In common with Bowness, Windermere grew in Victorian times with the arrival of the railway and the resulting explosion of traditional lakeland guest houses catered to the tourist trade then and now.
The village shopping centre has benefitted greatly from the recent widening of the pavements and pedestrianisation.
Shops tend to be specialist and include the Galactic Emporium which is a Star Wars fan’s wildest dream as well as a Gallery and wine shop plus some rather up-market fashion shops and ubiquitous outdoor clothing emporiums.
Eating out in Windermere has been transformed of late and there are many places to enjoy fine food.
Many day trippers to Bowness fail to make it “up the hill” to Windermere which is a shame as it has much to offer without the crowds of its sister village.
