Freedom Of The Lake & Steam Train

Freedom Of The Lake & Steam Train
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Cruise + Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway

Views and nostalgia all in a day

3+ hrs return (non-stop)
  • CURRENTLY NOT AVAILABLE
  • This service operates only during our peak season and will return on 28 March 2026.
  • The information is for reference only
  • Your ticket is valid on any departure on the day
  • Buy tickets online or at pier ticket offices on the day
  • On-board facilities

How to plan this cruise

This great-value ticket combines unlimited boat travel on Windermere for 24 hours with a return journey on the heritage Lakeside & Haverthwaite Steam Railway.

It’s a flexible and scenic way to explore the Lake District, with the chance to hop on and off at popular piers along the lake, including Bowness, Ambleside and Lakeside. From Lakeside Pier, it’s just a short walk to the steam railway station, where beautifully restored engines await to carry you on a nostalgic ride through the peaceful Leven Valley to Haverthwaite Station.

Whether you're travelling with family, friends or visiting solo, this is a fantastic way to see more of the lakes and enjoy the golden age of travel at your own pace. We recommend allowing at least 4 hours to enjoy the full experience without rushing.



More information:

  • You can start your journey from any Windermere Lake Cruises pier or from Haverthwaite Station.
  • If starting at Haverthwaite, simply show your e-ticket when boarding the train and have it scanned at Lakeside when switching to the boat.
  • The train journey is only valid on the date of travel selected at purchase.
  • Boat travel is valid for 24 hours from first use.
  • Advance e-tickets do not guarantee a seat on the steam train – seating is first come, first served.

Your ticket includes

Lakeside & Haverthwaite steam train

Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway

The Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway offers a relaxed and scenic way to explore a quieter corner of the Lake District. Steam locomotives pull 1950s style carriages along a short heritage line through the peaceful Leven Valley, arriving at Lakeside Station, just a 2 minute stroll from our Lakeside Pier, where you can step straight onto a Windermere Lake Cruise.

It’s an easy and enjoyable day out for all ages, with the option to combine two classic Lake District experiences in one trip.

Planning your visit:

  • Children under 3 travel for free.

  • Dogs are welcome at the station and can ride the train for free.

  • Only a 2 minute walk from our Lakeside Pier, ideal to combine with a lake cruise!

Find out more:

For train times and more information, visit the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway website.

Cruise Map

Freedom summer mobile map

Departure Points

Start this cruise from any of these locations

Our Freedom Cruise explores some beautiful sites

Explore our full gallery for more stunning images.

star star star star star

After arriving at Lakeside by steam train we boarded our connecting boat to take a cruise on Lake Windermere to Bowness. The boat was very crowded but we still managed to get a seat outside. The views from the boat were magnificent and we very much enjoyed our leisurely cruise up Lake Windermere. There was a commentary but, sadly, we couldn't hear it over the background noise. Fortunately the boat back later was far less crowded so we didn't miss out and we are glad we didn't as it was very interesting. The staff were very friendly and helpful which alway adds to the overall experience. The boat is dog friendly throughout and our 2 dogs enjoyed the journey as well although they slept through most of it 😀 ~ MDHogmeister. TripAdvisor.

star star star star star

We started our 40 min journey in Bowness , getting on the lake cruise ship Swan , A real pleasure to get on The journey up part of the lake took 40 mins and there was comentery telling you of interesting places as we glided down Windermere. At the other end the steam train was there to meet us and take us down the 3.5 mile line. We did the reverse journey the hole journey took around 3.5 hours Well worth the money . All the trips are Dog friendly A must do if your in the area. ~ Ian. TripAdvisor.

Book Your Cruise

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Your ticket is valid on any departure on the day.

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  • Child prices are valid for children aged 5-15 years. Children under 5 travel free
  • Family tickets are valid for 2 adults and up to 3 children

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Depart {* selectedPier.depPier *}ArriveDestinationArrive {* selectedPier.arrPier *}Vessel
{* row.depTime *}{* row.arrTime *}{* row.arrPier *}

Ticket usage

  • Times normally operated by our 'steamers' Swan, Teal or Tern or MV Swift may sometimes be substituted for a smaller vessel for operational reasons. Prices and timetable information are subject to change without notice.
  • Free travel for Carer
  • Bikes are welcome on our 'steamer' services
  • No vaping or smoking

Your guide to what’s on and things to do in the Lake District

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.

Silver Sailors

9 January 2026

Local people enjoying their retirement in The Lake District can get some amazing discounts at Windermere Lake Cruises and other local attractions.

Silver Sailors

16 January 2026

Local people enjoying their retirement in The Lake District can get some amazing discounts at Windermere Lake Cruises and other local attractions.

Silver Sailors

23 January 2026

Local people enjoying their retirement in The Lake District can get some amazing discounts at Windermere Lake Cruises and other local attractions.

Silver Sailors

30 January 2026

Local people enjoying their retirement in The Lake District can get some amazing discounts at Windermere Lake Cruises and other local attractions.

Silver Sailors

6 February 2026

Local people enjoying their retirement in The Lake District can get some amazing discounts at Windermere Lake Cruises and other local attractions.

Silver Sailors

13 February 2026

Local people enjoying their retirement in The Lake District can get some amazing discounts at Windermere Lake Cruises and other local attractions.

Silver Sailors

20 February 2026

Local people enjoying their retirement in The Lake District can get some amazing discounts at Windermere Lake Cruises and other local attractions.

Silver Sailors

27 February 2026

Local people enjoying their retirement in The Lake District can get some amazing discounts at Windermere Lake Cruises and other local attractions.

Silver Sailors

6 March 2026

Local people enjoying their retirement in The Lake District can get some amazing discounts at Windermere Lake Cruises and other local attractions.

Silver Sailors

13 March 2026

Local people enjoying their retirement in The Lake District can get some amazing discounts at Windermere Lake Cruises and other local attractions.

Silver Sailors

20 March 2026

Local people enjoying their retirement in The Lake District can get some amazing discounts at Windermere Lake Cruises and other local attractions.

Silver Sailors

27 March 2026

Local people enjoying their retirement in The Lake District can get some amazing discounts at Windermere Lake Cruises and other local attractions.

Current Timetable

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Helpful Guides

Fancy an upgrade?

Explore more!

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.