The day at a glance
Lake
England’s largest, 11 miles long
Boat hire
Two hours to Ambleside and back
Hike
Loughrigg Fell, from Ambleside
Supper
The Priest Hole, Ambleside
Last month I was treated to a surprise day trip to Windermere in the Lake District — an unforgettable day I’ll treasure for years. Here’s how to make the most of one day: Bowness-on-Windermere, the lake, a fell walk and good food.
Windermere is the largest natural lake in England, more than 11 miles long and almost a mile wide, carved out by a retreating glacier and surrounded by mountains and small villages.
The day
01
Early morning
Bowness before the crowds
It’s very busy at weekends and on bank holidays, so arrive first thing and enjoy the town and the lake before everyone else.
02
Mid-morning
Out on the water
We hired a private boat for two hours — plenty for a scenic run from Bowness to Ambleside and back, stopping to photograph the mountains. Paddleboards, kayaks, canoes and tours are all options too.
03
Afternoon
Loughrigg Fell
A short drive to Ambleside, then up the fell for views down the valley to Grasmere and Rydal Water — and back over the lake you spent the morning on. Steep near the summit; the river path is a gentler option.
04
Evening
Supper in Ambleside
Plenty of cuisines to choose from. After working up an appetite, I go for classic pub food at the Priest Hole.
Worth a stop
On the lakeshore · National Trust
Wray Castle
Built in 1840 by a retired surgeon with his wife’s inheritance — she took one look and refused to live in it. The best view is from the water.
Above Rydal Water
Rydal Cave
A man-made cavern left by slate quarrying a century ago, free to enter — look for the fish in the water. It isn’t signposted, so save the location.
Ambleside · National Trust
Bridge House
A tiny 17th-century house on a bridge over Stock Beck — a counting house, weaving shop, cobbler’s, tea room, and once home to a family of eight.
Where to stay
On the lake
Windermere & Bowness
Good connections around the whole area, and the lake on your doorstep.
In the fells
Ambleside
Restaurants, pubs and walks straight from the door.
