Bowness-on-Windermere cottages

Bowness-on-Windermere Cottages

With traditional Lakeland buildings, characterful streets, and a spot on the edge of Lake Windermere, it’s easy to see why Bowness-on-Windermere is one of the most popular places to stay for a Lake District holiday.  Whether you fancy walking, relaxing on the water or sampling some delicious local food, Bowness-on-Windermere has you covered with a wide variety of self-catering cottages available, including many dog-friendly options.

Why stay in Bowness-on-Windermere

Our 2026 Lake District Uncovered survey found that walking is one of the biggest reasons people holiday in Cumbria with more than three-quarters of respondents saying it influences their decision to visit the Lakes. Luckily, there are lots of great walking routes to try from a Bowness-in-Windermere holiday cottage, including climbing up Brant Fell for a spectacular view across Windermere to taking a lakeside ramble to Cockshott Point and Ferry Nab.

There are also plenty of pubs and places to eat in Bowness where you can relax and recharge the batteries after a scenic stroll. Options range from traditional dog-friendly pubs like The Flying Pig to fine dining at Porto, classic fish and chips at Vinegar Jones and cocktails at the Fizzy Tarte.       

Other things to do in Bowness-on-Windermere

One of the big draws of Bowness-on-Windermere as a holiday destination is its proximity to the water. There are a variety of ways to get out on Lake Windermere from this Lake District town including catching a Windermere Lake Cruises sightseeing trip to Brockhole, Wray Castle, Lakeside, or Ambleside, hiring a self-hire boat or trying out some watersports with Windermere Canoe Kayak who are based in the marina. Back on dry land be sure to stop by The World of Beatrix Potter; it’s one of the best things to do in Bowness-on-Windermere with kids, as little ones will love meeting Peter Rabbit and friends.

After you’ve had your fill of exploring Bowness, you are perfectly placed for exploring the rest of the Lake District National Park with locations like Ambleside, Grasmere and Troutbeck all close by.

Book your Bowness-on-Windermere holiday cottage

With more than 250 cottages dotted in and around Bowness-on-Windermere, ranging from cosy romantic retreats to large holiday homes for a multi-generational family getaway, you’ll be spoilt for choice of where to stay on your getaway. Many of Bowness-on-Windermere’s pubs, cafes and holiday cottages are dog-friendly too, so four-legged friends can join you on a Lake District holiday to remember.