Explore Windermere
Choose your boat:
Choose your boat:
A family picnic is one of the simplest pleasures of a Lake District summer. Add a boat trip across Windermere and you've got the perfect recipe for a memorable day out. Whether you're travelling with young children, grandparents, friends or the family dog, there are plenty of fantastic picnic spots that are easy to reach with Windermere Lake Cruises.
From lakeside lawns and historic grounds to woodland viewpoints and hidden bays, here are some of our favourite places to spread out a blanket and enjoy lunch in the great outdoors.
Millerground – The ultimate family picnic spot
If you're looking for a location that offers something for everyone, Millerground is hard to beat.
Situated on the eastern shore of Windermere, this popular lakeside spot combines stunning views, open green spaces and easy walking routes. Families can enjoy picnics by the water's edge while children make the most of the nearby play facilities at Rayrigg Meadow. Dogs are welcome too, with plenty of space to explore along the shoreline and surrounding paths.
Its accessible location between Windermere and Bowness makes Millerground a favourite with both visitors and locals looking for a relaxed afternoon by the lake.
Nearest Pier: Windermere jetty (approximately 25-30 minutes' walk along the lakeshore and pathways).
Why visit?
Brockhole – Picnic with a side of adventure
Brockhole is one of the Lake District's best-loved family attractions and a fantastic place to enjoy a picnic.
Set within extensive lakeside grounds, Brockhole offers plenty of space to spread out on the lawns while enjoying spectacular views across Windermere. Families can relax with lunch before exploring the woodland trails, gardens and outdoor activities available throughout the site.
Arriving by boat makes the experience even more memorable, turning the journey into part of the day's adventure.
Nearest Pier: Brockhole Pier on the Red Cruise route.
Why visit?
Wray Castle – A Picnic with history and views
For families looking to escape the busiest areas of the lake, Wray Castle is a wonderful choice.
Set amongst beautiful parkland on Windermere's western shore, the National Trust property offers acres of open space, lakeshore walks and woodland trails. There are plenty of peaceful spots to enjoy a picnic while taking in views of the lake and surrounding fells.
Children will love exploring the grounds, while adults can relax and enjoy the unique setting of this Victorian neo-Gothic castle.
Nearest Pier: Wray Castle Pier on the Green Cruise route.
Why visit?
Claife Viewing Station – Picnic with a panorama
Few places around Windermere offer views quite as impressive as Claife Viewing Station.
Surrounded by woodland on the western shore, this historic viewpoint overlooks the lake and provides one of the most iconic panoramas in the area. The walk to Claife is part of the appeal, winding through peaceful woodland before revealing sweeping views across Windermere and the surrounding fells.
For families who enjoy exploring on foot, it's a rewarding destination and a wonderful place to pause for a picnic.
Nearest Pier: Ash Landing. From the landing stage, it's approximately a 20-minute woodland walk to Claife Viewing Station.
Why visit?
Cockshott Point – A hidden gem by the water
Just a short walk from Bowness Pier, Cockshott Point is one of Windermere's lesser-known picnic locations.
This quiet lakeside spot enjoys fantastic views across the water towards Belle Isle and offers plenty of space to relax away from the busier parts of town. Children can enjoy the shoreline while adults take in the scenery and watch boats passing across the lake.
Despite its peaceful feel, it's only a short distance from Bowness' cafés, shops and attractions.
Nearest Pier: Bowness Pier (approximately 10 minutes on foot).
Why visit?
Fell Foot – Perfect for a full family day out
Located at the southern end of Windermere, Fell Foot offers everything needed for a classic summer picnic.
The National Trust park is famous for its expansive lakeside lawns, making it one of the best picnic destinations in the Lake District. There is plenty of room for children to run and play, while adults can relax and enjoy the views across the lake.
With a playground, café, watersports activities and easy lakeside access, it's a destination where families can happily spend an entire day.
Nearest Pier: Lakeside Pier. Fell Foot is around a 20-25 minute walk from Lakeside through the southern lakeshore area.
Why visit?
