Looking for fun things to do in Windermere with your family and kids?
This lovely town in Cumbria, part of the Lake District, is packed with activities that both kids and adults will enjoy.
From boat trips on Lake Windermere to exploring gardens and meeting animals, there is something to keep everyone happy.
The stunning landscapes and welcoming vibe make it a great spot for a family holiday.
Stay with us at Laik in one of our luxury, family-friendly cottages, the perfect base to explore all that Windermere and the Lake District offer.
Things to Do in Windermere With Kids and Families
1 – Connect with Wildlife at Lake District Falconry
Get close to birds of prey at Lake District Falconry, where children can handle hawks and owls in an exciting session.
It is a hands-on way for families to learn about nature and wildlife.
Sessions last 45 to 60 minutes and take place at spots like The Wild Boar Inn near Windermere.
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Related: Windermere Couples Activities
2 – Hike Up Queen Adelaide’s Hill
Take an easy family hike up Queen Adelaide’s Hill for beautiful views over Lake Windermere.
Children will enjoy the gentle path and spotting features like a small waterfall.
The route is about 5km and takes around 1 hour 20 minutes, with no booking required.
Open all day, start from the lake shore and wear comfortable shoes.
3 – Visit Claife Viewing Station
Head to Claife Viewing Station to see Lake Windermere through colourful stained glass windows.
Families can stroll the waterside paths and look for wildlife in the surrounding woods.
Open daily with no entry booking needed, though parking nearby may cost.
Located near Far Sawrey, it is great for short walks and picnics.
Related: Waterfalls Near Windermere
4 – Go Off-Road Driving at Kankku Experiences
Add some thrill with off-road driving at Kankku Experiences on the Lake District’s rough tracks.
Children will love the bumpy rides and stunning views in guided Land Rovers.
Suitable for families with older kids, check weather conditions.
5 – Explore the Lake District on a Mountain Goat Tour
Join a guided Mountain Goat tour from Windermere to discover places like the Ten Lakes or Beatrix Potter’s world.
Children enjoy the fun stories and stops for photos in small groups.
Tours depart daily from 9am, book online in advance.
No need to drive, making it easy for families.
6 – Hang Out on The Glebe
Relax at The Glebe, a lakeside park perfect for family picnics and playtime.
Children can run on the grass, enjoy benches, and take in the water views.
Open all day with no entry fee, bring food or buy from nearby cafes.
Try mini golf nearby to add to the fun.
7 – Explore Holehird Gardens
Stroll through Holehird Gardens, a 10-acre site with bright flowers and easy paths for kids to discover.
Children can spot plants, rocks, and benches with lake views.
Open daily from dawn to dusk, free entry but donations are welcome.
Visitor info available from 10am to 4pm, best in spring or summer.
8 – Motor Boat Hire on Lake Windermere
Rent a motor boat to captain your own family adventure on Lake Windermere.
Find quiet bays and watch for wildlife along the shores.
Available daily during daylight hours from places like Bowness Bay Marina.
No licence required for most, book ahead and check weather.
9 – Go Horse Riding with Lakeland Pony Treks
Set off on a horse riding trek with Lakeland Pony Treks through scenic Lake District paths.
Suitable for children and beginners, with friendly ponies and guides.
10 – Enjoy a Show at The Old Laundry Theatre
Cosy up as a family for a show at The Old Laundry Theatre in Bowness-on-Windermere.
Watch kid-friendly plays, music, or puppets in an intimate space.
Shows often at 11am, 1.30pm, and some at 3.30pm, check the schedule.
Book tickets online for the best seats.
11 – SUP Paddle Boarding on Lake Windermere
Try stand-up paddle boarding on Lake Windermere for a fun family water activity.
Children can join with supervision on calm waters surrounded by hills.
Hire from spots like Brockhole or Windermere Canoe Kayak, open daily.
No experience needed, book sessions in good weather.
12 – Walk Up Orrest Head Walk and Enjoy the View (Keep an Eye Out for Gruffalo)
Climb Orrest Head on a short family walk for breathtaking views over Windermere.
Keep an eye out for Gruffalo-themed spots in the woods to delight children.
The 3.5km loop takes about an hour, free and open all day.
Moderately steep paths, go at dawn or dusk for magical light.
13 – Visit The World of Beatrix Potter Museum
Enter the magical World of Beatrix Potter with 3D scenes and characters for kids.
Families can meet Peter Rabbit and friends in enchanting displays.
Open daily from 10am to 4.30pm, book online to avoid queues.
14 – Visit the Windermere Jetty Museum
Explore the Windermere Jetty Museum to see restored boats and learn lake history through fun exhibits.
Children enjoy interactive displays and views over the water.
Open from 10am to 5pm in summer and 10am to 4pm in winter.
Add a 30-minute heritage boat trip from April to October, book ahead.
15 – Roam Around Fell Foot Park
Wander Fell Foot Park, a lakeside spot with play areas and open spaces for family fun.
Children can paddle, boat, or picnic with mountain views.
Open daily from 9am to 5pm, no booking for entry but for activities.
Dog-friendly, bring sturdy shoes for walks.
16 – Feed the Ducks on the Shores of Lake Windermere
Spend simple time feeding ducks along the shores of Lake Windermere.
Children love watching the birds and splashing at the water’s edge.
Open any time, free activity, bring seeds or bread.
Choose spots like Bowness for easy access and hunrdeds of hungry ducks to feed!
17 – Explore the Local Shops
Browse the local shops in Windermere and Bowness for treats and souvenirs.
Families can find unique gifts, local produce, and fun items for kids.
18 – Cruise on a Boat Ride on Lake Windermere
Drift on a scenic boat ride across Lake Windermere, passing islands and shores.
Children can wave and spot sights from the deck.
Cruises run every 30 minutes from 10am, book online or at the pier.
Departs from Bowness or other spots, flexible tickets.
19 – Go Canoeing on the Lake
Set out canoeing on Lake Windermere to explore islands and wildlife as a family.
Guided tours available for beginners, with life jackets for safety.
Open daily, book from Windermere Canoe Kayak or similar.
Paddle at your pace, check weather first.
Why Windermere is Great for Families with Kids
Windermere is a fantastic place for families looking for a memorable holiday.
The town sits in the beautiful Lake District national park, with its calm lake, rolling hills, and open spaces that kids can explore safely.
There are plenty of activities designed for children, from hands-on museums to outdoor adventures that spark their imagination.
Many attractions are budget-friendly or free, and most are open year-round, making planning easy.
