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.

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.

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