It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and there’s nowhere quite like the Lake District when it comes to celebrating all things festive. Beautiful winter walks followed by delicious food and drink; excellent Christmas shopping opportunities in independent local shops; and plenty of yuletide celebrations await. Bowness is a fantastic place to enjoy the festive season, with its charming cobblestone streets and twinkling Christmas lights – not to mention our mouth watering Christmas menus here at Porto! Here are a few of our favourite things to do in the run up to Christmas in, and around, Bowness.
Enjoy Winter Walks
The Lake District is famous for its country trails, and there’s no need to hang up your walking boots when the weather turns chilly! Adventurous climbers can stock up on winter gear and head out to enjoy snow capped peaks and challenging ascents; for fair weather walkers, there are plenty of beautiful hiking trails to enjoy around Bowness. Orrest Head is a brilliant option for stunning views across Lake Windermere; alternatively, why not take a leisurely stroll along the shores of Lake Windermere, before joining us for lunch at Porto?
Feast on Festive Food & Drink
It’s time to eat, drink and be merry – and we’ve got just the thing to get you into the festive mood! Join us for a very special Christmas season at Porto: our seasonal menus are now available, filled with winter warmers and delicious drinks sure to get you into the yuletide spirit. Enjoy elegant fine dining and excellent service in our cosy restaurant on the cobbles of Ash Street in Bowness; accompanied by handcrafted prosecco cocktails, locally sourced ales, or wine from our carefully curated wine list.
Planning a Christmas party? We have plenty of space for those end of year celebrations. Get in touch to discuss your requirements, and we’ll be happy to help.
Indulge in Christmas Shopping
The streets of Bowness are lined with fantastic independent shops and boutiques: whether you’re looking for the perfect Christmas gift, or simply want to treat yourself, this Lakeland town has got you covered. Begin at the top of the high street and work your way down towards Lake Windermere: along the way, you’ll find artisan food shops, art galleries, gift shops, clothing boutiques, jewelers, and plenty more.
Set Sail on a Winter Lake Cruise
Wrap up warm and head off to explore the natural beauty of Lake Windermere on a winter cruise with Windermere Lake Cruises. Hop on board and set sail across England’s largest lake: there are a number of brilliant cruises to choose from during the Christmas season, with departure points including Bowness and Ambleside.
The option to alight at a number of local attractions, including the stunning Windermere Jetty Museum, means that there are plenty of opportunities to explore the local area. Add in some fairly spectacular views of the Lakeland fells from the comfort of your cruise, and you’ve got the recipe for a brilliant day out.
See the Lights
Watch the Lake District light up, as its pretty towns and villages switch on their Christmas lights in the run up to the big day. On November 16th, Ambleside hosts its Community Christmas Lights Switch On, complete with a visit from Santa and a stunning fireworks display. The Windermere & Bowness Winter Lights celebration follows on November 30th, turning these two Lakeland towns into picturesque winter wonderlands.
Visit the Christmas Markets
There’s nothing quite like a Christmas market to get you into the festive spirit, and fortunately the Lake District has plenty to offer! The Windermere Christmas Celebration (14 – 15 December, 2019) is a fantastically festive weekend of stalls, food, drink and music – all taking place in the pretty Lakeland town of Windermere.
Across the Lake, the Hawkshead Christmas Fair (7 – 8 December 2019) is a cheery celebration of all things Christmas, held in a charming Lake District village. Why not hop on board the Windermere Ferry, which departs from Bowness and takes both cars and pedestrians across Lake Windermere to Ferry House on the opposite shore, from which Hawkshead is just a short drive away.
Porto is open throughout the festive season, with the exception of 24th – 26th December. Take a look at our festive menus here, and join us to celebrate the Christmas season in Bowness.
