indoor activities windermere
When the weather isn’t behaving itself – and let’s face it, in the Lake District that’s quite a lot of the time; and you don’t feel like getting soaked to the skin, it’s time to explore the great indoors.
And, to keep you dry between adventures, we’ve got a lovely snug cottage in Windermere or Bowness with your name on it.
Things to Do in Bowness & Windermere in The Rain
There’s plenty to do undercover in Windermere and Bowness, so let’s dodge the rain and
This post is part of the Lakeland Retreats guide to Windermere & Bowness >
Take a look at the upcoming indoor events in Bowness and Windermere
Indoor attractions in Bowness & Windermere
The Royalty Cinema
Art Deco architecture meets the latest digital technology at The Royalty.
This charming traditional cinema has three screens showing everything from the latest releases to silent classics with live accompaniment on the Wurlitzer organ.
There are even ushers to serve up ice cream, just like the old days.
Lakeland
If it’s raining cats and dogs, go and look at some pots and pans. Yep, one of the most-visited places in Windermere is the Lakeland flagship store.
It’s right next to the station and packed to the rafters with all manner of things you didn’t realise you needed for the kitchen and home.
There’s a rather good café too – perfect for a spot of lunch while you wait for the weather to fair up.
Windermere Jetty Museum
When it’s a little too wet to get out on the water, at least you can celebrate the Lake District’s boating history at the award-winning Windermere Jetty Museum.
In interactive galleries built over the lake, you can see over 40 boats covering the history of sailing on Windermere from the late 18th century onwards.
Everything from record-breaking speed boats to Beatrix Potter’s rowing boat.
Blackwell: The Arts & Craft House
The Arts & Crafts house, Bowness
A fine, internationally significant example of Arts & Craft architecture, with nearly all of its original features intact, and filled with furniture and objects from the period, Blackwell provides a vivid portrait of early 20th century life and the Arts & Crafts movement.
And if it’s not raining too much when you visit, you can get outside and admire the Thomas Mawson-designed gardens and the view over the lake too.
Old Laundry Theatre
Sharing a building with the World of Beatrix Potter (handy that), the Old Laundry is a 260-seat theatre that’s become a cultural hub for locals and tourists alike over the past 30 years.
It hosts theatre, music, film, comedy and spoken word events, and has been supported by the likes of renowned playwright, Alan Ayckbourn, who regularly allows the theatre to host his latest play, hot from its premiere at the Stephen Joseph Theatre in Scarborough.
The World of Beatrix Potter
You won’t need your umbrella when you enter the magical World of Beatrix Potter.
Bringing to life Beatrix Potter’s much-loved characters, including Peter Rabbit and Jemima Puddleduck and their adventures in the Lake District countryside, this charming exhibition is fun for all the family and a perfect way to while away an hour or so when it’s not so pleasant on the weather front outside.
Bowness Escape Room
Will you go undercover in Cold War Russia and get away with your secrets safe before Russian Intelligence stops you in your tracks?
Or will you escape from the clutches of a serial killer and hunt him down before he strikes again? The choice is yours.
You’ll need to work logically to solve the clues and make your escape in time. Suitable for ages 10 and above (at parents’ discretion), the Bowness Escape Room is a great challenge for couples, families or groups of friends.
Afternoon Tea
Bowness & Windermere
Is there anything more quintessentially English than afternoon tea? And is there anything better than afternoon tea in the beautiful Lake District? We don’t think so.
Dainty finger sandwiches with the crusts cut off (usually). A selection of cakes – don’t mind if we do. Scones with jam and cream – which do you put on first? And a pot of piping hot tea to wash it all down – or perhaps a glass of fizz if you’re feeling a bit naughty. You can get afternoon tea in many hotels and restaurants in Windermere, but we’ve rounded up 6 of the best!
Cottages in Windermere & Bowness
Get away from it all in one of our cosy Windermere cottages.
Experience the natural beauty of The Lake District with high-quality accommodation and unique amenities for couples, groups, and families!
Book today
The Lakeland Retreats guide to Bowness & Windermere
Visiting the Lake District in February
If you’re planning to visit the beautiful Lake District in February, you can expect snow-capped fells, quieter roads, and fewer crowds!
Things to do in Windermere for families
Base yourself in the thick of things in Windermere or Bowness and you’ll find no shortage of things to get up to during your stay
Parking In Windermere – When and Where can I park?
It’s beautiful here so everybody wants to come. Which means it gets busy, so parking is at a premium and it’s not cheap
Bowness & Windermere Nightlife – Going out on the town
If you like piña coladas and getting caught in the rain, then you couldn’t be in a better place – you can get both in abundance in the Lakes
Bowness and Windermere Shops
You’ll find a huge range of shops selling everything from unique local gifts to everyday essentials. Here’s a flavour of what you can expect
What’s on in Windermere & Bowness?
In Bowness & Windermere – indoors and out, rain or shine, on or off the water, you’ll never be short of something to do
Windermere Boat Trips & Hire
You can’t visit Windermere without taking to the water, it’s one the best ways to see all that spectacular scenery that surrounds the lake
11 of the best places to eat in Bowness and Windermere
There are so many cafes and restaurants that you could eat somewhere different every day. Sounds like our kind of holiday!
5 Unmissable Easy Windermere Walks
Grab the kids, grab the dog, grab your gran! Here are our picks for the best steps per smile walks from Windermere and Bowness
10 pubs to visit in Windermere & Bowness
Like stepping into the heart of Lake District community. These places aren’t just about grabbing a drink; they’re hubs of social connection
The 6 Best Afternoon Teas in Windermere & Bowness
Is there anything more quintessentially English than afternoon tea? And is there anything better than afternoon tea in the Lake District?
Outdoor Activities in Windermere and Bowness
Hiking on the fells, getting out on the water, or taking part in sporting activities to get the blood pumping
Discover more of the Lake District
With weekly articles highlighting the very best of the Lake District, there’s always something to get you inspired for your next trip!
If you’d like to be the first to hear of our guides, all our new property listings, events around the lakes, and our last-minute deals…
Best pubs in the Lake District
Find pubs in stunning locations, nestled in picturesque villages, with breath taking views of the surrounding fells, lakes, and valleys
Pubs in Troutbeck – There’s only 2 but they’re really good!
It’s easily overlooked in favour of the usual suspects of Windermere, Ambleside and Bowness but, do yourself a favour and pay it a visit!
5 Troutbeck walks with great pubs, views, or both!
There’re numerous hikes heading up the valley – or maybe they’re just heading to one of the two traditional country pubs in the village?
Keswick car parks – when and where can I park?
Keswick is the most popular tourist destination in the northern Lake District so, as you might expect, parking is at a premium
Finding a Lake District parking place and other transport tips
Check out these alternate ways to get around or the best places to get parked once you reach your destination town or village.
Things To Do in Ambleside in The Rain
When the weather’s not playing ball in the Lakes you can stay dry with a visit to one of Ambleside’s indoor attractions.
