Ambleside
A mile inland from the northern tip of Windermere lakeshore, Ambleside is a bustling town of outdoor equipment shops, bookshops, gift shops, cafes and restaurants and a cinema. Nestled in the valley between various fells, it's the start and end point for many classic lakeland walks.

Waterhead
At the northern tip of the lake, you can take a launch from the piers here south down towards Bowness. There are also some cafes and hotels.

Bowness-on-Windermere
Half way down Windermere, and a mile and a half downhill from Windermere village and its railway station. Pop into our Bowness Bay Information Centre, shop, eat, get an ice cream and watch the bustle of the steamers arriving and departing from Bowness Bay. You can also hire rowing boats.

Windermere
Windermere is just over one mile from the lake and is where the Oxenholme to Windermere railway line terminates. It is a busy little town with a good variety of local shops. The flagship store for Lakeland is situated close to the railway station. There is also a branch of Booths supermarket.

Lakeside
Right at the southern foot of Windermere's Western shore, you can find the Lakes Aquarium, one end of the Haverthwaite Steam Railway or take a launch north.