Bowness-on-Windermere
Windermere Jetty Museum · Photo: Graham Robson
A compact day in Bowness that works in any weather: storybook scenes for younger children, a museum full of historic boats, and a 45-minute cruise around Windermere's islands.
Museum · 10:00–11:15 (1h15m)
Walk through the story scenes and pick up the free children's trail.
An indoor and outdoor museum in Bowness-on-Windermere.
Photo: worldofbeatrixpotter.com
Museum · 11:30–13:30 (2h)
Steam launches in the wet dock; lunch with lake views at the café.
An indoor and outdoor museum in Bowness-on-Windermere.
Photo: Graham Robson
Water Activities · 14:15–15:00 (45m)
The Islands cruise from Bowness pier is the right length for small children.
An indoor and outdoor boat trip in Bowness, aimed at ages 0–8.
Photo: windermere-lakecruises.co.uk
North WestChester
Give the zoo the whole day: it is huge, and there is plenty under cover if showers pass through. If legs allow, finish with a short stretch of Chester's ancient walls to see the Eastgate Clock.
Chester Zoo → Chester City Walls
North WestLiverpool Pier Head
Two free waterfront museums cover the city's story and its seafaring past, all within a few minutes' walk. In the afternoon, take the famous ferry for a loop on the river and a good look at the skyline.
Museum of Liverpool → Merseyside Maritime Museum → Mersey Ferry Explorer Cruise
North WestSilverdale / Morecambe
Start on level paths through a big reedbed reserve, peering from hides for otters, deer and wading birds. After lunch, swap binoculars for swings at a seafront park in Morecambe.
RSPB Leighton Moss → Happy Mount Park
