To celebrate World Tourism Day on 27th September we’ve put together a two-day itinerary for visitors to our Lake District hotels.
There are so many exciting things to do in the Lake District it can be difficult to know where to start, so our itinerary should help those who may not be familiar with the area and who may be travelling without a car. Waterhead is the perfect base for exploring – right next to the jetty for cruising the lake and with a bus stop perfectly positioned for day trips throughout the beautiful Lake District countryside.
Day 1
10.10 – 10.45 am
Cruise from Waterhead to Bowness Bay
There can be no better way to start your Lake District adventure than a cruise on the lake. Windermere Lake Cruises will transport you to the grandeur of spectacular mountain scenery, and the intrigue of the many small islands and secluded bays.
The World of Beatrix Potter
Delightful heart-warming tales of playfulness and mischief are celebrated at The World of Beatrix Potter just minutes from the ferry terminal. Prepare to meet Peter Rabbit and friends and discover for yourself why they are such a well-loved part of the Lake District story.
We’ve left some time for you to explore the bustling village of Bowness. There is a plethora of quaint shops, tea rooms and ice-cream parlours. Walk along the lake front, photograph the swans and soak up the holiday atmosphere of Cumbria’s most popular destination.
13.50 – 14.30
Bowness Bay to Lakeside
Cruise the southern half of the lake with Windermere Lake Cruises and arrive just in time to climb aboard the Lakeside and Haverthwaite train.
Haverthwaite Steam Train
A short return train journey will take you back to a bygone age and the sights and sounds of steam locomotion.
Aquarium of the Lakes
With the entrance right beside the railway, the Aquarium of the Lakes is an attraction with over thirty displays that take you from mountain-top waterfalls to streams where salmon leap and otters play. You will also see trout, pike and char and seawater inhabitants including rays and sharks from our nearby coast line. Make sure you are around at 4 pm to see the ducks dive in the underwater Lake Tunnel.
16.50 to 17.30
Lakeside to Bowness Bay
Take the ferry back to Bowness Bay to catch your next mode of transport back to the hotel.
17.39 – 18.05
Bowness Bay to Waterhead
Open-Top Sightseeing Bus
Sit upstairs on the famous 599 double-decker open-top bus and get fabulous elevated views passing through the town of Windermere and passing Brockhole Visitor Centre. Low Wood Bay has, arguably, the finest bus stop view in the country.
19.30 Dinner at Waterhead
Time for a rest before dinner in the Waterhead Bar & Grill serving some of the finest cuisine in the Lake District. Featuring local ingredients and dishes with a contemporary twist, the extensive menu will ensure there is something for every taste.
Day 2
9.45 – 10.10 Waterhead to Grasmere
Open-Top Sightseeing Bus
Another sightseeing opportunity from the top of the open-top 599 bus.
Dove Cottage and Wordsworth Museum
Explore the rich heritage of The Lake District and our best-loved poet, William Wordsworth. Dove Cottage was Wordsworth’s first family home and your admission ticket will include an informative guided tour of Dove Cottage and access to the garden, admission to The Wordsworth Museum and current special exhibitions.
Grasmere Gingerbread
Grasmere is also the home of the world-famous Sarah Nelsons Grasmere Gingerbread – perfect as a souvenir or gift to take home to family and friends.
2.15 – 2.40 Open-top Bus to Low Wood Bay
Afternoon Tea Overlooking the Lake
Enjoy traditional Afternoon Tea in the gardens at Low Wood Bay or in the Langdale Lounge overlooking the lake. Reflect on the sights and sounds of your Lake District itinerary.
Whilst visiting Low Wood Bay, our Waterhead guests can also take advantage of the complimentary membership of Leisure Club with pool, hot tubs, steam room, sauna and gym. Adventure-seekers might prefer to get out on the lake and try out one of the many activities offered at Low Wood Bay Watersports, with 10% discount available to all English Lakes guests.
It is a fairly short walk back along the lake shore to Waterhead, or alternatively catch the next 599 bus passing Low Wood Bay.
NB: All times were correct at the time of publishing but may be subject to change and we advise that you check before setting off.