There’s something quite magical about the Lake District, and Lake Windermere is undoubtedly one of its crown jewels. I recently took the kids for a day out, and it was the perfect blend of adventure, learning, and relaxation. With so much to see and do, our day flew by in the most delightful way. Let me walk you through what turned out to be an unforgettable family day by the water.

We set off early, eager to make the most of the day. The drive through the Lake District’s winding roads was as scenic as ever, with rolling hills and stone walls guiding our way. As soon as Lake Windermere came into view, the kids’ excitement reached its peak. They were absolutely buzzing with energy, ready to jump out and explore.

Our first stop was Bowness-on-Windermere, a charming lakeside town full of life. After a quick coffee (and a hot chocolate for the kids), we headed to the pier to catch one of the famous Windermere Cruises. The cruise was the perfect way to start the day. As the boat gently glided over the lake, the stunning views unfolded around us – the towering fells, tiny islands, and the shimmering water made for a mesmerising scene. The kids were on the lookout for wildlife, and spotting swans and ducks trailing behind the boat was a highlight for them.

Once we stepped off the boat, it was time for some fun at Brockhole on Windermere, an activity-packed centre just a short drive away. The kids were desperate to get on the water, so we hired a couple of rowing boats. Let me tell you, rowing with kids is an adventure in itself – between the giggles and the occasional splash, we spent more time spinning in circles than going in a straight line, but it was all part of the fun!

After our rowboat escapade, we took a well-earned break with a picnic overlooking the lake. The kids skipped stones and chased butterflies while I soaked up the peaceful surroundings. Brockhole has a brilliant adventure playground, so the kids had a great time climbing, swinging, and sliding while I enjoyed a few moments of peace, content just watching them play.

With still more to explore, we made our way to the Lakes Aquarium, located on the southern shore of Windermere. The aquarium was a hit with the kids. They were fascinated by the underwater world, especially the otters and rays. The highlight, though, was the tunnel where we walked right through a large tank filled with fish swimming all around us. It was like stepping into a different world, and the kids’ eyes were wide with wonder. We also learned about the local aquatic wildlife, which gave them a fresh perspective on the lake they had been boating on earlier in the day.

After the aquarium, we decided to take a leisurely drive towards Kendal before calling it a day. Kendal is a picturesque market town with a rich history, and it’s known for its traditional mint cake, which, of course, we had to sample. We took a short walk around the town, admiring the cobbled streets and old stone buildings. The kids loved exploring Kendal Castle’s ruins, running around and imagining stories from long ago. The town’s blend of history and charm made it a lovely way to wind down the day.

As the sun began to dip, we headed back to the car for our drive home, tired but full of happy memories. It was a day that had a bit of everything – nature, adventure, learning, and a touch of history. Lake Windermere has a unique way of making you feel both energised and relaxed at the same time. If you’re ever in the Lake District with kids, I highly recommend a visit – there’s so much to discover and enjoy. And don’t forget to make time for Kendal on your way out, for a final taste of the area’s charm.