Lakeside Pier Windermere
Experience the magic of Lake Windermere from Lakeside Pier with scenic cruises and fun self-drive boat adventures. Explore islands and enjoy stunning ...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less crowded, potentially cheaper
Lakeside Pier Windermere
Best Time
Less crowded, potentially cheaper
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the magic of Lake Windermere from Lakeside Pier with scenic cruises and fun self-drive boat adventures. Explore islands and enjoy stunning views.
"A wonderful way to spend an hour! The boats are nice and easy to drive and comfortable."
Book Morning Slots
Booking earlier in the morning can be slightly cheaper and less crowded.
No Boating Experience Needed!
Self-drive boats are easy to operate, perfect for a fun adventure on the lake.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Self-Drive Boat Adventure
Lakeside Pier
Pilot your own boat on Lake Windermere! Easy to navigate and incredibly fun for all ages.
Scenic Lake Cruises
Lakeside Pier
Enjoy guided tours like the Blue Cruise around islands or the Yellow Cruise to Bowness. Informative commentary and stunning views.
Fell Foot Park Ferry
Lakeside Pier
A family-friendly day out accessible by ferry, offering beautiful parkland and lake access.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Consider Self-Drive Boats
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Morning Slots
Booking earlier in the morning can be slightly cheaper and less crowded.
No Boating Experience Needed!
Self-drive boats are easy to operate, perfect for a fun adventure on the lake.
Dog-Friendly Options
Many cruises and parks are dog-friendly, so bring your furry friend along!
Dress for the Weather
Even on sunny days, the breeze on the lake can be cool. Layers are recommended.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Morning Slots
Booking earlier in the morning can be slightly cheaper and less crowded.
No Boating Experience Needed!
Self-drive boats are easy to operate, perfect for a fun adventure on the lake.
Dog-Friendly Options
Many cruises and parks are dog-friendly, so bring your furry friend along!
Dress for the Weather
Even on sunny days, the breeze on the lake can be cool. Layers are recommended.
Capture the Views
Don't forget your camera for the stunning Lake Windermere scenery!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the enjoyable experience of being on Lake Windermere, highlighting the ease of driving the boats and the friendly staff. The scenic cruises are also well-regarded for their informative commentary and beautiful views, even in less-than-ideal weather. Some minor points of discomfort on upper deck seating were noted.
"Lovely experience out on the lake! The boats are nice and easy to drive and comfortable. We booked for earlier in the morning which was a little bit cheaper and not as booked up as later on a Saturday was. Would definitely recommend. It was a wonderful way to spend an hour!"
Laura
"We took the Blue Cruise—a 45-minute circular tour of the islands—and loved it. The boat was clean and spacious, and the staff were friendly and helpful throughout. The commentary was informative but not overbearing, and we soaked in the stunning views of Lake Windermere’s islands—absolutely worth it!"
Artstuffwith Durgalakshmipathy
"We took the yellow cruise to Bowness and back to Lakeside. Cost £19.95 each. In all took around 1hr 20mins. Ticket office staff helpful and explained different cruises. Plenty of seats and good commentary on the boat. Even in poor weather it’s an enjoyable cruise."
Laura Heyes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lakeside Pier is accessible by car, with a car park located right next to the boats. It's also a stop for Windermere Lake Cruises, making it reachable from other points on the lake.
Yes, there is a car park available at Lakeside Pier, which is convenient for those arriving by car.
While direct public transport might be limited, Windermere Lake Cruises connect various points on the lake, including Lakeside Pier, offering a scenic way to arrive.
The Lake District is best reached by car for flexibility, but train services run to nearby towns like Windermere, from where local buses or taxis can be used.
Yes, Windermere Lake Cruises operate services that can take you to Lakeside Pier from other popular locations like Bowness.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Prices vary depending on the cruise. For example, a 45-minute Blue Cruise is around £19.95 per person, and family tickets are available.
Yes, self-drive boats can be booked, and it's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season.
Some sources suggest booking earlier in the morning might be slightly cheaper, and booking ahead for popular times is recommended.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Windermere Lake Cruises website for the most up-to-date information on cruise times and boat hire availability.
While walk-up tickets are often available, booking in advance is recommended for popular cruises or if you have a specific time in mind, especially on weekends.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Popular options include the Blue Cruise (circular tour of islands) and the Yellow Cruise (to Bowness and back). Self-drive boats offer a unique way to explore.
Yes, the self-drive boats available from Lakeside Pier do not require a license and are designed for easy operation by beginners.
Fell Foot Park offers beautiful parkland, lake access for activities, and is a great spot for families. It's accessible via ferry from Lakeside Pier.
Reviews generally describe the boats as comfortable, though some mention the chairs on upper decks could be more comfortable.
Yes, the commentary on the cruises is generally informative, providing insights into the islands and surroundings without being overbearing.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the lake, surrounding fells, and the boats themselves. Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful light.
Sunny days provide vibrant colors, while misty mornings can offer a more atmospheric and moody photographic experience.
Absolutely! The cruises and self-drive boats offer fantastic vantage points for capturing the beauty of Lake Windermere.
From the water, you get unique perspectives of the islands and the shoreline. The views from Fell Foot Park are also picturesque.
Landscape photography is very popular, capturing the serene lake, rolling hills, and charming villages.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the ferry trip to Fell Foot Park, which offers open spaces for kids to run around and enjoy the natural beauty.
The park is a great place for a picnic, making it a full day of family fun. Booking tickets in advance is a good idea to avoid queues, and remember that many of these activities are dog-friendly, so the whole family, including pets, can join in the fun. couples
+1Alternatively, a scenic cruise provides a relaxing way to take in the beauty of the lake, with informative commentary adding to the experience.
Budget Travelers
While some cruises can add up, the self-drive boats can be a cost-effective way to experience the lake if you split the cost among a few people. Packing your own picnic lunch is a great way to save money on food, as onboard or nearby dining can be pricier.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Lake Windermere by Boat
When choosing a cruise, consider the duration and route. The Yellow Cruise to Bowness offers a different perspective and a chance to visit another popular village. For a more intimate experience, the self-drive boats are ideal, allowing you to stop for photos or simply soak in the panoramic views. Remember to check the weather forecast, as conditions on the lake can change. Even on cooler days, the scenery is breathtaking, and many visitors find the experience enjoyable even in less-than-perfect weather.
Fell Foot Park, accessible via a ferry from Lakeside Pier, is another highlight. This National Trust park provides a beautiful setting for a picnic or a leisurely stroll along the lake shore. It's a fantastic option for families looking for a mix of water access and parkland activities. The ferry service itself is part of the adventure, offering lovely views as you cross the southern end of Windermere.
Planning Your Visit to Lakeside Pier
It's also a good idea to book tickets in advance, especially for self-drive boats or during peak season, to ensure availability and potentially secure better rates. When planning your visit, consider the time of day. Mornings tend to be less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience and potentially lower prices.
However, even in cooler or overcast weather, the dramatic landscapes can be equally captivating. Remember to dress in layers, as the breeze on the lake can make it feel cooler than on land. For those traveling with companions, including pets, it's worth noting that many cruises and attractions are dog-friendly, making it easier to include your four-legged friends in your Lake District adventure.
The overall experience at Lakeside Pier is generally positive, with visitors praising the friendly staff and the enjoyment of being out on the water. 
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