November in the Lake District: The Perfect Time for a Cosy Getaway

November might not be the first month that springs to mind when planning a trip to the Lake District, but we think it has a lot going for it! The summer crowds have disappeared, the fells take on a wonderfully dramatic appearance, and there's something rather special about wrapping up warm for a walk before finding somewhere cosy to enjoy a good meal.
Whether you're looking for a peaceful weekend away, a few days exploring the great outdoors or simply an excuse to escape the daily routine, November is a lovely time to discover the Lake District.
Here at The Westbourne in Bowness-on-Windermere, we're perfectly placed for exploring everything the area has to offer. So, grab a cuppa, settle in and let us give you a few ideas for making the most of a November visit!

1. Enjoy a Bracing November Walk

One of the best things about visiting the Lake District in November is seeing the landscape change with the seasons. The hills can look spectacular under dramatic skies, the woodland paths are scattered with autumn leaves, and there's nothing quite like breathing in that fresh Lakeland air.
You don't need to tackle a mountain to enjoy a good walk, either. There are plenty of options around Bowness-on-Windermere.
Brant Fell is a favourite for those looking for a rewarding walk close to Bowness. The climb takes you above the town, with wonderful views across Windermere and the surrounding countryside. It's a great way to stretch your legs and appreciate the scenery.
For another popular viewpoint, Orrest Head near Windermere offers fantastic views over the lake and towards the surrounding fells. It's a relatively short walk, although there are some uphill sections.
If you'd prefer something gentler, why not take a stroll around Cockshott Point? With lovely views across Windermere, it's a pleasant place to enjoy the lakeside scenery without committing to a long walk.
Of course, November weather can be unpredictable, so remember your waterproofs, wear suitable footwear and check the conditions before heading out. The days are shorter, too, so it's worth setting off early.
And if you're not sure where to go, just ask us! We're always happy to help with recommendations to suit your interests and abilities.

2. Discover Bowness-on-Windermere

You don't have to venture far from The Westbourne to enjoy a great day out.
Bowness-on-Windermere has plenty to keep you occupied, even when the temperature drops. Take a leisurely wander around the town, browse the independent shops or find a welcoming café for a coffee and something sweet.
If you're interested in the area's history, the Windermere Jetty Museum is well worth considering. It explores the history of boating on Windermere and showcases an impressive collection of boats and maritime objects. Check opening times before visiting, as seasonal hours may apply.
You could also simply enjoy a stroll down towards the lakeshore and take in the views across Windermere. On a crisp November morning, the lake can look particularly beautiful, especially when the surrounding hills are reflected in the water.
And don't forget your camera! You never know when the clouds might part to reveal a stunning view or if you're very lucky a RAF Typhoon flying low to the water.

3. See Windermere from the Water

There's something special about seeing the Lake District from the lake itself, and a cruise on Windermere is a wonderful way to appreciate the scenery from a different perspective.
The surrounding fells, wooded shorelines and lakeside villages look quite different when viewed from the water.
November can be a particularly atmospheric time to take a cruise, with changing skies and quieter surroundings adding to the experience. Services and timetables vary throughout the year, so check what's operating before setting off.
Wrap up warm, find a good spot to enjoy the views and let someone else do the navigating for a change!
If the weather isn't suitable for a cruise, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the lakeside scenery around Bowness.

4. Find Somewhere Cosy for Lunch

After a bracing walk, there's nothing better than heading somewhere warm for a well-earned rest.
Fortunately, Bowness has plenty of places to stop for a bite to eat, whether you're in the mood for a leisurely lunch, a warming bowl of soup, coffee and cake or a traditional pub meal.
November is also a great excuse to slow down a little. Rather than rushing from one attraction to the next, take your time, enjoy the food and watch the world go by.
And if you're planning an evening out, you won't have to travel far from The Westbourne to find somewhere to eat.
For a relaxed evening's entertainment, the Royalty Cinema in Bowness is just a couple of minutes' walk away. Why not enjoy a meal followed by a film? It's a lovely way to round off a day exploring the Lakes, particularly when the weather isn't playing ball.

5. Enjoy Bonfire Night and the Start of the Festive Season

November also marks the beginning of the run-up to Christmas, with Bonfire Night on 5 November bringing fireworks and celebrations to communities across the country.
If you're visiting early in the month, it's worth checking for local Bonfire Night events around Windermere, Bowness and the surrounding area. Make sure you check dates and booking arrangements before travelling, as events vary from year to year.
As the month progresses, you can start to enjoy the anticipation of Christmas, too.
Bowness is a lovely place to browse for gifts, pick up something a little different from the independent shops or simply enjoy a change of scenery before the festive rush begins.
And if you're anything like us, a little Christmas shopping followed by a coffee and cake sounds like a pretty good way to spend an afternoon!

6. What If It Rains?

Let's be honest: November in the Lake District doesn't always mean sunshine and spectacular views!
But don't let the possibility of a rainy day put you off. There's plenty to enjoy indoors around Bowness and the wider area.
Here are a few ideas:

• Browse Bowness's shops. Take your time exploring the town and looking for something special to take home.
• Visit a local museum. Windermere Jetty Museum is a great option for anyone interested in the history of the lake and its boats. Check seasonal opening arrangements before visiting.
• Enjoy a leisurely lunch. Find a cosy pub or restaurant and make the most of a relaxed afternoon.
• Catch a film. The Royalty Cinema is close to The Westbourne and makes a great rainy-day option.
• Explore further afield. The Lakeland Motor Museum is another attraction to consider, particularly if you enjoy classic cars and motoring history. Check its opening times before making the journey.

Sometimes, the best thing to do on a wet day is simply embrace it. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, take a short walk when the weather allows and give yourself permission not to have every minute of your holiday planned.
After all, a break away should be about relaxing as much as exploring!

7. Why November Is a Great Time to Stay at The Westbourne

One of the joys of a November break is that you can enjoy the Lake District at a more leisurely pace.
You can spend your days exploring the surrounding countryside, discovering local attractions and enjoying everything Bowness has to offer, before returning to somewhere comfortable to relax.
The Westbourne is ideally situated for discovering Bowness-on-Windermere and the surrounding area, whether you're planning an active walking break or simply want a few days away from the usual routine.
You could spend one day exploring the fells, another enjoying the shops and cafés, and another discovering some of the Lake District's many attractions.
Or you could do very little at all!
There's no need to fill every day with activities. Sometimes a change of scenery, a good breakfast and the chance to get out into the fresh air are more than enough.
And with Christmas still a little way off, November offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a relaxing break before the busier festive period arrives.

Make November Your Month for a Lake District Escape

We hope we've given you a few ideas for enjoying the Lake District in November.
From bracing walks and beautiful lakeside views to cosy lunches and relaxed evenings in Bowness, there's plenty to enjoy whatever the season brings.
So why not wrap up warm, escape the everyday routine and discover a different side of the Lakes?
We'd love to welcome you to The Westbourne in Bowness-on-Windermere.

Remember, when you book your stay directly with us, you'll enjoy 10% off your booking compared with our usual rates.

Visit www.westbourne-lakes.co.uk to find out more and plan your November getaway.

We look forward to seeing you!

The Westbourne team