Lake Windermere

About Lake Windermere

Located in Cumbria, Lake Windermere is the largest natural lake in England. It is 18 km (~11 mi) long and just under 1.6 km (1 mi) across at the widest point. It is one of 18 lakes in the Lake District, and is probably the best known one by far.

Back in 1930, Lake Windermere was famous for having been host to the first person ever to break the water speed record, although there’s now a restriction limiting speeds to 10 knots (11.5 mph or 18.5 km/h) on environmental and safety grounds.

Activities

Windermere attracts a large number of visitors throughout the year. Summer is most crowded, although there’s better chance of good weather then. Getting around Lake Windermere is easy: steamers, launches and ferries – some with a long history - operate on and around the lake and there are four large boating clubs offering other opportunities to get out on the water, from rowing to sailing and even water-skiing.

It’s also hiking and walking country, so taking The Windermere Way is a great way to see the countryside. This 72 km (~45 mi) circular walk will take you all the way around the lake, but you can walk as much or as little as you want. It’s a relatively easy path along the shoreline and one that will offer great photo opportunities.

There are lots of cycling routes you can take, or if you are more the off road biker, this area gives you great opportunities.  Children are very well catered for here; animal parks, adventure and activity centres are sure to delight kids of all ages.