Lake Windermere

At 17kms (10.5 miles) long and plunging to 61m (200ft) deep in places, Lake Windermere is the largest lake in England. It forms part of the Lake District National Park and is in an area of outstanding natural beauty with numerous stunning walking trails. Many visitors prefer to explore the lake from the water itself and Windermere Lake Cruises (www.windermere-lakecruises.co.uk) operate an extensive network of steamers and launches; a popular trip is the Islands Cruise from Bowness, which passes wooded islands and secluded bays. Other attractions in the area include the Aquarium of the Lakes, the Beatrix Potter Attraction, the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, Fell Foot Park and the South Lakes Wild Animal Park.
Air: Manchester Airport, Blackpool Airport and Newcastle Airport. Rail: Oxenholme Station (then bus or taxi). Road: Bus: Public services. Car: A591.