Majestic fells and sparkling lakes are the very essence of the famous South Lakeland landscape, which has been the inspiration for many great writers, poets and artists.
At the heart of South Lakeland is Windermere, England's longest lake, a real hive of activity and a paradise for watersports enthusiasts. The honeypot towns of Bowness, Windermere and Ambleside all boast a wealth of shops, restaurants and award-winning hotels as well as a fabulous array of family attractions. A ferry ride across the lake takes you to the picturesque Lakeland village of Hawkshead with its cobbled streets and whitewashed cottages.
A little further north, a stroll along the peaceful shores of Grasmere and Rydal Water is the perfect way to relax and end any day, before tucking into a tasty home-made meal in one of the many country pubs and inns. With its wide range of shopping, arts and culture, a day pottering around the quaint yards and streets of Kendal is also a real treat.
Just across the estuary lies the pretty village of Arnside, once a busy fishing port, now offering tranquillity and extensive views across the bay to the Lakeland hills.
Must see and do
- Beatrix Potter Gallery, Hawkshead
- Dove Cottage & Wordsworth Museum, Grasmere
- Windermere Lake Cruises Bowness, Windermere
- Abbot Hall Art Gallery, Kendal
- Rydal Mount & Gardens, Ambleside
- Windermere Steamboat Museum, Windermere
- Lake District Visitor Centre Brockhole, Windermere