Exclusive Insight: Finding Solitude in the UK's Most Overcrowded Beauty Spot
Fiona Whitty immersed herself in the stunning scenery of one of Britain's most picturesque locations, uncovering a unique method to evade the bustling crowds for a peaceful interlude.
The Tranquil Escape on Windermere
With a speed limit of just 10mph on the lake, this was never intended as a high-speed adventure. However, our leisurely journey across Windermere proved to be the perfect antidote to the frenzied crowds lining the Lake District shores. Gliding along at a mere two miles per hour in a delicate self-drive electric motorboat, we were treated to fish leaping beside us and dragonflies humming overhead, creating an idyllic atmosphere.
Being electric, the boat operated quietly and was environmentally friendly. Thanks to the 10mph speed restriction, we avoided the hassle of dodging water skiers and jet bikes, focusing only on navigating around the occasional large pleasure cruise that seemed to appear unexpectedly.
Our most pressing decision was whether to retract the soft top or wait for the grey clouds to clear. We opted to embrace the moment and roll it back regardless, a choice we did not regret.
Why Windermere Draws the Masses
It is evident why so many visitors flock to this area. Since the lockdown period, the iconic Lake District town has grappled with surging tourist numbers. According to Visit Britain, the Lake Windermere cruises departing from Bowness ranked as the eighth most popular paid tourist attraction in England last year. In 2022, they attracted more visitors than renowned sites like Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and St Paul's Cathedral.
One of the most effective ways to sidestep these crowds, as discovered, is to take the helm and motor off independently. We collected the boat from Windermere Lake Cruises' Bowness Dock hire point and were informed that within our one-hour slot, we could travel approximately a mile up the water and back.
The route showcased Windermere's largest island, Belle Isle, expansive woodlands filled with oak, sycamore, beech, and birch, majestic fells with cloud-shrouded peaks, and scenic spots such as Queen Adelaide's Hill, celebrated for its panoramic views. As a backdrop, it was nothing short of idyllic.
Exploring Beyond the Water
After our boat trip, we parked in Windermere village and strolled through Elleray Wood, one of the forests visible from the boat, ascending to Orrest Head. This 239-meter-high hill offers a breathtaking vista over the lake and surrounding fells.
Notably, avid walker and author Alfred Wainwright hiked to this very spot in his youth, and the views he encountered ignited his lifelong passion for the Lake District, leading to his famous Pictorial Guides to the Lakeland Fells series. It is easy to understand his inspiration.
With a sense of peace and serenity, we later ventured to Zip World Windermere, an adventure hub located further up the eastern shore of the lake. Known for introducing high-octane fun to Snowdonia, Zip World has expanded to other UK venues, including this one, with a mission to thrill and excite.
At the Windermere site, various activities are available, but we opted for the full trek treetop adventure course, a two-to-three-hour circuit featuring obstacles designed to challenge and exhilarate participants at heights of up to 15 meters.
Accommodation at Landal Twin Lakes
We stayed approximately 40 minutes from Windermere by car at Landal Twin Lakes, a serene resort nestled discreetly in woods near Tewitfield, Carnforth, just over the Cumbria border in Lancashire. As one of Landal's newest resorts, it is compact, relaxed, and meticulously maintained, with beautifully appointed lodges surrounding a pair of shimmering lagoons.
Our lodge featured three bedrooms, including a spacious master on a mezzanine level, two en-suites, and an additional family bathroom. The standout was the expansive double-height, open-plan living area with floor-to-ceiling windows and patio doors offering stunning lake views.
Decking at the front allowed us to enjoy fresh air by the water, while a hot tub, discreetly hidden by a high hedge, provided a warm retreat during cooler moments. The absence of on-site facilities like a spa or restaurant enhanced the peaceful ambiance, making it a blissful escape from daily hustle.
Local Explorations and Activities
When we could tear ourselves away from the hot tub, the surrounding area offered abundant walks, charming villages, and spectacular views over hills and coast. A hike up Warton Crag rewarded us with sweeping vistas of Morecambe Bay, featuring vast sandflats and salt marshes.
We also visited Arnside, a quaint seaside resort at the River Kent estuary, where we enjoyed fish and chips on the pier while avoiding eager seagulls. Later, we ambled along the beach in Silverdale, skimming stones with the Lake District fells as a majestic backdrop.
Nearby, Greenlands Farm Village provided family-friendly activities such as archery, quad biking, and an indoor crazy golf course. The on-site shop sold locally produced goods, including craft ale, cakes, and spirits, with fresh milk available from a self-service churn.
For relaxation, The Longlands Inn across the road offered a comfortable setting and a refreshing pale ale called Fell Walker from Bowness Bay Brewery, nearly as soothing as our slow boat journey on Windermere.
Travel Details: Landal Twin Lakes is accessible via junction 35 of the M6, and a car is recommended for local exploration. A three-night stay in a three-bedroom lodge for up to six people starts from £719.
