Christmas in Windermere brings Winter weather and festive cheer to the Lake District.
This popular tourist town lights up with Xmas holiday activities, from markets and fairs to light displays and family attractions.
It is a special time when the natural beauty of the lakes and hills adds to the seasonal magic, making it ideal for visitors of all kinds.
Expect a mix of traditional celebrations, music, food and outdoor fun that capture the spirit of the season across the region.
The build-up starts in November and carries on through December into the New Year, with plenty to see and do around Windermere and nearby towns and villages.
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Windermere Christmas Market 2026
Sadly Windermere Christmas Market is not taking place this year (2026).
However, the nearby Bowness Market at the Glebe runs every Sunday from 10am to 4pm and will be particularly Christmassy during the holiday season, with stalls offering local produce, gifts, food, and drinks.
Also, there is a special Christmas market in Bowness at the Glebe on the 6th and 7th December 2026, featuring live music, carol singing, street entertainment, and a visit from Father Christmas.
You can find or more about the Glebe’s Christmas Markets in Bowness-on-Windermere here…
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Windermere Christmas Lights
Windermere sets up festive lights across the town to mark the holiday season.
Displays light up spots such as the Library Tree, Bowness Promenade and St Martin’s Square.
A contest for the best dressed Christmas window encourages local shops to join in.
For this year, the lights return after cancellation last year due to safety issues.
Dates and any switch-on event or parade remain to be confirmed, so look at the town council website or Facebook pages for updates.
Where to Stay in Windermere This Christmas and New Year
Windermere and Bowness-on-Windermere provide the pefect location for festive breaks, with Laik’s holiday cottages offering comfort and style near the lake and local attractions.
Choose from cosy options for couples, such as Steps Cottage or Wastwater Cottage, both set between the towns with traditional charm and easy access to walks.
For larger groups or families, properties like Midways, a detached three-bed house with four baths, or Ferry View Cottage with its hot tub and open-plan living suit gatherings well.
Many include features like free WiFi, parking, log burners and hot tubs to make your Christmas or New Year stay relaxing.
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Fun Things to Do In and Around the Town this Xmas
Windermere and the nearby Lake District offer a range of activities during the Christmas period, blending seasonal events with outdoor pursuits.
Take a cruise on Lake Windermere to see the winter views, or join a Father Christmas boat trip for family entertainment with gifts and stories.
Explore the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction in Bowness, where characters come to life in displays, and check for any holiday workshops or shows.
Head to local Christmas fairs, such as the one at Rydal Mount with crafts, live music, mulled wine and food stalls over a weekend in December.
For adventure, try the Lakes Aquarium at Lakeside to see wildlife exhibits, or ride the steam train from Haverthwaite with possible Santa specials.
Walk up Orrest Head for panoramic sights, or visit Sizergh Castle for light displays, sound shows and festive crafts.
Pubs and restaurants serve traditional meals, and light switch-ons in towns like Ambleside add to the cheer with parades and fireworks.
What’s the Weather Like During the Festive Season in the Lake District?
The festive season in the Lake District, which spans December, tends to be cold and wet, with short daylight hours and a mix of overcast skies, rain, and occasional frost or snow, especially on higher ground.
Daytime temperatures average between 3°C and 6°C, while nights often drop to 1°C to 3°C or below freezing, making warm layers essential for outdoor activities.
Rainfall is common, occurring on roughly half the days of the month, with the region receiving around 200mm on average, so expect frequent showers and potential for strong winds.
Snow is possible, particularly in the fells and later in the month, with an average of about three snowy days, adding a picturesque touch but requiring caution for travel and hiking.
Sunshine is limited to around one to two hours per day on average, contributing to the cosy, atmospheric feel of the holidays in this scenic area.
For 2026, long-range forecasts suggest similar patterns to historical norms, though UK weather can be unpredictable—check updates closer to the time from sources like the Met Office.
Some Final Notes on Xmas and New Year 2026 in Windermere and The Lake District
Christmas in Windermere stands out as a top choice for the festive season due to its blend of natural beauty and holiday events.
The Lake District landscape, often dusted with snow on the hills, creates a striking backdrop that boosts the seasonal mood.
With fewer crowds than in summer, it offers calm days for walks, markets and family outings in crisp air.
This mix makes it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the holidays amid charming settings and local traditions.
