The Windermere Hotel

Windermere is the largest lake in England - 10.5 miles long and 200 ft deep in places. The lake is classified as a public highway and in centuries past supported commercial traffic associated with slate and copper mining, timber, wool and fishing. The lake is England's largest lake, in the heart of the Lake District.

• The World of Beatrix Potter.
• Hilltop Farm.
• Lake Cruises.
• Dove Cottage.
• Holehird Gardens.
• Old Laundry Theatre.
• Aquarium of the lakes.
• Blackwell Arts and Craft House.

Local Insight

I have never known a place where views change so much during the day sunshine and rain highlight the landscape so beautifully. Just a simple drive in the Lakes is a lovely experience and the same road in the other direction gives a totally different perspective and view – never a dull day out in the Lakes! Very often my days off are spent relaxing with a great walk.

My local’s “hot tip” would be walking to Miller Ground. It is a lovely walk that ends at the lake itself with beautiful views over to the hills on the other side. It’s also an easy walk to the pubs and restaurants.
Melise, Receptionist

• Townend
  A real Lakeland hidden treasure set in the beautiful village of Troutbeck, this 17th-century solid stone and slate house sits imposingly on the hillside, its huge chimneys typical of the area. The Brownes lived here for generations, a wealthy, hardworking family, who loved wood carving, books and furniture, and collected them in this homely place. See fascinating kitchen and domestic tools, along with period clothing and the cosy servants' rooms. Our children's trail brings it all to life. A real fire in the 'down house' (the original kitchen) most days helps makes this a 'must do' visit when in the Lake District.
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• Hill Top
  Enjoy the tale of Beatrix Potter – Hill Top is a time-capsule of this amazing woman's life. Packed full of her favourite things, the house appears as if Beatrix had just stepped out for a walk. Every room contains a reference to a picture in a 'tale', as do the garden, village and surrounding countryside. The lovely cottage garden is a haphazard mix of flowers, herbs, fruit and vegetables, just as Beatrix used to plant. Her original watercolours are on display at the nearby Beatrix Potter Gallery.
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• Sizergh Castle and Gardens
  This imposing house, at the gateway to the Lake District, stands proud in a rich and beautiful garden with ponds, lake, an important collection of hardy ferns and a superb limestone rock garden. The estate is crossed by footpaths, giving stunning views over Morecambe Bay and the Lakeland hills. Still lived in by the Strickland family, Sizergh has many tales to tell, showing centuries-old portraits and fine furniture alongside modern-day family photos – it certainly feels lived in! The exceptional wood panelling culminates in the Inlaid Chamber, previously at the Victoria and Albert Museum, and returned here in 1999. Take time to explore the house and garden, sample fine local produce in our contemporary café, then follow one of our trail leaflets around the estate.
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• Fell Foot Park
  As you walk down from the car park the view of Lake Windermere below you is breathtaking. The Victorian lawns and garden sweep away to fine picnic areas and numerous waterside spots. The Victorian boathouses are now home to a cosy tea-room, shop, ice-cream kiosk and rowing boat hire, and there are tables outside where you can enjoy the magnificent views of the lake and mountains beyond. In spring and early summer there are daffodils and rhododendrons in full bloom. Or visit in autumn or winter and enjoy the changing seasons.
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• Muncaster Castle Garden
  The gardens, dating back to the 18th Century, are now home to one of Europe’s largest collections of rhododendrons. Alongside all the beauty, the team are working in partnership with the Royal Botanical Gardens at Edinburgh amongst others, working hard to conserve endangered plants and trees.
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• Holker Hall and Gardens
  The immaculately kept gardens, 25 acres in all, are part woodland, part formal and essentially Victorian in character, though never heavy or oppressive. The 200-acre 'natural' parkland is in fact the result of the late 18th century planting of Lord George Cavendish. In the early 19th century several new features were added: an arboretum, a conservatory, balustrade terraces by the house, and a large walled kitchen garden.
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Local Events

Driving in The Lakes is a lovely experience, the same road from the other direction gives a totally different perspective and view. If its local events you looking for we have listed a few:

• Air Show
• Kendal Mountain Festival
• Coniston Powerboat Record Week