Supporting Local Shops In Windermere: Our Top Picks

It’s become more important than ever to support local businesses and Windermere boasts some of the best local shops that we’ve seen in The Lake District. These are our top picks for the local businesses that you should definitely add to your list for your next visit to Windermere in 2026.

Windermere Activity Hire

Total Adventure Bike Hire

If you prefer an activity that stays firmly on dry land, Total Adventure Bike Hire is a great option to adventure into the surrounding hills. With a single-day hire lasting seven hours, you have the option to take the whole day to explore!

Hire Bikes

Windermere Canoe Kayak

Windermere Canoe Kayak offers a slightly more active option, giving you the opportunity to explore Lake Windermere closer to the lake’s surface. With options for single or double kayaks, this can be tailored to suit a range of groups and individual needs. 

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Two photos of different self-drive electric boats on water.

Windermere Hire Boats

Locally owned, sustainability-conscious and dog-friendly, you can’t ask for much more! Windermere Hire Boats has a range of options for groups of up to ten people and flexible options of up to four hours. It's easy to make the hire work for you. This is the perfect way to explore the beautiful scenery of Lake Windermere, gliding through the water at your own pace.

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Lakeside Food and Drink

HomeGround Cafe

HomeGround is a locally run cafe nestled in the centre of Windermere, often renowned as the best local lunch spot. With a freshly-sourced menu and genius flavour combinations, everyone tries to secure a table. They offer a quick coffee and cake or a full brunch meal, but whatever you decide to go for, we’d definitely recommend stopping by.

Easy Breeze

Easy Breeze is the go-to spot for bottomless brunch, cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere. They often have local talents performing live music and can always offer a fun option for friends and family. You can also bring along your dog to join in the adventure!


Boaters Bar

One of the more lively stops in Bowness, Boaters Bar is the place to be for a lakeside views and an impressive drinks menu. With the largest selection of craft beers in Bowness, extensive gin collection and a wine and fizz menu, you won't want to miss out on a drink in Boaters Bar. Not only is the menu first-rate, but they also support local bands and artists, often hosting live music events!

The Boardwalk Bar and Grill

If you're looking for more of a hearty burger or juicy steak, alongside a pint with a view, we definitely think you'll love Boardwalk Bar and Grill. Located directly on the lakeside, the views are stunning and whatever time of day you decide to stop by, you'll be greeted with lovely staff and delicious food and drink.

Stable coffee

This coffee van offers great coffee, often with seasonal menus and a few locally sourced baked goods to go alongside. They really make the most of their mobile van and often move around different areas of The Lake District throughout the week. To see where they'll be next, make sure to check out the schedule posted on their Instagram!

Local Shopping

Love The Lakes

Love The Lakes is a gift shop in Bowness-on-Windermere that is known for its wide range of Lake District made goods. As this shop stocks a range of items from food and drink, to bath, body and fragrance, they are able to support many of the local businesses based in The Lake District. It’s a great way to see lots of local products in one cosy shop!

The Bath House

The Bath House is a locally owned, sourced and manufactured perfume, face and bodycare business that creates small-batch products from sustainably sourced ingredients. With their products being vegan, cruelty-free, B-corp certified and often refillable, you can support locally and ethically.

National Park Print Shop

National Park Print Shop offers an artistic edge to a day out in Windermere, sourcing artwork from all over the United Kingdom. However, they still maintain roots in The Lake District by supporting locals too. With high-quality prints, stickers and pins in a range of unique styles, it’s a great place to look around and enjoy different styles from a variety of artistic talents.

Outdoor Equipment

Shot of Windermere Aquatic's shopfront.

We offer one of the largest ranges of outdoor equipment in The Lake District, which is already a major hub for everything outdoor-related! While we stock high-quality goods from leading brands, our shop is locally owned and operated in Bowness-on-Windermere. 

Shopping with us gives you the opportunity to shop for the best equipment, while still supporting the local community.

Our Shop

We’re always happy to talk through any questions, or just leave you to browse our wide range of high-quality stock.

We hope to see you shopping locally in The Lake District soon!

Water Safety In Summer: Life Jackets and Buoyancy Aids

Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or you’re just starting to explore outdoor watersports, it's always important to brush up on your water safety. Life jackets, buoyancy aids and tow floats can be lifesaving, so we’ll take you through best practice using this equipment to stay safe in outdoor water this summer. 

Paddle Boarding

Stand Up Paddle (SUP) Boarding has become much more popular over the recent years, and it’s a great way to explore calmer lakes and stiller waters. Ranging from completely beginner friendly boards with a wider base and thicker body, to more elite level and streamlined equipment, it can offer an experience for everyone.

When paddle boarding it is easy to wear a life jacket or buoyancy aid. It doesn’t restrict your range of motion too much and makes a big difference if you unexpectedly fall into the water, which can be more common among people who are learning but can occur at any skill level. We recommend the Helly Hansen Rider Vest Buoyancy Aid. With a high range of motion it gives you the ability to easily move your body, yet is certified to international safety standards. It keeps you safe without compromising your experience.

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Kayaking and Canoeing

Kayaking and canoeing are great ways to explore the local lakes and scenery, while staying close to the water’s surface. With the ability to paddle in groups, it can also be a great day out for families or larger groups looking for a fun activity in The Lake District summertime. Usually when hiring kayaks or canoes, buoyancy aids are provided for you. However, if you’re bringing your own equipment, it is vital to remember to also wear a buoyancy aid.

We have watersports specific recommendations, ranging from adult to youth sizes. If you’re taking a young person onto the water, they will need a smaller buoyancy aid to fit their specific needs. We recommend the Jobe Neoprene Vest Youth for children who are going out onto the water, provided they have basic swimming skills. We recommend the Jobe Neoprene Vest for adults, which comes in both a women’s and men’s specific fit. 

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Sailing

There are many opportunities, especially on Lake Windermere, to hire sailing boats provided you have a certain experience level and qualifications. Whether you’re going out onto the water with friends or family, it’s important to wear the right kit to keep everyone safe, regardless of experience level.

Young boy wearing bright yellow life jacket on the left, next to an adult's sailing life jacket on the right.

For recreational use, we recommend the Crewsaver Crewfit 165N Sport Manual Life Jacket for adults. Given that this is a life jacket, it will keep you buoyant and is designed to turn you onto your back even if unconscious. It is the least restrictive, and is a safety essential when recreationally sailing or boating. There is also a youth version, the Jobe Comfort Boating Life Vest Yellow, giving a full cover life jacket that is brightly coloured with an attached whistle for full safety even in the water.

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Outdoor Swimming

Outdoor swimming in The Lake District is beautiful, and in the warmer summer months it becomes more popular than ever. Taking in the scenic views while cooling off after a long walk is an amazing experience, and one that many people seek out in the summertime. If you’re a new swimmer it is highly recommended to stay close to the shoreline, and whatever your level we always recommend to swim with an experienced buddy.

It can be difficult to swim with a buoyancy aid or life jacket, as they often keep swimmers too buoyant in the water which prevents them from being able to move through the water efficiently. While this is true, it is still essential to have some form of buoyancy aid with you, so we recommend the Swim Secure Tow Float Elite. This not only makes you more visible to boats or kayaks, but provides a way for you to rest and float with minimal effort in case of an injury or unforeseen fatigue.

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Foreground show swimmer in wetsuit holding a bright orange tow float. Water fills the background.

Dog Life Jacket

Husky Dog wearing life jacket on pebble beach with water in the background

Taking your furry friends onto the water can be lots of fun, and a great experience for your dog. It wouldn’t be a family trip without them!

It’s still important that they get the same level of care and attention to safety as everyone else, especially as lakes can be colder than the water your dog may be used to. Suitable for paddle boarding, kayaking, sailing, and trips to the lake shore, the Crewsaver Pet Float helps to keep all of your family safe whether in or around the water. 

Shop Pet Float

Things To Do On Lake Windermere This Summer: Locals Tips and Tricks

We love seeing people enjoy spending time in the summer with us on Lake Windermere, whether you’re kayaking, paddle boarding, boating, or relaxing on the shore. 

Whether you’re staying in a hotel nearby, or just coming for the day, here are our local tips and tricks for things to do on Lake Windermere this summer, so you can get the most out of your stay! 

Bowness Bay

Bowness Bay is located centrally along the eastern shore of Lake Windermere, on the edge of the nearby town Bowness-On-Windermere. This spot offers a wealth of choice, from hiring boats, to kayaking, to paddle boarding, and a beautiful promenade, these are our top picks for watersports activities on Lake Windermere this summer.

Boat Hire

If you’re looking for a way of exploring the water while relaxing and staying dry, hiring a boat allows you to glide seamlessly across the water and take in the views. 

Windermere Hire Boats offer an eco-friendly option, with self-drive electric boats that don’t damage the nature they drive across. These boats cater to friends, families and larger groups of up to ten people, allowing you to have an adventure of your own design.

If you’re keen to have a relaxed day fishing on the lake, you are also welcome to hire a fishing boat for up to six hours, allowing you to enjoy the lovely location and sunshine while testing your luck in the local waters.

Boat Hire

Kayaking

A popular way of seeing a larger portion of the lake with a more physical aspect is through kayak hire. 

This can be an exciting and fast-paced option, while remaining close enough to the water’s surface that you’re still able to explore the nature that surrounds the lake’s shore. 

There are also options for solo kayaks, or tandem kayaks, that can be preferred for families or smaller groups. With you fully in control of direction and speed, it’s a great way to explore the lake at whatever pace feels most comfortable for you.

Paddle Boarding

Whether you’re a seasoned regular or have never been on a paddle board before, it’s a great activity to have some fun and explore the shores of Lake Windermere. 

As you stroll along Bowness promenade there are a wealth of options for hiring Paddle Boards, from independent trips to fully guided lake tours, there’s likely something for you. 

Gliding directly along the water’s surface often brings peace and calm, inviting a respite from the often bustier bustle of the town. It is also adaptable to every experience level, with great opportunities to push yourself to try new skills - there have been paddle board yoga sessions run on Lake Windermere in the past!

What to Bring

While all of these activities have great options for hiring equipment, there is always the option of bringing some of your own equipment with you to reduce hire costs. 

Windermere Aquatic Shop has one of the largest ranges of outdoor and watersports  equipment in The Lake District, and the shop is located at the heart of Bowness Bay. 

With both a physical shop and an extensive online collection, it’ll have all of the essentials you need for a day out on the water.

As always, make sure you’re bringing lots of water, warm clothes and safety equipment like buoyancy aids if you’re bringing your own boards and kayaks.

Leave It As You Found It

Finally, we would like to keep Lake Windermere looking beautiful. There has been a rise in litter and damage over the last few years, which is very sad to see.

Please be respectful of the environment and take any litter home with you, or use the bins provided. 

We look forward to seeing you enjoying Lake Windermere this summer!

Come and Say Hello!

We're always happy to chat through equipment options with you and help you with local recommendations.

If you're in the area, please feel free to stop by our shop.

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If you can't make it, but still want to browse our extensive stock, then we have a website you can peruse.

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Father’s Day Gift Guide 2026: What To Get Your Outdoorsy Dad Who Has Everything

Father’s Day 2026 is fast approaching and you’re wondering… what do you get your outdoorsy dad who has everything?

This gift guide takes you through affordable gifts that your dad will actually use and enjoy. Whether he likes camping, water sports or just general adventures, we have something that he’ll love. 

Woman, man and son playing on a boat in the water and smiling.
Image owned by Aquatic Quays

The Adventurer Dad:

If your dad is a general outdoor guy who loves going on adventures of all kinds, we have some great recommendations. From affordable, small accessories to larger outdoor essentials, you’ll find something great for Father’s Day.

This water resistant, tri-fold wallet helps to protect against water damage or scratches on those outdoor adventures. The durable material helps this wallet to last longer than the standard models in harsher outdoor conditions at an affordable price point. Give your dad piece of mind this Father’s Day.

Currently £15.

Find it here
Woman placing large items into the compression bag to show use.

This compression bag is designed by Dryrobe, and is a great way to compress any large clothing, wet items or camping kit. A great all-rounder for a general outdoor dad who has lots to carry and wants to save on space, and you can never have enough compression bags!

Currently reduced to £28.

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While a beanie is a classic staple for any adventurer, take it to the next level with this waterproof knitted beanie from Sealskinz. Their three-layer design combines warmth, style and waterproofing for a hat that covers everything your dad needs on an adventure. 

Currently £30.

Find it here

The Camper Dad:

These are our top picks for the best Father’s Day gifts for a dad who loves to camp and sleep outdoors. These will level-up the camping experience, while remaining affordable. 

This lightweight, compact towel is made from a microfibre material. With quick-dry technology, this towel easily fits into any camping bag while remaining highly absorbent. Balancing weight, size and absorbency this full-sized towel provides a great option for campers.

Currently £15.

Find it here

This cushion cover is a camping essential, designed by Dryrobe as a convenient travel pillow alternative. With a waterproof side for wet or dirty surfaces and a woolen slide for comfort, just stuff with clothes or bulky items for a comfortable night's sleep camping under the stars.

Currently reduced to £20.

Find it here

These crocs are the perfect campsite shoe for any dad who loves being outside, even when the weather is colder! With a fuzzy lining for extra warmth and comfort, these crocs are very versatile. They are great for general wear in winter, to be used as slippers, or for the designated campsite shoe after a long day of walking. However your dad uses them, he’ll definitely get a lot of use out of these upgraded crocs.

Currently £45.

Find it here

The Water Sports Dad:

Whether you’re looking for a Father’s Day gift for a kayaker, SUP boarder, kite surfer or sailer, these are the gifts that we would recommend. These options are versatile and can be used for a range of watersport activities!

Often praised by watersports enthusiasts for being warm while maintaining dexterity. These gloves make any watersport activity more enjoyable by keeping your hands from getting numb, and protecting the skin from rubbing. A great, affordable option for any dad on Father’s Day that loves the water.

Currently on offer for £18.

Find it here

This is a great all-rounder piece of kit. Offering grip, warmth and dexterity, these boots are expertly designed for a wide range of watersport activities. From more specialised sports like kitesurfing, to rock-hopping with the family along the beach, these boots ensure comfort and warmth in colder water conditions.

Currently £30.

Find it here

If your dad loves kayaking, SUP boarding or even dinghy sailing, this buoyancy aid allows for a wide range of movement and comfort. It is 12402-5 Certified for safety and is an essential piece of equipment when going onto the water. 

Currently £49.50.

Find it here

Happy Father's Day 2026!

That is our complete guide for affordable Father’s Day gifts 2026, especially for your outdoorsy dad who has everything. We hope you found something that your dad will love!

All of these options and much more are available to buy from our online shop.

Our Shop