A family uses stepping stones to cross a river.

What to do during Half -Term in Windermere

There is no better setting for your next family adventure than the stunning surrounds of the Lake District. If you’re planning a half term holiday at Windermere Manor Hotel you are on your way to making unforgettable memories as you and your family reconnect to nature. With plenty of activities on offer in the local area, there is something to keep everyone happy and entertained during your stay. 

Lake cruises


Windermere is home to the largest natural lake in England, so you would be missing out if you didn’t visit it during your stay. Rather than just visiting, why not take it one step further, by embarking on a lake cruise? There are different cruises available to suit everyone, with shorter cruises lasting 1.25 to 1.5 hours or longer cruises lasting 3 hours. Make the most of your visit to Windermere and seize the opportunity to take stunning photos and make lasting memories while sailing down the lake.

Prices vary, children under 5 travel free and there are also family tickets available.

Visit https://www.windermere-lakecruises.co.uk/ to book.

Tourist on a boat called SWAN sail on Lake Windermere

Lake District tour


Are you looking to explore the stunning scenery of the Lake District, but would rather be on land than on the water? If so I would recommend booking a trip with Mountain Goat Tours, who will pick you up from the hotel and give you a day to remember. The tours on offer will take you to some of the most beautiful places around the Lakes.

Chose between the Lake District Instagram Tour or the Six or Ten Lake Spectacular tours. Alternatively, Mountain Goat offers a Beatrix Potter’s Favourite Countryside tour, a High Adventure tour or a Roman Britain and Hadrian’s Wall tour. As you can see Mountain Goat have so many options that you will be spoilt for choice.

Prices start from £26 for a Half day.

Visit https://www.mountain-goat.com/Lake-District for more info on dates and tours.

Grizedale forest


If you are looking for somewhere to help you and your family reconnect to nature then where better than Grizedale Forest, which is located within 30 minutes drive of Windermere Manor hotel? This woodland adventure has so many activities that there is something for everyone! Grizedale offers 10 walking trails and 9 cycling trails, sculpture in the forest, Go Ape and a Forest Segway experience. If this isn’t enough, there is also a café, picnic areas and a play area.

All day parking is £8.00, to visit the forest is FREE, activities are charged individually.

Just check the website to find out, if the forest is open! Area can be closed with high winds.

https://www.forestryengland.uk/grizedale

Water pours down mossy rocks in Grizedale Forest, Ambleside

The World of Beatrix Potter


Just 4 minutes down the road from Windermere Manor is a magical experience for the whole family at the World of Beatrix Potter. This attraction brings your favourite characters from the beloved children's books to life. Your adventure begins with a short film in the film room for a history of Beatrix Potter and her stories. Once you leave the film room you will take a walk through iconic locations such as Jemima’s Woodland and Peter Rabbit’s Garden as the stories jump off the page. If you are looking for a short break from the excitement then why not visit the café for sandwiches, coffee or a slice of cake. Then on your way out make a stop at the gift shop so that you can take a piece of the Beatrix Potter magic home.

Entry prices are £8.20 for an adult, £4.20 for a child (3-16), under 3’s go free and a family tickets is £23.00. Entry to the gift shop and café is free!

Hop - Skip - Jump into the World of Beatrix Potter here https://www.hop-skip-jump.com/

Flowers, plants and a statue of children at the World of Beatrix Potter
A statue of Peter Rabbit munching on a carrot in the gardens at the World of Beatrix Potter

The grounds at Windermere Manor


If you don’t fancy going out for the day you don’t need to leave the grounds of the hotel to have some fun during your stay.

If you are looking to make a splash this half term then the indoor heated swimming pool is perfect for you. Open 8am to 8pm every day, our pool is open for you to take a warm, relaxing dip or play around with your kids.

Or if you fancy something different why not venture into the grounds for a game on our giant chess set. Whether it’s your first game or you’re a Grand Master, put your chess skills to the test and have a giant amount of fun!

Put your strategy skills to the test on the giant chess set at the foot of the front lawn
The swimming pool at Windermere Manor hotel