Things to do in Waterhead

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Ambleside showing a lake or waterhole and sailing
Ambleside which includes a bridge and a pond
Ambleside showing a lake or waterhole and forest scenes
Ambleside which includes sailing, boating and landscape views
Ambleside showing a pebble beach, a marina and boating
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What to do in Waterhead

Discover the most popular places to visit in Waterhead

Grasmere Lake & Rydal Water

Grasmere Lake & Rydal Water

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

Grasmere Lake & Rydal Water
Dove Cottage which includes a garden, a house and heritage elements

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 showing a lake or waterhole and boating

Ambleside Pier

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

Ambleside Pier
Rydal Mount showing 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
The beautiful Tarn Hows, a group of three tarns that we’re joined together to make one. Stunning walk wheelchair and pushchair friendly with amazing views especially when the sun shines

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
Not a very old castle, only built in 1840 and now owned by the national trust. The castle overlooks Windermere.

Wray Castle

You can spend time browsing the exhibits at Wray Castle in Ambleside. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Wray Castle
Across the lake to Heron Pike.

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 which includes night scenes and a church or cathedral

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

Hill Top Farm

You can spend time studying the exhibits at Hill Top Farm in Near Sawrey. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this culturally rich area.

Hill Top Farm

Popular day trips from Waterhead

Ambleside showing night scenes, a small town or village and street scenes

Ambleside

Windermere showing heritage architecture, cafe scenes and signage

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 neighborhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city center, 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 kilometers from the center, and Limefitt Park, which is about 3 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Waterhead with kids?
Whether you're vacationing 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 neighborhoods, 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.