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15 Best Things to Do in Windermere (Cumbria, England)

Both the largest natural lake in England and the name of the small town on its east shore, Windermere is a coveted summer holiday escape and arguably one of the most beautiful places in the UK. Tourists began to arrive in the mid-19th century when the Kendal and Windermere Railway opened.

One person who was always besotted with Windermere was the children’s author Beatrix Potter, who moved into the mansion near the west shore in 1906 and wove the building into her illustrations.

Pack a good pair of walking shoes to fully appreciate the landscape from the Lakeland fells that ring the lakeshore.

Windermere the town is in a loose conurbation with Bowness-on-Windermere where you can catch a ferry to the lake’s west shore and embark on a steamboat trip.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Windermere :

1. Windermere Lake

The largest natural lake in England, Windermere was born some 13,000 years ago when water from melting glaciers was held in place by moraine rock that the glaciers had deposited during the Ice Age.

The lake is more than ten miles long, and a mile across at its widest point, with a surface flecked with 18 islands.

When tourism arrived in Victorian times, entrepreneurs built themselves lavish homes in gardens, down the east shore.

Many of these are now posh hotels, while several gardens are open to the public.

The scale of Windermere brings in crowds of yachters and paddleboarders in summer.

The raw beauty of the fells (hills) around the shore, and the swirling cloudy skies will keep you transfixed on walks.

2. Lake Cruise

Many of the activities on this list require a pair of walking shoes or getting wet in the lake, but you could spend an unforgettable couple of hours on Windermere without having to move a muscle.

The company Windermere Lake Cruises has a busy timetable of trips on old-fashioned steamers or modern sightseeing vessels.

If you just need an introduction to the lake, 45-minute cruises depart the pier at Bowness every half hour in summer.

But if you can’t get enough of those mountain vistas and wooded islands, there are longer journeys from Bowness to Lakeside at the lake’s southern shore (90 minutes).

3. Orrest Head

One of the great things about staying in Windermere is that even short circular walks will deliver you to glorious viewpoints with minimal effort.

That’s the story at Orrest Head, which requires a short burst of energy on a 20-minute hike to the hilltop where you’re met by an awesome panorama.

There’s an orientation table up here, detailing all of the summits and ranges you can see, like the Old Man of Coniston, Fairfield, Great Gable, Scafell Pike and the Langdale Pikes.

After leaving this summit, the walk continues on through the bucolic St Catherine’s Wood and High Hay Wood, back to Windermere.

4. World of Beatrix Potter

The much-loved children’s author and illustrator had close ties with the Lake District, holidaying at Holehird near Windermere, and buying a house at Hill Top on the lake’s west shore.

This themed attraction in the middle of Bowness is suffused with the spirit of her books and has all of her beloved characters, like Jemima Puddle-Duck and Peter Rabbit.

At the start there’s a brief film introducing Potter’s work and life, and in the seven areas that follow are 3D representations of her characters, using ambient sound, scents and lighting.

You can also go on a virtual tour through the places in the Lake District that inspired her, comparing real life places to her illustrations.

5. Blackwell

The Manchester brewing magnate Sir Edward Holt ordered this house as a holiday retreat at a lookout on the edge of Bowness-on-Windermere at the turn of the 20th century.

The architect was Baillie Scott, a luminary of the Arts and Crafts movement, and the house has come through the last 120 years with all of its fittings and furniture in place.

The level of detail in Scott’s design never ceases to surprise, and shines through in the peculiar window catches, leaf-shaped door handles, stained glass and a wealth of decoration produced by the leading Art and Crafts studios of the day.

The fireplaces are especially creative, like the one in the front room, flanked by benches.

The garden was designed by Arts and Crafts landscaper Thomas Mawson, on a gorgeous flight of terraces oriented towards the Coniston Fells.

6. Holehird Gardens

A mile north of Windermere the town, Holehird Gardens is a demonstration garden and the seat of the Lakeland Horticultural society.

The garden has plants that do well in the Lake District’s stony soils and damp climate, and has Alpine houses, rock and heather gardens and a lovely walled garden noted for its herbaceous borders.

Thomas Mawson was also involved here at the end of the 19th century, enlarging the Walled Garden, which had first been built in 1870. There are national collections of plystichum ferns, astilbes and hydrangeas, as well as an array of azaleas and rhododendrons.

The view from Holehird Gardens is touted as one of the best in Lakeland.

In the 1890s Beatrix Potter was a regular at Holehird House, now used by a healthcare charity.

7. St Martin’s Church

On a sightseeing tour in Bowness you can take a look around this historic church.

St Martin’s dates for the most part to the end of the 15th century and was restored in the 1870s.

The walls are slate rubble, with sandstone door and window dressings, while interior is notable for its use of plaster.

During the restoration painted inscriptions that had been covered up for centuries were rediscovered.

On the spandrels between the arches in the nave are texts from a catechetical book published at the end of the 16th century.

In front of the lectern you can also read a small poem written to give thanks for the failure of the Gunpowder Plot, written in 1629.

8. Brant Fell Above the Bustle

Cresting behind Bowness-on-Windermere, Brant Fell is 192 metres high and has a wonderful prospect of the lake.

As the name tells you, this 3.5-mile circular walk leads you away from the busy lakefront in summer.

The climb can be quite stiff in places, through woodland and open fields to a bare summit, stopping at a viewpoint at Post Knott along the way.

The top of Brant Fell is covered with rocky outcrops, up to three metres high, and you’ll want to pause for photos of this magical setting before heading back down to Bowness.

9. Boating and Watersports

When the weather’s warm you couldn’t pick a better place for water activities than Windermere.

With magnificent Lakeland Fells for scenery, you can hire a variety of boats (a 10-mile an hour speed limit applies) and master the art of sailing.

You can hire equipment for stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing, and try waterskiing and wakeboarding.

The Low Wood Bay Resort and Spa, 10 minutes from Windermere village, has its own watersports centre providing all of these experiences.

But there’s also a roll-call of companies operating throughout the Lake District, ready to pick you up at your accommodation.

10. Hill Top

At Bowness-on-Windermere you can catch a ferry across the lake to Far Sawrey on the west shore.

From there it’s a simple walk, bike ride or drive to this National Trust Property and former home of Beatrix Potter.

Hill Top dates to the 1600s and was bought as a writing retreat in 1906. The house has been kept as Potter would have remembered it, even reproducing the wallpaper that she put up when she moved in.

If you know Potter’s illustrations well, you may recognise the furnishings in the entrance hall, like the 18th-century longcase clock, the 17th-century oak press cupboard, an 18th-century dresser and Chippendale-style chairs, which all featured in her illustrations.

More than 1,400 objects were left to the National Trust by Potter at Hill Top, and you can follow up with a trip to the Beatrix Potter gallery a couple of miles away in Hawkshead.

11. Grizedale Forest

You can use that ferry to spend a few hours ambling through this 2,500-hectare forest between Windermere and Coniston Water.

The Grizedale Forest is woven with waymarked footpaths and mountain biking tracks, as well as a sculpture trail with around 90 works made from natural materials like wood and stone.

Also in the forest is a ropes course along the main trail, and boasting Tarzan swings, rope bridges and zip-lines for adults and children aged 10 and up.

A visitor centre is tucked deep in the forest and has an exhibition space and cafe.

12. Claife Viewing Station

While on the west shore of Windermere you can hike up from the ferry terminal to this scenic lookout with an intriguing past.

Claife Station was built as a mock ruin at the end of the 18th century, and became a landmark for tourists in the 1830s and 40s.

It was cherished for the windows in its “Drawing Room”, which have (newly restored) stained glass in different shades, to allow you to see what Windermere looks like in different seasons and in different lights.

Claife Viewing Station is run by the National Trust and has a cafe and picnic area.

13. Fell Foot Park

An excursion to the south end of Windermere, Fell Foot Park is a waterfront Victorian garden that used to belong to a mansion that was demolished in 1907. The idea had been to construct a larger house in these seven-hectare grounds, now cloaked with mature pines and oaks, but the owner passed away and the garden was acquired by the National Trust in 1948. Fell Foot Park has beautiful vistas up the length of Windermere, and a few Grade II-listed buildings, like a workshop, manager’s house and a set of boathouses, one of which has been converted into a cafe.

You can hire a rowing boat from the cafe or even take a swim from these grassy banks if the weather is warm enough.

14. Lakeland Motor Museum

Ten miles south of the village of Windermere, and not far from the southern shore of the lake, the Lakeland Motor Museum has a collection of more than 30,000 objects relating to vehicles, both motorised and human-powered.

Some of the noteworthy cars in a fleet of 140 include a Willys MB Jeep from the Second World War, a Star 15.9 from 1913, a Jaguar XK140 and a Bentley 4¼ Litre from 1936. This was owned by Donald Campbell, who held both the world land and water speed records in 1964. It’s one of a host of exhibits relating to both Donald and his father Malcolm, also a record-breaker on land and water.

There are full-size replicas of the 1967 jet hydroplane Bluebird K7, a Blue Bird Boat K4 from 1939 and a Blue Bird car from 1935.

15. Rydal Water

Hardly five minutes from the top of Windermere is Rydal Water, another hauntingly beautiful lake, partly managed by the National Trust.

Boating is prohibited to the public, but Rydal Water deserves your attention for its links to the Romantic poet William Wordsworth.

His work is treasured for its rather melancholic treatment of the brooding Lakeland scenery.

Wordsworth lived in two properties around the lakeshore, at Dove Cottage and then Rydal Mount.

Both are open to the public as museums.

From the western shore of Rydal Water you can climb steps to the viewpoint at Wordsworth’s Seat, believed to be the poet’s favourite perspective of the lake.

15 Best Things to Do in Windermere (Cumbria, England):

• Windermere Lake
• Lake Cruise
• Orrest Head
• World of Beatrix Potter
• Holehird Gardens
• St Martin's Church
• Brant Fell Above the Bustle
• Boating and Watersports
• Grizedale Forest
• Claife Viewing Station
• Fell Foot Park
• Lakeland Motor Museum
• Rydal Water

Best Things To Do in Lake Windermere To Avoid the Crowds!

Categories England , Lake District , U.K

Lake Windermere is a gorgeous part of the Lake District, everyone wants to go there but that means it can get pretty busy too, especially in the Summer and in High Season which I experienced first hand. So instead of waiting in a huge queue for a boat trip like many other people were doing I went and did 3 things to do in Lake Windermere which helped me avoid the crowds and I, therefore, recommend these Lake Windermere things to do to you too!

Things To Do in Lake Windermere

Keep reading for the best things to do in Lake Windermere!

Evening Cruise Around Lake Windermere

A Boat Trip around Lake Windermere is at the top of the list of things to do in Lake Windermere but the queues for a day time boat trip can get really big and the boats were totally packed with people when I went which isn’t my idea of an enjoyable boat trip.

Luckily in the Summer, one of the Lake Windermere activities is an Evening Cruise starting at 8:00pm-9:15 pm for £11.50 per adult ticket. This is slightly more expensive than the daytime cruises (I believe they are about £8.50) but I think it’s worth it!

I went to the Lake District in July which was a great time to visit and because the evenings were still light as we reached the end of Lake Windermere in Ambleside we literally saw the sun go down into the clouds in front of us and then into the Mountains. As we were sailing away the sky was lit behind us in gorgeous pastel colours which continued until we docked, it was so beautiful!

If there is an Evening Cruise on offer I would really suggest going as this is one of the top things to do in Lake Windermere!

A Boat Cruise is at the top of the list of things to do in Lake Windermere!

But an evening cruise is even better when looking for Lake Windermere things to do when it’s busy!

There were even spare seats left on the boat!

For accommodation around Lake Windermere, have a look at this post:

Best Accommodation in Lake Windermere for all Budgets!

Walk up to Orrest Head from Lake Windermere

If you want to see an incredible view in the Lake District and over Lake Windermere, take a walk up to Orrest Head! The best thing is is that the walk is not even that strenuous either!

Read my full post on how to do the Orrest Head Walk here!

As I had decided to do an Evening Cruise I was suddenly left with a few hours spare looking for things to do. Luckily a friend wrote a comment on my Instagram photo saying that I should walk up to Orrest Head and it was such a great suggestion!

From Bowness Bay, I walked through Bowness-on-Windermere Town and up to Windemere Town and although the walk was ok and only slightly uphill it was a lot further than I thought and took a good 20-30 minutes. From the town of Windermere I followed the footpath of which most of it was signposted, all the way to the top of Orrest Head. The walk is definitely uphill (that’s why the view is so good) but it was quite a gradual incline rather than being really steep.

I was pleased I had my trusty summer walking shoes on, especially as I saw many other people walking with difficulty in their flip flops and dolly shoes. I would recommend wearing trainers or walking shoes if you have them!

The footpath walk is pretty shady which was nice as it was a hot day when I went, this however meant that there weren’t many views a long the way so when I got to the top I was pretty shocked and stunned by the 360 view I was greeted with!

A. Wainwright said when he got to the top of Orrest Head in 1930 ‘These few hours on Orrest Head cast a spell that changed my life’ and I can see what he means!

There are quite a few benches at the top to take in the views from and in my opinion this is such a good thing to do in Lake Windermere no matter what time of year it is, but especially if it’s busy as not everyone will want to do the walk and climb.. even though it’s really not that bad, and took me about 45 minutes in total each way when walking quite fast from Bowness-on-Windermere town.

Make sure walking up to Orrest Head is on your list of things to do in Lake Windermere!

Beautiful Views from Orrest Head!

Orrest Head is one of the top places to visit in Lake Windermere!

Walk around the edge of Lake Windermere

Just because you see everyone sitting around Bowness Bay on Lake Windermere when you arrive on foot, by bus or by driving this doesn’t mean there isn’t more of the Lake to be seen close by.

Walk down Glebe Road past the car park and continue to go straight, walking away from Bowness Bay, go through a gate and you’ll be on a footpath that takes you out onto the Lake further up. It was so much quieter here when I went, there are no shops or boat piers selling tickets, just people lying on the grass enjoying the sun and taking a walk by Lake Windermere.

If you keep following the footpath around you end up at another small bay. There’s also a footpath that goes inland and links back up with Glebe Road and even though you’re so close to the town and so much civilisation, these few meters of footpaths really made me feel like I was in the middle of the Countryside, even though I was, but elsewhere it was quite busy, and here it wasn’t at all!

Walking around Lake Windermere will get you away from the crowds!

Make sure that this side of the lake is on your things to do in Lake Windermere list!

I hope these things help give you an idea of activities to do in Lake Windermere and things to do in Lake Windermere on a busy day especially to help avoid the crowds!

Still, looking for accommodation in Lake Windermere? I suggest these hotels:

Bowness-on-Windermere

Budget – Oakfold House

Mid Range – Craig Manor Hotel

Splurge – Burnside Hotel & Spa

Windermere Town has a train station and there are regular public buses connecting the areas so if you want to travel there independently, check the best train times and prices on The Train Line .

• To see what I got up to during my full 3 days in the Lake District have a read of this post:
• 3 Amazing Days in the Lake District from London with Rabbie’s Tours!
• How to do Dale Head Walk from Honister!
• 10 Easy Lake District Walks!
• For more of my England Adventures have a look here:
• All England Posts!

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Wednesday 15th of May 2019

Hello! Very helpful article :) Could you please share the company you did the cruise with or where you bought your tickets from? Ive been looking online and the only evening cruise Ive found is a buffect cruise which costs 32 pounds per person, I would rather do a shorter cruise with no food.

TheWanderingQuinn

Hello, thank you. I can’t remember the name but when you’re by the lake there are a few companies selling boat trips and one selling the evening cruise so just wait until you are there, although if you can, buy the ticket a few hours earlier to ensure you get a ticket but no one else preorders so I’m sure it’ll be fine. Enjoy :)

Friday 12th of October 2018

I love the look of the cruise! So many lovely places, you’ve really made me want to visit! I just wish it wasn’t quite such a long drive from the south west - how did you get there?!

I know it’s long isn’t it! I got a train there from London and did a tour with Rabbies Tours :) Hope you make it there!

Windermere Tourist Information Centre

Visit Windermere, it is the perfect Lakeland destination all year round. With the shores of the lake so close, you are never short of fantastic scenery or leisure activities. Several local viewpoints offer panoramic views of both the lake and more distant mountains.

Bustling with shops and different dining experiences to suit everyone you will be spoilt for choice.

The towns of Windermere and Bowness are at the heart of the Lake District and have been a magnet for visitors for centuries. With easy access to the lakeshore and panoramic views of the lake and surrounding fells, it’s easy to see why the area is so popular. Access to the lake is actually made 1 mile further from Windermere town centre at Bowness-On-Windermere.

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Top Attractions

in Windermere

If you’re looking for a range of attractions, things to do and ways of getting around the Lake District then look no further. The Lake District is the adventure capital of the UK so you can guarantee when you visit you will find a new experience. If adventure isn’t your thing then fear not we have attractions for everyone from the Windermere Jetty to a cruise on Lake Windermere and stepping into the World of Beatrix Potter, Windermere alone has attractions to suit everyone even on the rainy days!

If you fancy seeing more of the Lake District but want to arrive but train or want to leave the car parked. Get off the beaten track with Mountain Goat sightseeing tours of the Lake District by far the best way to see the stunning scenery.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Lake District.

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Windermere Lake Cruises

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What visitors are saying about Windermere

We have visited Lake Windermere numerous times and it never fails to impress. It is absolutely stunning, we always go on the boat to Ambleside. Always friendly and very informative...

Julie T - Heywood, United Kingdom

Memories forever

Such a wonderful, tranquil. peaceful, picturesque place. We walked 5 miles along the lake in awe of its beauty. We took a boat out with our 5 year old who was ecstatic on the lake and loved every second. We took our boy to the climbing center near the lake which he absolutely loved and then we ate at a local cafe taking in...

Charliee Dee - Stafford, United Kingdom

Beautiful views.

Lots to do for all ages. Wonderful walks, quaint little towns with very nice shops. Attractions for the children, Peter Rabbit exhibitions and life under the Lake. Boat trips and much much...

Teresa R - Norwich, United Kingdom

Natural, scenic, attraction.

Travelled to this place on a weekend as an alternative to the scotland, and found a peaceful, natural, scenic attraction. Located at the bottom of a hilltop, the lake is nature's perfect setting of showcasing its...

Mukundsaarang - Chennai , India

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Places to visit and areas of the Lake District National Park

A taste of the lakes.

England's largest National Park is a gem of a place to visit. There are breathtaking lakes, soaring mountains - known locally as 'fells', picturesque valleys and even sandy coastline. Each lake and valley has a distinct character of its own. We would love you to share your experiences, pictures and videos with us through Twitter , Facebook and Instagram .

Popular regions in the Lake District

There are many attractions and places to visit in the Lake District, covering a wide area which is just waiting for you to explore! To make it easier to find the best attractions in the Lake District National Park, we have split them up into the most popular sections. This way you can easily plan out your visit and make the most of your stay.

Enjoy the stunning mountain views around England's largest lake, Windermere and the bustling town of Ambleside. Visit things to do around Windermere. Windermere and the surrounding area is arguably the most famous and popular area in the Lake District.

Explore Coniston

Coniston water is the third longest lake in the Lake District. Get onto the water with boat tours, motor boats, rowing boats, kayaks and paddleboards to hire. Its also a great place for walking and hiking, with guided walks to help show you the way.

Explore Keswick and Derwentwater

Visit Keswick, a bustling market town at the north end of Derwent lake, correctly named Derwentwater. Or explore the quiet valley of Borrowdale at the southern end.

Grasmere and Rydal just north of Ambleside, are two of the smaller more peaceful lakes to visit. Grasmere village is full of charm, places to stay and eat and the famous Grasmere gingerbread shop! You can also visit Wordsworth's grave in the churchyard and buy the legendary Grasmere Gingerbread. With no motor boats, this quieter lake is great for swimming and rowing.

Explore Ullswater and Glenridding

Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, Ullswater is a popular starting point for walkers and climbers. This lovely lake is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery to its south, softening to the gentle hills of the north. The lake is the second largest in England at seven and a half miles long, but is less than a mile across.

Explore the Langdale Valley

Home to a breathtaking valley, countless walking and camping hotspots, Langdale Valley is perfect for those that love the outdoors. The Langdale area runs west of Ambleside up to the Langdale Pikes. It splits into two valleys, Great Langdale and Little Langdale. It includes the lovely village of Elterwater and Chapel Stile.

Explore the Northern Lakes

Visit Buttermere, Crummock, Loweswater and Bassenthwaite lakes, the North Lakes is possibly the most peaceful part of the district with many features of historical interest to be explored. With no motor boats, they are great choice to go for a swim, a kayak, a canoe, a paddleboard, or just a peaceful lake shore walk.

Explore Wastwater

Surrounded by mountains, Red Pike, Kirk Fell, Great Gable and Scafell Pike, Wastwater is the deepest and perhaps the most awe-inspiring of all the lakes, - in Wasdale - to the west of the National Park. The view from the south-western end of the lake near the youth hostel was voted Britain’s favourite view in 2007.

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THE 10 BEST Things to Do Near Lake Windermere, England

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Things to Do near Lake Windermere

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• Windermere & Lake District Tour from Manchester Including Cruise
• Mountain Goat Full Day Tour: Ten Lakes Tour of the Lake District
• Beatrix Potter's Half Day Lake District Tour Including Lake Cruise
• Beatrix Potter: Morning Half Day with an Expert Guide - includes entrance fees
• 8 Lakes and Magnificent Scenery - Afternoon Half Day Tour
• (0.14 mi) FAB Home Interiors
• (0.28 mi) Roly's Fudge Bowness-on-Windermere
• (0.25 mi) Lakeland Potteries
• (0.35 mi) Herdy
• (0.34 mi) The Toy Works
• Discover over 532 restaurants near Lake Windermere
• Discover over 1,000 hotels near Lake Windermere

Best places to stay in Lake Windermere (Area & Accommodation Guide)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: November 23, 2023

Looking for the best places to stay in Lake Windermere? Discover the best options from budget friendly B&Bs to boutique hotels and luxury country spa hotels. We have curated the best accommodation in Windermere for every travel style and budget.

Are you planning a visit to the beautiful Lake District National Park in Cumbria England? Its stunning scenery, woodland, waterfalls, lakes and tarns make this a popular destination at all times of year.

However, deciding where to stay in the Lake District can be tricky. There are so many wonderful places to choose from how do you decide which is the right place for your travel style and budget?

Whether you are looking for a 4-star hotel, a cosy lodge or cottage on the shore of Lake Windermere, a luxury country house hotel or a budget-friendly B&B we have curated the very best accommodation options for your stay in Lake Windermere.

Best places to stay in Lake Windermere – top picks

Location guide – best towns & villages for your stay in lake windermere, best places to stay in lake windermere by accommodation style, bowness in windermere, windermere village, lakeside & newby bridge, coniston village, visiting the lake district.

Quick picks – Best places to stay in the Windermere by location & accommodation style

• Bowness in Windermere – ⛵️ Best for boat trips across the lake
• Ambleside – 👟 Best for walks and hikes
• Windermere Village – 🛤 Best for mainline rail connections
• Lakeside & Newby Bridge – 🚂 Best for Haverthwaite Railway

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Best luxury hotel in Windermere – The Samling

🍴 Best Windermere hotel for foodies – The Glenburn

👨‍👩‍👦‍👦 Best family-friendly accommodation in Windermere – Bluebell Lodge

🍼 Best Place To Stay With Babies And Toddlers In The Lake District – Lakeland Leisure Park

🐶 Best dog-friendly luxury hotel in Lake Windermere – Puddle Duck Lodge

🛁 Best spa hotels in Lake Windermere – Beaumont House

🏠 Best Windermere holiday cottages – T’whit T’woo

❤️ Most romantic hotel – The Hideaway

🌲 Best log cabins on Lake Windermere – Woodland Cottage

🐶 Best dog-friendly log cabin – Woodland Cottage

🛏 Best B&B in Lake Windermere – Netherdene Country House Bed & Breakfast

Best hotels on the shores of Lake Windermere

Lake Windermere is located in the South Lakes area of the Lake District and is the largest natural lake in England. It stretches for 18 km and covers an area of 14.73 square km. There are lots of things to do in and around Lake Windermere which makes this area of the Lake District particularly popular with visitors.

The main towns on the shores of Lake Windermere are Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere Village and Ambleside. Around the lake, accommodation can also be found in many of the smaller villages and towns such as Lakeland and Newby Bridge. Additionally, the villages of Grasmere, Troutbeck and Coniston near Lake Windermere are also worth considering.

Many of the more exclusive hotels are found on private estates with beautiful grounds, stunning gardens and fabulous views of the lake. We start with these luxury hotels which overlook Lake Windermere but are located outside the towns before exploring accommodation options in the towns and villages on the lake.

THE SAMLING

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

  Choose mountain or lake views + a hot tub!

HOLBECK GHYLL

4-red star country house hotel with a boutique spa

LANGDALE CHASE HOTEL

Beautiful country house is set right on the lake’s shore

⛵️ Best for boat trips across the lake

Bowness-in-Windermere is located in the heart of the Lake District and is Windermere’s largest town. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Lake District.

The town is filled with late 19 th century residences, built by wealthy businessmen who took advantage of the lake views.

Bowness-on-Windermere is popular year-round and is one of the main centres of Outdoor Activities in the UK. If you enjoy getting outside in beautiful natural settings Bowness certainly delivers. Enjoy the beautiful natural setting, go sailing or participate in other water sports on the lake. It is also a popular hiking destination.

Where to stay in Bowness

PUDDLE DUCK LODGE

Complementary breakfast. Adults only. Pet friendly

MACDONALD OLD ENGLAND HOTEL & SPA

Award-winning restaurant, a beauty spa and scenic views

LAURA ASHLEY THE BELSFIELD

An award-winning hotel that stands in 6 acres of gardens  

🍴 Where to eat in Bowness

• The Lindeth Howe hotel restaurant for lakeside views
• Jackson’s Bistro for a homey feel and amazing food
• The Magic Roundabout for breakfast or lunch
• Graze café for Japanese and Vietnamese snacks as well as vegan and gluten-free options

👟 Best for walks and hikes

Ambleside is filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants and has everything you could need for a relaxing vacation surrounded by the best nature has to offer.

If you enjoy history Ambleside has a number of historical landmarks like the Bridge House, which was built over 300 years ago, and St. Mary’s Church, built in 1850.

Ambleside is better known for its outdoor activities and is very popular with walkers, abseilers, and climbers. The nearby Lake District National Park Visitor Centre attraction offers 30 acres of garden along with outdoor activities like boating, laser clay shooting, treetop trekking, and archers.

Where to stay in Ambleside

Ambleside Lake House

Family-run 4 star guest house

Regent Hotel By The Lake

⭐️⭐️⭐️

Fabulous food in the hotel’s lovely restaurant

Ambleside Townhouse

Excellent location, very comfortable rooms, great staff

🍴 Where to eat in Ambleside

• The Lake Road Kitchen for fine dining with a focus on North European flavors
• The Priest Hole Restaurant & Tea Rooms for locally sourced food in one of the oldest buildings in town
• Wabi Sabi for amazing Japanese food
• Zeffirellis & Fellinis for delicious vegetarian that even meat-lovers will enjoy

🛤 Best for mainline rail connections

If you are travelling the UK by train (see my 14 days UK best of Britain by train itinerary ) or prefer to take the train to the Lake District you will arrive at Windermere (it is the only train station in the lakes)

Located just over a mile from Windermere lake, Windermere Village is partially merged with the older town of Bowness-on-Windermere but has its own separate town centre. It’s arguably one of the most beautiful places in the Lake District, and one of the favourite places of children’s author Beatrix Potter.

Take the walk up to Orrest Head from Windermere village for stunning views over the ranges and check out the World of Beatrix Potter for an interactive exhibit about her life and inspirations.

Where to stay in Windermere Village

The Hideaway At Windermere

Adult’s only with stylish rooms and great service

Jerichos Boutique Accommodation

Guest house with stylish decor

Southview Guest House and Indoor Pool 

Charming 4-star guest house

🍴 Where to eat in Windermere Village

Like most towns in the Lake District, Windermere Village has become known as a foodie destination. So, make sure you try some of the delicious local foods at:

• The Crafty Baa for craft ales and beers, as well as hearty, delicious food on a budget
• The Boathouse Bar & Restaurant for spectacular views over the lake and delicious food
• Choccobar, which offers all the chocolatey treats you could ever dream of
• The Village Inn for a laidback feel and lots of meat dishes

🚂 Best for Haverthwaite Railway

Newby Bridge is a small area that has a lot going on. It’s located on the southern end of Lake Windermere. A popular tourist destination in the Lake District , this is the ideal destination if you’d like to be on the lake but further away from the main tourist spots. It offers the same stunning natural landscapes and views as other popular towns in the area but is a bit smaller and quieter.

Newby Bridge is the ideal base for hiking in the surrounding natural areas. It also offers the Aquarium of the Lakes, where you can learn about the creatures living in the lake. If you go to the Aquarium, make sure you have a meal at the restaurant on the Pier for beautiful lake views. You should also take a ride on the iconic Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway.

Where to stay in Lakeside & Newby Bridge

Knoll Country House 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Victorian country house with log fires

Lakeside Hotel and Spa

  Stunning views of Lake Windermere

The Swan Hotel and Spa 

Features a children’s playground and views of the river

🍴Where to eat in Lakeside & Newby Bridge

There are some great places to have a meal near Newby Bridge and the surrounding area. Here’s where you should have a meal:

• The Swan Hotel and Spa for great food and stunning surroundings
• Newby Bridge Hotel for classical British food
• Anglers Arms for a good beer garden

Best Accommodation near Windermere

Many of the beautiful villages located within a short drive of Windermere lake also make the perfect base for a Lake District holiday.

If you haven’t found what you are looking for the villages of Grasmere, Troutbeck or Coniston near Windermere may have the perfect place for that special stay .

Coniston is a small village with a population of around 1,000 people. It’s in the southern part of the Lake District National Park and close to the lake known as Coniston Water. It’s also close to the Old Man of Coniston, one of the highest fells in the Lake District.

With the fells so close, Coniston Village is famous for its hiking trails near the Old Man of Coniston, as well as nearby Furness Fells and Grizedale Forest. The climbing is also great in this area if you like a little more adrenalin.  There’s a ferry service that will take you across the lake to other areas, as well as the beautiful Tilberthwaite Slate quarries to explore.

Coniston Village also offers great food choices, so here’s where you should eat while you’re staying in the area:

• The Steam Bistro
• Sara’s Indian
• Lakes Hot Spot
• The Terrace Coffee House and Restaurant

Famous poet William Wordsworth called Grasmere “the loveliest spot that man hath ever found” and you can learn more about his life at the Dove Cottage and the Wordsworth Museum. Grasmere is also known for its unique collection of shops, so if you want souvenirs that are a little different, this is where you’ll find them

Like most other villages in the area, Grasmere offers beautiful natural surroundings, great walks and water sports. However, it’s also unique because of its events. Grasmere holds events year-round, including the iconic Grasmere Sports where villages compete in traditional sporting events. This is an event that truly isn’t to be missed!

While you’re in Grasmere, you’ll need to eat, and here are some of the best places to do it:

• Sarah Nelson’s Grasmere Gingerbread shop, which isn’t a restaurant but has amazing gingerbread that locals and tourists queue up for
• The Jumble Room
• Lewis’s Bistro

The tiny village of Troutbeck is a secluded gem. The National Trust property of Townend is located in this unique area, which is basically a series of tiny hamlets along an old valley road. If you’re looking for an unspoilt natural setting, traditional, and functional architecture, then this village is where you’ll find it.

Although Troutbeck feels isolated, it’s still very close to the rest of the Lake District, so you can travel over there whenever you need or want to. It has amazing walks, as well as historical buildings to explore like the Jesus Church. In fact, Troutbeck has 26 listed buildings dating from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries, as well as rugged upland scenery across the Central Lake District.

Troutbeck is a local area, where everyone knows each other, but you can still get some amazing meals at places like:

• Queenshead Troutbeck
• The Old Post Office
• Mortal Man Motel

The Inn At Grasmere

( Grasmere )

Indoor swimming pool, stylish rooms and a mini-gym

The Coniston Inn

(Coniston Village)

Enjoy dinner in the inn’s restaurant with spectacular mountain views

Netherdene Country House Bed & Breakfast

(Troutbeck)

Family-run bed and breakfast with free Wi-Fi and views of the fells

We have more helpful and informative posts to help you plan your trip to the Lake District:

• WHERE TO VISIT – Guide to the most beautiful Lake District villages and towns many of which also feature in our choice of the most beautiful villages in England too!
• PLANNING YOUR ITINERARY – One day in the Lake District Itinerary
• OTHER ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS – Best places to stay in the Lake District
• PLAN YOUR TRIP – Everything you need to know is in our Lake District Travel Guide
• WALKS AND HIKES – 11 of the Best Lake District Walks & Hikes (+ maps)
• WHAT ELSE IS THERE TO SEE? Check out our top 10 things to do in North West England
• TOURS – The Lake District is included in a number of escorted tours of Britain
• WHAT TO PACK – Check out our UK packing list for all seasons
• WHAT TO READ – Our recommended books about the Lake District
• MORE PLACES TO STAY IN THE UK – Cotswolds , Welsh Castles

Here are seven places for you to explore in Cumbria

With the hustle and bustle of the school year restarted and the sun shining bright, it's an ideal time for quieter exploration of Cumbria and the Lake District.

The region welcomes visitors to soak in its rich cultural, artistic, and natural beauty by exploring the historic houses, manicured gardens, regal castles, informative museums, and vibrant cultural attractions.

Here are seven places for you to visit.

Take a step back in time in Brantwood, Coniston, the erstwhile abode of Victorian polymath John Ruskin.

Now, transformed into a museum, it showcases Ruskin's life and work, from his art and philosophy to his geological fascinations and social reforms.

Youngsters can test their knowledge with quizzes while older family members gaze at the fine paintings and personal treasures which belonged to Ruskin.

Dalemain Historic Mansion and Gardens

Dalemain Historic Mansion and Gardens, on the fringes of the Eastern Fells, captivates globetrotters with its charm.

Home to an extensive collection of artefacts, ceramics, and art, Dalemain also organises the world-famous Marmalade Festival and the Cumbria Classic and Motorsport Show.

The house has been owned by the Hasell-McCosh family since 1679.

Beatrice Hasell-McCosh said: “Dalemain is a family home, full of humour and great human energy, reflecting those who live here and the identity of the estate as a working farm.

“The award winning garden sees people consistently returning seasonally to witness the changes and developments of this historic and peaceful setting."

Holker Hall and Gardens

Holker Hall and Gardens, Cark, promises an enriching experience with its grand architecture, sprawling grounds and stirring surroundings.

It's a feast of colour and fragrance in summer when the homegrown flowers are in full bloom.

The fruits and vegetables grown by the hall's diligent gardeners make their way into Holker's mouth-watering culinary offerings.

Hutton-in-the-Forest

Exploring Hutton-in-the-Forest in Penrith is a jaunt through architectural and decorative evolution spread over 400 years.

Whether summoning the mediaeval vibes in the Stone Hall or conjuring up Victorian reveries in the ornate drawing room, every step in Hutton is a step back in time.

It is described by house administrator Pamela Davidson as a hidden gem.

She said: “This beautiful historic house is home to Lord and Lady Inglewood and has belonged to the family since 1605.

"We all know that Cumbria is famous for its breath-taking scenery, stunning lakes, amazing culture and history but it’s the people that make the biggest difference."

Levens Hall & Gardens

Levens Hall & Gardens, Kendal, is home to the oldest topiary gardens in the world and is at the heart of a buzzing 9,500-acre agricultural estate.

While children revel in outdoor amusements, such as the playground and Willow Labyrinth, adults can delve into the house's evolution captured in a room-by-room quiz.

Mirehouse & Gardens

Mirehouse & Gardens, a family-run historic house, welcomes you with its lakeshore, gardens, and woodland playgrounds.

Youngsters can be entertained with owl hunts and history quizzes, as well as the four woodland play areas. Adults can enjoy the walled bee garden, terraced poetry walk, the heather maze, or tranquil lakeside strolls along Bassenthwaite Lake.

Windermere Lake Cruises

A ever-popular tourist attraction, Windermere Lake Cruises sees people make the most of daily scenic cruises of England's largest lake. Visitors can even hire an electric self-drive boat or traditional row boat to explore the lake at their own pace.

Halfway Point Calculator

Midpoint between two places.

Travelmath helps you figure out the midpoint between two locations based on the driving directions from each starting point. You can find the closest town that is an equal distance from two cities. Use this tool to determine the best city to meet, or to look for interesting stops along the way if you're planning a long road trip and you need to take a break or stay overnight. Search for hotels at the midpoint city to split up your drive, or explore other nearby cities and discover local towns on your trip. If you're meeting a friend halfway in-between, you can figure out how far each person has to drive and how long it will take to arrive at the center. Even if you're separated by water, you can still calculate the straight line geographic midpoint to determine the closest flight distance.

You can also calculate the driving distance or check the total driving time . Or figure out the cost of driving for each person to get to the meeting spot. If you're driving a long distance, it might be useful to get a list of the best places to stop along your entire route.

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Steve Coogan: Windermere is nursing a sewage timebomb

Steve Coogan has accused a water company of creating a “timebomb” in Windermere by dumping untreated sewage in the lake’s catchment.

The comedian joined a protest on Sunday at England’s largest lake against what he said was inaction by Tories, Labour and United Utilities, which serves northwest England.

“If England can’t clean up its crowning glory, then what hope is there?” said the actor, who filmed much of the first series of The Trip in the Lake District with his fellow comedian Rob Brydon.

Coogan is supporting Matt Staniek, 28, a zoologist who is staging his 24th week of a “ sewage strike ” outside a United Utilities information centre at Windermere.

“United Utilities are engaged in a sort of PR exercise … but they’re

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Steve Coogan blasts water company ‘greenwashing’ over Lake Windermere pollution

The comedian called for united utilities to clean up the lake..

Steve Coogan has accused United Utilities of “greenwashing” and “PR spin” as he criticised the company for putting sewage into Lake Windermere.

The I’m Alan Partridge star joined a protest outside the North West water company’s offices near the lake as he called on the Government to compel them to clean up England’s largest lake rather than pay huge dividends to shareholders.

He told ITV’s Good Morning Britain: “United Utilities have a big PR machine and they put nice fancy offices up like this and say we’re working together with the people of Windermere but it’s all a smokescreen to distract attention from what they’ve been doing over the last 30 years, which is putting treated and untreated sewage into Lake Windermere.

Actor Steve Coogan has joined protestors in a very high profile fight to stop sewage being dumped into Lake Windermere in the Lake District by the local water company, United Utilities. He tells @susannareid100 & @edballs that he is calling on the company to clear up the lake. pic.twitter.com/qqXw6NZBel — Good Morning Britain (@GMB) April 15, 2024

“It’s to such an extent that there are toxic levels of algae, there are algae blooms that show the nitrate levels are like through the roof. And they’ve been doing this year on year.”

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He added: “They have been paying out record dividends to shareholders, there’s no excuse for this. We’re telling them to stop putting sewage in the lake and take out what they put in.”

Coogan said the company should not be allowed to pass on the cost of cleaning up to the lake to bill payers but rather should deny their shareholders a dividend for a few years.

He said: “Either they need to do it themselves, which I doubt they will because they are powerless to their shareholders, or the Government needs to act.”

Addressing why is it legal for the company to put sewage in the lake, Coogan said: “What makes it more obscene is it’s almost like the business model is predicated on the ability to put sewage in a lake and not do anything about it, because to sort that problem would require a huge investment that they are not prepared to put into it.”

The actor said the money the company is investing in addressing the issue is “chicken feed” in comparison to the profits and the grants are “PR spin and greenwashing”.

He added: “It is all to stop people looking at the fundamental problem, which is they are the biggest polluters in this country, the biggest water utility company pollutes British waterways.

“The lakes are there for everyone, people who can’t afford holidays abroad to be able to use the lake for recreation and it’s threatening that.”

Asked how he could defend dumping untreated sewage into the lake, Chris Matthews, of United Utilities, told the programme: “We share the concerns that Steve has expressed there, and many other people, about the overflow operations and the impact on local water courses and are investing to tackle this problem.

How can you defend this appalling situation?' – @susannareid100 Susanna challenges Chris Matthews from United Utilities following data that the company dumped more than 27,000 hours worth of untreated sewage since 2020. Mr Matthews is also asked to reveal what the return to… pic.twitter.com/JZDWLfW799 — Good Morning Britain (@GMB) April 15, 2024

“We are investing to tackle this problem here at Windermere, we’ve spent £75 million on our wastewater treatment to halve the amount of phosphorus that goes into the lake.”

He added: “We are taking this problem extremely seriously as part of a huge investment programme.”

He told the show that customer bills will be increasing to help fund the programme. saying: “It’s going to be about £25 a year that bills will go up, about £2 a month, to help fund what is a  £14 billion plan.”

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• #Luxury travel
• #Unusual Moscow
• #Jewish Heritage
• #Russian traditions

Top 10 places for a day trip from Moscow

• #Russian History
• #Special Interest
• #Suburbs of Moscow

Moscow offers tourists many great sights to see, but if you ask locals, they will tell you that Moscow is not all there is to Russia, so it’s worth getting away sometimes. Without exploring further, you miss something of the Russian unique character. If you wonder what to visit near Moscow, we recommend you 10 places where a tourist can go for a refreshing recreation, new impressions, and acquaintance with Russian history and culture.

01 Sergiyev Posad

Sergiyev Posad is one of the most beautiful towns located around Moscow. It’s not only famous for its monastery, the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, but also for the fact that it’s the only town in the Moscow Region that is included in the Golden Ring of Russian cities. Its cities and towns influenced the formation of the Russian Orthodox Church. But the main thing which one should visit Sergiyev Posad is the Lavra for sure. You may spend there all day, walking around and enjoying the sense of its power and strength. You absolutely have to buy some honey cakes as souvenirs for friends and feed Lavra’s pigeons when entering the monastery. Besides, you may visit Sergiyev Posad State History and Art Museum-Reserve, which has quite an impressive collection, take a look at the displays in the National Museum of Toys, and taste truly Russian food in local cafes and restaurants.

You can reach Sergiyev Posad by suburban electric train, by bus, or by car. The electric train departs from the Yaroslavsky rain terminal every thirty minutes, and the trip lasts for an hour and a half. You may take a bus near the ‘VDNKh’ metro station, and you’ll be in Sergiyev Posad in an hour and a half at least and in two hours at most. Your car will take you there in an hour and a half at most, too. You should drive the Yaroslavskoye highway. 

If you want to look at a city that combines hi-tech and historical past, you should absolutely visit Kolomna. It is one of the most famous ancient cities in Russia, a beautiful port on the Oka River. Kolomna has its own Kremlin, which is made of red brick, like the Moscow Kremlin. Inside it, you may find many monasteries and churches, including the one in which Dmitry of the Don, Prince of Moscow, and Grand Prince of Vladimir, had his wedding to the Grand Duchess of Muscovy Eudoxia of Moscow. There is still a reserved residential area which is called Posad, right in the Kremlin territory. The buildings date back to merchants’ times. There are some interesting churches, too. In 2006, the Kolomna Speed Skating Center, known as the Kometa Ice Rink, was opened. Its futuristic look contrast the picturesque views of the ancient Kolomna Kremlin and its beautiful churches.

The best way to reach Kolomna is an electric train that departs from the Kazansky rail terminal. The trip lasts for two and a half, or one hour and forty minutes by the Ryazansky express. You can also choose a bus from the Vykhino metro station (1.4 to 4 hrs due to traffic jams) or a car.

03 Shakhmatovo

Shakhmatovo was a manor of the well-known Russian lyrical poet Alexander Blok. His grandfather Andrey Nikolaevich Beketov bought it, and young Blok used to spend it there every summer. Later, he moved there with his wife Lyubov Mendeleeva, who was the daughter of the famous chemist Dmitri Mendeleev. Blok’s grandfather decided to buy Shakhmatovo because of its picturesque views. They are really very nice, and the better time to visit this place is spring and summer. According to his own project, Blok’s mansion is a wooden house built by the poet but burnt by peasants in 1921. It was rebuilt in 2001, and since that time, it often holds big events and excursions. There is also a stable in Shakhmatovo territory, and everyone interested may ride a horse, or rent a bicycle in the summertime, or ski in wintertime.

Shakhmatovo can be reached by car because other options combine train departs from the Leningradsky rail terminal, then changes to bus till the Tarakanovo manor, then goes by foot, or bus from the Vodny stadion metro station, and then also by foot. Travel time is 1.4 hrs.

04 Zakharovo

It is a manor located in the Odintsovo District of the Moscow Region, where everybody interested may learn more about the greatest Russian poet Alexander Sergeevich Pushkin. In 1804, Zakharova was bought by his grandmother Mariya Alexeevna Gannibal, and young Pushkin was brought here every summer from 1805 through to 1810. He recalled Zakharovo in his poems as well. Now, the house which Pushkin visited as a child doesn’t exist anymore, but it was rebuilt at the beginning of the 20th century on the former basis. Now it is a quiet and nice place with a museum dedicated to the famous poet's childhood, where one may spend a day enjoying the spirit of the time when young Pushkin ran across manor’s paths. From that time, linden park, approach alleys, and pond were saved. Not very far away from Zakharovo, another place connected to Pushkin’s name is located. It’s called Bolshiye Vyazyomy, and there the young Pushkin’s brother Nikolenka was buried after his death at the age of six.

The best way to go there is by train, which departs from the Belorussky rail terminal and goes to Zvenigorod. You should leave at the Zakharovo station. Travel time is an hour and a half.

05 Borodino

Borodino is truly a sacred place for all those who honor the great Russian past. The Borodino Battlefield held the most important fighting during the Patriotic War of 1812. This place was made a museum area in 1839, just after 27 years after the battle. More than two thousand memorable things are stored in the museum, including some monuments of military honor, architectural objects dated back to the 19th and 20th centuries, and fortification facilities. Besides, there is also an exhibition dedicated to the famous novel ‘War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy, who visited Borodino in person and described this battle in his book. Every year, reconstruction events occur in Borodino, which is considered the best for visiting. But if you want to feel the spirit of the battle past, it’s better to visit it in more quiet time.

To go there, you should take a train from the Belorussky rail terminal, leave in Mozhaysk, and then change to the bus. The whole travel time is about 2 hrs.

06 Melikhovo

Melikhovo is considered one of the most important museums dedicated to Anton Pavlovich Chekhov, one of the brightest Russian writers and playwrights. Chekhov had been living in Melikhovo from March 1892 until August 1899 with his parents and close relatives. Melikhovo is where he wrote his plays “Uncle Vanya” and “The Seagull.” He sold this manor before going to the Crimea, and it became vague after the revolution. But in 1939, it was decided to establish a museum based on Chekhov’s place of living. Anton Chekhov’s sister Maria and his nephew initiated the process, and the museum opened its doors in 1941. Now Melikhovo shows the path of Chekhov not only as a writer but as a doctor and public figure as well. Some paintings of famous artists such as Isaac Levitan and Vasily Polenov, who were Chekhov’s friends, are being stored. It’s a nice place to visit to learn more about Chekov’s life and work.

The best way to reach Melikhovo is by bus, which departs from the Yuzhnaya metro station, and goes to Protvino, Obolensk, or Serpukhov, or by the direct 365 bus. Also, you may choose an electric train from the Kursky rail terminal. Travel time is 1,5 hrs.

07 Abramtsevo

This is another manor connected to the lives of important Russian people — not only writers but also artists. Abramtsevo, located close to Sergiev Posad, was a property of Sergey Aksakov, a writer and a Slavophiles, and later of Savva Mamontov, a well-known patron of the arts. Abramtsevo used to be visited by writers Ivan Turgenev and Nikolay Gogol, poet Fyodor Tyutchev, and such artists as Isaac Levitan, Vasily Polenov, and Mikhail Vrubel, and by the great Russian singer Fyodor Shalyapin as well. The exhibition in the museum is dedicated to famous Abramtsevo owners and guests. It was made a museum in 1917, and its first curator was Alexandra Mamontova, Savva Mamontov’s daughter. The main sightseeing view is a wooden building made in the 18th century and saved in Savva Mamontov's form in the 19th century. There are also some bright buildings such as hut pavilion or hut bath-house. You have to remember that the main manor house may be visited only with an excursion group on the weekend.

Electric train to Abramtsevo departs from the Yaroslavsky rail terminal and goes to Sergiyev Posad or Aleksandrov. You may reach Abramtsevo by bus as well. Travel time is an hour and a half.

08 Yasnaya Polyana

Yasnaya Polyana is known as a place of residence of the famous Russian writer Leo Tolstoy. He was born there, wrote his novels ‘War and Peace’ and ‘Anna Karenina,’ died and is buried. He’d been living in this manor for fifty years. Yasnaya Polyana is located in the Tula Region, 200 km from Moscow to the south. This manor consists of many interesting and significant objects. For example, the interior of the main house where Tolstoy lived is being kept like it was in 1910 — it was the last year for the writer. All things in the house are considered to be personal belongings of Tolstoy and his family. Besides the main house, the Yasnaya Polyana ensemble includes the so-called Volkonsky house — the house of Tolstoy’s grandfather, the Kuzminskiye wing, which is a part of the oldest house where Tolstoy was born, now non-existent, the birch alley made by Sofya Andreevna, Leo Tolstoy’s wife, stable, ponds, and favorite Tolstoy’s bench. Leo Tolstoy’s tomb is located close to the ravine's edge — it’s where he wanted to be buried.

The whole travel time to Yasnaya Polyana is about 4 hrs as long as it’s located near Tula. It can be reached by train, or by car. First, you should go to Tula by train from the Kursky rail terminal or by bus from the Tsaritsyno, Domodedovskaya, Prazhskaya, or Ulitsa Akademika Yangelya metro stations, and then change to bus, or by trolley bus for Yasnaya Polyana.

09 Polotnyany Zavod

This place which title can be translated into Russian as ‘linen factory,’ is known for its connection to the Goncharov family, from which Natalia Goncharova, Alexander Pushkin’s wife, originated. The real linen factory was built on the bank of the Sukhodrev River in the Kaluga Region in 1718 by Peter the Great order. Goncharov, Natalia’s great grandfather, was one of the companions who participated in the factory’s development. Every companion built his own manor close to the factory’s building, and even for those times, it was quite an uncommon situation. Polotnyany Zavod was visited by the empress Catherine the Great, the Field Marshal Mikhail Kutuzov, and Nikolay Vasilievich Gogol. In 1999, when everybody celebrated the bicentennial of Alexander Pushkin, Polotnyany Zavod was made a museum, and now it welcomes many guests who come to see dramatized excursions and to learn more about Pushkin times. The poet himself visited this place two times, in 1830 and 1834. Polotnyany Zavod has the most picturesque panoramic view in the Kaluga Region.

To go to Polotnyany Zavod, you should take a bus from the bus station near the Tyoply Stan metro station, and go to Kondorovo. It takes a little more than three hours.

Tarus is just another little town in Kaluga Region, which is considered to be typical Russian. It’s located on the left bank of the Oka River and has really magnificent views. It feels like time stands still there. Tarusa managed to preserve the best from the past, and even now, it consists mostly of one-storeyed houses made of wood or stone. They say it’s because Tarusa residents declined railroad construction. This town became popular among Russian intellectuals at the beginning of the 20th century when famous artist Vasily Polenov discovered it and told about Tarusa to anyone in Moscow and St. Petersburg. Tarusa is known to be a hometown for Russian writer Marina Tsvetaeva, whose family spent summertime there. Tsvetaeva museum is a museum every guest of Tarusa should visit for sure. Besides, Konstantin Paustovsky, another famous Russian writer, lived there till his death and was buried in Tarusa. The absolutely must-do in Tarusa is to walk along the embankment of the Oka River.

The best way to reach Tarusa is by direct bus which departs from the bus station near the ‘Tyoply Stan’ metro station. Travel time is about two hours.

• Baikal Lake read
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• The Altai Mountains read
• Siberia read
• Mountain Elbrus read
• 1. Sergiyev Posad
• 3. Shakhmatovo
• 4. Zakharovo
• 5. Borodino
• 6. Melikhovo
• 7. Abramtsevo
• 8. Yasnaya Polyana
• 9. Polotnyany Zavod

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High School Sports | Dramatic duel for elite Winter Springs and…

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High School Sports

High school sports | dramatic duel for elite winter springs and windermere weightlifters ended in stunning fashion.

Two-time state champ Andres Giron won’t be able to make it a three-peat in next week’s FHSAA Class 3A boys weightlifting championship meet.

In a stunning turn of events, the Windermere High School senior failed to make a successful clean-and-jerk lift at last week’s Region 2 meet and bombed out of title contention.

Giron, Florida’s weightlifter of the year as a junior, lost it all because he made a daring all-or-nothing bid to top Orlando area rival Kody Taylor of Winter Springs at the regional level. Taylor exceeded Giron’s lifts for the 183-pound weight class in regular season and district meets, setting the stage for what was expected to be a dramatic matchup between state favorites who developed a friendship as they kept track of each other’s performances.

Taylor took the regional lead by lifting a career-best 260 pounds in the Snatch phase, 5 pounds better than Giron managed.

In his attempt to trump Taylor, Giron asked for a massive 330 pounds to be placed on the bar for his go-in clean-and-jerk lift. His hope was to make that on his first attempt and then pump 340 and 350 on his two final lifts to pave the way for victories in the Olympic style and Traditional titles.

It didn’t happen.

Giron tried 330 three times. Three times he lifted the bar from the floor to his shoulders but was unable to hoist the weight over his head to complete the jerk technique.

“I felt confident going with 330 after smoking 315 in the back room in warmups,” Giron said in a phone interview several days after the meet at Freedom High School. “My thinking was ‘Go big or I might go home’. Unfortunately, not everything went as planned.”

Windermere weightlifter Andres Giron seeks FHSAA championship and citizenship

It was Taylor’s turn to dominate. He powered up 300, 315 and 330 on his three clean-and-jerk lifts and finished with a 330 bench press. Taylor claimed region titles with a 660 total in the Traditional competition (bench and clean and jerk) and 590 in the Olympic style (snatch and clean and jerk). Both are the best for 3A this season.

As Giron stepped onto the platform and reached down to grasp the bar for his third and final clean-and jerk-attempt with a hushed crowd of teammates, coaches, lifters and spectators looking on, Taylor could be heard saying, “Come on Andres. … You got this.”

When Giron failed, he walked — head down — off the platform and out the gymnasium door at Freedom.

“I feel so bad. He’s always been my bud and competitor,” Taylor said moments later. “He’s a senior and he’s worked so hard.”

Giron’s achievements during the past three seasons, including placing in national meets, spurred Taylor.

“I watched crazy lifts Andres was posting [on social media]. It gave me major motivation to get stronger.”

A year ago Giron swept state titles in the 169 weight class, totaling 660 in Traditional and 580 in Olympic. Taylor, in the same weight division, took third in both with totals of 620 and 525.

While Giron struggled with hamstring and shoulder injuries this season, Taylor overcame October tendinitis in both knees to excel.

“I’m all the way back. I feel 100% now,” Taylor said.

Giron hopes Taylor takes home the state titles.

“It was two of the best in the sport going at it,” Giron said of the region meet. “I respect Kody entirely as an athlete and as a friend. I’m just rooting for him now. If all goes well, he will be the state champ for sure.”

Giron is moving on. His application to UCF was accepted and he plans to commute for college and continue to train in weightlifting while studying engineering.

Meanwhile, Taylor’s qualifying totals are 50 pounds better than any other state qualifier in his weight class. A Winter Springs teammate, Luke Deal, was second in Olympic qualifying with a 540 region mark.

Taylor hopes to go at least 10 pounds higher for all three lifts at the April 19 state meet at RP Funding Center in Lakeland.

“Winning at state would be amazing,” Taylor said. “It’s been my goal.”

Varsity content editor Buddy Collings can be reached by email at [email protected].

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