About Lake Windermere

Lake Windermere is the largest lake in the Lake District at 14.8 square kilometres, and the largest natural lake in England. It has been one of the country’s most popular places for holidays since the Kendal and Windermere railway branch line arrived in 1847.

There are two distinct towns near Lake Windermere – Bowness-on-Windermere, situated on the shores of Lake Windermere, and the town of Windermere, which is about half a mile away from the Lake itself.

Staying at Cedar Manor

Cedar Manor is situated in the town of Windermere, just 5 minutes walk from the train station. Cedar Manor is ideally located for exploring, with footpaths to the lake shore (Miller Ground) and to the top of our local hill; Orrest Head for a fabulous view.

The bus stop is just outside our gates with buses going to Grasmere, Coniston, Ambleside, Keswick, Ullswater and beyond - we have the timetables and routes to help you plan your days.

Windermere vs Keswick

Which is better, Windermere or Keswick?

It depends on your needs, but both are beautiful lakeside towns.

Windermere is more developed for tourism and has a large selection of accommodation, in particular at the luxury end of the market. Local attractions and activities include the World of Beatrix Potter, Brockhole, Holehird Gardens, sailing and canoe hire, plus Windermere Cruises.

Keswick is a bit further to travel to, and may not suit daytrippers and coach parties but has access to more rugged scenery. Local attractions and activities include the pencil museum, the jazz and mountain festivals, the theatre by the lake, two parks, a cinema and Keswick launch for trips round the lake or boat hire.

Things to Do in Windermere When It Rains

What to do in Windermere when it rains?

If the weather is wet, why not take a trip on the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, including an optional section by boat. https://www.lakesiderailway.co.uk/

See Peter Rabbit, Jemima Puddleduck, Mrs. Tiggy-winkle and all their friends at the definitive Beatrix Potter Attraction. https://www.hop-skip-jump.com/

Enjoy close encounters with hundreds of amazing creatures including trout, eels, pike, perch, giant crabs, rays and many more at the Aquarium of the Lakes in Windermere. https://lakesaquarium.co.uk/

Or visit the Armitt Museum in Ambleside, a unique place combining Library and Museum, scholarship and fun, art and entertainment. https://armitt.com/