Explore Windermere
Choose your boat:
Choose your boat:
Ambleside (Waterhead)
Brockhole
Windermere Jetty Museum
BownessCruise the Lake, explore the past
Set right on the water’s edge, Windermere Jetty Museum is home to one of the world’s most significant collections of historic boats. The striking modern building offers panoramic views across Windermere, and it’s easy to reach by boat, making your visit even more memorable.
Hop on a scenic cruise from Bowness, Brockhole or Ambleside and disembark right outside the museum. Inside, explore interactive displays, get up close to boats from the 19th century to today and watch expert conservation work in action. Afterwards, relax in the lakeside café and take in the view with something tasty.
When you're ready to head back, catch a return sailing on the Red Cruise, with regular departures throughout the day.
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.
MV Swan on the Red Cruise - one of three 'steamers'
The MV Swift coming in to Waterhead
A group enjoying the scenery around north Windermere
One of our "steamers" and views of Waterhead
Explore our full gallery for more stunning images.
Good value for money. We bought the red cruise ticket combined with entry to the new Jetty Museum. So we started at Ambleside, changed boats at Bowness and got off at the museum. On our return we stopped off for an hour at Brockhole before returning to Ambleside. At every point the crew and shore staff were most helpful and friendly. Would certainly recommend. ~ SA. TripAdvisor
Good value for money. We bought the red cruise ticket combined with entry to the new Jetty Museum. So we started at Ambleside, changed boats at Bowness and got off at the museum. On our return we stopped off for an hour at Brockhole before returning to Ambleside. At every point the crew and shore staff were most helpful and friendly. Would certainly recommend. ~ SA. TripAdvisor
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.
5 December 2025
Local people enjoying their retirement in The Lake District can get some amazing discounts at Windermere Lake Cruises and other local attractions.
12 December 2025
Local people enjoying their retirement in The Lake District can get some amazing discounts at Windermere Lake Cruises and other local attractions.
13 December 2025
Enjoy a festive morning filled with fun, games, and a hearty breakfast with Santa himself.
19 December 2025
Local people enjoying their retirement in The Lake District can get some amazing discounts at Windermere Lake Cruises and other local attractions.
24 December 2025
Santa’s band of elves will be there to welcome you and your child into their workshop where you’ll be whisked away on a magical, festive journey.
26 December 2025
Local people enjoying their retirement in The Lake District can get some amazing discounts at Windermere Lake Cruises and other local attractions.
2 January 2026
Local people enjoying their retirement in The Lake District can get some amazing discounts at Windermere Lake Cruises and other local attractions.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
