Windermere (Lake District National Park)

Windermere, both a town and England's largest natural lake, sits at the heart of the stunning Lake District National Park. This picturesque body of water stretches for about 10.5 miles, surrounded by rolling hills and mountains that create a perfect backdrop for photos. The area has been attracting visitors since the arrival of the railway in 1847, and it's easy to see why it remains one of the UK's most popular destinations.

The bustling towns of Bowness-on-Windermere and Ambleside bookend the lake, offering plenty of shops, restaurants, and accommodation options. From traditional afternoon tea spots to waterfront pubs, there's something for every taste. The area has also inspired countless artists and writers throughout history, most famously Beatrix Potter, whose legacy lives on at the World of Beatrix Potter attraction.

On the water itself, you'll spot everything from historic steamers to rowing boats. The lake is surprisingly deep at 220 feet, and is home to various fish species including Arctic charr, a relic from the Ice Age. The surrounding landscape was formed by glaciers, giving the area its distinctive U-shaped valleys and dramatic scenery.

For history buffs, Windermere has plenty to offer too. The Romans built a fort at nearby Ambleside, while Victorian influence is evident in the grand hotels and buildings around the lake. Whether visiting in spring when the woodlands are carpeted with bluebells, or in autumn when the trees turn golden, Windermere offers a quintessentially British landscape that changes beautifully with the seasons.