Discover Windermere from Old England Hotel & Spa

An Ideal Base for Exploration

Old England is a short walk to bustling Bowness on Windermere, once a small fishing village but by the mid-19th century, a popular town that thrived almost entirely on tourism and holiday homes.

It was also at the centre of the boat-building industry that provided yachts, rowing boats and steam launches - still integral to life on the lake today.

The best way to really enjoy Windermere is to get onto the lake and there’s something for everyone. If you’re an action-seeker looking to kayak, canoe, paddleboard, water ski, row or sail, you’ll find marinas, sailing and windsurfing centres and activity companies galore based around the lake, with options to suit all levels of experience. However, there’s no shame in opting for a lake cruise and giving your full attention to the stunning beauty of the landscape around you.

If you prefer the lake as a backdrop, the hills and fells around Windermere provide great cycling country, with the western shore of the lake especially good for bikes. Walkers are spoiled for choice; you can keep it simple with a pleasant lakeside saunter or embark on an exhilarating fell-top hike.

This area is great for families too, with the excitement of lakeside life a thrilling backdrop to a range of water-based activities, plus some nearby attractions to entertain even the youngest children.