Lake Windermere

Lake Windermere

Overview

At over 10 miles long, the picturesque ribbon lake Windermere acts as an irresistible magnet at the heart of the Lake District. Surrounded by wooded slopes and moody mountains, your whole itinerary appears before you on an olde worlde steamer trip from thriving Ambleside.

Windermere is a must-visit. While boat rentals and cruises have a fee, simply enjoying the lakeside paths, picnicking on the shores, heading out for a wild swim (if you’re feeling brave!) or dipping your toes in the water is entirely free. 

Nearest hostel: YHA Windermere

What makes it special

  • Largest natural lake in England
  • Popular area in the Lake District
  • Large range of activities to choose from

Hostels nearby

Lake Windermere

Unknown location

Map references

OS Grid Ref:
SD414986
Lat/Lng:
54.375171, -2.934114

Contact information

Phone:
01539 724555

Other things to do nearby

Windermere Jetty Museum interior

Windermere Jetty Museum

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The World of Beatrix Potter

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Windermere Lake Cruises

Windermere Lake Cruises

Windermere is England’s largest lake situated in the heart of the Lake District. Experience the spectacular views of mountain scenery, secluded bays and the delightful wooded islands by boat with...

Canoeing & sailing on Windermere

Watersports in Windermere

Enjoy an afternoon on England's largest natural lake. There's a watersports centre on the shore of Windermere, only three miles from the hostel. The centre offers, kayaking, canoeing, raft building...

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Walking and Rambling in Hawkshead

If you're planning on staying at YHA Hawkshead, why not download a free map and get out exploring? All our self-guided walks start and end at a YHA hostel and are graded so that you can explore the...

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Brockhole Visitor Centre

Take in the scenic views and gardens down to the shores of Windermere. See the house first created by William Gaddum, a silk merchant from Manchester, as his family's 'summer house'. Browse the shop...

Cycling in Ambleside and Windermere

Cycling in Windermere

The best cycling is out of season when there's less traffic. There's an endless variety of cycling routes from quiet lanes to high mountain passes. Enjoy beautiful scenery and explore the lovely...

Beatrix Potter Hill Top

Hill Top (Beatrix Potter)

Full of her favourite things, the house looks like Beatrix has just stepped out for a walk. Don't miss the lovely cottage garden.

Blackwell Arts & Crafts House exterior

Blackwell, The Arts & Crafts House

From the leaf-shaped door handles to the carved wooden panelling, Blackwell is an important icon of Arts & Crafts architecture. Visit Blackwell's website

The Grammar School Museum

Hawkshead Grammar School Museum

Situated in the pretty Lake District village of Hawkshead, the Grammar School Museum tells the story of school life since its founding in 1585. Our most famous pupil was William Wordsworth and in its...

Adventure Okehampton, kids gorge walking

Watersports in Hawkshead

Only five miles from Windermere, you can try your hand at anything from a lake cruise through to wind surfing, kayaking and canoeing. If you feel the need for speed you can even hire a power boat.

Mountain biking

Mountain biking in Hawkshead

Set off down the bridleway from the back of the hostel to join Grizedale forest which offers hundreds of different routes for mountain bikers of all abilities. The highest point in the forest is Karen...

Person cycling along a countryside road with daisies

Cycling around Hawkshead

YHA Hawkshead is a fantastic location for road and mountain bikers, be they novice, families or experienced. Here are some of our recommendations: Grizedale Forest The forest is a mecca for mountain...

Lake District view, near Ambleside

Social walk from YHA Ambleside

Sunday 28th September 2025 Distance: 8.5 miles (13.7 km) Duration: 5 - 6 hours Led by: Simon Ainley, YHA, with BMC volunteer guides Discovery and connection Starting and finishing at YHA Ambleside...