The Victoria Wood Theatre is positioned in the centre of Bowness-on-Windermere in the Lake District. It is a five minute walk from lake Windermere, which offers stunning views with the backdrop of the Lakeland mountains.
Nestled on the shores of England’s largest lake, Bowness-on-Windermere is the beating heart of the Lake District. A charming blend of lakeside bustle and Cumbrian tranquillity, Bowness offers everything from scenic cruises and boutique shopping to cosy cafés and traditional pubs.
Wander the waterfront, watch the boats drift by, or step aboard for a cruise across the calm waters of Windermere. Just moments away, rolling hills and woodland trails invite you to explore some of the UK’s most inspiring landscapes. Whether you’re here for a romantic escape, an outdoor adventure, or a family getaway, Bowness is the perfect place to begin your Lake District story.
An evening of theatre. A weekend of wonder.
Escape to Bowness for a weekend of Theatre, charm & Lake District magic - where every performance at the Victoria Wood Theatre is just the beginning of your story.
Imagine this: the lights dim, and for a few unforgettable hours you’re swept away by live theatre — laughter, drama, and music filling the air. Then, as the applause fades, you step out into the Lakeland evening, where the twinkle of Lake Windermere awaits just moments away.
Why rush home when Bowness invites you to linger? Stay the weekend and let the magic continue. Stroll along the lakeshore, indulge in cosy cafés and fine dining, browse local boutiques, and wake up to breath taking views of the fells. From boutique hotels to welcoming guesthouses, there’s a perfect place for you to rest, recharge, and relive the night before.
Explore the Lake
Start with the star attraction — Lake Windermere itself. Hire a boat or take a scenic cruise from Bowness Pier to Ambleside or Lakeside. The changing light over the water makes every trip unique, with panoramic views of the fells and woodlands.
Walks Around Bowness-on-Windermere
Orrest Head – A gentle yet rewarding climb from Windermere village offering one of the most iconic views in the Lake District. It was here that Alfred Wainwright first fell in love with the fells.
Brant Fell – Just above Bowness, this short but steep walk rewards you with sweeping views over Windermere and the central fells — perfect for a sunset picnic.
Cockshott Point & Millerground – Easy, family-friendly lakeside paths starting right from Bowness Bay. Great for spotting wildlife and enjoying peaceful lake views.
School Knott & Cleabarrow Tarn – A moderate circular walk starting near Windermere, leading through fields, woodland, and open fell with views across to the Langdale Pikes.
Local Attractions
The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction - The Attraction shares a building with The Victoria Wood Theatre. Step into the charming world of Peter Rabbit and friends, a delight for children and adults alike.
Blackwell, The Arts & Crafts House - Just a short walk or drive from Bowness, this beautifully preserved house offers art, architecture, and stunning lake views.
Windermere Lake Cruises - Windermere Lake Cruises offers unforgettable ways to explore the iconic Lake District landscape.
Eat, Drink & Unwind
After exploring, treat yourself to one of Bowness’s many cafés, bistros, and pubs. Enjoy locally sourced dishes, lakeside drinks, or a traditional Cumbrian afternoon tea. We heartily recommend The Peter Rabbit Café - just across the road.
Further Afield
Use Bowness as your base to explore nearby gems such as Ambleside, Grasmere, and Hawkshead — each offering their own blend of history, scenery, and walking trails.