Five family-friendly activities around Windermere in the Lake District
Read our pick of the best options to keep children entertained in the heart of the Lake District
The World of Beatrix Potter
This interactive attraction in the heart of Bowness is great for small children. It isn’t big and won’t take more than an hour but the models are great, there is a charm about it.
Our favourite parts of the World of Beatrix Potter are Peter Rabbit’s Garden and the Virtual Walk section.
The World of Beatrix Potter
Lakeland Motor Museum
This museum has only been open a few years on this site, a few miles from the foot of Windermere. It is really good with 30,000 exhibits including all types of car and motorcycle.
There is also a Bluebird exhibition next door – telling the story of the Campbell speed record-breaking family – which is fascinating. There is a good cafe on site. For more information visit the Lakeland Motor Museum website.
Aquarium and train
You can arrive at this spot at the southern tip of the lake via car or via boat with Windermere Lake Cruises. Lakes Aquarium gives a small but comprehensive look at all the creatures you can find in the Lakes – and some from further afield.
Our children were pleased to see crocodiles and monkeys as well as cod and jellyfish, during our last visit.
You can combine this with a train trip on the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway – a fabulous steam engine which runs from March until October. A combination of lake cruise, aquarium and railway makes for a fun-filled day.
Fell Foot Park
This lovely National Trust spot at the foot of Windermere is one of our favourites.
There’s a good playground, benches for a scenic picnic, a cafe and boat hire if you want to get on the water. A really good, safe place to explore with children.
Fell Foot Park
Walk above Windermere
The scramble up to Orrest Head is one of the most accessible Lakeland walks. At 783 feet, it is a good first summit for three and four-year-olds to conquer. In fact, I (possibly foolishly) managed this one at eight months pregnant.
Park on the main road above Bowness near to Windermere Railway Station. It takes about 45 minutes to reach the summit where you are rewarded with incredible views across Windermere.
What are your family’s favourite activities around Windermere? Please comment below, we would love to hear from you.