- Amanda Brown
Windermere The Jewel of the Lake District
Updated: Jul 27
Windermere Lake District is one of the most popular tourist destinations in England it is a region that has been popular for centuries with visitors from all over the world, and boasts some of the most luxurious 5 star Hotel's and Spa facilities in the Lake District. Covering more than four square miles and offering some incredible views, Lake Windermere has something for everyone: mountain hikes, boat rides on the lake, and scenic tours around the local towns.
Windermere Lake is the largest in the district, and at its deepest point it reaches almost 200 feet below the surface- that's as deep as some of the tallest trees in Lake District. It is fed by nine separate streams and rivers, making it a popular place for fishing enthusiasts to visit year-round.

The Lake Windermere Ferry sails across this lake transporting passengers from one bank to another while also offering lovely views of the surrounding landscape, which makes it a very scenic experience that everyone should try! Various boat tours as well as educational cruises are available, such as The Blue Cruise which takes about two hours and covers the entire lake with amazing views of mountains on either side; if you're lucky you might even spot a sea eagle during this trip! This area has been popular with tourists since it was first settled back in Victorian times when people began arriving from London looking for a fresh place to live after being sick of city life- they found it here!
Here are just a few things you can do on this scenic wonderland:
Have picnics by its shores or go boating with friends while taking drink breaks alongside them- Hike up nearby hills like Kinder Scout Mountain if there's enough time left over from these activities! Unwind at the many 4 star Hotel's in the area.
As hiking is one of Lake District's major attractions and Windermere Lake offers many great places to go hiking, including the popular Fairfield Horseshoe walk. This strenuous hike takes about seven hours to complete but it will give you some amazing views as well as a sense of accomplishment for doing something so challenging!
The Windermere Steamboat Museum is located on Rayrigg Road in Bowness and includes a collection of vintage steam boats dating back to 1850, five sailing boats (the oldest built in 1780), two dugout canoes as well as information about Swallows and Amazons. The museum was closed for refurbishment from 2006-2019 but reopened this March with an enlarged space that tells the history behind racing craft through stories told by those who lived it.
As the beautiful and serene sounds of nature fill the air in Windermere. You can hear Oystercatchers calling out for their lovers, as well how Kestrals chirp to one another during mating season or Little Terns take off from lakeshore with a splash!

The Lake District is a place of natural beauty and there are plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy, whether they're interested in outdoor pursuits or simply want to take things easy and relax take advantage of the many Hotel's and Spa Hotel's of the region. Lake Windermere is the Jewel of the the Lake District so start exploring this wonderful area, so be sure to add it to your list of places to visit on your next trip to the Lake District!

If you're planning to take your dog to the Lake District, here are some dog-friendly accommodations to consider:
Windermere Hotel: The Windermere Hotel welcomes both guests and their canine companions with open arms. This dog-friendly accommodation offers a comfortable stay and is conveniently located near Lake Windermere, allowing for scenic walks with your furry friend.
Cragwood Country House: Nestled in a tranquil setting, Cragwood Country House is a pet-friendly hotel that provides a relaxing stay for visitors and their dogs. The expansive grounds around the hotel offer ample space for your dog to roam and explore.
The Coaches: The Coaches is a dog-friendly hotel that ensures a pleasant stay for both you and your furry friend. With a focus on hospitality and pet amenities, this accommodation is a great choice for those exploring the Lake District with their dogs.
Remember to verify the current pet policies and any specific guidelines related to bringing dogs to these accommodations. It's always a good idea to plan ahead and inform the hotels about your pet's presence to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay for everyone involved. Have a fantastic time exploring the Lake District with your beloved dog!