Windermere sits by the largest lake in England, in the Cumbrian Lake District.
Tourists love coming here come here for boat trips and walks, but the area offers much more unusual activities for you to enjoy.
If you fancy something different, this guide lists fun, exciting, unusual and unique activity options to experience.
Think about climbing through trees at Brockhole, where you zip line over the woods.
Or visit Claife Viewing Station, a spot with coloured glass panels that change how you see the lake.
These ideas suit families, couples or solo travellers looking for new ways to enjoy this famous Lake District town and sourrounding area.
Related: Parking in Windermere
Unsusual Activities in Windermere
1 – Climb through trees at Go Ape in Grizedale Forest
Go Ape in Grizedale Forest lets you climb high in the trees on ropes courses.
You cross bridges, swing on tarzan swings and fly down zip lines over the forest floor.
The activity gives excitement and views of the woods below.
Guides provide safety training before you start.
This suits groups, families or individuals seeking adventure.
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Related: Indoor Activities Windermere in the Rain
2 – Visit Claife Viewing Station
Claife Viewing Station sits on the west shore of Lake Windermere.
Built in the 1800s, it has coloured glass windows that tint the lake views in various shades.
Climb to the platform for wide sights across the water.
Reach it by a short walk from the ferry landing.
The site belongs to the National Trust and has trails nearby for more exploration.
3 – Explore Windermere Jetty Museum
Windermere Jetty Museum shows a collection of boats from the lake’s past.
See steam launches, rowing boats and yachts on display.
The museum has exhibits on boat building and restoration work.
Enjoy coffee in the cafe with views over the water to the fells.
It offers interactive areas for children and guided tours sometimes.
4 – Join a lake cruise with food and music on Saturday evenings
On Saturday evenings, board a cruise boat on Lake Windermere for a special trip.
Eat from a buffet while live music plays on board.
The cruise sails around the lake as the sun sets.
This creates a relaxed atmosphere with views of the shores.
Tickets include the meal and entertainment, so reserve early.
5 – Walk with alpacas in nearby areas
In areas close to Windermere, farms run alpaca walking experiences.
Lead a friendly alpaca along country paths and learn about their habits.
The walks last about an hour and offer a quiet time in nature.
Guides share facts on the animals from South America. Suitable for most people, but check age limits.
6 – Try axe throwing or archery at activity centres
Activity centres near Windermere provide sessions in axe throwing and archery.
Instructors teach you to hit targets safely with axes or bows.
These outdoor pursuits test your skills in a fun setting.
Groups can compete or learn together. Sessions run in all weather with covered areas if needed.
7 – Shop at Huttons Chocolates for handmade sweets
Huttons Chocolates in Bowness has sold handmade treats for over 100 years.
Pick from chocolates in many flavours, made on site.
See the chocolatiers at work through windows sometimes.
Buy boxes as gifts or loose pieces to try. The shop sits in a Victorian arcade full of other small stores.
8 – Ride a ferry across Lake Windermere
Take a ferry from Bowness-on-Windermere to other spots like Ambleside or Lakeside.
The ride shows views of the lake and hills around it.
Ferries go often and let you bring bikes or dogs.
Choose a quick cross or longer cruise.
This easy transport helps see more of the area without driving.
9 – Have a traditional English afternoon tea
Many cafes and hotels in Windermere serve afternoon tea.
Eat finger sandwiches, scones with cream and jam, plus cakes. Drink tea or add bubbly for extra treat.
This custom offers a break after activities. Book a table ahead, mainly in busy months.
10 – Climb Orrest Head for Lake District views
Orrest Head gives wide views after a short uphill walk from Windermere town.
The path takes about 20 minutes and passes through woods.
At the top, see Lake Windermere and fells beyond.
A board names the mountains you spot.
This spot inspired a famous walker and suits most people.
11 – Take a tour with Mountain Goat
Mountain Goat runs minibus tours from Windermere to see lakes and villages.
Guides tell stories about the area’s history.
Tours visit places like Castlerigg Stone Circle and Grasmere.
Small buses reach narrow roads big coaches miss.
Pick full or half-day options with pick-ups from hotels.
12 – Visit Brockhole for activities
Brockhole Visitor Centre has grounds with many activities by the lake.
Try kayaking, paddleboarding or mini golf.
Kids enjoy the playground with zip wires and slides.
Gardens offer walks with views. Reach it by bus or ferry and book busy things early.
13 – Feed ducks on the lake shores
Along Lake Windermere’s edges, feed ducks and swans with safe foods like oats.
Spots near Bowness have easy access paths. Watch the birds swim up for snacks.
This simple fun works for families or anyone. Keep the area clean and stay safe near water.
14 – Catch a show at The Old Laundry Theatre
The Old Laundry Theatre in Bowness puts on plays, musicals and comedies.
The small space makes shows feel close-up. It links to playwright Alan Ayckbourn with some new works.
Check the schedule for family or adult options. Buy tickets online or at the door.
15 – Discover Holehird Gardens
Holehird Gardens near Troutbeck show plants in rockeries and borders.
See rhododendrons, alpines and more with lake views. The walled garden has flowers all year.
Entry is free but donations help volunteers. Walk the paths and buy plants to take home.
16 – Hire an e-bike to explore
Rent an electric bike in Windermere to ride hills with less work.
Trails and roads lead around the lake and into woods. The motor helps on steep parts. Maps show routes for different lengths. Return the bike charged and wear a helmet.
17 – Go off-road with Kankku 4×4
Kankku offers 4×4 drives on rough tracks near Windermere.
Drive Land Rovers with a guide over mud and rocks. Learn off-road skills in safe conditions.
Trips last a few hours for beginners or experts. Book for groups or alone.
18 – Roam Fell Foot Park
Fell Foot Park at the south end of the lake has lawns and water access.
Hire row boats or swim in marked areas. Picnic spots and a cafe serve food.
The Victorian park has trees and paths. National Trust runs it with events sometimes.
19 – Enter The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
The World of Beatrix Potter in Bowness brings book characters to life.
See 3D models of Peter Rabbit and friends in scenes.
Films and exhibits tell about the author.
A shop sells books and toys. Good for children with interactive parts.
20 – Visit the Lakes Aquarium
Lakes Aquarium at Lakeside shows fish, otters and other creatures.
Walk through tunnels with water life around you.
See animals from local lakes and far places. Talks happen on feeding times. A cafe and shop add to the visit.
21 – Trek on high ropes at Treetop Trek
Treetop Trek at Brockhole has high ropes in the trees.
Balance on wires, cross nets and zip line down.
Courses fit different heights and ages. Safety harness keeps you secure. Instructors help at the start.
22 – Row a boat at Wray Castle
Wray Castle on the west shore lets you hire row boats on the lake. Explore the mock castle with rooms to see.
Trails wind through grounds with big trees. The site has picnic areas and views. National Trust owns it with family games inside.
23 – Try a spa day
Hotels around the lake offer spa days with treatments. Get massages, facials or use pools and saunas.
Relax in quiet rooms with lake views. Packages include lunch sometimes. Book for a calm break from activities.
24 – Visit a megalithic stone circle
Castlerigg Stone Circle near Keswick stands from ancient times. See the stones in a ring with hill views.
Tours explain its past. Easy to reach by car or bus from Windermere. Free to visit any time.
25 – Paddle a kayak on the lake
Rent a kayak from centres by Lake Windermere. Paddle out to see shores and islands up close.
Guides offer lessons for beginners. Life jackets keep you safe. Go alone or with others for a water adventure.
26 – Shop in small unique stores
Bowness has small shops with items not found elsewhere. Browse for clothes, art or gifts. Arcades hold old stores with charm.
Talk to owners about their goods. Spend time looking in windows and buying souvenirs.
Where to Stay in Windermere
Make your Windermere trip special with a stay in one of Laik’s charming cottages.
These cosy, well-equipped homes sit close to the lake, offering easy access to all the activities listed.
Each cottage has comfy beds, modern kitchens, and living spaces perfect for relaxing after a day out.
Some have views of the fells or gardens to unwind in. .
Final Notes on This List on Unusual Windermere Activities
Windermere offers plenty of fun and unusual activities for everyone.
From climbing trees and paddling kayaks to exploring museums and ancient stones, there’s something to spark every interest.
Plan your visit, try a few of these unique experiences, and stay in a Laik cottage for a cosy base.
