About Bowness
Things to do in Bowness-on-Windermere
In a stunning position on the eastern shore of Lake Windermere, Bowness is the most popular tourist destination in Cumbria; buzzing with activity and arguably the best place to buy an ice-cream. But you won’t be stuck in the crowds, and the wilder sides of the Lakes are only a short drive away.
A few minutes’ stroll from the village high street, you’ll find plenty of family activities in Bowness Bay. Feed the swans, play tennis or crazy golf on ‘The Glebe’, or why not hire a rowing boat for a few hours? If you’re exploring the wider Lake District or heading for the fells, there’s plenty to return to in the evening. Fantastic restaurants, a 3-screen cinema, contemporary bars and two nightclubs.
If you’re serious about boating, you’ll find Windermere Yacht Club within walking distance and Windermere Marina Village nearby. There are plenty of specialist shops to explore, and experts to chat to at Shepherds Boat Sales. But even if you’re not an enthusiast, from Bowness Pier you can explore the entire length of Lake Windermere on a stunning ‘Steamer’ cruise. The boats run all year round, with live music events on summer evenings.
Accommodation
Lakelovers offer self catering cottage holiday home accommodation, in various areas throughout the Lake District; including Bowness. View all our available Cottages in Bowness here.
For exploring
Bowness is only a mile away from Windermere village and the A591, which is the main route through the Lakes. A short drive will take you to Ambleside, at the north end of the lake, and from there you can explore spectacular Kirkstone Pass, Rydal Water, Grasmere and Langdale, venturing as far as Keswick with no tricky navigation. Staveley, new home of the Hawkshead Brewery and gateway to the gorgeous Kentmere Valley, lies east of Bowness.
For walking
There are plenty of manageable walks within easy reach of the village, and the most adventurous hikes and mountain biking trails in the Lake District are within easy reach. A great way to spend a day’s walking is to begin your route on one of the ‘steamers’, dropping you at Ambleside (north) or Lakeside (south).
For food & drink
Bowness village is packed with good eating. Chocolate shops, coffee shops, ice-cream parlours and delicatessens will stop you in your tracks. There are numerous restaurants to return to after a long day out, and a great selection of pubs and bars for those later nights. Stocking up for your holiday home is easy too, with supermarkets and fresh produce on the high street.
Lakelovers Recommends - 2013 Bowness
Beatrix Potter World, Bowness-on-Windermere
The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction is delighted to offer Lakelovers Recommends card holders: One FREE Child admission with e very full paying Adult. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or special event. 015394 88444
Blackwell, The Arts & Crafts House, Bowness-on-Windermere
2 for 1 adult admission when one adult is paying full admission. Adult Gift Aid admission: £7.95. 015394 46139 www.blackwell.org.uk.
Windermere Lake Cruises, Bowness, Ambleside & Lakeside
10% discount off individual public fares on schedule sailings. N.B. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offers; excludes buffet cruises, special events and combined tickets. 015394 43360.
This flagship store offers the very best in life style clothing designed in Italy. Whether a fashion item or a technical garment, SLAM’s products offer something a bit unique. SLAM are pleased to be able to offer Lakelovers guests 12% off all full priced clothing, footwear and accessories. (T&C’s Apply). 015394 88868 www.slamuk.com.
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Art in Bowness - Art Galleries, Crafts, Theatre and Cinema in Bowness, Lake District
