Brockhole on Windermere: Lake District National Park Visitor Centre
Brockhole, located between Ambleside and Windermere, is the Lake District National Park Authority’s flagship visitor centre. Situated in 30 acres of gardens and woodlands by the shores of Windermere, it offers a range of activities, historical interest, and access to the natural beauty of the area. Opened in 1969, Brockhole was the UK’s first National Park Visitor Centre and continues to be a hub for visitors to the Lake District.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Brockhole on Windermere has been affected by funding cuts to National Parks. While the lakeshore access is still open, we believe that entry to the house is not currently offered. While we ascertain the exact situation please refer to Brockhole’s website (link at foot of page) to check availability of activities.
Activities at Brockhole
Brockhole provides a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. Some are free, while others are paid and best booked in advance. These include:
- Treetop Trek and Treetop Nets: High ropes adventure finishing with a zip wire. Suitable for ages 5+. – Enquiries 015394 46601
- Kayak Tours: Guided half-day tours on Windermere. Suitable for ages 12+. Enquiries 015394 46601
- Boat, Kayak, and Paddleboard Hire: Options include rowing boats, open canoes, and motorboats. Enquiries 015394 46601
- Axe Throwing: Test your skills in a 55-minute session. Ages 10+.
- Archery: 55-minute sessions for ages 7+. To book call 0845 272 0004
- Lazer Tag: An outdoor activity suitable for families and groups.
- Mini Golf: A 9-hole course, no booking required.
- Children’s Adventure Playground: Free access to a playground designed for younger visitors.
- Treasure Hunts and Trails: Including the Golden Star Hunt and Captain Brockbeard’s Treasure Trail.
- Bike Hire: a variety of bikes available to hire from 2 hours to full day. Enquiries 015394 46601
Visitors can also explore the grounds with the Heritage Garden Tour or participate in the “Go Wild” woodland tour for hands-on learning about local wildlife and ecosystems.
Arriving at Brockhole
Brockhole is accessible by car, with a pay-and-display car park charging up to £8.50 for a full day. Spaces may fill quickly during peak times, so visitors are encouraged to use alternative transport.
Brockhole has a jetty on Windermere which is suitable for the landing of big steamers. It is visited by the Windermere Lake Cruises launches and direct connections can be made from and to Bowness, Ambleside Waterhead and Wray Castle.
The Green Cruise, operating from Easter to November, is a 50 minute circular voyage in a traditional wooden launch. It leaves Ambleside Pier and visits Wray Castle and Brockhole before returning to Ambleside. You can disembark at both attractions and continue your cruise with a later boat.
Local buses 555 and 599 also stop directly at the centre.
Exploring the House and Grounds
The house at Brockhole was built in 1895 by Manchester silk merchant William Henry Adolphus Gaddum and designed by architect Dan Gibson. The gardens were laid out by landscape designer Thomas Mawson to take advantage of views of the lake and fells.
Today, the house features displays about the Lake District’s UNESCO World Heritage status and exhibitions in the Gaddum Gallery. The grounds include terraced gardens, woodland paths, and open areas for picnics. Informative signs provide insight into the ecology and history of the area.
Various events are held at Brockhole throughout the year, many of which are listed in the What’s On Windermere section.
Dining and Facilities
Brockhole offers several dining options, including a cafe in the house, a lakeside cafe, and outdoor food vendors. There are also picnic areas available throughout the site. The visitor centre is dog-friendly, with many areas welcoming pets.
Brockhole History in a Nutshell
The house was built by wealthy Manchester silk merchant William Henry Aldolphus Gaddum who in 1895 bought four plots of farm land. Architect Dan Gibson designed the house and the local landscape gardener Thomas Mawson laid out the five acres of formal gardens, landscaping the remaining 25 acres to provide spectacular views of the lake and fells.
A frequent visitor to the house was Beatrix Potter, a cousin of Mrs Gaddum. She refers to visits to the house in her journals.
See more photos of Brockhole >>
Contact Brockhole
- Windermere, LA23 1LJ. Tel: 015394 46601
- Brockhole opening hours
- Brockhole website www.brockhole.co.uk
Popular pages:
Related pages :
Grid Ref : SD 389009
Updated January 2025
Planning a visit to Brockhole on Windermere? Enter your dates below to see available accommodation nearby on a handy map (zoom out for more options)