What's in store for 2012 at Windermere Marina Village

Self catering accommodation has changed over the last 10 years in this country.  Customers expect high standards and rightly so.  At Windermere Marina Village we focus on improving the customer experience at all levels from our website to a swift check out and then everything in between.

One of the advantages of staying in our cottages and apartments is our Reception and Maintenance Teams are in action seven days a week.  Any niggles can be sorted while you're enjoying your day out in the Lakes.

The plans for the New Year are BIG.  About a month ago we received the great news that our planning application for a new bar and restaurant had been given the go ahead.  We can't wait to add this to the offering for our customers.  The building has been designed to make the most of the fantastic views over the marina, we know it's going to be a great place to relax?

I'll keep you posted as things progress.

More and more of our customers want to share their holidays with the whole family and bring the dog along.  We have increased the number of pet friendly holiday cottages on offer in 2012 and now have 10 to choose from. 

Here's to 2012 onwards and upwards!

Shorter Lake District Breaks

Time is precious and just a few days away can make all the difference to our mood and motivation.  With winter on its way any time spent out doors is to be cherished.  Who originally said "there's no bad weather, only bad clothes" remains debatable but if they did not take more than a little insipration from the Lake District I would be surprised.  Wrap yourself up and a few hours in the hills can be exhilarating.
Windermere Marina Village offer a two night break during December, a rarity for self catering.  So if you find yourself at a loose end one weekend why not try a change of scenary with 48 hours in the Lakes.

Pet Friendly Lake District Holidays

Holidaying with man's best friend is on the up.  As the proud owner of Paddy, all six stone of him our holiday destinations have changed in recent years.  Long haul for three weeks relaxing on the beach has been replaced with a week or two self catering within easy access of walks and the odd animal friendly pub.  What hasn't changed is my desire for quality accommodation and quite frankly that's easy said than done.
Many of the pet friendly self catering cottages on offer I wouldn't well...expect the dog to sleep in.  You might need to invest a little time in finding the right place but things are on the up.  The Lake District seems to be ahead of the game; Windermere Marian Village have just added to their pet friendly accommodation.  The cottages are decorated and equipped to the same great standard as their non pet friendly counterparts.  Due to popular demand some of the larger cottages over looking the fabulous marina have been allocated for the use of families who want to include the dog.

Lake District Public Transport

I don't know about you but I relish leaving the car behind on my holidays...and not just so I can enjoy a lunch time tipple!  Seeing the Lake District from behind the wheel of a car is not the best vantage point. 
Naturally there's isn't a bus stopping outside your holiday cottage every 15 minutes, so a bit of forward planning is required.  As the kids get older this is all part of getting them involved in the upcoming activities as well as keeping them occupied for a few minutes.
While accessing the wilds of the Lakes might not be achievable, the delightful Lakeland towns are on bus routes.  We always choose to stay in self-catering accommodation in Bowness predominantly because of the transport links, although the many attractions, restaurants and cafes have their draw too.  Staying at Windermere Marina Village gives us access with the advantage of being far enough away from the throng that can build up in Bowness at busy times.  A short walk to the bus stop outside the Burnside Hotel is a great starting point, I would recommend the Coniston Rambler 505 which takes you through Ambleside and Hawkshead, a great way to get your bearings and have a good look round at the same time.
A must for the area is a trip back in time on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway, you can hook up with the Windermere Lake Cruises and while away an afternoon at a slower pace of life.
We found the Car Free Fun section of our residents folder in our self-catering cottage really useful.  The Reception team have a wealth of local knowledge so if you're not sure where to start just ask.

Autumn in the Lake District

After the crowds of the summer, visitors and locals alike breathe a small sigh of relief as Autumn arrives.

If you feel at home in your wet weather gear the next couple of months are the ideal time to visit the Lake District. In the mild(ish) months of Autumn there's still the chance of a touch of sun and the daylight hasn't deserted us yet.

Most of the attractions are still open with the added advantage of a reduced crowd. There are some fabulous Lake District self catering deals to be had. Many of the cottages and apartments are available at great rates...so visit us soon

My Top 5 Lake District Attractions

If you’re stuck for inspiration when you visit the Lake District, here are some ideas on what to do when you get here…

Windermere Lake Cruises

Take in the blue skies, sunshine and the Lake's landscape on a Windermere Lake Cruise. Cumbria’s most popular attraction, Windermere Lake Cruises offers a range of lovely trips including cruises around the lake’s islands or between the many stops allowing you to hop off at Lakeside at the bottom of the Lake, Waterhead at the top or Brockhole near the middle. Passengers can enjoy a full day on and around the lake with a fantastic value ‘Freedom of the Lake’ pass.

Brockhole, The Lake District Visitor Centre, Windermere

Situated on the shores of Windermere, Brockhole is set amid 30 acres of beautiful terraced gardens stretching down to the water with impressive views of the lake and distant fells. It boasts a brilliant adventure playground packed with rope walks, slides, swings, scramble nets and zip wires, a toddler’s play area and a picnic area. There's a vast information centre which shows great exhibitions, browse the gift shop or enjoy a meal and drink in the contemporary café. Best of all, entry to the house, grounds and lakeshore is free!

Blackwell Arts & Crafts House, Bowness-on-Windermere

A beautifully elegant Arts and Crafts house and gardens with elevated views of Windermere, Blackwell is one of Britain’s finest houses. Blackwell’s gardens were laid out by the famous designer Thomas Mawson, in a series of terraces to achieve the best views from the house. Blackwell, which runs exhibitions and displays, is bordered by beautiful flower beds set against a terrace of stone paving, providing one of the loveliest outdoor places in England to enjoy morning coffee, lunch or afternoon tea.

World of Beatrix Potter, Bowness-on-Windermere

This place is just perfect if you have little ones. All 23 of Beatrix Potter's gorgeous tales are brought to life at this fabulous interactive attraction. Enjoy Peter Rabbit's pretty garden which is packed with goodies from the storybook garden pictures including gooseberries, parsnips, cucumbers, parsley, pear trees and lettuces. Explore Jemima Puddle-duck's woodland glade and McGregor's greenhouse then take a virtual walk through Lakeland and the many places that inspired Beatrix to write her magical tales.

The Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway

This quaint historic line offers a lovely way to explore the famous Lake District scenery, providing a lovely day out. Head to Haverthwaite, park visit the shop, restaurant and engine shed then board the train to relax and enjoy the beautiful ever-changing scenery alongside the River Leven.

All of these attraction are within easy reach from Windermere Marina Village a fabulous Lake District self catering base to any stay. You can even ditch the car and walk to many which makes that lunch time Lakeland ale a must!

Five more great Lake District Attractions will follow next week!

Things To Do in the Lake District Rain

Getting wet is kind of expected when you live or visit the Lakes. With the sea on one side and the mountains on the other it's inevitable...my school girl geography escapes me for the actual reason why but experience has taught me it's fact.

So what are your options? Stay inside and watch the world go by from your window - there's a time and place for everything but this

feels like a bit of a waste with the Lakes on your doorstep. I opt for finding things to do that are improved by the downpour. Here are my top three and believe me I've tested many over the years.

The majestic mountains are put into perspective when it's just you and your paddle! Try a little kayaking, you may as well be in the water if you're going to get wet in the rain. You can hire a canoe from £20 for four hours from Windermere Canoe Kayak and see

the lakes from a different view point. You can even hire a wetsuit if your balance is not a strength and you th

ink you might end up in the water!

If you are feeling more adventurous try Ghyll Scrambling; descending a Lakeland stream via slides, dives and even jumping down waterfalls. Guidance is essential: Mobile

Adventure are a great company in the Lakes offering all sorts of activities for all sizes of groups including families.

For an experience you won't forget try an off road driving adventure on the wild trial routes in the Lake District National Park with Kankku. The trails are rough and rocky which means the driving isn't damaging to the environment come rain or shine, and a member of the Kankku team goes with you to share their knowledge of the trails and how to drive a 4x4 in these demanding conditions.

As you would expect from an activity that takes place in the mountains and valleys of the Lakes, the scenery is spectacular and provides a great sense of adventure; perfect for occupying the minds of the younger members of the family or perhaps a slightly reluctant partner! If you stay in a Lake District self catering cottage or apartment at Windermere Marina Village the Kankku Team will even pick you up.

So get out there even in the rain and enjoy!

3 Mostly Free Things To Do in the Lake District

I'm the right side of 40 but even my summer holidays seems to have taken on a sepia tinge over the last few years. Spending those glorious six weeks in the pursuit of simple pleasures came naturally with the Lake District as your back garden. Reminiscing over a glass of wine the other evening with friends we compiled our top 5 and I thought it would be rude not to share...in no particular order.

Picnicking at Fell Foot

Some unsuspecting parent, (thanks Dad!) would accompany a car loads of kids ladened with frisbees, rounders bats, blankets and the obligatory picnic - mine was always heavy on the pickled onion monster

munch: a balanced diet was not a priority in the early 80's. We would descend on Fell Foot, the Victorian country park beside Lake Windermere and wile away a hour or two on a game of rounders before demolishing the picnic, or the unhealthy bit of it anyway. There always seemed to be a bag of uneaten fruit to take back to the car!

The braver ones amongst us, I was not one of them would venture into the Lake for a swim...apparently it wasn't cold once you got in. Exhausted, the car journey home would be quieter that the one there much to the relief of my Dad I'm sure.

I still enjoy the park today but you will more likely find me avoiding the games under a tree with a good book.

The admission charge includes parking, locals and the more canny tourist park on the verge outside the grounds. There

are toilet facilities, a tearoom and a children's play area and you can even hire a rowing boat and get further out on the lake. It's a must do on a sunny day and yes we d get them up here.

Feeding the Swans at Bowness Bay

Bowness is the hub of tourism in the Lakes, attracting more visitor than any other part and with good reason! If you are in walking distance of the bay then you will find the experience all the more relaxing, driving around in peak season can be painful. You can find great Lake District self catering cottages within easy walking distance of the bay and with the best transport links around its a fantastic base for exploring further a field too!

Used to the tranquility of the Lakes walking into Bowness Bay felt positively metropolitan. In my early years I remember fondly feeding the swans and duck on the shore and happily watching the people going by ice cream in hand. I still don't know whether a swan can actually break your arm or not, but that sense of danger has always appealed to me, perhaps that's where it began!

You will also find the Lake districts number one attraction departing from here: hopping on the Windermere Lake Cruise is a must!

Discovering the Wooden Carvings ar Grizedale Forest

I joined the protest when the Government proposed selling off the forests as did many of the people I know. This was in part due to the time I have spent at Grizedale Forest - a fantastic example of how to run a forest for the benefit of the economy and environment.

Situated between the lakes of Coniston and Windermere Grizedales is an ideal place to go walking. With views of the lakes and mountains, the shelter of the trees and sculptures in the forest, Grizedale offers everyone a walk they will enjoy.

Family Sundays were often spent in Grizedale, I was always intrigued by the wooden sculpture as a child and terrified by the prospect of the dizzy heights of Go Ape as an adult...and no I've still not plucked up the courage! The walks are really great, free and accessible even with a push chair which is great. Feeling like you really are soaking in a bit of the great outdoor even with an easily tired toddler really is a treat. The canopy of the trees even make the experience pleasurable in the rain - it does that sometimes here.

There are so many more virtually free things to do in the Lakes for tourists and locals alike, share a few here is you feel inclined. Stay at Windermere Marina Village to enjoy some car free fun, Reception will point you in the direction of a bus timetable - they are more frequent than you might think!

A Summer Sailcation in the Lakes

Boating owners are being encouraged to check out life on England’s longest lake this Summer and enjoy a “Sailcation” on Lake Windermere.

Windermere Marina Village has invested over £2 million pounds worth of improvements at the15-acre site, situated in a sheltered inlet near Bowness.

At the start of every summer, there’s a chance to take up a Holiday Mooring on the biggest Marina on Windermere, and the largest inland Marina in the whole of the North.

It costs just £85 for two nights and £25 a night thereafter – making it a low-cost- way of seeing the sights across one of the UK’s leading tourism resorts.

Since the 1980s, the Marina has been a key base for over 400 boat owners who use its jetties to moor a luxury fleet of motor or sail powered cruisers on the scenic 10-and-a-half mile long lake.

Many of the boat owners are people who come from the South East and South West, Manchester, Cheshire, Newcastle and Glasgow.

Marina manager Dan Fairweather said: “We’re in a stunning location, sheltered from the weather and giving access to the lake 365 days a year. We’re centrally located on the eastern shore of Windermere giving the perfect base for exploring the lake.”

As well as easy launch and recovery of boats on its private slipway with staff on hand to help, there’s also:

• Parking for cars and trailers
• A serviced marina berth with hook-up to electric, TV, water and free Wi-Fi
• Access to toilets, showers and laundry facilities
• A comprehensive onsite boatyard and nearby Chandlers
• Challenging sailing conditions but with the safety of an inland waterway with no tides or currents or restrictions on when you can get out on the water
• Sheltered bays, public jetties, pubs and hotels with lake access and jetties for visiting boats
• Lake Warden and Ranger services on hand to help and advise

Holidaymakers can also rent out its fully refurbished Lake District self-catering cottages and luxury apartments which have been upgraded to four and five-star superior class standard.

Sailcation on Windermere

Boating owners are being encouraged to check out life on England’s longest lake this Summer and enjoy a “Sailcation” on Lake Windermere.

Windermere Marina Village has invested over £2 million pounds worth of improvements at the15-acre site, situated in a sheltered inlet near Bowness.

At the start of every summer, there’s a chance to take up a Holiday Mooring on the biggest Marina on Windermere, and the largest inland Marina in the whole of the North.

It costs just £85 for two nights and £25 a night thereafter – making it a low-cost- way of seeing the sights across one of the UK’s leading tourism resorts.

Since the 1980s, the Marina has been a key base for over 400 boat owners who use its jetties to moor a luxury fleet of motor or sail powered cruisers on the scenic 10-and-a-half mile long lake.

Many of the boat owners are people who come from the South East and South West, Manchester, Cheshire, Newcastle and Glasgow.

Marina manager Dan Fairweather said: “We’re in a stunning location, sheltered from the weather and giving access to the lake 365 days a year. We’re centrally located on the eastern shore of Windermere giving the perfect base for exploring the lake.”

As well as easy launch and recovery of boats on its private slipway with staff on hand to help, there’s also:

• Parking for cars and trailers
• A serviced marina berth with hook-up to electric, TV, water and free Wi-Fi
• Access to toilets, showers and laundry facilities
• A comprehensive onsite boatyard and nearby Chandlers
• Challenging sailing conditions but with the safety of an inland waterway with no tides or currents or restrictions on when you can get out on the water
• Sheltered bays, public jetties, pubs and hotels with lake access and jetties for visiting boats
• Lake Warden and Ranger services on hand to help and advise

Holidaymakers can also rent out its fully refurbished self-catering cottages and luxury apartments which have been upgraded to four and five-star superior class standard.

Summer Events in the Lake District

The Summer Solstice has been and gone but the Summer Holidays are still to come!

Better weather is ahead, we can feel it, so make the most of the sunshine with a stay at Windermere Marina Village Lake District Self-Catering Cottages and Apartments.

It’s a great time to book a break at Windermere Marina Village and it’s simple to sort a three, four or seven night break online or over-the-phone.

As I write this, I can see people barbecuing by the water’s edge after a day trip with the family into the Lakes, and couples enjoying a chilled drink on their balconies as the sun sets.

What’s more the area is bouncing with events for all the family that’ll make for a great day out from Air Shows & Agricultural Shows to Street Art and Music!

Here’s a short guide to some of the things you could get up to while you’re here – but hurry, don’t leave it to the last minute!

Coming Up In July

Windermere Air Festival 2011, 23rd and 24th July

Formerly known as the Windermere Airshow - will be a spectacular event with a total of 16 flying displays over two afternoons. Plus exciting showground displays to keep every child and adult enthralled!

Over 40,000 people attended the tenth anniversary Air Show event last year. The flying programme varies each day with non-stop ground entertainment for all the family on the Air Base. Ground attractions will include a military village and battle re-enactments by Earl of Montague's Regiment of Foote.

Moky Fit will show you how to create some fun dance routines, the local Ju-Jitsu group will be demonstrating their martial moves and running some 'have a go' sessions and Kendal Majorettes will show their marching and cheerleading capabilities. The YMCA will be bringing a climbing wall, there will be Kids Go-Karts and face painters and jugglers will make their way round the Air Base.

You can enjoy the airshow from the comfort of your luxury Cumbrian cottage first floor balcony.

Coming Up In August

Grasmere Sports and Show 2011, 28^th August

This is arguably the highlight of the Lake District agricultural calendar. It’s a major country show with all the trimmings - Cumberland and Westmorland Wrestling, fell races, hound trailing, dog shows, Jesters, children’s storyteller Taffy Thomas and tug-o’-war all set in the stunning surroundings of the Grasmere Showfield on Stock Lane. There’s more marquees, beer tents and food stalls than you’ll know what to do with. A “don’t miss” insight into Lake District life.

Looking Ahead To Some September Events

MintFest, 2nd - 4th Sep 2011

Kendal's International Festival of Street Arts returns for its fifth year. Fast becoming one of the UK's biggest and brightest street arts festivals, Mintfest fills the whole town with a variety of performances from across the globe. Four days of joy and entertainment for the whole family. Entry to the Festival is free

Westmorland County Show, 8^th Sep 2011

One of Britain's oldest and Cumbria's biggest livestock shows featuring, sheep, cattle, pigs, goats, alpacas, also horses, poultry, hounds, dogs, heavy horse and rare breeds. Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling and craft marquees will also be available at the show. 350+ trade stands and the countries largest local produce food hall with celebrity chef demonstrations.

Taste Cumbria Food Festival 2011, 24th & 25th Sep 2011

Set in the heart of Cumbria, Cockermouth plays host to the annual food festival, which launched to record numbers of visitors last year boasts a bustling traditional farmers’ market, demonstrations from celebrity chefs, along with the area’s very best culinary talent, informative master classes and workshops from Cumbrian food heroes, live music and street entertainment, plus an interactive children’s area where they can learn about food production, simple recipes and healthy eating.

Entry to the Festival is free; however a small charge will apply to some events and attractions.

Whenever you come the the Lake District there is always something great to do...you just need to look out of your window!

Bowness-on-Windermere as your base in the Lake District

Summer is coming and it’s time to plan where you’re going and how to take some time out.

Recent surveys suggest the Lake District will be one of the most popular UK destinations to head for a break this summer: I don’t think there’s a better place to base yourself than in a luxury Lake District cottage at Windermere Marina Village.

Here’s the proof….

You will be close enough to walk to the restaurants, shops and attrac

tions of Bowness but far enough from the noise or crowds, to ensure you have a relaxing and peaceful stay.

A £3 million investment has improved the décor and facilities inside the stunning self-catering cottages and waterside apartments to an exceptional standard - offering you the choice of three, four or seven day breaks.

There are gentle walks on your doorstep along the lakeside, which are “buggyable” if you’re with little ones.

You can make the most of Windermere Lake: choose a cruise with nearby Windermere Lake Cruises, hop on the cross-lake ferry next door to us with your bike or car, or even hire a wooden rowing boat out at Bowness Bay, just a 10-minute walk from your door.

If messing about on the water isn’t your thing, just follow the A592 down to Fell Foot Park run by the National Trust, which offers gardens, lakeside walks, picnic spots and a café, and take in the view.

Those seeking some quality “me time” can enjoy a pampering: we’ve now linked up with our good neighbours The Old England Hotel, offering complimentary use of the fantastic Leisure Club and Spa. As a Windermere Marina Village guest you will receive 20% off any of the fabulous spa therapies from Sunday to Friday.

If you’re up for adventure, then you’ve found the right place. Head a mile up the road to activity centre Lakes Leisure Windermere where you and the kids can try introductory lessons to canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing and sailing, or a multi-activity days with specially trained instructors. Alternatively, head to Grizedale Forest around 20 minutes away with its tree-tops Go Ape course and zip slides, a range of mountain biking trails and indoor and outdoor art exhibitions.

You’ll never be short of things to see and do during your stay, and the Reception team are always on hand with suggestions and advice!

It all goes to make Windermere Marina Village a cherished place to spend the summer. Check them out for great Lake District holiday cottages; you won't regret it. Happy holidays!

Easter in the Lake District

There are still some amazing Lake District self-catering deals to be had this Easter...our favourite: 25% off Windermere Marina Village cottages and apartments. Visit Lake District Self Catering Deals to get the best deal.

The Great Peter Rabbit Easter Egg Hunt begins next week. 100 very special eggs are hidden amongst the glorious Cumbrian countryside - a prize in each - so get out there. Full details are available at www.hop-skip-jump.com

Soak up some cultural atmosphere between April 26th & May 3rd with an Evening Stroll for the family to one of Wordsworths favourite view points of Orrest Head. Starts from Windermere Tourist Information centre at 7 p.m. Price free and gradient easy.

72 Hours in the Lake District

The list of activities and attractions to enjoy in the Lake District is endless... The Windermere Marina Village team attempt to give you a feel of the potential of the area. Watch the You Tube video and see for yourself.