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The best area to stay in Windermere is the immediate vicinity of Lake Windermere itself, particularly the towns of Bowness-on-Windermere and Windermere village.


Bowness-on-Windermere is the most popular choice, located directly on the eastern shore of the lake. It's the main hub for lake activities, with regular boat trips departing from its jetties, and plenty of places to hire small boats. The town centre, along Crag Brow and Lake Road, is bustling with shops, cafes, and restaurants, many offering views of the water. This area is ideal for couples looking for a romantic getaway with easy access to scenic walks and dining.


Windermere village, located just a kilometre uphill from Bowness, offers a slightly quieter experience. It's well-connected by road and has its own train station, making it convenient for arrivals. The village has a good selection of independent shops and eateries along its main street, Victoria Street. Families often find Windermere village appealing due to its slightly less crowded feel and good access to walking paths leading to viewpoints over the lake.


For those seeking a more secluded and tranquil experience, the western shore of Lake Windermere, accessible via car ferry from Bowness, offers a different pace.

The best time to visit Windermere, Victoria, is during the warmer months, from November to April, when the weather is most pleasant for outdoor activities.


November to April offers consistently good weather, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C. This period is ideal for enjoying the lake, exploring the surrounding natural parks, and visiting local wineries. The days are generally sunny and longer, allowing for more time to sightsee and relax outdoors.


Couples looking for a romantic getaway will find these months particularly appealing. You can enjoy scenic walks around Lake Windermere, indulge in picnics by the water, or explore the nearby Grampians National Park, which is known for its stunning hiking trails and waterfalls. Many local vineyards also offer cellar door experiences during this peak season.


Families travelling with children will also appreciate the warmer weather for activities like kayaking or paddleboarding on Lake Windermere, visiting wildlife parks, and exploring the numerous walking tracks suitable for all ages.

You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to ‘My Trips’ and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by ‘Fully refundable property’ for hotels in Windermere.

One Key™—Expedia’s free travel rewards programme—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Windermere hotels. Plus, you’ll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Prices for hotels in Windermere often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$132 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by ‘Price: low to high’ for our cheapest rates.