Things to do in Waterhead

Activities, attractions and tours

Ambleside which includes sailing and a lake or waterhole
Ambleside featuring a bridge and a pond
Ambleside featuring a lake or waterhole and forests
Ambleside showing boating, sailing and landscape views
Ambleside showing a marina, boating and a pebble beach

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Tours & day trips
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What to do in Waterhead

Popular places to visit

Grasmere Lake & Rydal Water

Grasmere Lake & Rydal Water

You can learn about the history of Grasmere with a stop at Grasmere Lake & Rydal Water. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Grasmere Lake & Rydal Water
Rydal Mount which includes a house and interior views

Rydal Mount

Wander through the picturesque grounds of Wordsworth’s family home and imagine how the views of lakes inspired him to write.

Rydal Mount
Dove Cottage featuring heritage elements, a park and a house

Dove Cottage

Visit the 17th-century house where William Wordsworth lived for almost a decade and wrote some of his most celebrated works.

Dove Cottage
Ambleside featuring a lake or waterhole and boating

Ambleside Pier

Explore the waterfront in Waterhead with a trip to Ambleside Pier. Visit the spas and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

Ambleside Pier
Wray Castle

Wray Castle

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Wray Castle during your trip to Ambleside. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Wray Castle
Tarn Hows

Tarn Hows

Explore the great outdoors at Tarn Hows, a lovely green space in Ambleside. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Tarn Hows
Rydal Water

Rydal Water

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Rydal Water during your travels in Ambleside. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this quaint area.

Rydal Water
Church of St Mary showing a church or cathedral and night scenes

Church of St Mary

Enjoy the serene ambiance in this charming lakeside church, peruse the intricate stained-glass windows and learn about medieval traditions.

Church of St Mary

Grizedale Forest

Explore the great outdoors at Grizedale Forest, a lovely green space in Hawkshead. Amble around this relaxing area's lakeside and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Grizedale Forest
Ambleside

Ambleside

Windermere which includes street scenes, heritage architecture and café lifestyle

Windermere

Frequently asked questions

Is Waterhead worth visiting?
Whether you're here to experience the cultural highlights and local charm or try unique foods and explore the outdoors, there's no shortage of things to do in Waterhead.
How do I spend a day in Waterhead?
Once you've visited leading attractions like Ambleside Climbing Wall and Claife Viewing Station and Windermere West Shore, spend some time discovering the retail and food options in Waterhead.
What is the top tourist attraction in Waterhead?
Don't go home without exploring Beatrix Potter Gallery, ranked the top tourist attraction in Waterhead.
Is three days enough to stay in Waterhead?
Three days will give you time to check out some popular city sights, including Beatrix Potter Gallery, Claife Viewing Station and Windermere West Shore and Rothay Park. The average stay in Waterhead is two days. If you have the time to extend your trip, Windermere isn't far away.
Is Waterhead a walkable city?
With exciting neighbourhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city centre, Waterhead is a great destination to experience on foot. Wander between Skelwith Force and Wray Castle. Then take a stroll through High Wray, located 3 kilometres from the centre, and Limefitt Park, which is about 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Waterhead with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes all the difference. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Waterhead with kids.

What to do in Waterhead for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Waterhead, with activities for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Grasmere Garden Village or Wordsworth Museum.
Are there free things to do in Waterhead?
One of the best ways to learn about free things to do in Waterhead is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on interesting neighbourhoods, parks and other highlights you can enjoy without getting your cash out. Claife Viewing Station and Windermere West Shore is one spot that doesn't charge an entrance fee.