. We took a boat out with our 5 year old who was ecstatic on the lake and loved every second. We took our boy to the climbing center near the lake which he absolutely loved and then we ate at a local cafe taking in...

Charliee Dee - Stafford, United Kingdom

Beautiful views.

Lots to do for all ages. Wonderful walks, quaint little towns with very nice shops. Attractions for the children, Peter Rabbit exhibitions and life under the Lake. Boat trips and much much...

Teresa R - Norwich, United Kingdom

Natural, scenic, attraction.

Travelled to this place on a weekend as an alternative to the scotland, and found a peaceful, natural, scenic attraction. Located at the bottom of a hilltop, the lake is nature's perfect setting of showcasing its...

Mukundsaarang - Chennai , India

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• Explore Windermere and Ambleside

Windermere and Ambleside - explore and visit

Windermere in the Lake District is England's largest lake at 10.5 miles long, that's just over 18 km. At its deepest point is 219 feet, that's 66.7 m.

Windermere is also the name of a small town, which lies just over a mile from the lake shore. It's separate from the town of Bowness-on-Windermere, which is one of the busiest place along the shoreline and the main jetties for cruise boats.

Ambleside is one of the most popular towns in the Lake District, sitting at the north end of Windermere lake its a great place to start some of the best know fell walks.

Windermere and the surrounding area is arguably the most famous and popular area in the whole of the Lake District. There are a range of activities, attractions, places of interest and things to do around the lake, and on it!

• Towns and villages around Windermere
• Boat cruises and boat hire on Windermere Lake

Walking and hiking around Windermere

• Places to go with families around Windermere

Historic houses and museums around Windermere

• Travel to and around Windermere
• Where to stay and book accommodation around Windermere

#LakeDistrictKind

Things to know before you go, tips to plan a great trip and help us look after the landscape you love.

Be Lake District Kind

Take a boat cruise along part of all of Windermere lake.

Beatrix Potter's former home Hill Top

Brockhole house and gardens, the perfect spot for a picnic.

Sunset over Windermere lake.

Wray Castle on the shore of Windermere

Enjoy Windermere on the water at Brockhole.

Stott Park Bobbin Mill.

Windermere jetty museum.

Blackwell House on the shore of Windermere

Windermere lake guide

Our Windermere lake guide shows you where to park, where to catch ferries and hire boats, footpaths and cycle routes to explore and lake shore towns with facilities like toilets and cafes.

Sit back and enjoy a cruise on the lake, with optional hop-off points, or hire a canoe, kayak, paddleboard or motor boat.

Towns and villages around Windermere lake

A mile inland from the northern tip of Windermere lakeshore, Ambleside is a bustling town of outdoor equipment shops, bookshops, gift shops, cafes and restaurants and a cinema. Nestled in the valley between various fells, it's the start and end point for many classic lakeland walks.

At the northern tip of the lake, you can take a launch from the piers here south down towards Bowness. There are also some cafes and hotels.

Bowness-on-Windermere

Half way down Windermere, and a mile and a half downhill from Windermere village and its railway station. Pop into our Bowness Bay Information Centre , shop, eat, get an icecream and watch the bustle of the steamers arriving and departing from Bowness Bay. You can also hire rowing boats.

Windermere is just over one mile from the lake and is where the Oxenholme to Windermere railway line terminates. It is a busy little town with a good variety of local shops. The flagship store for Lakeland is situated close to the railway station. There is also a branch of Booths supermarket.

Right at the southern foot of Windermere's Western shore, you can find the Lakes Aquarium, one end of the Haverthwaite Steam Railway or take a launch north.

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There's a great variety of walks, from low-level lakeside ambles to felltop hikes where you feel on the roof of the world! Browse through some ideas here:

Free guided walks near Windermere and Ambleside

Book your place on our free guided walks near Windermere and Ambleside

Miles without Stiles easy short walks

• 5: Bowness to Cockshott Point - 2 km, 1.2 miles
• 6: Windermere's Western Shore - 9 km, 5.5 miles
• 7: Red Nab to Wray Castle - 5 km, 3.1 miles. You can combine route 6 and 7 together for a 13km / 8.5 mile walking or cycling route along the shore.
• 8. Brockhole - 1.5 km, 0.9 miles

The Greenwood Trails

A collection of walks in Rusland, an area that stretches between Winderemere and Coniston Water to the south of Grizedale forest.

• Trail 1: Old Hall Farm to Rusland Moss and Hay Bridge - 2.5 km / 6.7 km / 8.7 km
• Trail 2:  Haverthwaite Heights to Abbots Reading - 3.5 km / 4.8 km
• Trail 3: The Bobbin Mill to High Dam, Yewbarrow and Finsthwaite - 4.3 km / 10 km
• Trail 4: Oxen Park to Bethecar Moor - 6 km / 9.5 km / 11.5 km
• Trail 5: Rusland valley and Yewbarrow - 7.5 km / 13.7 km
• Trail 6: Grizedale West multi-user accessible trail - 10.5 km with optional extra loops
• Trail 7: Finsthwaite Tower and The Knott - 5.6 km
• Trail 8: Satterthwaite and Rusland - 7.5 km / 9.5 km

Places to visit with families around Windermere

Brockhole on windermere.

Enjoy the famous adventure playground, paddle in the lake, and explore the fabulous Mawson designed gardens with good pushchair and wheelchair access. Hire a boat on the lake , with motor boats, rowing boats, kayaks and paddle boards for hire. Challenge yourself with archery, laser clay or inside caving. Gift shop, cafe , and The Gaddum restaurant on site. Free admission. Pay and display car park.

Fell Foot Park

Lakes aquarium, lakeside and haverthwaite railway, world of beatrix potter, wray castle, beatrix potter's hill top and gallery, blackwell - the arts and crafts house, stott park bobbin mill - english heritage, townend - national trust, windermere jetty, travel around windermere, buses around windermere.

Buses stop at Windermere train station, Troutbeck, Waterhead, Ambleside, Lakeside and Newby Bridge. See Traveline.info for timetables .

• #599 Windermere to Bowness
• #555/556 Windermere Kendal Ambleside Grasmere and Keswick
• #6 Lakeside, Newby Bridge and Ulverston
• #508 Troutbeck and Ullswater
• Cross Lakes Experience link from Ferry House to Hill Top and Hawkshead

Train to Windermere station

Oxenholem the Lake District is on the main West Cost mainline and from here there is a branchline to Windermere. Oxenholme to Windermere takes approximately half an hour. Windermere station is about a mile and half from the lake, which takes about half an hour to walk, or you can catch the #599 bus. See nationalrail.co.uk for timetables .

Bike hire around Windermere and Ambleside

Try out pedal power for a whole new perspective of Windermere! Hire bikes from:

• Waterhead, Ambleside
• Country Lanes Bike Hire - next door to Windermere station.
• Windermere Canoe and Kayak - on Ferry Nab Road, Bowness on Windermere and in Windermere.
• Ghyllside Cycles - The Slack, Ambleside

The Windermere Ferry links Ferry Nab on the eastern shore of Windermere with Ferry House, Far Sawrey on the west. It's a handy shortcut for Hawkshead, Grizedale forest and Kendal. It is a drive-on, drive-off service where car passengers stay in their cars, with space for 18 cars.

Pop in to Bowness Bay Information Centre for help and advice

We can help you with booking tickets and attractions, ideas for walks places to visit, and we've got a range of guidbooks, maps and gifts. See us on the south side of Bowness Bay, home to  Bowness Information Centre .

The Lake District National Park Authority looks after this unique corner of England, encouraging people to enjoy and understand its beauty and helping those who live and work here. Our staff include rangers and field workers, advisers at our visitor centres, planners and ecologists.

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Best things to do in Windermere (How to make the most of your visit)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 10, 2023

Are you planning a visit to Windermere in the Lake District? In this article, I will help you make the most of your visit. If you are wondering what Windermere attractions to add to your Lake District itinerary you will find that information and a lot more in this article.

Including information about the best ways to get to the Lake District, where to stay around Lake Windermere (including some really gorgeous log cabins and lodges ), where to eat in the area and my best tips to make the most of your stay this guide to Windermere contains everything you need to plan your trip.

You will also find a handy map at the end of the post indicating the locations of all the places mentioned.

Do you want to see the best of the Lake District but don’t want to do the driving (or try to find parking)? Why not book a tour? This Ultimate Tour of the Lake District includes a fully guided visit to 10 Lakes and a relaxing boat trip on Ullswater.

Click here for more details about the ultimate Lake District tour.

Bowness-on-Windermere

Ambleside / waterhead, newby bridge, 2. cruise across the lake (to bowness and lakeside), 3. hill top, 4. the world of beatrix potter, 5. lakeland motor museum, 6. fell foot park, 7. rydal water, 8. claife viewing station, 9. grizedale forest, orrest head, school knott, west shore walk, the tarns walk, 11. brockhole, 12. lakeside and haverthwaite railway, 13. lakes aquarium, 14. wray castle, 15. holehird gardens, 16. water sports on the lake, 17. book an experience at lake windermere, itinerary ideas for windermere and the lake district, how to get to lake windermere, best tours to lake windermere, recommended hotels in windermere, map of lake windermere and surrounds, final thoughts about visiting lake windermere.

Things to do in Lake Windermere

1. visit the many beautiful lakeside towns and villages .

Today, the once sleepy fishing village of Bowness-on-Windermere is now one of the most bustling tourist towns in the Lake District.

Its busy pier is the embarkation point for the lake cruises and ferries to Hawkshead. There’s also a vibrant shopping district with art galleries, antique stores and cafés.

Ambleside is a picturesque town in the Rothay Valley, about a mile from the northern tip of Lake Windermere. It’s one of the region’s most popular destinations and makes the perfect base for exploring the Lake District.

Whether you love hiking, shopping or just soaking in scenic beauty, Ambleside is a great place to start. Ambleside’s access to the lake is through the adorable village of Waterhead.

If you’re looking for waterside cafés, cosy shops or tranquil walking paths, then this little hamlet is one of the best places to visit in Windermere.

The southern landing point for Lake Windermere cruises is the small village of Lakeside.

If you step off the steamer, you’ll see charming inns and restaurants as well as the Lakes Aquarium.

It’s also where you’ll find the Haverthwaite railway station for the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway.

Newby Bridge is a quaint village that straddles the River Leven at the southern end of Lake Windermere. It’s just south of Foot Fell Park and is a stop along the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway.

The best way to fully appreciate all that Lake Windermere has to offer is to take a lake cruise. They’re one of the most popular things to do in Cumbria and are a relaxing way to enjoy the area’s stunning mountain vistas.

Leaving from Bowness, you’ll have a choice between two types of cruises. There are 45-minute cruises in a modern sightseeing watercraft that takes a circular path around the lake’s 18 wooded islands.

There are also 90-minute cruises that travel from Bowness to Lakeside and then back again. This cruise is on an old-fashioned steamer ship that has allocated seating.

Both cruises offer commentary on the lake’s history and points of interest. Taking a cruise is one of the top Lake Windermere activities that are fun regardless of age, mobility or weather.

Check online for cruise times and prices

This 17th-century farmhouse in Near Sawrey was once the writing retreat of famed children’s author, Beatrix Potter.

It’s now open for visitors who are looking to learn a little bit more about her day-to-day life. It’s been kept just as it was in 1906 when she bought it as a creative hideaway to dream up the likes of Peter Rabbit and Mr McGregor.

Hill Top contains over 1,000 objects related to Mrs Potter, including furniture that can be seen in some of her most popular illustrations. Fans may recognize her 18th-century grandfather clock or the antique oak press cupboard.

After touring the house, take a stroll out back through her famous garden. You’ll feel like you’ve walked right into a storybook.

To get to Hill Top, you can go to Ferry Nab in Bowness-on-Windermere and take the ferry to the Ferry House at Far Sawrey. From there, it’s only a short walk to Near Sawrey.

Alternatively, there are tours available to Hill Top including this Beatrix Potter’s Half Day Lake District Tour .

No trip to the Lake District would be complete without paying homage to Beatrix Potter . She’s the author of 23 classic children’s stories and one of the region’s most famous former residents.

The World of Beatrix Potter is an interactive experience that brings her characters and stories alive. It starts with a short film that introduces Peter Rabbit, one of her most beloved characters. When it’s finished, you’ll stroll right into Jemima Puddle-Duck’s glade and then into Mrs Tiggy-winkle’s kitchen. It’s like you’re in the story itself!

The whole adventure wraps up with a stop in Mr McGregor’s garden. During your visit, you’ll also learn about Mrs Potter’s passion for the conservation of the Lake District.

There is an adorable gift shop for you to stock up on your Beatrix Potter supplies and baby gifts. There’s also a takeaway café. So come one and come all to one of the most whimsical Windermere attractions. You don’t even have to be a kid to enjoy it!

Just south of the village of Windermere, on the southern tip of the lake, you’ll find the Lakeland Motor Museum .

Whether you’re an automotive enthusiast or just looking for something fun to do for a few hours, this museum should be on your list of Windermere places to visit.

They have a collection of over 30,000 vehicle-related items, including antique and rare cars, like a Bentley 4¼ Litre from 1936 or the British manufactured TVR high-end sports cars. There are also Vincent motorbikes and some quirky favourites like Scootacars and Amphicars.

As you tour along, there are short informational videos as well as posted information about each item. In a separate building, you can learn all about Donald and Malcolm Campbell’s attempts to set speed records.

See replicas of their 1935 Bluebird car and 1967  Bluebird K7  boat. For the children, there is a museum quiz that will keep them occupied so Mom and Dad can read all of the signs.

If you’re ready for a bite to eat, Café Ambio is right there and offers a delightful selection of cakes.

Foot Fell Park is a 7-hectare Victorian park on the southern shores of Lake Windermere.

The park was once the stately grounds of a Georgian villa and has had several wealthy owners before being updated and opened to the public. Today, it’s one of the only places in the Lake District that offers free lake access.

There are walking paths shaded by towering oaks and pines, picnic areas and wide open spaces to set those little ones free so they can burn off some energy. Inside of what was once an old, gothic-style boathouse, there’s a small café that serves hot and cold drinks, hot snacks, cakes and ice cream.

One of the most fun things to do in Lake Windermere is to hire a rowboat, kayak or paddleboard at the café and then set out onto the lake for a relaxing afternoon under the Cumbrian sun. You can even book a private sailing experience on Lake Windermere.

If you get a little wet on the lake, don’t worry. There are newly constructed changing rooms onsite that have secure lockers and showers.

If all the activity on Lake Windermere feels too hectic, take a detour and explore Rydal Water instead. It’s a much smaller lake, 77 acres as compared with Lake Windermere’s whopping 3,640 acres.

It’s north of Lake Windermere and sits at the foot of Loughrigg Fell. When you see its tranquil atmosphere, you’ll understand why it was a favourite place of William Wordsworth , poet and Lake District resident. He owned two houses on its shores — Dove Cottage and Rydal Mount, both of which are interesting things to see in Windermere.

In the mood for a stroll? Take the circular walk around Rydal Water.

The path ambles through the woodlands and along the shoreline and only has a few steep areas. There’s a footbridge or two and if you’re lucky, you may even encounter a few grazing sheep along the way.

No matter what you do, Rydal Water makes an ideal spot for a picnic or some bird watching. In keeping with its serene image, boating on the lake is prohibited.

Welcome to one of the first tourist related attractions in the Lake District. In 1790, the Claife Viewing Station was built on a hillside above Windermere to accommodate a new influx of wealthy tourists.

It was created to resemble an old ruin and had coloured windows intended to mimic what the landscape would look like during different seasons. By the 1830s, it had been expanded and became something of a local landmark. Eventually, though, it became less popular and was all but abandoned.

Today its popularity has had a resurgence because of its restoration by the National Trust . It’s a fun place to stop and take in the views that have been so pleasing to tourists from so long ago.

Getting there is easy. All you do is take the ferry from Bowness and follow the West Shore Walk up the shoreline. In addition to the marvellous view, the viewing station has a café and picnic area, so you can make a whole day of your trip.

For a day of outdoor exploration and fun, take the family to Grizedale Forest. Between Windermere and Coniston Water, it’s 2,500 hectares of scenic forest that is especially popular for hiking and biking.

There are many footpaths, so when you arrive, it’s best to purchase a map. There are walks available for any skill level and many have lovely views of the countryside. There are also seven biking trails, both cross country and downhill.

Don’t have a bicycle? They have some there available to rent. If you’re looking for adventurous things to do at Windermere, there is zip-lining, Tarzan swings and rope bridges that are suitable for children aged 10 and up.

For the smaller kids, there is an adventure playground and 90 wonderful sculptures made of natural materials that are scattered throughout the forest.

There is a tearoom and gift shop on-site as well. If you’re planning on spending the day, make sure you have appropriate, waterproof footwear as some of the trails are gravel and may get slightly waterlogged after a rain shower.

This hike offers maximum yield for minimal effort. It’s an easy, circular walk and in only 20 minutes, you’ll be enjoying one of the most breathtaking vistas the Lake District has to offer. It takes you back toward Windermere by way of the scenic St. Catherine’s Wood and High Hay Wood. The Orrest Head walk is truly one of the best things to do around Lake Windermere.

This is a 3-and-a-half-mile circular walk that leaves from the centre of Bowness-on-Windermere. It ambles through woods and fields and up to the summit of Brant Fell, 192 meters high. While you’re catching your breath, you’ll enjoy a lovely view of the lake.

Plan at least two hours to tackle this 5-mile circular walk that winds through the countryside toward the summit of School Knott. Follow the signs up the hillside and don’t forget to turn around for a lovely view of Lake Windermere. This hike is not terribly difficult but does have a few steep sections along the way.

This 4-mile ambling trail starts as soon as you get off the ferry and is a good choice for those who have mobility issues. It has no hills and you can walk as little or as much as you like. The path skirts the shore of the lake and allows easy access to the Claife Viewing Station and eventually Wray Castle.

Leaving out of Far Sawrey, the walk is over six miles long and treks through some rugged countryside, passing both Moss Eccles Tarn and Wise Een Tarn. It’s a pleasant walk but a little more challenging than some of the others.

Read more – 11 beautiful walks and hikes in the Lake District

If you’re looking for things to do in Windermere for families, look no further. Brockhole Lake District Visitor’s Centre offers outdoor activities appropriate for every age and fitness level.

For those adventurous souls, how about treetop nets, zip-lining, archery or kayaking? If you have something a little tamer in mind, why not have a lakeside picnic or take a stroll amongst the 30 acres of historical gardens?

There’s also a mini-golf and a woodland playground for the kids. The Brockhole Café offers family-friendly food and has terrace seating so you can take in those spectacular views of the lake and surrounding countryside.

Brockhole is located conveniently between Ambleside and Windermere. Some activities are seasonal, so check online to see what is available before you go.

Tour the scenic Leven Valley the old-fashioned way, aboard a comfortable carriage pulled by a steam locomotive. It’s all aboard at the Haverthwaite station, at the southern end of Windermere.

Take a 50-minute trip with stunning views to the Lakeside Pier, and all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the ride. Once you’re in Lakeside, you can visit the Lakes Aquarium, shop or board a cruise.

You can also get a combined ticket that includes both the price of a cruise and a train ticket. At the train station itself, you can grab a bite to eat at the tea room or bring along a picnic.

There’s a woodland play area for the kids or you can take a peek in the engine shed to get an up-close and personal look at the steam and diesel locomotives. Check online for departure times and availability.

For a relatively small museum, the Lakes Aquarium packs a big punch, especially if you are travelling with young children.

It’s in Newby Bridge on the southern shore of Lake Windermere and has an amazing variety of sea creatures. Not only does it boast the largest collection of freshwater fish in the UK, but it also features fish from around the world like pufferfish, piranhas and clownfish for those Finding Nemo fans.

The aquarium isn’t just all about the fish, however. There are reptiles, amphibians and a few mammals thrown in for good measure. Explore 30 different habitats including an underwater otter tunnel that really allows you to commune with the creatures themselves and see the world from an underwater perspective.

If you have a rainy day while visiting Lake Windermere and want something to do that will take less than two hours, you won’t do much better than a trip to the Lakes Aquarium.

As you approach Wray Castle, you may assume it’s yet another medieval fortress-like so many others on English soil. You’d be wrong, however. It was built in the 1840s by James Dawson, a retired surgeon from Liverpool and his heiress wife.

It’s immediately clear why he chose the location for his gothic-style statement — the views are stunning and would make anyone feel like royalty. Wray Castle has the trappings of a regular castle — turrets, towers and informal grounds.

The family lived there until the 1920s and eventually, the castle became the responsibility of the National Trust and was opened to the public in 2011.

When the inside of the castle is open, visitors can see the church-like woodwork and activity rooms. The grounds are lovely and fun to explore. A walk from the castle down to the lake is particularly enchanting.

Wray Castle’s grounds are open year-round but keep in mind that the parking is limited and does require a fee.

Join the National Trust for free entry to their properties.

Whether you are a life-long gardening enthusiast or just someone who occasionally stops to smell the roses, a visit to the Holehird Gardens is one of the best things to do in Windermere.

A mile north of the town of Windermere, it’s a collection of gardens run by volunteers from the Lakeland Horticultural Society. The wide variety of plants, colours and wildlife are an absolute delight to the senses.

There is a woodland garden, rock garden and stream garden, but everyone’s favourite tends to be the walled garden. Originally put in place in 1870, the walled garden was later expanded around the turn of the century by Thomas Hayton Mawson, one of Britain’s most famous landscape architects.

Plan to spend at least an hour walking around and soaking in the stunning views of the rolling hills and lake in the distance. A £5 donation is required to enter — quite a bargain for such an amazing place.

Among the best Lake Windermere things to do are the wide variety of water sports.

Have you ever wanted to learn how to sail? You can hire a boat and take lessons. What about waterskiing or wakeboarding? They have that too. There’s also canoeing, row boating and paddleboarding.

If you’re looking for things to do in Windermere for couples, how about taking out a double kayak? There’s nothing more romantic than paddling around the lake together in such a majestic setting.

• Kayak on Derwent Water – See the best of the lakes on this ever-changing kayak tour on and around scenic Derwentwater. 
• Canoe on Derwent Water – Nicknamed “the jewel of the Lake District” this guided tour is the perfect way to discover Derwent Water. 

Here are some of my top picks of experiences in the Lake District:

• Film & TV Locations Tour – Some of the best TV and Film has been famously captured in many diverse and expansive areas in the Lake District. Boasting a vast collection of locations across most of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, this tour picks up on just a small selection.
• Breweries and Distilleries (Full Day ) – Visit a number of local breweries where you can try before you buy, or even learn about the brewing processes. Whether it’s beer or Gin there is something for all tastes.
• Lake District – Scavenger Hunt Adventure (7 Days Self-guided) – Travel-themed scavenger hunt with hundreds of destinations & challenges. Contact-free travel and a truly immersive way to explore the region!
• Forests & Wildlife (Full Day) – A fully immersive tour that will capture the imagination of both young and old alike. Witness the sights and sounds of the many different species of animals and birds native to the Lake District, but also see some from much further afield.
• Private Sailing Experience on Lake Windermere – Charter a skippered yacht for a 2-hour sailing experience, get involved and take control of the yacht or just sit back and enjoy the stunning scenery unfold around you.

Plan your visit to Lake Windermere

If you are putting together your Lake District itinerary – whether you are planning one day in the Lake District or even 2, 3,4 days or more – you will find everything you need to know in my Lake District Travel Guide .

As well as a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in the Lake District you will find itinerary suggestions and tips to make the most of your trip.

If you are unsure of which towns and villages to include in your Lake District itinerary you will find my guide to 24 of the prettiest towns and villages in the Lake District an invaluable resource.

• The M6 motorway runs to the east of the Lake District – take junction 36 and then the A590 for Windermere.
• London to Lakes – 5 hours
• Manchester to Lakes – 1 and a half hours
• York to the Lakes – 2 hours
• There is a mainline train station at Windermere. From Manchester Piccadilly, it takes 1 hour 40 minutes (with one change at Oxenholme)
• It is possible to catch a National Express Coach from a number of major cities including Manchester or London.

Another option for those of you who don’t want to drive to the Lake District (or take public transport) is to book a tour. These are some of the options available from nearby cities.

• From Manchester: Lake District Sightseeing Day Trip
• Lake District Day Trip from London with Afternoon Tea
• From Chester: Lake District Full-Day Guided Sightseeing Tour

Best places to stay in Lake Windermere

There are lots of great hotels in the Windermere area. You can find a small selection below or for more check out my guide to the best places to stay in Lake Windermere.

• Luxury – Kotel Windermere
• Midrange/Boutique – Wateredge Inn
• Budget – Westmorland Inn

Read – You will find more suggestions in my England Accommodation Guide

So there you have it – lots of fab ideas and suggestions to make the most of your stay in Windermere.

Don’t miss my complete Lake District Travel Guide which contains everything you need to know to plan your visit including practical tips, itineraries and more inspiration.

If you are looking for other attractions in the region my top 10 things to do in the North West has lots of suggestions.

If you enjoy visiting cities my travel guide for Liverpool includes what to see, where to stay, itinerary suggestions and tips to make the most of your visit.

Our complete guide to Windermere, The Lake District

Welcome to our complete guide to Windermere, The Lake District. Windermere is the heart and soul of The Lake District and makes a great base for tourists who want to explore everything it has to offer. We’ve assembled a list of things to help you plan your trip, to ensure you head out to the best places in this beautiful area of The Lake District. From the top things to do in Windermere, to the best places to dine and getting around, we’ve got you covered. Read on to find out more!

Where is Windermere located?

Windermere is located in the centre of The Lake District. Being so central, it’s only a 10 minute drive away from the quaint town of Ambleside and a 20 minute drive from the small, yet picturesque town of Grasmere. You can reach most of the main Lakes towns, hikes and attractions in less than half an hour.

Why Windermere is a great place to visit

Windermere is without a doubt a must-see destination if you’re planning a visit to The Lake District. It’s full of character, has lots of quaint coffee shops and offers daily boat trips for you to experience the lake away from the shore. There’s an amplitude of activities for the whole family to enjoy and its central location makes it a great base.

When’s the best time to visit Windermere

Being the most popular place to visit in The Lake District amongst tourists, it can get quite busy especially during the school holidays (between July-September) so if you want to avoid the crowds and long queues, we recommend visiting between April-June. Whilst you can visit during any point of the year, the winter months bring cold temperatures and sharp winds. However, if you don’t mind that and as long as you wrap up warm, you’ll still get to experience Windermere’s true beauty. It has an enchanting, frosty façade during winter.

Top tip: if you’re planning on visiting many Windermere attractions in one day, plan to arrive early in the morning (pre 10am), and where possible, book your tickets in advance online. Tickets are generally cheaper, and you’ll avoid waiting around!

How to get to Windermere

The best way to get to Windermere is by car. It can take a few hours if you live in the North of England, or 5+ hours if you live in the south. If you don’t own a car, you can always rent one. If you don’t have that luxury, or just prefer to travel by other means of transport, then travel by train is also possible. Windermere has its very own train station, but ensure you check your route before you travel as there may not be a direct train to Windermere, depending on where you’re traveling from. Most trains from the south arrive into Penrith station. You’ll then need to catch a bus onward to Windermere.

Getting around

The best way to experience the wonders of Windermere is by car. Attractions are spaced out so having a car allows you to see everything at your leisure, without having to arrange public transport. You’ll also be able to see the hidden corners of Windermere this way. Some of the best lake views and walks are away from the tourist trail!

If you prefer taking a complete break from driving, then you can travel between towns and attractions by using the local buses. Be sure to check the departure times on the official transport website here before setting off. Another great option, especially if your time in Windermere is limited, is to take a guided tour. Join a group or private tour and see the Lakes with a knowledgeable local.

Top things to do in Windermere, tHE lAKE dISTRICT

There are many things to see and do in Windermere. It doesn’t matter how old you are, you’re guaranteed to have an amazing time with your friends and family. See below a few of our top things to do in Windermere. For our complete list of attractions, check out our guide here .

Take a Lake cruise

One of the best ways to soak in the views of Windermere and its surroundings, is taking a lake cruise. Most cruises vary from 30 minutes to 60 minutes long, but you can find longer half-day cruises too. Sit back, relax and enjoy the scenic views!

Top tip: be sure to book in advance online for the best prices and to avoid those long queues.

The World of Beatrix Potter attraction

The world of Beatrix Potter is a vibrant exhibition that’s a must see for the entire family. The attraction features all of the well-known characters, an outdoor garden, café and gift shop. It provides an interactive walk-through of the characters from Beatrix’s famous books and is a great way to spend a couple of hours. Be sure to pre-book as it’s extremely popular amongst tourists!

Brockhole-on-Windermere

If you have children and want to keep them entertained, then Brockhole on Windermere is the place to visit! Take part in the abundance of activities that are on offer here, from archery and mini golf to a tree top adventure park. After a day of fun, you can spend time soaking up the sun over a tasty picnic!

See the home of Beatrix Potter at Hill Top

Keen to visit the place where Beatrix potter found inspiration for her books? Hill Top is one of the must-see places during your time in Windermere. Let your children become truly inspired and they too can be the next Beatrix Potter! Her home sits on a hill top on the west side of the lake, surrounded by beautiful scenery and views of lower Windermere below.

Wray Castle

Wray Castle is a beautiful, picturesque place to visit whilst spending time in Windermere. During your Wray Castle tour, you can wander the castle’s hall and rooms, and admire the gorgeous scenic views from the front of the castle.

Top tip: The castle organises frequent activities, so be sure to check on the activity calendar online prior to visiting.  

The above is just a small sample of the great places you can check out. For the full list, view our ‘ things to do in Windermere’ guide here.

Best cafés in Windermere

Homeground coffee and kitchen, view on map | tripadvisor rating 4.5/5.

If you’re looking for a place that makes fresh, roasted coffee and also delicious breakfast and lunches, then Homeground Coffee and Kitchen is the place to pay a visit. From the traditional eggs benedict to a beef and peanut burger, we found their food excellent! They also have gluten and dairy free options available too! It’s currently rated the number one café in Tripadvisor at the time of writing.

Dr Brews Coffee

View on map | tripadvisor rating 5/5.

For a quick pitstop, pre or post hike, why not stop at Dr Brews Coffee shop for a hot beverage to keep you going for the day? From lattes to mochas and some delicious treats for those with a sweet tooth (especially their carrot cakes), it’s the perfect fuel for a busy day of sightseeing.

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Sugar & Spice Café

View on map | tripadvisor rating 4.5/5.

Sugar and spice, and everything nice! Located close to Windermere train station, Sugar & Spice is a small café that serves hot drinks, breakfast, brunch, light bites and cakes. Whether you’re wanting a quick sugar fix, or something a bit more substantial, they have some great options to keep you full until dinner-time. They have vegetarian options and a gluten free menu too.

Attention to all the choco-holics out there! you’ve come to the right spot. Fancy an indulgent hot drink by the lake, or even a chocolate coated waffle or churros, this is the place to come! Choccobar is a haven for chocolate lovers and you will leave wanting more!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ChoccoBar Bowness (@choccobar_bowness)

A great all-rounder café that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. It’s located near the Beatrix Potter attraction and is a great place to stop off for a quick bite to eat.

Best restaurants in Windermere

If you’re a lover of grilled fish, from cod to sea bass fillet, then this is the place for you. Rated in the top 5 restaurants in Windermere on TripAdvisor, its wonderful seafood restaurant located just outside of Windermere town. You will be ‘hooked’ by the time you finish your meal…

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Café Italia

Pizza, pasta and all things doughy and nice are just right on your doorstop. Everyone loves a classic Italian dish and this place serves many different types of pizzas and pasta. It’s a beautifully constructed building and has a great modern touch on the inside. It’s a nice place to come either for lunch or dinner.

Porto Restaurant

Located just a five-minute walk from Windermere town, Porto is a French restaurant that offers fine dining, seafood and contemporary dishes. It’s a top place for meat and fish eaters that want something extra special.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by PortoBowness (@portorestaurantbowness)

Jackson’s Bistro

If you’re looking for something heartier and filling, Jackon’s Bistro serves everything from tasty homemade burgers to a rack of marinated ribs! It’s a great place to visit for a family meal.

Restaurant at Samling

If you want to push the boat out and enjoy high quality food overlooking views of Lake Windermere, wine and dine until your heart’s content. Food doesn’t come cheap, but it’s always good to treat yourself on holiday. The restaurant views and ambience are second to none.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Samling Hotel (@thesamling)

Where to stay in Windermere

The best windermere hotels, applegarth villa hotel, view on booking.com | tripadvisor rating 4.5/5.

If you’re looking for peace and quiet, luxury and a 5-star experience, then Applegarth Villa Hotel is the one for you. From the outside, the building gives it a slightly old-fashioned feel, but the inside says different. It’s extremely modern and offers you a top end experience for you to fully enjoy. If you want to really go all out, you can spend a night in one of their luxury suites with hot tub!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Applegarth Villa Windermere (@applegarthvilla)

Windermere Boutique Hotel

View on booking.com | tripadvisor rating 5/5.

After a long day roaming about the streets of Windermere and hours of hiking, you want to get back to your hotel to completely relax. Windermere Boutique Hotel offers a range of rooms with spa facilities for you to take advantage of. The hotel is located in between Windermere Town and Bowness, with plenty of facilities. It offers spa treatments on selected days and times, so go on and treat yourself (or your partner!).

Cedar Manor Hotel

Sometimes, staying at a smaller, boutique hotel really makes it feel like a home from home. That’s exactly what you’ll experience at Cedar Manor. With 10 different types of rooms to choose from, Cedar Manor Hotel has all you will ever need. With its great location, and delicious afternoon tea, no wonder it won the TripAdvisor Travelers choice 2019 award.

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The Samling Hotel

Located right in front of Lake Windermere, The Samling Hotel presents you with the best views of the lakes. There’s nothing better than waking up to water and mountain views. The Samling has a choice of 12 individually designed bedrooms, suites and cottages, each named after a Lake District location. Have a unique dining experience at the chefs table and savour every single bite of their mouth-watering food.

Gilpin Hotel

View on hotels.com | tripadvisor rating 5/5.

Last but definitely not least, rated one of the best hotels in the entire Lake District is the Gilpin Hotel. It’s a small, intimate hotel with just 28 unique, individually styled rooms. Some rooms come with their very own spa, for you to fully relax and re-charge for another day of sightseeing. You’ll also not be disappointed by the food. With a Michelin star chef serving you fresh produce throughout your stay, you’ll always have a hungry stomach!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gilpin Hotel & Lake House (@gilpinhotel)

The best Windermere Bed and Breakfasts

The hideaway.

If you’re looking for a cosy retreat, nestled away just outside of Windermere town, The Hideaway is one of the best B&B options. It has a real intimate vibe, and with only 11 bedrooms, it’ll feel like the perfect home from home. One fantastic bonus of staying here, is that they offer complimentary tea and cakes on every day of your stay! What’s not to love?

St John’s Lodge

Located mid-way between Windermere town, Bowness town and Windermere Lake, is TripAdvisor’s best ranked B&B in Windermere, and we can see why! Its location makes it a perfect place to stay whilst you explore the most popular area of the Lake District. The rooms are modern and well sized. After you’ve been on a long hike, you can come back to relax, and use the nearby health club spa and gym facilities throughout your stay.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by St John’s Lodge Guest House (@stjohnslodge)

Hawksmoor Lakeland Guesthouse

If you fancy a bit of tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle of Windermere, then this may be the perfect B&B for you. Hawksmoor guesthouse is ideal for nature and animal lovers, due to its nearby trail walks. As the B&B is family run, it has a cosy feel and is a great place to return to, after a long day of sightseeing.

Glenville House

If you’re a fan of old, Victorian buildings overlooking the lake shore, then Glenville house has all you could ever want. It’s located between Bowness and Windermere, and you’re just a stone throw away from the amenities of town. Glenville House is a smaller B&B compared to others in Windermere, with just seven bedrooms. Please note that this is an adult only B&B.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kyoko (@kyo7946)

Rockside Guesthouse

With top-rated reviews, Rockside guesthouse offers you both old and new. It’s a classic, Victorian style building on the outside, with new and modern décor on the inside. It offers true comfort and luxury, without the high price tag. All the food they serve is locally sourced, and you’ll leave feeling rested.

Our top tips for visiting Windermere

• As there’s a lot to see and do in Windermere, we recommend traveling by car, as it’s easier to get around to places in the nearby area. If you don’t own a car, we’d suggest renting one for the day/ time that you are spending in Windermere and the Lake District. A road trip between destinations is part of the experience and you’ll see more in a day this way.
• Depending on the time of year you’re visiting Windermere, it can get really busy, so finding a car parking space may be challenging. We’d recommend visiting places earlier on in the day (before lunch) to avoid spending ages trying to park.
• If you’re visiting the Lake District for a few days, busy summer months and weekends – we’d recommend visiting on a week day for less crowds
• If you plan on renting a boat or going on a boat tour, book in advanced online. Often cheaper with a discount and you can skip those queues.
• On a similar note, Bowness on Windermere is the busiest town no matter the day, so aim to arrive early morning.
• The best way to see the lake is to actually head out on it. A boat trip is a must for anyone visiting Windermere and is highly recommended.
• As there’s so much to do in a day trip, we recommend planning out a route and completing the attractions in order of the map. It will save you time and make your lives easier.

So there you have it, our complete guide to Windermere, The Lake District. We hope you found this travel guide useful and it’ll help you plan your next trip. If you have any further questions, feel free to leave a comment down below! 😊

Looking to explore other areas of the Lake District? Check out these guides:

The best things to do in Windermere

Lake District luxury hotels guide

The best places to visit in The Lake District

I’m a passionate traveller that loves a sunny beach holiday, but also appreciate the cultural side to a trip and checking out undiscovered destinations. I’m the go-to Toucan Traveller for great holiday stories, cool photos and foodie recommendations.

THANKS FOR READING! IF YOU LIKED OUR ARTICLE, SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS OR PRINT IT OUT FOR YOUR TRIP. FEEL FREE TO  CONTACT US  WITH ANY QUESTIONS YOU HAVE…

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Bowness-on-Windermere

: Windermere (lake)

Bowness-on-Windermere is a sprawling tourist town on the shore of Windermere , about halfway along the 10.5 mile length of the lake between Waterhead at the North end, and Lakeside at the South end. It developed after the opening of the railway line from Oxenholme and Kendal to Windermere  in 1847. Bowness was the nearest accessible point on the lake.

Now the Lake District’s most popular visitor destination, Bowness-on-Windermere is busy for much of the year. People come to enjoy the lake for sailing and watersports , or just to relax and enjoy the atmosphere of the area and the town’s delightful setting. See all places to stay around Bowness-on-Windermere .

Bowness-on-Windermere is now one of the main centres of Outdoor Activities in the UK and an extensive selection of top Adventure Activity companies, guides and instructors are based around here. Details of hundreds of walks in the Southern Fells can be found in our Walks in the South Lake District page.

The Victorian influence can be seen everywhere – in the late 19th century, wealthy businessmen from Lancashire built large residences overlooking the lake, and many of these have now been converted to hotels, such as the Langdale Chase Hotel , Storrs Hall Hotel , and the Belsfield Hotel. Others houses include The National Park Visitor Centre at Brockhole , between Ambleside and Bowness.

Peter Rabbit, Jemima Puddleduck and a number of other characters come to life at the World of Beatrix Potter .

St Martin’s Church  is the parish Church of Bowness, and was built in 1483, with various alterations, including the restoration of 1870, when the Church was enlarged.  It is probably the most interesting building in Bowness, and is worth looking inside.  The area behind the church is the oldest part of Bowness-on-Windermere, a delightful web of narrow streets known as Lowside, which gives an idea of what the village was like before the arrival of the railway.

The village of Windermere  grew around the railway station, about a mile and a half from the lake. The village was originally called Birthwaite, but the railway company decided to call the station after the lake.

A short walk from Windermere takes you to Orrest Head, an outstanding viewpoint. It was the first ‘summit’ in Lakeland visited by A Wainwright , author of the famous guidebooks, in 1930.

A  car ferry  takes you across the width of the lake from just south of Bowness, to Sawrey and Hawkshead.

Related pages :

• 2020 Big Guide to the Windermere Area
• Places to Stay around Windermere
• Places to Visit around Windermere
• Watersports & Activities around Windermere
• What’s On around Windermere

See more photos of Bowness >>

Grid Ref : SD 402969

Planning a visit to Bowness-on-Windermere? The convenient pre-set Quick Links below offer a large selection of holiday cottages. Or enter your dates below to see available hotel & B&B accommodation on a handy map.

Quick Link to Sykes Cottages in and around Bowness-on-Windermere

Quick Link to holidaycottages.co.uk cottages in and around Bowness-on-Windermere

Booking.com

11 Top-Rated Things to Do in Windermere, BC

Written by Catherine Hawkins Updated Aug 7, 2023

The town of Windermere, scenically located on the east shore of Lake Windermere, is situated between two mountain ranges: the Purcells on the west and the Rockies on the east. In 1902, this place was named Windermere because it is so reminiscent of Windermere in the Lake District of England. Tourists visit this resort town in the Columbia River Valley to enjoy all the things to do on or near the lake in a glorious mountainous setting.

During your visit to Windermere, be sure to check out the public beach for a refreshing dip in the lake and a picnic in the mountain air. The vistas across the water are outstanding and may tempt you to explore the far shore of the lake. It's easily done with a short drive to the provincial park, local marina, or various outfitters, where you can arrange to rent the boat or board of your choice. You can also make like an eagle with a gliding experience over the lake and mountain peaks.

Take a tour of Windermere's heritage buildings to learn more about the history of this community. Go mini-golfing or regular golfing, take the family to a bowling alley, watch glassblowers create fine works of art, and restore yourself with a soak in the hot springs. Find out more about these and other fun places to visit with our list of things to do in Windermere.

1. Visit Windermere Public Beach

2. soak in hot springs: fairmont and radium, 3. take the windermere historical tour, 4. rent a boat at windermere lake park, 5. glide over the rockies from the invermere soaring centre, 6. watch a glassblowing demo, 7. float the columbia river, 8. take the family bowling at valley alley bowling centre, 9. try go-karting at ozzie's amusements, 10. check out fairways at windermere valley and copper point, 11. charter a boat at shadybrook marina, map of things to do in windermere, bc.

Given the size of Lake Windermere, you would be right in assuming it has a few beaches, one of which is located in the town of Windermere. Cool off and enjoy the view at the popular public beach located on the east shore of Lake Windermere. This beach offers grassy shaded spots for picnics, a dock and raft for swimmers, moorage for boats, an ice-cream float boat, and washrooms.

Swimming is popular here because the shallow water is warm, and the swimming zone is roped off to separate it from boat traffic. There are two other beaches on Lake Windermere: Kinsmen Beach in nearby Invermere is popular. Another beach and children's playground is located at James Chabot Provincial Park , a day-use-only park in nearby Invermere.

Address: Selkirk Street, Windermere, British Columbia

Read More: Top-Rated Lakes in British Columbia

Within half an hour's drive from Windermere, you can soak in your choice of hot springs: There's Fairmont Hot Springs Resort to the south and Radium Hot Springs to the north. Each one is about 20 kilometers away from Windermere, so one option is to do both.

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort has the largest mineral hot spring in Canada , plus a swimming pool, dive pool, and spa. The hot pool temperature is maintained at 39 degrees Celsius (102 degrees Fahrenheit), while the swimming pool is several degrees cooler. Activities at Fairmont can be combined with a short hike on the Hoodoo Trail (and other trails), Mineral Mountain Ziplines, Funtasia fun park, golf, mini-golf, horseback riding, and stand up paddleboarding.

Radium , located within Kootenay National Park, has one large hot pool and a two-thirds size Olympic swimming pool. The aquacourt at Radium, constructed in 1951, is listed as one of Canada's Classified Federal Heritage Buildings. Radium might have the edge over Fairmont for visitors who want more options for shopping, restaurants, golf courses, and things to do.

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort

• Address: 5225 Fairmont Resort Road, Fairmont Hot Springs, British Columbia

Radium Hot Springs

• Address: 7556 Main Street East, Radium Hot Springs, British Columbia

Read More: Top-Rated Hot Springs in British Columbia

Windermere, an East Kootenay community, has been around since well before the turn of the 20 th century. You can walk around town on your own, but a tour created by the Windermere Valley Museum can help enhance your appreciation of the area's culture and history. The tour includes 10 buildings and properties, all of which are located close to the lake.

Washington D.C. has one and so does Windermere, BC — a White House. The first RCMP barracks in the Rockies, established in 1886, is another stop on the tour. Dating back to 1886 and 1899 is the Windermere Hotel, the oldest structure in town. Pitts General Store and Stone Power Plant were both built in 1912.

The most famous old building in Windermere might be the " Stolen Church " (aka St. Peter's Church). The story goes that a woman who lived in Donald, BC missed the church she used to attend. Lo and behold, around the turn of the century, her husband took it upon himself to dismantle her beloved church and ship it by train to Golden.

It was then transported by wagon and steamship to a plot in Windermere not far from the cemetery (another stop on the history tour), where the first pioneers were buried in 1886. Unfortunately, the original church's 600-pound bell didn't reach its final destination — members of a congregation in Golden snatched it for their church.

From Windermere, you can drive to Windermere Lake Park within half an hour to explore it by motorboat, kayak, and canoe. Rentals are available if you don't have your own boat, skis, or board. Start at the boat launch and quietly approach the marshlands to avoid disturbing the birdlife. Another option is to head straight for the main lake, which has 36 kilometers of coastline for you to explore.

The 220-hectare park was created to protect grasslands habitat, as well as the riparian zone — the sensitive environment where a body of water meets its shore and banks. Windermere Lake is around 18 kilometers long, but not deep, averaging 4.5 meters. Because it is so shallow, swimmers will discover that it is one of the warmer lakes in the Kootenay region. Bring your binos and keep your eyes peeled for birds and wildlife.

Everyone has a bucket list, and for the most adventurous among us, gliding might make the cut. Within a 10-minute drive from Windermere, you can be at the Invermere Soaring Centre , signing yourself up for the ride of a lifetime.

Ideally, soaring season is May to September, and this is where you can really get away from it all. Catapult yourself into the picture-perfect scenery of the Canadian Rockies for an experience you'll never forget.

If you choose a standard mountain flight, the most popular option, your ride will probably last up to an hour. It all depends on the afternoon thermal updrafts that generate the heat needed to gain altitude. On a custom flight, the experience could be even longer.

If conditions are right, you might fly as high as 3,600 meters (12,000 feet) or more. Soar over peaks, glaciers, lakes, and wetlands. Revel in the silent beauty that envelops your once-in-a-lifetime glide over the Rockies.

Address: Airport Road, Invermere, British Columbia

Arrange to see a demonstration of glassblowing at Bavin Glassworks , a family-owned hot glass studio and gallery that has been in business since 1988. You'll be dazzled by the skill that's required to transform molten glass into beautiful works of art.

From multi-colored bowls and vases to iridescent fish, marvel at the color and creativity that goes into every piece. It took the family a decade to perfect the techniques that go into the making of a fish.

Glass isn't the only medium on display. Other regional artisans work with metal and clay. The gallery sells ceramic and glass-beaded jewelry and show-stopping works of art. If you're looking for an exquisite gift or a gorgeous enhancement to your home, you'll find it here. If you don't see it, Bavin Glassworks will do custom work and commissions.

Glassblowing sessions typically take place throughout the spring, fall, and winter (although it's recommended to call ahead to confirm the schedule). The gallery is open on Fridays and Saturdays.

Address: 4884 Athalmer Road, Invermere, British Columbia

The Columbia River flows north from Invermere to Radium Hot Springs, a trip that takes about three hours if you paddle by canoe or kayak. Allow local outfitters Far Out Gear Rentals (7514 Main Street East, Radium) or Columbia River Paddle (25 Laurier Street, Athalmer) to help you sort out equipment and shuttle arrangements. A number of packages are available, including self-guided floats or a trip with a guide.

Instead of a river float, you can also rent a paddleboard, canoe, or kayak for varying periods of time (two hours to a full day) to explore Windermere Lake and its wetlands. Guided paddles and lessons are available. Check out your options and make reservations for a half-day of adventure on the water. Pack yourself some snacks or takeout from a café in Radium.

The "boomer" generation grew up during the heyday of bowling in the 1950s and 1960s. Since then, bowling alleys (along with drive-in movie theaters) are making a comeback, although they're still not the standard fixture of every community that they once were. A game of skill and an opportunity to socialize, a date at the bowling alley practically guarantees a good time.

Take a trip down memory lane at the Valley Alley Bowling Centre — look for a replica of BC's largest cougar on the roof. This place is the real deal, complete with disco balls and neon lights. Occasionally, you can groove on a glow bowl with black light bowling.

Bowling is the perfect activity, especially if the weather isn't the best, or you just want some indoor fun. It doesn't matter whether you are an experienced bowler. Bring the whole family for an hour or two of five-pin bowling.

Valley Alley is not open every day, so call ahead to reserve one of the six lanes. After you've tallied your scorecards, trundle over to the ice cream counter and replace all the calories you just burned up.

Address: 1113 Swansea Road, Windermere, British Columbia

If you and the kids are looking for a fun place to visit in Windermere for a couple of hours, make tracks for Ozzie's Amusements . Children are always up for mini-golf, and here they'll find an 18-hole course where they can practice their driving and putting skills while navigating water features.

If they crave an activity that's a bit more exciting, take it up a notch and go go-karting. Double carts are available for a child and an adult, with a ride lasting eight minutes. All drivers seem to emerge from the experience with a happy face at this popular family-friendly tourist attraction.

After a rousing game of mini-golf and whizzing around the go-kart track, get ready to choose something sweet from Stolen Church Gelato, served on-site. It makes more than two dozen flavors, including unicorn — a purplish combination of bubblegum and cotton candy with sprinkles (a popular lick among kids).

Everything is made locally in small batches to maximize freshness. Enjoy a scoop on the deck or one of the picnic tables in the backyard with shade umbrellas. Suddenly your sunny day got even better! When you're in Invermere, you can also visit Stolen Church's cafe for a great cup of coffee and even more gelato.

Address: 4818 North Street, Windermere, British Columbia

Windermere Valley Golf Course is located in a quiet setting just outside the town of Windermere. You can tee off here from fairways that have views of the surrounding mountains that you see on postcards. Stay alert on this 18-hole course because the scenery could distract you from making your best shot. All skill levels are welcome to check out this intriguing course and enjoy a memorable golfing experience in the East Kootenays.

If you're in the area for more than a day and want to try another course, drive a few kilometers north of Windermere on Hwy 93/95. Here, you'll find Copper Point Golf Club , also on the east side of Lake Windermere. Its devotees praise the long fairways and multi-putt challenges of golfing on the scenic point. The attraction offers both a master's style and a championship course.

Windermere Valley Golf Course

• Address: 1881 Windermere Loop Road, Windermere, British Columbia

Copper Point Golf Club

• #651, Hwy 93/95, Invermere, British Columbia

You want to get out on Lake Windermere, but don't have a boat; nor do you wish to rent one. There's another option that lets you enjoy all the fun stuff without the hassle of arranging insurance. You can charter a boat from Shadybrook Marina . It also offers a full-service shop chock-full of boating gear and accessories.

Lake Windermere is actually a widening of the Columbia River. For that reason, it was (and still might be) known as Lake Columbia by old-timers who have been around as long as Shadybrook Marina. These guys have been in business since 1967, so they know their way around how to ski on water.

If you're looking to take water sports lessons, get in touch with Nauti Watersports . The school and boat charter services used to be part of Shadybrook Marina, but are now owned by one of the company's former coaches. It offers instruction and all the gear you need to try water skiing and wakeboarding.

Address: Access via Lake Street, Windermere, British Columbia

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This Arizona Town Is One of the Best Places to Retire in the U.S. — With Affordable Homes, Excellent Weather, and Tons of Outdoor Recreation

Realtor.com recently released its annual ranking of the top retirement communities in America.

Courtesy of Green Valley City Council

Most seniors consider several factors when choosing where to spend their golden years. While affordability is usually crucial, access to medical care, recreation, a strong sense of community, and safety are essential aspects of a comfortable and happy retirement. While Florida continues to be one of the top destinations for America's seniors, retirees can find all of these conveniences in other parts of the country, like Arizona, for example.

According to Realtor.com , the second best place to retire is in the Grand Canyon State. Recently, the website released its annual listing of the top 10 retirement towns for 2024, and Green Valley, a retirement community 30 miles south of Tucson, took the silver medal. (The first was Sun City Center in Florida .)

The census-designated place in Pima County came in fourth in 2023 but climbed two places this year "due in large part to the natural wonders of the area, which include bird-watching at the world-famous Madera Canyon," the report stated. The vibrant retirement community dates back to the mid-1960s and is home to about 20,000 full-time residents with a median age of 74. Realtor.com points out that an overwhelming majority of home listings are retiree-friendly — 83 percent and the median list price is $350,000. 

"[The] COVID-19 [pandemic] saw a huge spike in sales since many people could work from home, and that home could be anywhere. It allowed people to live the retirement lifestyle before they actually retired. We are seeing a more balanced market today, where good homes still sell fast, but you will have time to explore the market," Stacey Bell, a realtor at Long Realty Company/Luxury Portfolio International , told Travel + Leisure.

But there's more to Green Valley that makes it an excellent retirement destination. Its location, near historical and natural landmarks, allows residents to explore the area from a variety of perspectives.

The neighboring town of Sahuarita traces back its roots centuries ago when it was home to Native Americans. Jesuits settled the region in the 17th century, and residents and visitors can explore one of the most beautiful examples of Spanish Colonial architecture about 20 miles north at the San Xavier Del Bac Mission, the oldest European structure in Arizona. History buffs usually visit the Titan Missile Museum, the last remaining Cold War-era Titan II site, where they can see the underground launch control center.

Green Valley is also near Tubac, known for its vibrant art scene, and many galleries and museums. 

Green Valley's residents enjoy a very active lifestyle thanks to the top-notch sports facilities they can access within the community, such as over ten swimming pools, racket and paddle courts, and six fitness centers. Additionally, there are dozens of classes, workshops, and activities that residents can sign up for year-round, spanning foreign language learning, dancing, singing, yoga, and jewelry making.

"It's a summer camp for adults. Our entire community was built for retirees to explore hidden talents, play in their passions, and reinvent themselves. We are close enough to Tucson to enjoy world-class food, culture, and entertainment but far enough away to be quiet," Bell added.

Lastly, Realtor.com points out that just like most of the top retirement cities, Green Valley is also close to a major urban center, in this case, Tucson, where residents can find even more entertainment options. 

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The Gunman and the Would-Be Dictator

Violence stalks the president who has rejoiced in violence to others.

Produced by ElevenLabs and News Over Audio (NOA) using AI narration.

When a madman hammered nearly to death the husband of then–House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Donald Trump jeered and mocked . One of Trump’s sons and other close Trump supporters avidly promoted false claims that Paul Pelosi had somehow brought the onslaught upon himself through a sexual misadventure.

After authorities apprehended a right-wing-extremist plot to abduct Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Trump belittled the threat at a rally. He disparaged Whitmer as a political enemy. His supporters chanted “Lock her up.” Trump laughed and replied , “Lock them all up.”

Fascism feasts on violence. In the years since his own supporters attacked the Capitol to overturn the 2020 election—many of them threatening harm to Speaker Pelosi and Vice President Mike Pence—Trump has championed the invaders, would-be kidnappers, and would-be murderers as martyrs and hostages. He has vowed to pardon them if returned to office. His own staffers have testified to the glee with which Trump watched the mayhem on television.

Now the bloodshed that Trump has done so much to incite against others has touched him as well. The attempted murder of Trump—and the killing of a person nearby—is a horror and an outrage. More will be learned about the man who committed this appalling act, and who was killed by the Secret Service. Whatever his mania or motive, the only important thing about him is the law-enforcement mistake that allowed him to bring a deadly weapon so close to a campaign event and gain a sight line of the presidential candidate. His name should otherwise be erased and forgotten.

It is sadly incorrect to say, as so many have, that political violence “has no place” in American society. Assassinations, lynchings, riots, and pogroms have stained every page of American political history. That has remained true to the present day. In 2016 , and even more in 2020, Trump supporters brought weapons to intimidate opponents and vote-counters. Trump and his supporters envision a new place for violence as their defining political message in the 2024 election. Fascist movements are secular religions. Like all religions, they offer martyrs as their proof of truth. The Mussolini movement in Italy built imposing monuments to its fallen comrades. The Trump movement now improves on that: The leader himself will be the martyr in chief, his own blood the basis for his bid for power and vengeance.

Christopher R. Browning: A new kind of fascism

The 2024 election was already shaping up as a symbolic contest between an elderly and weakening liberalism too frail and uncertain to protect itself and an authoritarian, reactionary movement ready to burst every barrier and trash every institution. To date, Trump has led only a minority of U.S. voters, but that minority’s passion and audacity have offset what it lacks in numbers. After the shooting, Trump and his backers hope to use the iconography of a bloody ear and face, raised fist, and call to “Fight!” to summon waverers to their cause of installing Trump as an anti-constitutional ruler, exempted from ordinary law by his allies on the Supreme Court.

Other societies have backslid to authoritarianism because of some extraordinary crisis: economic depression, hyperinflation, military defeat, civil strife. In 2024, U.S. troops are nowhere at war. The American economy is booming, providing spectacular and widely shared prosperity. A brief spasm of mild post-pandemic inflation has been overcome. Indicators of social health have abruptly turned positive since Trump left office after years of deterioration during his term. Crime and fatal drug overdoses are declining in 2024; marriages and births are rising. Even the country’s problems indirectly confirm the country’s success: Migrants are crossing the border in the hundreds of thousands, because they know, even if Americans don’t, that the U.S. job market is among the hottest on Earth.

Yet despite all of this success, Americans are considering a form of self-harm that in other countries has typically followed the darkest national failures: letting the author of a failed coup d’état return to office to try again.

One reason this self-harm is nearing consummation is that American society is poorly prepared to understand and respond to radical challenges, once those challenges gain a certain mass. For nearly a century, “radical” in U.S. politics has usually meant “fringe”: Communists, Ku Kluxers, Black Panthers, Branch Davidians, Islamist jihadists. Radicals could be marginalized by the weight of the great American consensus that stretches from social democrats to business conservatives. Sometimes, a Joe McCarthy or a George Wallace would throw a scare into that mighty consensus, but in the past such challengers rarely formed stable coalitions with accepted stakeholders in society. Never gaining an enduring grip on the institutions of state, they flared up and burned out.

Trump is different. His abuses have been ratified by powerful constituencies. He has conquered and colonized one of the two major parties. He has defeated—or is on the way to defeating—every impeachment and prosecution to hold him to account for his frauds and crimes. He has assembled a mass following that is larger, more permanent, and more national in reach than any previous American demagogue. He has dominated the scene for nine years already, and he and his supporters hope they can use yesterday’s appalling event to extend the Trump era to the end of his life and beyond.

The American political and social system cannot treat such a person as an alien. It inevitably accommodates and naturalizes him. His counselors, even the thugs and felons, join the point-counterpoint dialogue at the summit of the American elite. President Joe Biden nearly wrecked his campaign because he felt obliged to meet Trump in debate. How could Biden have done otherwise? Trump is the three-time nominee of the Republican Party; it’s awkward and strange to treat him as an insurrectionist against the American state—though that’s what Trump was and is.

David Frum: Biden’s heartbreaking press conference

The despicable shooting at Trump, which also caused death and injury to others, now secures his undeserved position as a partner in the protective rituals of the democracy he despises. The appropriate expressions of dismay and condemnation from every prominent voice in American life have the additional effect of habituating Americans to Trump’s legitimacy. In the face of such an outrage, the familiar and proper practice is to stress unity, to proclaim that Americans have more things in common than that divide them. Those soothing words, true in the past, are less true now.

Nobody seems to have language to say: We abhor, reject, repudiate, and punish all political violence, even as we maintain that Trump remains himself a promoter of such violence, a subverter of American institutions, and the very opposite of everything decent and patriotic in American life.

The Republican National Convention, which opens this week, will welcome to its stage apologists for Vladimir Putin’s Russia and its aggression against U.S. allies. Trump’s own infatuation with Russia and other dictatorships has not dimmed even slightly with age or experience. Yet all of these urgent and necessary truths must now be subordinated to the ritual invocation of “thoughts and prayers” for someone who never gave a thought or uttered a prayer for any of the victims of his own many incitements to bloodshed. The president who used his office to champion the rights of dangerous people to own military-type weapons says he was grazed by a bullet from one such assault rifle.

Conventional phrases and polite hypocrisy fill a useful function in social life. We say “Thank you for your service” both to the decorated hero and to the veteran who barely escaped dishonorable discharge. It’s easier than deciphering which was which. We wish “Happy New Year!” even when we dread the months ahead.

Adrienne LaFrance: Thoughts, prayers, and Facebook rants aren’t enough

But conventional phrases don’t go unheard. They carry meanings, meanings no less powerful for being rote and reflexive. In rightly denouncing violence, we are extending an implicit pardon to the most violent person in contemporary U.S. politics. In asserting unity, we are absolving a man who seeks power through the humiliation and subordination of disdained others.

Those conventional phrases are inscribing Trump into a place in American life that he should have forfeited beyond redemption on January 6, 2021. All decent people welcome the sparing of his life. Trump’s reckoning should be with the orderly process of law, not with the bloodshed he rejoiced in when it befell others. He and his allies will exploit a gunman’s vicious criminality as their path to exonerate past crimes and empower new ones. Those who stand against Trump and his allies must find the will and the language to explain why these crimes, past and planned, are all wrong, all intolerable—and how the gunman and Trump, at their opposite ends of a bullet’s trajectory, are nonetheless joined together as common enemies of law and democracy.

Who is JD Vance? What to know about Donald Trump's VP pick

Former President Donald Trump  tapped J.D. Vance  to be his running mate Monday at the Republican National Convention, catapulting the Ohio GOP senator even more into the national spotlight.

Here’s what you need to know about Vance:

More: Trump made MAGA happen. JD Vance represents those who will inherit it

Where is JD Vance from?

Vance grew up in Jackson, Kentucky and Middletown, Ohio. He described a childhood consumed by poverty and abuse in his best-selling 2016 memoir , "Hillbilly Elegy." Vance's mother struggled with drug addiction, so he spent many of his formative years with his grandmother – known to him as Mamaw.

How old is JD Vance?

Vance is 39. If elected, he would be the youngest vice president since Richard Nixon. His birthday is Aug. 2, 1984.

More: Vice presidential contender has multiple ties to Columbus

Did JD Vance serve in the military?

Vance joined the Marines Corps after high school and served as a public affairs marine in Iraq.

Is JD Vance married?

Vance's wife, Usha Vance, is a litigator for a law firm based in San Francisco and Washington, D.C. The pair met as students at Yale Law School and got married in 2014, one year after they graduated.

The couple has three young children: Ewan, Vivek and Mirabel.

Where does JD Vance live?

Vance and his family live in the East Walnut Hills neighborhood of Cincinnati. The senator also bought a $1.5 million home in Alexandria, Virginia, last year, Politico reported .

How long has JD Vance been in politics?

Vance was first elected to the U.S. Senate in 2022 after defeating former Democratic Rep. Tim Ryan for an open seat in Ohio.

What’s the history between Vance and Trump?

Vance openly criticized Trump in 2016 as pundits used his memoir to explain the former president's popularity with white, rural voters. He previously suggested Trump could be "America’s Hitler," called him noxious and compared him to an opioid.

But Vance changed his tune as he geared up for his 2022 Senate run, deleting controversial tweets and crediting Trump for the work he did in office. He secured Trump's endorsement in a chaotic Republican Senate primary and is now one of the former president's most loyal allies.

JD Vance didn't vote for Donald Trump in 2016

In one NPR interview , he joked that he would rather write his dog on the ballot than vote for Trump or Hillary Clinton.

"I think that I'm going to vote third party because I can't stomach Trump," the "Hillbilly Elegy" author said at the time. "I think that he's noxious and is leading the white working class to a very dark place."

What are Vance's policy positions?

Vance personifies what's known as the New Right , a populist conservatism that rejects many traditional Republican views. He supports tariffs on trade and opposes U.S. intervention in foreign conflicts, particularly the war between Russia and Ukraine. He's also spoken out against potential cuts to Social Security.

Who is JD Vance? Vice presidential candidate has multiple ties to Columbus

Some of Vance's work in the Senate has been bipartisan. He introduced a rail safety bill with Sen. Sherrod Brown after the train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio. He also worked with Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren on legislation to hold executives accountable for failed banks.

At the same time, many of his other bills reflect conservative views. For example, Vance introduced legislation to ban gender-affirming care for minors and a bill to eliminate diversity programs in the federal government.

Where does JD Vance stand on abortion?

Vance opposes abortion and often says the government should find ways to encourage people to have children.

Like other Republicans, however, Vance changed how he discusses the issue after Ohio and other states voted in favor of abortion access last year. In a December CNN interview , he said Republicans must "accept that people do not want blanket abortion bans."

More recently, he told Meet the Press that he supports access to the abortion drug mifepristone.

Haley BeMiller is a reporter for the USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau, which serves the Columbus Dispatch, Cincinnati Enquirer, Akron Beacon Journal and 18 other affiliated news organizations across Ohio.