Explore Windermere
Choose your boat:
Choose your boat:
Bowness
Windermere Jetty MuseumHeritage + views on Windermere
Enjoy a relaxing 45-minute circular cruise around the central part of Lake Windermere, complete with fascinating commentary on the lake’s islands (or meres) and historic landmarks.
Windermere Jetty Museum sits right on the water’s edge, making it a perfect stop along our Islands (Blue) Cruise. Hop off directly outside the museum to explore one of the world’s most important collections of historic boats.
Inside, you’ll find interactive exhibits, beautifully restored vessels from the 19th century to the present day, and expert boat conservation in action. After exploring, unwind in the lakeside café and take in the spectacular views.
When you’re ready, hop back on the cruise to complete your scenic journey around Bowness Bay.
Right on the edge of the lake, Windermere Jetty Museum is a brilliant place to explore the story of life on Windermere. From elegant steam launches and sailing boats to record-breaking speedboats, the collection is packed with character — with boats displayed in the galleries, the boathouse, and even out on the water.
You can also peek behind the scenes in the live conservation workshop, where old boats are carefully brought back to life by the museum’s team of skilled boatbuilders.
Find out more:
Visit the Windermere Jetty Museum website for opening times, tickets, and what’s on.
Explore our full gallery for more stunning images.
There are stunning views from the outer decks
Lakeside
Traditional launch
Islands Cruise sets out from Bowness Pier every 30 mins
Explore our full gallery for more stunning images.
We took the Blue Cruise—a 45-minute circular tour of the islands—and loved it. The boat was clean and spacious, and the staff were friendly and helpful throughout. The commentary was informative but not overbearing, and we soaked in the stunning views of Lake Windermere’s islands—absolutely worth it! ~ Artstuffwith Durgalakshmipathy. Google Reviews.
Bowness on Windermere is a lovely town with a wide choice of amenities. The people are friendly and helpful. We booked a cruise on the lake and whilst waiting to board we bought some snacks from the cafe on the quayside. The 45 minute trip was an absolute pleasure and the tour guide gave us interesting facts about the islands, lake and buildings. I recommend a visit. ~ Steve M. TripAdvisor.
We took the Blue Cruise—a 45-minute circular tour of the islands—and loved it. The boat was clean and spacious, and the staff were friendly and helpful throughout. The commentary was informative but not overbearing, and we soaked in the stunning views of Lake Windermere’s islands—absolutely worth it! ~ Artstuffwith Durgalakshmipathy. Google Reviews.
Bowness on Windermere is a lovely town with a wide choice of amenities. The people are friendly and helpful. We booked a cruise on the lake and whilst waiting to board we bought some snacks from the cafe on the quayside. The 45 minute trip was an absolute pleasure and the tour guide gave us interesting facts about the islands, lake and buildings. I recommend a visit. ~ Steve M. TripAdvisor.
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.
