Explore Windermere
Choose your boat:
Choose your boat:
Cruise and a nostalgic train ride
A scenic lake cruise paired with a nostalgic steam railway journey — all in one great-value ticket.
Sail across the southern stretch of Windermere on our Yellow Cruise, linking the lively village of Bowness-on-Windermere with Lakeside Pier at the foot of the lake. From Lakeside, step aboard the beautifully preserved Lakeside & Haverthwaite Steam Railway and travel back in time through the stunning Leven Valley countryside.
You can begin your day from Bowness, Lakeside or Haverthwaite Station, and choose whether to take the cruise or the train first. With the flexibility to hop off along the way and catch a later return service, you can explore at your own pace and make the most of each stop.
Each cruise includes engaging onboard commentary, bringing to life the rich history and landmarks surrounding Windermere.
*If starting from Haverthwaite Station, simply book your e-ticket from Lakeside and show it at the Haverthwaite ticket office on arrival. Please allow time for parking and arrive early to ensure a smooth start to your trip.
* Pay-and-display parking is available on site and is £3.50 for all-day parking.
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.
Explore our full gallery for more stunning images.
Modern launch
Modern launch at Ambleside jetty
Mv swift 2
Lakeside and Haverthwaite train
Explore our full gallery for more stunning images.
Bought tickets for lake cruise and steam train ride. Some may think it a little pricey but we thought it was worth every penny and had a great day.Travelled on The Turn and The Teal, both boats were clean, informative commentary, well stocked cafe and clean toilets.Our tickets entitled us to travel all day on the lake and the steam train at the southern end of the lake, where there was a very good cafe for lunch.Would highly recommend it. ~ AN. TripAdvisor
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 C. TripAdvisor.
We did the cruise and steam train trip combined whilst on holiday in the area. Great value for money to do the 2 together. Excellent staff in the ticket office, at the quayside, on the boat and the train and at the railway station. All very friendly and helpful. A very enjoyable (and relaxing) family day out. We would highly recommend this for ages 0-100+! ~ angelawA6201UJ. TripAdvisor.
Just got back from a David Smith Travel day trip to Bowness including a cruise on Windermere and a steam train ride. Everyone throughly enjoyed themselves and commented on the service received. As the organiser I've got to say how professional Windermere lake cruises are from the booking to the service received on boarding. Already looking at our next trip. ~ david s. TripAdvisor
Bought tickets for lake cruise and steam train ride. Some may think it a little pricey but we thought it was worth every penny and had a great day.Travelled on The Turn and The Teal, both boats were clean, informative commentary, well stocked cafe and clean toilets.Our tickets entitled us to travel all day on the lake and the steam train at the southern end of the lake, where there was a very good cafe for lunch.Would highly recommend it. ~ AN. TripAdvisor
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 C. TripAdvisor.
We did the cruise and steam train trip combined whilst on holiday in the area. Great value for money to do the 2 together. Excellent staff in the ticket office, at the quayside, on the boat and the train and at the railway station. All very friendly and helpful. A very enjoyable (and relaxing) family day out. We would highly recommend this for ages 0-100+! ~ angelawA6201UJ. TripAdvisor.
Just got back from a David Smith Travel day trip to Bowness including a cruise on Windermere and a steam train ride. Everyone throughly enjoyed themselves and commented on the service received. As the organiser I've got to say how professional Windermere lake cruises are from the booking to the service received on boarding. Already looking at our next trip. ~ david s. 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.
6 November 2026
Local people enjoying their retirement in The Lake District can get some amazing discounts at Windermere Lake Cruises and other local attractions.
5 December 2026
Experience the magical Tinsel Train 2026 in the Lake District, featuring festive family fun, Christmas characters and a visit from Father Christmas.
12 December 2026
Enjoy Breakfast with Santa 2026 at Marina View, Bowness-on-Windermere. A festive family event with breakfast, gifts, games and Christmas fun.
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.