Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in White Cross Bay

"The Lakes Aquarium on the southern shore of Windermere is ‘home to hundreds of amazing creatures, showcasing wildlife from the Lake District as well as more exotic species from around the world’. Children can access a quiz as they explore and there are a variety of different attractions such as tanks at different levels, a tunnel to walk ‘under the lake’ and our personal favourite, the leaf cutter ants…here you were able to watch a colony of ants in action as they transported food and leaves from one end of their tank to the other. The aquarium (like with many aquariums) can be a quick visit if you have a small person who tears from exhibition to exhibition but you can easily keep wandering back too."

"Not too far from the Motor Museum, you’ll find the Lakes Aquarium, which showcases all of the marine life that populates the area’s lakes, as well as nearby Morecambe Bay. As well as local creatures such as pike, arctic charr and thornback rays, you’ll see species from all over the world too, such as clownfish and piranha, as well as a selection of mammals, reptiles and amphibians, such as otters and frogs. One of the highlights is the underwater tunnel section, which allows you to feel as though you’re exploring the depths of Lake Windermere."

"This proper fairytale castle only recently opened its doors to the public and is operated by the National Trust. The neo-gothic castle has numerous towers and turrets to explore and various exhibitions to check out along the way. For example, kids can dress up in period costumes, build their own castle and explore the new Peter Rabbit adventure rooms, as well as an excellent outdoor play area too."

"White Cross Bay is less than 5 minutes by car to Brockhole, where you can catch a boat to the other side of Lake Windermere to visit Wray Castle. On the way out you have to go to Ambleside first, get off the boat for 20 mins, re-board, and then set off for Wray Castle but on the trip back you go straight across to Brockhole. The Woodland Nature Play Trail at Wray Castle is great."

"Families can explore the activity rooms inside the castle, where there’s plenty of space for creative play. With a natural playground in the grounds and a path to spacious grassy area on the lakeshore, its a great for the whole family whatever the weather."

"Situated on the opposite shore of Lake Windermere to Lakeside Station, Fell-Foot National Trust park offers breath-taking views of Lake Windermere and the fells at the north end of the lake. During the summer season a ferry carries foot-passengers from Lakeside over to Fell-Foot where you can enjoy an ice-cream or picnic on the sweeping Victorian lawns while watching the boats and soaking in the atmosphere. Rowing boat hire is available, as well as an adventure playground for children."

"Fell Foot Park is situated on the south shores of Lake Windermere just off the A592 and in the care of The National Trust. The Victorian park is open daily with its eighteen [18] acre grounds that have been restored to its former glory in which you will see in spring and early summer displays of daffodils and rhododendrons. The park in winter is open with limited facilities."

"Fell Foot Park is situated at the southern tip of Lake Windermere and is managed by the National Trust. It’s a great spot for families to play, explore and relax. The sweeping lawns offer plenty of space for games, picnics and gentle walks."

"Enjoy the famous adventure playground, paddle in the lake, and explore the fabulous Mawson designed gardens with good pushchair and wheelchair access. Hire a boat on the lake, with motor boats, rowing boats, kayaks and paddle boards for hire. Challenge yourself with archery, laser clay or inside caving."

"Brockhole, situated in 30 acres of gardens between Ambleside and Windermere, is the Lake District National Park Authority Visitor Centre. One of the most popular Windermere attractions, it has its own landing stage, tree top trek, boat and bike hire, shop, tea rooms….see all things to do here >>"

"Take in the scenic views and gardens down to the shores of Windermere. Browse round the shop and treat yourself to something tasty in the café. The extensive gardens are a delight whatever time you choose to visit."

"Cockermouth was the birthplace of William Wordsworth and his sister Dorothy, whose childhood home was this 18th-century town house, carefully…"

"If you need a picnic spot, or just somewhere to relax in front of Windermere, Borrans Park is a public green space at the lake’s northernmost tip just west of Waterhead. The park merges with the greenery around the Roman fort, and there are benches facing the water so you watch the steamers coming and going, and take in natural splendour the lakeshore. Behind you to the north and northeast are the brooding high fells of the Central Lakeland."

"Borrans Park has magnificent views of Windermere lake and is easily accessed from the A591. There are the remains of a Roman road leading to the ruin of a Roman fort with historical interpretation information in the adjacent field. The large grassed recreation area has picnic tables and ample seating."

"Cautley Spout is England’s highest above-ground waterfall, cascading 650 feet down the cliff face. Unlike Aysgarth Falls, you won’t find a car park on-site. Instead, you’ll need to start your walk from the village of Cautley."

"The car park in Waterhead can be the starting point for a picturesque two-hour walk in the ancient woodland above Ambleside, cresting at Jenkin Crag, a great vantage point above Windermere. Nearly all of the path is in thick woodland, and there are steps to make the going lighter on wet days. One of the loveliest sections guides you along the Ambleside Champion Tree Trail, which has England’s tallest grand fir."

"05/06/2021: Overall the adherence to Covid regulations was the best we’ve experienced anywhere - sanitiser & antibacterial wipes everywhere (e.g. could wipe down toilet seat before & after use). Only gave a 4 because daughter had to change baby on a seat on the stairway & staff were unpacking boxes whilst we were there. Staff were lovely & attentive - wishing me a happy birthday & making a fuss of baby."

"With a restaurant, gin bar and cafe, The Magic Roundabout offers up good pub grub in a quirky setting. You could eat all your meals here, too, as they serve up breakfast all through to dinner, including afternoon tea!. Then there are evening drinks at their well-stocked bar and excellent vegetarian food."

"Located on banks of Derwentwater, The Lakeside Cafe is the perfect spot for light breakfast, lunch, coffee and cake or atmospheric dinner with stunning views. Email: theatrebythelake@baxterstorey.com. Website: www.theatrebythelake.com"

"10/06/2021: My partner and I had a main meal, desert and coffee and everything was absolutely delicious, I'm not at all surprised there was a small queue outside!. The staff were really friendly and welcoming and even came outside to give us a rough idea of when we might get a table, we will definitely be visiting again 😊"

"After a long walk around Loughrigg Fell and Rydal Falls, we stopped off in Gandhi’s Cafe for a much-needed refuel. Mat had their Thali, which was a mouthwatering selection of small Indian dishes, and I had the creamy & delicious ‘George’s Korma’. They also have lighter bites like soups, sandwiches and salads."

"Excellent and authentic Thai food is what's on offer at House of Siam. Take a break from the UK and go on an Asian taste-journey in this welcoming restaurant with its vaulted ceiling and beautiful decor. Location: Grosvenor Terrace Lake Road, Bowness-on-WindermereContact: 015394 22412"

"21 Station Street, Keswick CA12 5HH EnglandAsian, ThaiLunch, DinnerTakeout, Reservations, Seating, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Free Wifi, Table Service, Highchairs Available+44 17687 75111http://www.asayathai.com/"

"With a picturesque location in Ambleside, Ambleside Salutation Hotel & Spa, BW Premier Collection features a modern spaand a brasserie. There is free parking and spacious rooms with free WiFi and scenic views towards Wansfell. Ambleside Salutation Hotel & Spa is set in a 17th-century building, and has a leisure club with a swimming pool, sauna, spa bath and steam room."