Explore Windermere
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Perfect for families
Prices are return fares
Valid from: Saturday 28th March 2026
Valid until: Sunday 1st November 2026
Maximize your Lake District getaway with a combined ticket for Freedom of the Lake® and the Lakeland Motor Museum.
24-Hour Unlimited Cruising: Enjoy hop-on, hop-off travel across all scheduled sailings on Lake Windermere. Explore the full-length route between Lakeside, Bowness, and Ambleside, or opt for scenic shorter trips like the Islands (Blue) Cruise and Cross Lakes ferry.
Classic Cars & Nostalgia: Get full entry to the Lakeland Motor Museum in Backbarrow. No need to rush—you can visit the museum anytime up to five days after your cruise.
Stunning views, iconic attractions, and ultimate flexibility—all in one ticket.
Enhance your Windermere cruise experience with a visit to the fascinating Lakeland Motor Museum, home to over 30,000 exhibits, including classic cars, motorcycles, scooters, bicycles and an impressive array of motoring memorabilia.
Planning your visit:
Please note: The Lakeland Motor Museum is 2 miles away from the pier at Lakeside. Walking is not advised due to the busy road. This ticket allows the customer to enjoy a cruise on the lake, then visit the Motor Museum separately. The Motor Museum entrance is valid for up to 5 days after purchase.
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The Swift heading to Waterhead
Traditional launch
Traditional launch
Modern launch
Explore our full gallery for more stunning images.
We purchased an all day ticket with combined motor museum which offers excellent value for money. We spent a whole day travelling across the lake to Bowness and Ambleside. The cruises are very well organised with lots of staff to help make sure you get on the right boat. Excellent facilities on board. The only minor thing was that we didn't realise on the boats last trip of the day the bar closes within minutes of departure - luckily the kind staff still served me which was greatly appreciated. I would definitely recommend this and would do it again. ~ Justine. TripAdvisor.
Took cruise from Bowness to Ambleside.All boarded quickly and on our way.They serve drinks and snacks on board and the prices are not too bad considering they have a captive audience. Also serve some alcoholic beverages.Boats very clean.Lovely views along the banks and down towards end of the lake plus there is a running commentary given explaining key places that are passed.Ticket price was for RETURN - you could get off at Ambleside and catch a later boat back.Lovely relaxing day and good value for money.If you intend visiting the Lakeside Motor Museum (A GREAT VISIT) then look to buy the combined boat and museum ticket at discounted price. You have to use your boat ticket that day but the museum ticket can be used on a different day. ~ stobs. TripAdvisor.
We purchased an all day ticket with combined motor museum which offers excellent value for money. We spent a whole day travelling across the lake to Bowness and Ambleside. The cruises are very well organised with lots of staff to help make sure you get on the right boat. Excellent facilities on board. The only minor thing was that we didn't realise on the boats last trip of the day the bar closes within minutes of departure - luckily the kind staff still served me which was greatly appreciated. I would definitely recommend this and would do it again. ~ Justine. TripAdvisor.
Took cruise from Bowness to Ambleside.All boarded quickly and on our way.They serve drinks and snacks on board and the prices are not too bad considering they have a captive audience. Also serve some alcoholic beverages.Boats very clean.Lovely views along the banks and down towards end of the lake plus there is a running commentary given explaining key places that are passed.Ticket price was for RETURN - you could get off at Ambleside and catch a later boat back.Lovely relaxing day and good value for money.If you intend visiting the Lakeside Motor Museum (A GREAT VISIT) then look to buy the combined boat and museum ticket at discounted price. You have to use your boat ticket that day but the museum ticket can be used on a different day. ~ stobs. TripAdvisor.
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From a full day of adventure on Windermere to exploring exciting events on and off the water, see how you can make the most of your Lake District adventure.
12 June 2026
Beat the crowds and travel to the start/finish of Great North Swim and Windermere Marathon by boat.Our special shuttles will be running direct to Brockhole from Bowness and Ambleside (Waterhead). Swimmers, runners and spectators can beat the crowds, queues and traffic, by getting to the…
30 July 2026
Set against the breathtaking Lake District landscape, Ambleside Sports brings together a vibrant celebration of athletic talent and community spirit.
Make the most of your time on Windermere by upgrading your cruise. Combine your trip with a visit to a local attraction, or enjoy unlimited travel all day with Freedom of the Lake.
