Step into the magical World of Beatrix Potter

The World of Beatrix Potter in Bowness brings the beloved tales of Peter Rabbit and friends to life with interactive exhibits and a family-friendly café.

This half-term, enjoy special activities:

• Peter Rabbit Biscuit Decorating (Saturday, 22nd February, 10:30 am - 4:00 pm): Decorate freshly baked Peter Rabbit shortbread biscuits to take home or enjoy on the spot (£4 per child).
• Peter Rabbit & Jemima Sculpture Painting (Thursday, 20th February, 10:30 am - 4:00 pm): Paint your own Jemima Puddle Duck or Peter Rabbit sculpture as a keepsake (£3.50 per child).

It’s the perfect way to combine creativity and fun for the whole family!

📍 10 minutes walk from our Bowness pier.

Hire a self-drive boat on Windermere

Get out on the water by hiring a self-drive boat. Enjoy the freedom of exploring Windermere at your own pace, soaking up the breathtaking views and creating your own adventure on England’s largest lake.

• If you're an early riser, take advantage of our special Early Bird offer and start your adventure with the tranquility of the morning lake all to yourself.

📍 Bowness pier.

Discover the underwater world at the Lakes Aquarium

At the Lakes Aquarium, delve into the fascinating world of aquatic creatures from around the globe. From local freshwater species to tropical marine life, it’s a great place to spark curiosity in children.

📍 At our Lakeside pier.

Take a Cruise and Steam Train Journey

Hop aboard the Yellow Cruise with us, Windermere Lake Cruises and glide across the water to Lakeside. From there, enjoy a nostalgic journey on the Haverthwaite Steam Train, a perfect blend of heritage and stunning scenery.

📍 At our Lakeside pier.

Take a scenic walk up Orrest Head

Enjoy a family-friendly adventure to Orrest Head, where little ones can meet the Gruffalo and his friends along the trail! This short yet rewarding walk offers spectacular views of Windermere and the surrounding fells. The trails are flat, making it pram friendly too!

📍 Approx 45 minutes walk from our Bowness pier.

Zip World at Brockhole

Located at Brockhole on Windermere, Zip World offers a thrilling way to experience the forest from above! Test your balance and bravery as you navigate swinging bridges, zip lines, and aerial obstacles. For younger adventurers or those seeking a less challenging option, Zip World provides bouncy fun on giant trampolines suspended high in the trees. A great way to enjoy the outdoors as a family.

📍 Take the red cruise to Brockhole.

Unleash your creativity at The Rock Shop in Ambleside

A must-visit destination for kids and adults alike, The Rock Shop in Ambleside invites you to dive into the fascinating world of geology. Discover an incredible collection of fossils, dazzling gemstones, and engaging hands-on activities. But the excitement doesn’t stop there—venture into the thrilling gem pit, where you can dig for your own treasure, and step into the prehistoric world of the dinosaur den, packed with life-sized models and interactive exhibits. It’s the perfect blend of education and adventure on your Lake District journey.

📍 Approx 30 minutes walk from our Ambleside pier.

Explore National Trust properties and gardens

Discover the Lake District’s stunning National Trust sites. Explore the neo-gothic Wray Castle with its impressive views of Windermere, the tranquil charm of Allan Bank, or enjoy lakeside fun and picnics at Fell Foot.

• This half-term, families visiting Allan Bank can enjoy cosy storytelling sessions in the second-hand bookshop, featuring wintery tales and hot chocolate (free with standard admission, 30-minute sessions).

📍 Get the stagecoach bus from Ambleside pier to Allan Bank and Wray Castle.

📍 Fell foot is a 15 minute drive from Bowness pier.

Bowness Glebe market

Returning on Sunday, 16th February, and continuing every Sunday, this vibrant market is a must-visit. Browse local crafts, sample delicious treats, and discover unique finds, all just a short stroll from our piers. Soak up the friendly atmosphere and make it part of your day out in Bowness!

📍 Next to Bowness pier.

Lakeland Motor Museum

Step back in time at the Lakeland Motor Museum, where a vast collection of over 30,000 exhibits showcases the golden age of motoring. From vintage cars and motorcycles to classic bicycles, there’s something to fascinate every family member. Kids will love the Campbell Bluebird exhibition, highlighting record-breaking speed on water and land. A café on-site makes it an excellent spot for a family day out.

📍 Approx 20 minute drive from Bowness pier and a 10 minute drive from Lakeside.

Build a Boat with Makedo

Unleash your imagination with this fun, hands-on activity at Windermere jetty museum! Using child-safe tools designed by Makedo—including saws, screws, and screwdrivers—kids can build their own cardboard creations. These masterpieces will become part of an exciting display in the museum’s Learning Centre, creating a collaborative art exhibit for all to admire.

Younger visitors can also enjoy a relaxing sensory area designed for play at their own pace. This engaging activity is included with museum admission.

📍 Take the red cruise from Bowness to Windermere jetty museum.