Windermere Ferry
Cross Lake Windermere by car or foot, enjoying breathtaking views of the Lake District's iconic fells and waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Windermere Ferry
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cross Lake Windermere by car or foot, enjoying breathtaking views of the Lake District's iconic fells and waters.
"A beautiful and essential part of any Lake District adventure, offering stunning views and convenient travel."
🚗 Car vs. Foot Passenger
Driving on is convenient but can have queues. Foot passengers have more flexibility for walks .
⏰ Arrive Early for Standby
If you can't book, get there early. Some days are better for standby than others .
Quick Facts
Rating
4.5 · 29 reviews
Type
Ferry Terminal
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Windermere Crossing
Lake Windermere
Experience breathtaking views of the Lake District from the water on this iconic car and passenger ferry.
Far Sawrey Village
Western shore of Lake Windermere
A charming village accessible via the ferry, offering a peaceful escape and access to local pubs.
Views of Lakeland Fells
Onboard the ferry
Enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding fells and mountains, a photographer's delight.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Consider Foot Passenger Travel
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Car vs. Foot Passenger
Driving on is convenient but can have queues. Foot passengers have more flexibility for walks.
⏰ Arrive Early for Standby
If you can't book, get there early. Some days are better for standby than others.
📸 Capture the Views
The ferry offers stunning photo opportunities of the lake and fells.
🍺 Pub Stops Nearby
Combine your ferry trip with a visit to charming pubs in Far Sawrey.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Car vs. Foot Passenger
Driving on is convenient but can have queues. Foot passengers have more flexibility for walks.
⏰ Arrive Early for Standby
If you can't book, get there early. Some days are better for standby than others.
📸 Capture the Views
The ferry offers stunning photo opportunities of the lake and fells.
🍺 Pub Stops Nearby
Combine your ferry trip with a visit to charming pubs in Far Sawrey.
💰 Family Ticket Value
Look out for family tickets; they can offer great value for money [Review]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Windermere Ferry for its stunning scenic views and its practical role in connecting the Lake District's shores. Many highlight the value of family tickets and the enjoyable experience of being on the water. While queues can be a drawback during peak times, the overall journey is considered a beautiful and worthwhile part of a Lake District visit.
"You will get self drive boat from this bay. It is one of the best experience of life to ride a boat in a such a beautiful lake."
Nimesh Dedhia
"Starting point for some of the best Lake District cruises, including circular tours of Windermere, and boat trips north to Waterhead pier.
I'd advise taking a cruise on a sunny day for the best experience, when you can really appreciate the wonderful views of the distant mountains.
The audio guide on the cruise points out notable landmarks, from islands to lakeside buildings, and most boats have outdoor and indoor seating for better views or comfort.
Prices aren't cheap, in the region of £20 - £30 when I visited, but the ride was a good length.
Cruises depart fairly frequently but in peak season can get very busy, so I'd recommend arriving early or taking a late evening sunset cruise if you prefer to avoid big crowds.
The white and green pier buildings are a lovely architectural feature of the Lake District."
Andrew Thomas
"One of my "things to do" while on holiday in The Lake District is a ferry ride on Lake Windermere. I was very sceptical as I have heard sometimes they are very expensive. We got the ferry return family ticket 75 minutes, It only cost about £35! We were really shocked.
Unfortunately the weather didn't hold but we got off at the north of the lake and walked to the village and had a brew!. Looked around the shops and the walked back to get back on the ferry. Great day out. Beautiful scenery, nothing like it"
Claire Warren
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Windermere Ferry operates between Bowness-on-Windermere and Far Sawrey. You can reach Bowness by car or train, with trains from London to Windermere being a popular option. The ferry itself is a key part of navigating the lake and accessing different points.
Yes, it's quite accessible. You can rent a car in London or take a train to Windermere directly. The train journey offers scenic views and avoids the hassle of driving long distances.
Absolutely! The Windermere Ferry is a car ferry, allowing you to transport your vehicle across the lake. This is a popular option for exploring the Lake District by car.
The primary route is the car ferry crossing between Bowness and Far Sawrey. This route is essential for connecting the eastern and western shores of Lake Windermere.
Ferry times can vary, so it's best to check the official Windermere Lake Cruises or ferry operator website for the most up-to-date timetables. Social media often shares real-time updates during peak seasons.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Windermere ferry prices vary depending on whether you are a foot passenger or bringing a vehicle. Family tickets are available and can offer good value [Review]. It's advisable to check the official website for current Windermere car ferry prices.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season or if you're traveling with a car, to secure your spot.
Yes, foot passenger tickets are available and are generally more affordable than car tickets. This is a great option for those planning to walk or explore villages like Far Sawrey.
The cost for a car on the Windermere Ferry is higher than for foot passengers. It's best to consult the official ferry operator's website for the most accurate and current Windermere car ferry prices.
Yes, you can often purchase tickets on the day, but during busy periods, it's wise to arrive early or consider booking ahead to avoid disappointment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Many visitors enjoy the ferry as part of a scenic cruise or a car-free day out. Combining it with a walk to local pubs or attractions like Wray Castle enhances the experience.
The views are spectacular! You'll see the beautiful Lake Windermere, surrounded by the rolling Lakeland Fells and mountains. It's a fantastic spot for photography.
Yes, the ferry terminals are often starting points for various Lake Windermere cruises, offering circular tours and trips to different piers [Review].
Yes, especially on the Far Sawrey side, you can find charming pubs like The Cuckoo Brow Inn and The Tower Bank Arms, perfect for a meal after your crossing.
The actual ferry crossing is quite short, typically around 10-15 minutes, but it's a scenic journey that offers great value for the experience [Review].
📸 📸 Photography
The entire journey offers great photo opportunities. Capture the ferry itself, the surrounding lake, and the fells. Early morning or late afternoon light is particularly beautiful.
Absolutely! The open decks provide excellent vantage points for capturing the expansive landscapes of Lake Windermere and the surrounding mountains.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photography. However, any sunny day provides lovely views [Review].
Keep an eye out for islands on the lake, charming lakeside buildings, and the distant peaks of the Lakeland Fells. The ferry itself can also make for a great foreground element in your shots.
Use a wider aperture for landscape shots to capture more depth. If shooting the ferry, a faster shutter speed can help freeze motion. Consider polarizing filters to enhance the sky and water.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit