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The Boat House, Bowness-On-Windermere

Guest Rating
Rating
4.6
out of 5
Guest Rating
Rating
4.6
out of 5
Sleeps 2
Hot Tub
Bedrooms: 1

The Boat House sits right on the shores of Lake Windermere in Cumbria. This waterside cottage sleeps two and offers direct lake access with your own private jetty. The location puts you 2. 6 miles from Bowness-on-Windermere and 1. 5 miles from Windermere train station.

The Lake District National Park surrounds this peaceful spot. You can kayak from your own jetty using the two-person kayak provided. Walk to Orrest Head in 30 minutes or explore Ambleside five miles away. The setting gives you complete privacy with stunning water views.

Inside you'll find an open-plan living space with Norwegian stress-less chairs and a dining area. The super king-size bedroom opens onto a balcony through patio doors. A ground-floor shower room features luxury fixtures.

 

About The Boat House

The Boat House sits right on the shores of Lake Windermere in Cumbria. This waterside cottage sleeps two and offers direct lake access with your own private jetty. The location puts you 2.6 miles from Bowness-on-Windermere and 1.5 miles from Windermere train station.

The Lake District National Park surrounds this peaceful spot. You can kayak from your own jetty using the two-person kayak provided. Walk to Orrest Head in 30 minutes or explore Ambleside five miles away. The setting gives you complete privacy with stunning water views.

Inside you'll find an open-plan living space with Norwegian stress-less chairs and a dining area. The super king-size bedroom opens onto a balcony through patio doors. A ground-floor shower room features luxury fixtures. The kitchen includes an induction hob, dishwasher, microwave and Tassimo coffee machine. Underfloor heating keeps everything warm.

Visit the World of Beatrix Potter (1.5 miles, 5 minutes). Windermere Lake Cruises operate from Bowness. Brockhole visitor centre sits nearby. Grasmere is 9 miles away (20 minutes).

Couples seeking waterside seclusion will love The Boat House. The private hot tub for two sits undercover with lake views. Book this for direct water access and total relaxation.

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The Boat House Attractions & Days Out

Explore the wonderful attractions and activities surrounding The Boat House during your stay. Find the best places to visit and things to do in the local area, all conveniently organised by distance and type. Charming villages to lively and exciting attractions - there's something for everyone to enjoy. Browse through our categories including attractions, walks & outdoor activities, shopping destinations and handy tips on getting around. Plan your perfect day out. Whether you're looking for family fun, romantic experiences, or pet-friendly adventures, this cottage provides an ideal base to explore Cumbria's fantastic days out. Click on any attraction for more detailed information including address, opening times and visitor tips.

Blackwell
Distance: 1.2 miles (2 min drive)
LA23 3JT
Lakes Aquarium
Distance: 6.2 miles (11 min drive)
LA12 8AS
Laurel and Hardy Museum
Distance: 13.5 miles (20 min drive)
LA12 0DB
Westmorland and Furness Way
Distance: 2.2 miles (4 min drive)
Coronation Park
Distance: 2.5 miles (5 min drive)
LA23 3EU
Gummer's How
Distance: 5.2 miles (9 min drive)
LA12 8NP
The Cornish Bakery
Distance: 2.7 miles (5 min drive)
LA23 3DB
Driftwood Gifts
Distance: 2.7 miles (5 min drive)
LA23 3HE
Booths
Distance: 4.1 miles (9 min drive)
LA23 1QA
Windermere Station
Distance: 4.2 miles (9 min drive)
LA23 1AH
Kendal Bus Station
Distance: 9.9 miles (19 min drive)
LA9 4BT
Ferry Nab
Distance: 2.2 miles (4 min drive)
LA23 3JH
Blackwell
Distance: 1.2 miles (2 min drive)
LA23 3JT
Lakes Aquarium
Distance: 6.2 miles (11 min drive)
LA12 8AS
Laurel and Hardy Museum
Distance: 13.5 miles (20 min drive)
LA12 0DB
Westmorland and Furness Way
Distance: 2.2 miles (4 min drive)
Coronation Park
Distance: 2.5 miles (5 min drive)
LA23 3EU
Gummer's How
Distance: 5.2 miles (9 min drive)
LA12 8NP
The Cornish Bakery
Distance: 2.7 miles (5 min drive)
LA23 3DB
Driftwood Gifts
Distance: 2.7 miles (5 min drive)
LA23 3HE
Booths
Distance: 4.1 miles (9 min drive)
LA23 1QA
Windermere Station
Distance: 4.2 miles (9 min drive)
LA23 1AH
Kendal Bus Station
Distance: 9.9 miles (19 min drive)
LA9 4BT
Ferry Nab
Distance: 2.2 miles (4 min drive)
LA23 3JH

Is The Boat House Right For You?

Discover why this cottage is ideal for different types of visitors

For Families
The Boat House is not suitable for children. The property sleeps only two people in one super king-size bedroom with no additional sleeping arrangements. A narrow spiral staircase and steep access steps make it unsuitable for young families. The waterside location with direct lake access also presents safety concerns for children. This cottage is designed exclusively for adult couples.
For Couples
Couples get their own private jetty and hot tub overlooking Lake Windermere. The super king-size bed opens onto a balcony with water views. Norwegian stress-less chairs provide comfort in the open-plan living space. Use the two-person kayak together from your own jetty. Complete seclusion and underfloor heating create perfect romantic conditions. The Tassimo coffee machine and well-equipped kitchen mean you never need to leave this peaceful waterside retreat.
Pet Friendly
The Boat House does not accept pets. A strict no-pets policy applies to all bookings throughout the year. This includes all types of animals regardless of size or temperament. If you're travelling with pets you'll need to find alternative accommodation in the Lake District. The property owner enforces this policy to maintain the condition and cleanliness of the cottage for all guests.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at The Boat House

The Crafty Baa

Located 2.5 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: LA23 3BT

The Royal Oak Inn

Located 1.8 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: LA23 1AQ

Homeground Coffee

Located 1.6 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: LA23 1DG

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about The Boat House

Does this cottage have a hot tub?
Yes, The Boat House has a private hot tub for two people. It sits undercover with views towards the lake and provides complete privacy for guests.
Is it pet friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at The Boat House. The property has a strict no-pets policy that applies to all bookings throughout the year.
How many people does The Boat House sleep?
The cottage sleeps two people in one super king-size bedroom. This makes it perfect for couples seeking a romantic waterside retreat in the Lake District.
Is there parking available?
Yes, one designated parking space is provided. The driveway is narrow and steep leading down to the property so prepare for tight access with smaller vehicles recommended.
Can I use the kayak provided?
Yes, a two-person kayak is available for guest use at your own risk. Life jackets are provided and you can launch directly from your private jetty onto Lake Windermere.
What kitchen facilities are included?
The kitchen has an electric oven, induction hob, microwave, dishwasher and fridge. A Tassimo coffee machine with initial pods is provided along with all essential cooking equipment.
Is the property suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, The Boat House is not suitable for limited mobility. Several steps lead down to the property and a narrow spiral staircase connects the ground floor to the first-floor bedroom.
What time is check-out?
Check-out is at 10:00 AM. The property cannot accept Sunday arrivals or Sunday departures so plan your booking accordingly when making your reservation.

The Boat House Reviews

Pauline
Beautiful property, but several issues need addressing The property itself is beautiful, in a lovely location and generally very well equipped. The hot tub was fantastic and was definitely one of the highlights of our stay. However, there were quite a few issues that we feel need addressing, especially considering the standard and price of the accommodation. Access to the property is difficult. The road down to the property is extremely tight, and there is a grid directly beside the entrance. This makes it virtually impossible to drive past the property in a larger car and then reverse in as instructed. We ended up having to do a threepoint turn further along and reverse back down the road into the property. This is something future guests with larger vehicles should be made aware of. Unfortunately, the cleanliness and maintenance were not quite what we expected. The duvet and mattress had visible stains, which was disappointing and not something you expect when arriving at holiday accommodation. One of the chairs was broken and therefore unusable, while the other was extremely squeaky. The pillows were also far too soft for our liking, and we actually had to go out and buy additional pillows from Asda. The top gate was broken, and we were told that it had apparently been in that condition for some years. If that is the case, it really should have been repaired by now. The biggest concern for us, however, was privacy. There is a camera positioned directly towards the hot tub, as well as another camera on the balcony. We found the camera overlooking the hot tub particularly intrusive. My wife did not feel comfortable wearing a bikini while using the hot tub because she felt she was potentially being watched or recorded. For us, this significantly affected our enjoyment of what should have been a private and relaxing part of the property. We strongly feel that the positioning of this camera needs to be reconsidered. The kayak was also left loose in the dock when we arrived, with a bottle of water still on it. We used it a couple of times and tied it up as best we could, but the dock area really needs proper, secure ropes or ties. When the wind picked up across the lake, we could hear the kayak repeatedly knocking against the side of the dock. There were also several smaller issues that, while not individually major, added to the feeling that the property could do with some attention. Bedside lamps would have been useful, and the TV was rather small for watching from the bed, although it was connected to the internet and we were able to use our Amazon account. The bedside rugs were looking tired and could probably do with replacing. The hoover also had an unpleasant smell when being used and could benefit from some attention or an air freshener. Overall, this is a lovely property with a lot of potential, but it is let down by a number of maintenance, cleanliness and privacy issues. The hot tub and location are excellent, and we would consider returning, but only if the more important issues were addressed. In particular, we feel that the broken chair, stained beddingmattress and, most importantly, the camera overlooking the hot tub need to be dealt with. The privacy issue is something we would expect the owner to take particularly seriously.
The place was lovely just a few things let it down, parking access in a big car is horrendous with it being so tight put me off driving out of the property, that elevated drain was in a poor location. Other small things lovely coffee but no sugar. Stair case didn't feel steady and again tight. Cob webs everywhere could of been brushed away. Dock area as you walk out piles of rocks just eye sore. Lovely place just that parking would put me off booking that boat house again.
Main chairs so squeaky they were quite annoying, spiral staircase also made so much noise not good if you have to get up in the middle of the night. Everything else perfect even the fridge was surprisingly big . Beautiful accommodation will definitely stay again.
Jonathan
Absolutely beautiful. As mentioned in other reviews, the staircase is not easy as is the drive down a narrow lane. Apart from those two things, find yourself a bit of paradise. Perfect if you like outdoor pursuits. Thank you to the owners for our stay. Special mention to Dave, the man, the myth, the legend. Really approachable and friendly
Lovely accommodation. Would definitely recommend to others.
A wonderful accommodation and location. Very well maintained, everything we needed was included. Everywhere easy to get to, and being a few miles outside Windemere, and being next to the lake meant it was very quiet. Cannot beat sitting on the balcony watching the world boats and the occasional jet fighter going past. Shout out to Dave runs the boathouses who we had a great few chats with, very friendly, and gave us lots of tips. Highly recommended.
Had our 2nd time in this property and we are already talking about coming back in a couple of years. Amy
Christopher
The pillows were too soft for me. Already shared with other family members. Can you tell me what the name for next door is please. Hopefully book both for 2027
We love staying at the boat house our second visit, totaly relaxing with amazing views of the lake and beyond, with everything you need for a selfcatering holiday.
Lorraine
This was our second visit to the Boat House, and it was just as special as the first visit. To be fair it was even better, but I believe the weather did help as it was wall to wall sunshine! The Boat House is truly a romantic get away! The kitchen is well stocked and functional. The bed super comfy, and the recliner chairs a dream! Having your own jetty and boat park is a dream. As for the hot tub that is the icing on the cake! We will definitely be staying again!
Another fabulous stay. We absolutely love this property and this was our fifth stay here. The views are to die for. The frying pans need replacing the tiny one does not work at all maybe too small or maybe not for induction and the other two are very scratched and were not very efficient. After the first day I purchased two new frying pans for us to use whilst we were there as I could then use them at home. Maybe having silicone utensils would avoid guests scratching the frying pans. The balcony could do with a more thorough clean but this did not distract from our stay. We love your property and have booked again for next year. Thank you!
The cottage is a very nice accommodation. It is as described, so we went prepared for the very tight parking and took small bags to get luggage up and down the spiral staircase. The facilities are excellent and there is still a new feeling to the cottage. Views of the lake are very good and it's great to have use of the kayak.
We loved the boat house, gave us exactly what we booked it for, a totaly relaxing time, the views are amazing, location was perfect for us, you have everything you need and the place was exceptionally clean, all the little extras like the coffee machine with pods made it for us, so much so, we booked again while we were there and can't wait to return.
Loved the location and was a perfect stay for 2 people right on the lake itself. Yes the spiral staircase is slightly annoying when you arrive as you had to get everything and the wife wasnt impressed but once done and you are in you could not have asked for a better location and so so peaceful. I know not everyone will agree but the raf flybys in various jets was such a thrill when they zoom past at low level. Hot tub is also a plus and even in the worst weather its enclosed so so easy to use
Daniel
Louper Weir is a tale of 2 halves On the plus side The view is breathtking you will never tire of it The apartment is well equiped and spotlessly clean Well located Hot tub great However Whomever designed the drive needs shooting, unless you drive nothing larger than a mini or are an expert in car manoverability then forget about taking it. If you can navigate the long stone walled drive without damage then you will not be able to turn your car around at the bottom. Fortunately taxis to Bowness are only 10 each way as there is no way you would attenmpt to move your car after dark. The main property is accessed via an extremely small and rickety spiral staircase, however the bathroom is on the ground floor. So if you need the loo during the night this unpleasant climb has to be endured. If you have any mobility problems at all then forget about using it. The bed why did they fill the mattress with concrete???? The only comfortable place to sleep are the two recliners.
Lucinda
We loved The Boat House. It was perfect for the type of break we were after a thoroughly relaxing place with everything we needed. Everything there was of the best quality, in excellent order and very clean. We made use of the hot tub and the kayak and even got to see the Northern Lights! Sorry, I realise that can't be guaranteed for everyone . The only thing I would say is don't take one large suitcase that's what we did and struggled on the spiral staircase! We would recommend this property to everyone.
Garland
Stunning home and setting had a amazing time celebrating my partners 40th birthday.
Antony
Directions to property were terrible. Post code given didn't exist found it by complete chance as we were staying on the lake we just followed the road around the lake until we found it.
Amazing property in a stunning location!
Trevor
The bout house was great but the parking was terrible on a really steep hill with not much room to maneuver onto the drive. And the camera is pointing onto the hot tub so not much privacy.
Arunima
We loved the boathouse. Loved the view, the cleanliness, comfy bed, fully equipped kitchen, the balcony and the recliner chairs, everything was well thought of. It was a lovely touch to leave a card for us, to thank us for returning back to stay here. Thanks for the mocktails we added some gin and enjoyed it, thank you. Its nice to have access to the kayak and life vest. Really enjoyed the hot tub and the peaceful location was the best, destressing time. We had one toilet roll for the week, which ran out, so maybe two would have helped, very minor issue.
Chelsi
We have just returned from a weeks stay and we had a wonderful time, from waking up every morning to the incredible views of lake Windermere. The overall cleaness of the property was really great, the coffee machine with coffee pots were a great touch. This property does have a small sprial staircase which would be difficult for couples who have mobility issues. Getting to the property you have to go down a small narrow lane so anyone with a big car would struggle, so would be wise to reserve into the parking spot. No long mirror in the bathroom or bedroom maybe this is something which could be put in for other people, overall we had the most amazing week the views, the hot tub and the property was perfect. Thank you for a great week we will be back!!
Denise
Had the perfect week, the Boat House is high spec and had everything to cater for our needs. Waking up and going to sleep to beautiful views, so peaceful, you can fill your days with walks and come back and chill in the surroundings. We made full use of the kayak, especially late tea time when the lake is quiet and it seems you have it all to yourself, bliss. The parking outside the Boat House isnt for the faint hearted, best to reverse in, however the husband had it mastered on the second day ! Fantastic holiday we will be going back.
This holiday was bought for a 30th birthday present for a 2 night stay. We love the property and the views from the balcony, the only down side we did have was on the first night the hot tub should of been at optimum temperature at 7pm, the hot tub was still cold at 9pm, the people who stayed next door complained as they had the same problem, luckily when we went out at 9pm to check the hot tub temperature we saw two people who was fixing the neighbours hot tub temperature, these two people fixed our hot tub temperature by 930pm. We are very disappointed we could not use the hot tub from 7pm on the first night as stated on the holiday description as this holiday was specifically booked for use of the hot tub.
Danielle
Great boat house and location I would say the only thing I didnt like was the spiral staircase but due to space fully understand why they have installed it. Also there should be a. Key lock facility so you dont need to drop the key back at the office , but great location and accommodation xx
The property certainly has the wow factor. After loosing my dad I wanted to get away on a break were I could just chill and relax and forget about everything and this did just that! The negative bits, we wasnt given an alarm fob so on entering the property for the first half hour we had the alarm blaring away! The oven hadnt been cleaned and I had to do this before using it. We couldnt use the kayak as it was full of water inside the base of it and needing lifting out and draining from inside and this was impossible to lift, way too heavy. On the last day we had to be out for 10am at 855 we were all packed and got changed for one last dip in the hot tub! We opened the door to find it being drained already, ridiculous when we are paying so much and basically being rushed out. The cameras yes I get it they are there for security but one facing the hot tub then one on the balcony and next door has a bigger camera all invading your privacy. Needs to be said as not right!
The accommodation was really nice we only managed to get out once because the weather was so bad but didnt mind staying in and just enjoying the view and the rest There is one or two things that could be improved but didnt spoil it for us .
Second time here we love it the views are breathtaking, We were sad to leave and ... Second time here we love it the views are breathtaking, We were sad to leave and no doubt will be back again, the only thing I would change is a mirror upstairs to get ready, still used the kayak just wrapped up warm as the water was very still, and used the hot tub daily,
The property itself is absolutely stunning, the only thing and this was THE only thing that let this place down, was the spiral staircase. We are a couple in our 30's and struggled on those stairs, its not easy taking a suitcase up and back down again. My wife fell down these on the 2nd day of us being there resulting in very bad bruising on legs,arms and back. you could easily put a normal staircase in there instead. For older people this would be no good at all, also would recommend you take your own pillows as they have duck feathered ones on the bed which were a bit too soft flat. Everything else was perfect, the views, the amazing sound system and smart tv was added bonus. i loved the kayak and was out every day. we would definitley come back if you change those stairs.
Russell
Lovely stay. Very well equipped property. Spiral staircase could be a problem for some.
Nicola
From the moment we walked through the door it was breathtaking. The boathouse has everything you need and more for a comfortable stay. The view is incredible , the facilities are outstanding. It was a perfect week to spend my birthday. I will be back and if the owner ever wants to sell give me a ring haaa. Thank you for sharing your property. We couldnt get our discovery onto the drive , however this wasnt a problem we parked at the top of the path. The spiral staircase was a bit tricky on entry but wasnt a problem , the bathroom was just great, and the hot tub was totally relaxing . The cctv we didnt find intrusive and considering I spent several nights by myself without my car was not a problem. To sum up my stay Love it , love it, love it . I cannot wait to come back again soon. Thank you
Girish
Had a lovely relaxing week at the Boat House. Agree with other comments about the stairs a bit of a pain going downstairs to the toilet in the night. Parking wasnt a problem but very glad we were in a small car. We opted to eat and drink at the boat house most evenings so wouldnt stay here if you like to go out at night and drink. Loved the hot tub and the amazing view will stay with me forever. Would definitely return.
WE TOOK TORCHES AND OUR OWN MIRROR. BUT WERE DISAPPOINTED THAT SOME OF THE MAIN REVIEW ISSUES HAD STILL NOT BEEN DEALT WITH. THE PROPERTY WAS NICE AND IN A GREAT POSITION WHICH SUITED OUR NEEDS, BUT WE WERE DISAPPOINTED IN THE QUALITY OF FURNISHINGS IN WHAT WAS SUPPOSED TO BE A HIGH SPEC PROPERTY AT A PREMUIM PRICE. FOR EXAMPLE, THE LOUNG DINNING FURNITURE WAS ACTUALLY SOME GARDEN FURNITURE WHICH WAS A LITTLE ODD?? WARDRBE SLIDING DOORS RATTLED AND MOVED VERY CHEAP TO BE HONEST. THE CLEANING WAS NOT UP TO STANDARD AND THE FLOOR HOOVER WAS FULL OF DIRT AND DUST WHICH WE HAD TO EMPTY, UNDER THE BED WAS FULL OF DUST HAIRS AND DIRT.SHOWER AREA NOT CLEAN AND TILES HAD WATER UNDER THEM.COOKER EXTRACTOR FAN WAS DIRTY. THE OUTSIDE BALCONY WAS FIULL OF COBWEBS AND DIRT AND THE GLASS AROUND THE BALCONY WAS DIRTY AND LOOKED LIKE THE WHOLE AREA HAD NOT BE CLEANED FOR A WHILE. WE DID GO INTO LAKESIDE PROPERTIES AT THE END OF OUR HOLIDAY AND GAVE THEM THE LIST AS BELOW, THIS WE WERE TOLD WOULD BE PASSED ON TO THE OWNER. WE ARE A WEEK AFTER LEAVING OUR DTAILS AND NO RESPONSE FROM THE OWNER YET?? 1. ARRIVAL INSTRUCTIONS NEED A VISUAL MAP FOR HOW TO ENTER THE PROPERTY BY CAR AS NOT VERY OBVIOUS SINAGE 2. NO WELCOME PACK?? 3. NEEDS PRIVACY BLIND ON FRONT DOOR TO PROPERTY 4. NO FIRST AID BOX FOUND 5. NO COAT HOOKS FOR COATS BY ENTRANCE TO PROPERTY INSIDE?? 6. YET 6 COAT HOOKS IN HOT TUB AREA?? 7. NOTHING TO SWEEP AWAY DIRT OR WATER IN AREA BY WASHING MACHINE NEEDS LONG HANDLED SQUEGGY BLADE. 8. SPIRAL STAICASE WAS FOR WARNED AS TO NARROW ETC BUT IT WAS VERY FLIMSY AND MOVED ALARMINGLY WHEN USED NOT VERY SECURE. 9. NO LIGHT AT TOP OF STAIRCASE WHICH COULD BE USED AT NIGHT SO AGAIN UNSAFE. 10. NO WALL LAMPS BY BED OR ON WALL ABOVE BED VERY ODD?? 11. NO PROPER MIRROR IN BATHROOM JUST A SMALL SHAVING MIRROR?? 12. NEEDS LONG VIEW MIRROR IN LOUNGE AREA AS WELL 13. FOUND MOSQUITO NET IN WARDROBE BUT NO WAY TO HANG THIS BY DOOR SO HAD TO HAVE DOORS CLOSED AT NIGHT 14. HOT TUB WAS DIRTY WITH BITS IN BOTTOM WHEN WE FIRST USED IT AND THESE REMAINED ALL WEEK?? 15. SADLY, THERE ARE A LOT OF POINTS IN MY LIST THAT HAVE BEEN MENTIONED IN REVIEWS FOR THREE YEARS YET NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE
Mollie
We definitely enjoyed our stay and the view is to die for. Property was very clean and modern. However, the stairs into the property and the car parking did put us off a little bit. After a full day hiking it would be much nicer to have better stairs to walk up! Also a lack of a mirror in the main area was annoying. Did we enjoy our stay? Yes. Would we return? Probably not.
Great stay. Property is very nice. Would definitely stay again. Hot tub was nice but definitely no view to be had. The spiral staircase is much tighter than anything I have seen before, take small bags only. Access road is very steep, tight and restricted. Improvements could be... Louper Weir sign on the road needs some kind of light. Trying to find property in the dark was very difficult. Arrival directions need making clearer! Wasn't just us who struggled, neighbouring property did as well. Maybe provide full GPS coordinates past code no use or 'What 3 words'
Graham
Great accommodation, great location, well appointed and very comfortable. Excellent all round. My only gripe being the driveway, which was really difficult to navigate, especially when theres ice and frost around.
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