Holiday rentals in White Cross Bay

Situated on the northeastern shore of Windermere, England’s largest natural lake, this charming bay has become a popular spot with families thanks to the lodges, caravans, and many amenities that line its edges. It’s surrounded by the kind of beauty typical of the Lake District, with views that look out over Windermere to the Langdale Fells, and acres of picturesque woods and parkland. At White Cross Bay, you always feel close to nature: the woodland is populated by rabbits and red deer, and you’re likely to paddle by a few fish in the cool clear waters of the lake.

There are plenty of opportunities for boating and watersports, lakeside walks, and fell climbing, while nearby facilities include a heated indoor pool, bar, and restaurant. The pretty village of Ambleside is three miles north, and the busier town of Bowness-on-Windermere three miles south. Each can be reached within a 10-minute drive.

Spring is a popular time to visit the shores of Lake Windermere, when the woodland is carpeted with bluebells and the villages are in full bloom. Visitor numbers rise from April to October, and between June and August White Cross Bay is busy with families on their summer holidays, making the most of the sunshine and the water. One of the United Kingdom’s biggest open-water swimming events, the Great North Swim, takes place over a weekend at nearby Brockhole, with distances to suit all levels and abilities. The autumn is also a beautiful time to be in the Lake District, with the surrounding countryside transformed by the changing colours, into a rich panoply of gold, russet, and red; just make sure you’ve brought plenty of layers and waterproof clothing so you can enjoy the outdoors whatever the weather.

Brockhole

The Lake District Visitor Centre, in the grounds of Brockhole House and Gardens, is only 10 minutes from White Cross Bay. It would be worth a visit just for the 19th-century Arts and Crafts villa and landscaped gardens, but it’s also a hub of family activities from boating to archery, treetop net walks, kart racing, and kayaking tours.

Orrest Head

The summit at Orrest Head, 239 metres above sea level, is modest compared to the Lake District’s big peaks, but it’s a great spot to view them from. A relatively short climb will reward you with panoramic views of Windermere and the fells that surround it, including the famous Old Man of Coniston, Scafell Pike, and Fairfield.

Holehird Gardens

The show gardens of the Lakeland Horticultural Society are a kaleidoscope of colour that constantly shifts with the seasons. From the native wild daffodils that cover the meadow in spring to the herbal perfume of the walled garden in summer, and the fiery display of autumn foliage, there’s something eye-catching whichever time of year you visit.