What you need to know about visiting Fell Foot
We can’t wait to welcome you to Fell Foot at the southern tip of Windermere, England's longest lake. Take a stroll around the meadow, have a paddle on the lake or a bite to eat in the café. Here’s all you need to know about visiting this winter.
Opening times
- Fell Foot Park is open 9am – 4pm
- Boathouse Café is open 10am – 4pm every day.
- Icecream Parlour is open July - September.
Map of Fell Foot
- Download or view the map of the site before you visit to see how to get to the toilets, Active Base facilities, playground, cafe and car parks.
Parking
Parking is free for National Trust members. There is a parking charge for non-members (£6 for up to 2 hours, £7.50 for up to 4 hours, £9 all day). Cash at the ticket machine or card payments can be taken by a member of the welcome team.
Overnight stays for motorhomes and campervans in our carparks are not allowed due to the impact on nature and wildlife, staff resource and visitors. However, motorhomes and campervans are very welcome and well served at our campsites. You can find your nearest site here nationaltrust.org.uk/holidays
Eating at Fell Foot
The Boathouse cafe offers a range of savoury light bites, hot pies, sandwiches and hot lunches. Tray bakes, cakes and scones are baked fresh each day.
You are welcome to bring your own picnic, but no barbeques please. There are tables and benches outside the café, or choose your own spot on the lawn, or bench along the lakeshore.
Water sports at Fell Foot
With easy access to the water, Fell Foot is ideal for paddling, canoeing and boating. Take a look at the Water sports page for information on equipment hire, launching your own equipment and guided activities. Please look out for water safety advice at Fell Foot when you visit. A member of the team will also be happy to help and advise.
Active Base
Active Base is a modern facility with showers, lockers and underfloor heating. Day passes are available from just £2 and can be bought from the café. Annual passes cost £83 email Active Base to arrange.
Swimming in the Lake District
Swimming in lakes, rivers and tarns is a popular activity in the Lake District, but it is important to be aware of the risks involved before entering the water. Lakes and tarns can be deep and the water cold, even on warm days. If you choose to get into the water please be sensible, follow safety advise and know your limits. Please be aware that during autumn and winter we often see higher water levels in the lake which can make for more challenging conditions when swimming and paddleboarding. Before you set off, read the Lake District National Park's guide to swimming to make sure you have the right skills and equipment to stay safe in the water.
Blue-green algae
Blue-green algae often blooms in Windermere in the warmer months and can be potentially fatal to dogs. For more information and to find out about current conditions head to the Lake District National Park's website.
Fell Foot Ferry
Combine your visit to Fell Foot with a trip to the other side of the lake with Windermere Lake Cruises. Runs from May to September and then October half term. Use this service to for a mini-cruise of Windermere or to visit Lakes Aquarium and Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway, or enjoy a gentle walk along the River Leven to Newby Bridge. Newby Bridge has regular bus services (6 & X6) to Barrow, Kendal, Ulverston, Bowness and Windermere.
Fishing at Fell Foot
Fishing is not permitted from April – October. Outside of this period fishing is permitted if the person has all the relevant licenses. Care must be taken to avoid other lake users.
Boat storage at Fell Foot
Boat storage is currently full at Fell Foot however please email the Active Base to be added to the waiting list or to make further enquiries.
Dog friendly
Fell Foot is a three pawprint rated place, which means you’ll be able to take your dog to most areas, including in the Boathouse café for a cup of tea and a treat.
Things to see and do in the park at Fell Foot
Take a leisurely walk around the park and meadows and keep an eye out for wildlife including otters, warblers and geese. There's plenty of things to do at Fell Foot.
Watersports & boat hire at Fell Foot
Fell Foot is the perfect place to try out a new activity on Windermere, England's largest lake. With access to the water, the park is ideal for paddling, canoeing and boat hire. See what’s on offer.
Visiting Fell Foot with your dog
Fell Foot is a three pawprint rated place. Find out all you need to know about exercising your four-legged friends around the parkland, Windermere’s lakeshore and the south meadow.
Family-friendly things to do at Fell Foot
From buggy-friendly lakeshore walks to Gothic boathouses, orienteering and nature trails to explore and England’s largest lake to splash in, there’s something for all ages at Fell Foot, Windermere.