Explore the Lake District’s cultural, historical, and industrial past

Visit the adjacent community of Bowness to experience Windermere Lake Cruises, offering excursions to numerous attractions around the water. Their rentable electric vessels provide excellent family entertainment - advance reservations recommended.

Experience diverse landscapes by traveling across the impressive Kirkstone Pass to Glenridding for an Ullswater Steamers voyage. These historic vessels operate between Glenridding and Pooley Bridge, featuring a stop at the renowned Aira Force cascade.

Hill Top offers a fascinating glimpse into Beatrix Potter's personal life, showcasing her dual passions for upland farming with Herdwick sheep and artistic pursuits. The curated shop features specialty items and unique collectibles.

Located in Bowness, The World of Beatrix Potter caters to younger enthusiasts who can interact with three-dimensional recreations from her beloved tales. The merchandise area offers Potter-inspired items for visitors of all ages.

Travel south to Lakeside for multiple indoor destinations perfect for extended exploration - appealing to wildlife enthusiasts, automotive aficionados, and railway enthusiasts alike:  The Lakeland Motor Museum, Lakes Aquarium and The Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway.

The Lakeland Arts Trust manages three excellent sites: Blackwell, a Baillie Scott Arts & Crafts masterpiece; Windermere Jetty (formerly the steam boat museum) in Bowness; and Abbot Hall in Kendal with its distinguished art collection. Each features great shops and cafes.

Dove Cottage, once home to the Wordsworth family, displays works by the poet and his creative circle. The collection includes a small but exceptional Turner painting of Ullswater that predates his famous "Blue Rigi" and shares remarkable similarities.