Explore Windermere
Choose your boat:
Choose your boat:
Why not start your magical day with us on one of our cruises? Enjoy the breathtaking winter scenery, stay warm with a hot chocolate or mulled wine, and head to Santa's grotto.
Our centrally located piers make it easy to access all the wonderful attractions nearby, including Santa's grotto, without the hassle of parking.
Below is a list of where you can find him:
13th, 14th, 20th, 21st & 22nd December
Step into Father Christmas’ winter wonderland at The Royalty Cinema. Children can meet Santa in a private grotto, receive a gift, and capture a festive photo. Elves are on hand to guide visitors, and hot drinks and treats are available while waiting.
Tickets: Child £10 | Adults free with child ticket
Pre-booking is essential. Book a 15-minute time slot online.
📍 The Royalty – Bowness
Enjoy a festive morning filled with fun, games, and a hearty breakfast with Santa himself.
Each child’s ticket includes:
Adults go free—no ticket required!
📍 Bowness - 15 minutes walk from Bowness pier.
From the moment you arrive, 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.
You’ll then be taken into the Grotto to meet Father Christmas himself, and you’ll have the chance to take some photos* of your magical moment.
Prices: from £19.00
Pre booking is essential. Head to the Hayes Garden World website to purchase.
📍 Ambleside - 10 minutes walk from Waterhead pier
Christmas is fast approaching and Santa’s Sleigh is nowhere to be found. Will Sprocket and Dibs be able to create a new sleigh in time or will Christmas be cancelled? Can you help them save the day? Only time will tell but with audience participation, sing-along songs and a free present from Santa for every child it promises to be the perfect festive treat!
Prices: Child (age 3-16) £10 | Adult £12.50
Pre booking is essential. Head to The World of Beatrix Potter to purchase.
📍 Bowness - 10 minutes walk from Bowness pier
Every weekend from 14th November, experience the joy of meeting Santa in his charming Grotto, adorned with twinkling lights and festive décor, which sets the perfect backdrop for this enchanting encounter.
Find out more on The Swan hotel website.
📍 Newby Bridge. Take the yellow cruise to Lakeisde. Then walk along the West Windermere Way from Lakeside (approx 20 minute walk).
Head to Bowness Christmas market for a festive extravaganza on Sunday 1st December, from 10am -4pm! Discover a winter wonderland filled with over 60 delightful stalls, offering unique crafts, delicious treats, and heartwarming gifts
📍 Minutes from our Bowness pier
Sunday, 14th December, from 12:30 pm for a magical Santa Luncheon at Merewood Hotel!
Settle into a specially decorated country house setting and get ready to indulge in a delightful 3-course à la carte menu. Enjoy the festive atmosphere with enchanting music by Fred Binley while your little ones get the chance to meet Father Christmas himself, receive a special gift.
📍 Take the red cruise to Brockhole, from there it is a 15 minute walk
Experience the wonder of the festive season aboard the Tinsel Train at Lakeside and Haverthwaite. Enjoy a delightful journey through the picturesque Lakeland countryside, surrounded by the enchanting atmosphere of Christmas.
For more details and to book head to the Lakeside and Haverthwaite railway website.
📍 Lakeside pier, take the yellow cruise from Bowness to Lakeside
