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A Local’s Guide to Scenic Drives Around Windermere
Wednesday 13th May 2026
Exploring beyond Windermere reveals a completely different side of the Lake District and one that many visitors never quite reach. The most memorable views and charming villages are found along quiet country lanes where the only sound is the wind across the grass.
Staying locally, at the Westbourne, gives you the advantage of discovering the quaint spots that Bowness-on-Windermere has to offer at the right time of day.
Make sure you check availability and reserve your dates here.
Below is a simple guide to some of the best scenic drives around Windermere, helping you enjoy the landscape at your own pace while soaking in some breathtaking views.
Windermere to Troutbeck Valley
Approx. 4 miles and 10-15 minutes from Bowness
This is one of the easiest and most rewarding short drives from Bowness, located just between Windermere and Ambleside.
Heading north towards Troutbeck, the scenery quickly shifts from lakeside bustle and within minutes, you are immersed in peaceful countryside, rich in cultural heritage and a strong sense of community. This is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
The narrow lanes through traditional farmland, stone walls and open fells make it one of the most enjoyable Windermere countryside routes for a slower drive. There are plenty of places to pause, whether to grab a bite at the local Troutbeck Inn or simply to take in the views towards Troutbeck Tongue.
It is particularly beautiful in the early morning when the valley is quiet and often covered in a light mist.
Kirkstone Pass: A Classic Lake District Drive
Approx. 8.5 miles and 20-25 minutes from Bowness
For something a little more dramatic, Kirkstone Pass offers one of the most iconic lake district driving routes. This is a must-visit destination for walkers, drivers and photographers alike.
At the moment, the usual route up Kirkstone Pass is temporarily closed, with access currently available via “The Struggle” from Ambleside. This winding route makes the drive feel even more adventurous, climbing steadily through sweeping bends with fells rising on either side before opening onto panoramic views towards Patterdale by Ullswater and Brothers Water below.
Along the route, you can stop at the recently reopened Kirkstone Pass Inn, the highest pub in the Lake District and the fourth-highest pub in the UK, offering spectacular views from its beer garden.
While the drive is short, it feels adventurous and rewarding, especially on a clear day when the light catches the hillsides and the valley drops away beneath you. Make sure to take this route slow, allowing you to fully appreciate the scenery rather than rushing through it.
Ferry Crossing and the Western Shore
Approx. 5 miles to Hawkshead and 20-30 minutes including the ferry crossing
From as little as £8 per person, taking the car ferry from Bowness across Windermere is one of those simple decisions that turns a simple drive into something memorable. This is a different perspective of the Windermere that the roads simply can’t offer. The crossing itself only takes around 10 minutes, with ferries running every 20 minutes throughout the day.
The western shore tends to be more secluded, with far less traffic than the eastern side. Follow the road towards Hawkshead where you can explore the village on foot towards the Grammar School Museum where famous poet, Wordsworth studied as a boy, or wonder through routes that pass wooded areas and hidden viewpoints such as Claife Heights Viewing Station for endless lake views and waterside paths.
This is one of the most underrated and calmer alternatives for scenic drives Windermere.
Please check @windermereferry on Twitter, for updates on service status, cancellations and more.
More information on the Windermere ferry can be found here.
Windermere to Grasmere via Ambleside
Approx. 11 miles and around 30 minutes from Windermere
Driving along the A591 via Ambleside and onwards to Grasmere passes the shores of Rydal Water in connection to the larger lake of Grasmere, two recognisable lake landscapes known to have inspired the poet William Wordsworth for many of his esteemed works.
Parking is available on the western shore at White Moss Walks giving you access to both lakes on foot along with short trail trips up the slopes of Nab Scar, also known as part of the old ‘Coffin Route’ across the fell.
Make sure to travel earlier in the day, bring a packed lunch and the paths will be all yours to enjoy.
A Few Final Tips
The key to enjoying these routes is timing and simplicity. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the quietest roads and a much more peaceful atmosphere.
You do not need to cover long distances to enjoy the area as some of the best experiences come from short drives with a few well-chosen stops along the way.
Stay In the Heart of It
The Westbourne B&B sits just a short walk from Bowness centre, with free parking and the local knowledge that helps you make the most of your stay. Choosing the right base makes exploring much easier and after a day exploring the surrounding countryside, it is the ideal place to return and unwind.