Windermere Retreat in Bowness-on-Windermere | Luxury Cottage Break

About Windermere Retreat

Windermere Retreat is an exceptional large-scale property in Cumbria's Lake District. This magnificent estate sleeps 36 guests across 18 bedrooms with 17 bathrooms. The property features a hot tub perfect for unwinding after exploring the fells. The estate sits in one of England's most spectacular national parks.

The Lake District surrounds you with mountains, lakes and forests. Windermere town offers waterside walks and boat trips. The area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and groups wanting space to explore.

The accommodation provides 18 individual bedrooms and 17 bathrooms across the estate. Multiple living spaces allow groups to gather or find quiet corners. The kitchen facilities cater for large group dining. Generous parking accommodates multiple vehicles. Pet-friendly policies mean your dogs can join the adventure.

Lake Windermere (1.2 miles, 5 minutes) offers watersports and cruises. Beatrix Potter's Hill Top (8 miles, 20 minutes) delights literature fans. Grizedale Forest (6 miles, 15 minutes) provides mountain biking trails. Ambleside (4 miles, 10 minutes) has shops and restaurants.

Windermere Retreat suits extended families, milestone celebrations and corporate retreats. The combination of space, location and facilities makes this property exceptional for large groups wanting a Lake District base.

Check Prices & Availability »

Need To Know

✓Enclosed garden
✓Inglenook fireplace
✓Lake views
✓Free-standing bath
✓Electric car charging
✓Games console
✓Children welcome
✓Wood burner
✓Shop within walking distance
✓Parking
✓Dog-friendly
✓Garden
✓Village
✓Hot tub
✓Celebration cottages
✓Wine cooler
✓Corporate
✓Ice machine
✓Wedding venue
✓Bar
✓Ping pong table
✓Luxury toiletries
✓Sun terrace
✓Ground floor bedroom
✓Ground floor shower room
✓Private parking
✓Outdoor dining
✓Period features
✓Historical building
✓Games room
✓Extensive gardens
✓Library
✓Cinema room
✓Pub within walking distance
✓Roll top bath
✓Countryside views
✓Electric induction hob
✓Coffee machine
✓Freezer
✓Washing machine
✓Tumble dryer
✓Dishwasher
✓Microwave
✓Travel Cot
✓Kitchen
✓WiFi
✓Smart TV with internet access
✓Iron and ironing board
✓Hairdryer
✓Laptop-friendly workspace
✓Outdoor space
✓Heating
✓Sky TV package
✓Hot water boiling tap
✓Hot water
✓Highchair
✓Electric oven
✓Seating area
✓Corporate retreats
✓Large cottages
✓Wedding venues
✓Dog Friendly with Hot Tub
✓Dog Friendly with Enclosed Garden
✓Historic Houses and Estates
✓Celebrations
✓Short breaks
✓Swimming
✓Hiking
✓Fishing
✓Kayaking
✓Walking
✓Private chef
✓Paddle-boarding
✓Wild swimming
✓Canoeing
✓Lake District

View Cottage

Local Insights: Windermere Retreat

Unique information you won't find on booking sites

Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria

Weather & Local Conditions

15°C

Mainly clear

Updated: 24 Jul 2026, 3:12am

🌡️

14.60°C

Temperature

💨

9 km/h

Wind Speed

💧

77%

Humidity

🧳

Packing Tip: UK weather can turn quickly, so pack layers whatever the forecast. A waterproof and sturdy shoes mean the whole group can head out whatever July throws at you.

What to Expect Through the Year

✓ May - September: Warmest, longest days - ideal for long days out, gardens and BBQs
✓ October - November: Crisp autumn colour, cosy evenings by the fire, quieter attractions
✓ December - February: Perfect for a snug winter escape - great for Christmas and New Year gatherings
✓ March - April: Spring blooms, longer evenings returning, wildlife becoming active

🌧️

Rainy Day Tip: A luxury cottage comes into its own on wet days - board games, a long lunch and a film beats a cramped hotel any day. Check the tabs here for nearby pubs and attractions with indoor options.

Dark Skies & Stargazing

Windermere Retreat sits in a location with genuinely dark skies - a real treat for a group, and something you rarely get at home in town.

Bortle Scale Rating

The Bortle scale measures night sky darkness from 1 (darkest) to 9 (brightest urban):

🌌

Class 4 - Rural/suburban transition

This location's dark sky rating

What You Can See From the Cottage

The Milky Way is visible overhead, though light domes may be visible on the horizon towards larger towns.

The Milky Way is visible on clear, moonless nights.

Best Stargazing Conditions

✓ New Moon periods: Darkest skies, best Milky Way visibility
✓ Winter months: Earlier darkness, crisper skies, Orion constellation prominent
✓ After 11pm: Neighbouring lights typically switched off
✓ Allow 20 minutes: Let your eyes adjust to darkness before looking up

📱

Pro Tip: Download a stargazing app like "Sky Map" or "Star Walk" before arrival. Mobile signal can be limited, and these apps work offline - a fun activity to share of an evening.

Location & Elevation

51m

(167 feet above sea level)

Windermere Retreat sits in a peaceful Cumbria setting - space to spread out and the perfect base for a luxury escape.

🏔️

51m

Elevation

📍

Bowness-on-Windermere

Nearest Village

🌲

Rural

Setting

What the Elevation Means for Your Stay

✓ Fresher air: Expect it a touch cooler than coastal areas - bracing walks and restful sleep
✓ Clearer air: Less pollution and haze, better views and stargazing
✓ Morning mists: Valley fog sometimes forms below, creating magical sunrise views
✓ Walking access: Higher starting point means shorter climbs to hilltops and summits

🚗

Driving Note: The roads to Bowness-on-Windermere are typical Cumbria lanes - narrow in places with passing spots. If the group is arriving in several cars, share the postcode and a meeting point in advance.

Coordinates

Latitude: 54.3668009° N | Longitude: 2.9219073° W

Sunrise & Sunset Times

Today's sun times for Bowness-on-Windermere (Friday, 24 July 2026):

4:08am

Sunrise

7:28pm

Golden Hour

8:28pm

Sunset

🌅

4:08am

Sunrise

🌇

8:28pm

Sunset

📸

7:28pm

Golden Hour

Planning Your Days by Season

✓ Summer (Jun-Aug): Sunset around 9:30-10pm - long days for group walks, days out and late alfresco dinners
✓ Autumn (Sep-Nov): Sunset 5-7pm - perfect timing for an after-dinner drink as the stars come out
✓ Winter (Dec-Feb): Sunset around 4pm - cosy early evenings by the fire, ideal for stargazing
✓ Spring (Mar-May): Sunset 6-9pm - watch the evenings grow longer each day

🌙

Golden Hour: For the best light, plan your group photo or evening walk around golden hour (7:28pm). The warm colours make for lovely holiday photos before you head back in for dinner.

July Daylight

This month in Bowness-on-Windermere, you have approximately 16.33 hours of daylight. The long summer days mean plenty of time for group adventures before a relaxed evening back at the cottage.

Practical Essentials

Everything the group needs to know before you arrive at Windermere Retreat.

Mobile Phone Signal

📱

Signal Strength

Good

Mobile signal is generally good in this area across most networks.

💡

Signal Tip: All major networks should work well here.

Nearest Essentials

🚗

Arrival Tip: Fill up with fuel before you arrive - petrol stations can be sparse in rural Cumbria. With a larger group it's worth doing one big supermarket shop on the way, especially if arriving late.

Family & Fun

What Guests Love

What do previous guests think about their stay at Windermere Retreat

Exceptional Space for Large Groups

With 18 bedrooms and 17 bathrooms, this estate comfortably accommodates 36 guests without anyone feeling cramped or compromising on privacy.

Hot Tub Relaxation

The hot tub provides the perfect spot for groups to gather after hiking the fells, offering relaxation with stunning Lake District views.

Prime Lake District Location

Just minutes from Lake Windermere and surrounded by spectacular scenery, the location offers easy access to all major attractions and outdoor activities.

Pet-Friendly Policies

Dogs are welcome at this property, meaning the whole family including four-legged members can enjoy the Lake District walks and adventures together.

Multiple Living Spaces

Several communal areas throughout the property allow large groups to socialise together or break into smaller gatherings as preferred throughout the day.

Ample Parking Facilities

Generous parking space accommodates multiple vehicles, essential for large groups travelling from different locations to meet at this spectacular Lake District retreat.

Getting To Windermere Retreat

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach Windermere Retreat by car, take the M6 to Junction 36 and follow the A590 and A591 towards Windermere. The property is easily accessible from the main routes and offers generous parking for multiple vehicles upon arrival.

By Train

For those travelling by rail, Windermere station is the nearest stop, approximately 2 miles from the property. Taxis are readily available from the station for the short journey to your Lake District accommodation.

Generous parking for multiple vehicles

Windermere station (2 miles)

Accessible from M6 Junction 36

Group Attractions & More Nearby

Stuff for larger groups and families to try!

Lake Windermere Cruises

Distance: 1.2 miles

LA23 3HQ

Beatrix Potter's Hill Top

Distance: 8 miles

LA22 0LF

Grizedale Forest

Distance: 6 miles

LA22 0QJ

Orrest Head Viewpoint

Distance: 1.5 miles

LA23 1LA

Claife Heights Walk

Distance: 3 miles

LA22 0LW

Loughrigg Fell

Distance: 5 miles

LA22 9NN

Booths Windermere

Distance: 1.8 miles

LA23 1DX

Ambleside Town Centre

Distance: 4 miles

LA22 9BS

Lakeland Bowness

Distance: 2 miles

LA23 3BX

Windermere Railway Station

Distance: 2 miles

LA23 1AF

Bowness Pier

Distance: 2.5 miles

LA23 3HQ

Windermere Tourist Information

Distance: 1.8 miles

LA23 1AF

Lake Windermere Cruises

Distance: 1.2 miles

LA23 3HQ

Beatrix Potter's Hill Top

Distance: 8 miles

LA22 0LF

Grizedale Forest

Distance: 6 miles

LA22 0QJ

Orrest Head Viewpoint

Distance: 1.5 miles

LA23 1LA

Claife Heights Walk

Distance: 3 miles

LA22 0LW

Loughrigg Fell

Distance: 5 miles

LA22 9NN

Booths Windermere

Distance: 1.8 miles

LA23 1DX

Ambleside Town Centre

Distance: 4 miles

LA22 9BS

Lakeland Bowness

Distance: 2 miles

LA23 3BX

Windermere Railway Station

Distance: 2 miles

LA23 1AF

Bowness Pier

Distance: 2.5 miles

LA23 3HQ

Windermere Tourist Information

Distance: 1.8 miles

LA23 1AF

Is Windermere Retreat Right For Your Group

Discover why this cottage is the one for your party or family reunion...

For Families

The Lake District offers endless activities for children. Lake Windermere provides boat trips and gentle waterside walks. Grizedale Forest has adventure playgrounds and sculpture trails. Beatrix Potter's Hill Top brings beloved stories to life. The property's space allows children to play safely whilst adults relax. Multiple bathrooms prevent morning queues. The hot tub proves popular with teenagers after outdoor adventures.

Groups Will Love...

The hot tub at Windermere Retreat provides the perfect focal point for group celebrations. After days exploring the fells, guests gather here to share stories and unwind. The tub accommodates several people simultaneously, making it ideal for socialising. Combined with the stunning Lake District setting, it creates memorable moments for milestone birthdays, anniversaries or reunions. Evening soaks under the stars become highlights of any stay.

Pet Friendly

Dogs are welcome at Windermere Retreat, making it perfect for families who consider pets essential members. The Lake District offers exceptional walking routes directly from the doorstep. Lakeside paths suit all fitness levels whilst fell walks challenge energetic dogs. The property's space means pets have room to settle after outdoor adventures. Multiple living areas prevent dogs feeling overwhelmed by large groups. Local pubs welcome four-legged visitors.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at Windermere Retreat

The Crafty Baa

Located 1.5 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: LA23 1AF

The Lamplighter Dining Rooms

Located 1.8 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: LA23 3EE

Homeground Coffee + Kitchen

Located 1.7 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: LA23 1DG

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about Windermere Retreat

How many guests can Windermere Retreat accommodate?

The property sleeps 36 guests across 18 bedrooms with 17 bathrooms. This makes it perfect for extended families, milestone celebrations or corporate groups wanting a Lake District base.

Is Windermere Retreat pet-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at this property. The Lake District location offers excellent walking routes and outdoor spaces perfect for exercising pets during your stay.

What facilities are available for large groups?

The estate includes multiple living spaces for socialising, a hot tub for relaxation and kitchen facilities suitable for group dining. Generous parking accommodates multiple vehicles arriving from different locations.

How far is Lake Windermere from the property?

Lake Windermere is 1.2 miles away, approximately 5 minutes by car. The lake offers boat trips, watersports and waterside walks suitable for all ages and abilities.

What outdoor activities are nearby?

Grizedale Forest (6 miles) provides mountain biking and walking trails. The surrounding fells offer hiking routes from gentle strolls to challenging climbs with spectacular views across the national park.

Are there shops and restaurants close by?

Ambleside town (4 miles, 10 minutes) has supermarkets, independent shops and restaurants. Windermere village offers additional dining options and convenience stores for essentials.

What attractions suit families with children?

Beatrix Potter's Hill Top (8 miles) appeals to literature fans. Lake cruises from Bowness provide gentle sightseeing, while Grizedale Forest has adventure playgrounds and sculpture trails suitable for children.

Is the property suitable for special celebrations?

With space for 36 guests, multiple living areas and a hot tub, the property works brilliantly for milestone birthdays, anniversaries or family reunions. The setting provides a memorable backdrop for celebrations.

Popular Stays Near This Cottage

Bowness-on-Windermere

3 cottages

Carlisle

9 cottages

Windermere Retreat Reviews

Leave a Review

Windermere Retreat, Bowness-on-Windermere

About Windermere Retreat

Need To Know

More Luxury Cottages You May Like

Weather & Local Conditions

What to Expect Through the Year

Dark Skies & Stargazing

Bortle Scale Rating

What You Can See From the Cottage

Best Stargazing Conditions

Location & Elevation

What the Elevation Means for Your Stay

Coordinates

Sunrise & Sunset Times

Planning Your Days by Season

July Daylight

Practical Essentials

Mobile Phone Signal

Nearest Essentials

Family & Fun

What Guests Love

Exceptional Space for Large Groups

Hot Tub Relaxation

Prime Lake District Location

Pet-Friendly Policies

Multiple Living Spaces

Ample Parking Facilities

Getting To Windermere Retreat

By Car

By Train

Group Attractions & More Nearby

Is Windermere Retreat Right For Your Group

For Families

Groups Will Love...

Pet Friendly

Dining & Cafes

The Crafty Baa

The Lamplighter Dining Rooms

Homeground Coffee + Kitchen

Frequently Asked Questions

Location Name

Popular Stays Near This Cottage

Windermere Retreat Reviews