Families, lake lovers and curious explorers are invited to dive into a full day of heritage, hands-on fun and waterside celebration as details are revealed for the Festival of the Lake 2026 at Windermere Jetty Museum.
From sailing and stories to wildlife and wellbeing, the family-friendly festival on Saturday 27 June will celebrate the rich heritage of Windermere, its traditional boating culture and the many positive ways people continue to connect with England’s largest lake.
At the heart of the day is a programme designed to inspire visitors and encourage a deeper connection with Windermere’s ecology, history and living traditions.
Stand out moments on the day promise to be pre-bookable Tarn Sauna experiences, a skiff launch and a special boat parade. Covered indoor and outdoor seating will give visitors the perfect vantage point to watch boats glide across the water and admire the views.
Also out on the water, festival goers can climb aboard the historic steamboat Osprey or take to the lake aboard Swallow, one of the beautifully restored sailing dinghies featured in the 2016 film adaptation of Swallows and Amazons. Windermere Canoe Kayak will also be on site, so people can explore the lake on canoe tours uncovering wildlife and secrets of Windermere.
Other highlights will include dragon boat demonstrations, ornithology experiences on the boats, a lakeside tarn sauna and the launch of a striking new boat project constructed in Windermere Jetty Museum’s conservation workshop – a standout example of traditional craftsmanship showcased during Milan Design Week earlier this Spring.
Meanwhile, families can enjoy everything from short collection-inspired talks to interactive family trails and craft workshops celebrating the wildlife that swims, swoops and splashes around the lake.
Children can create a ‘Wild Windermere’ mini menagerie, follow the ‘Find the Fish’ trail through the museum or collect stamps in their Lake Fest Passport while exploring the site.
Festival of the Lake will also bring a playful nautical twist, with a lively model boating regatta and pop-up knot-tying sessions. Young captains can even take the helm themselves, racing model boats on the museum pond with support from Windermere Model Boat Club.
For younger visitors with big imaginations, an interactive children’s activity called ‘Blue Blocks’ will invite little builders to create their own lakeside-inspired worlds.
Adding to the atmosphere will be live music from 11am – 4pm, with performances from poet and musician Ann Grant, Jon Dawes and Nobody’s Friend, North West Cumbria’s only sea shanty group.
Luis Martins, Lakeland Arts CEO, says: “With an array of creative activities, historic boats and on-the-water experiences alongside educational activities for families and information stalls designed to entertain all ages, this year’s Festival of the Lake promises to be a joyful celebration of Windermere’s past, present and future.
“Set against a spectacular Lakeland backdrop, this is an invitation for locals and visitors alike to explore their own connection to the water and soak up the wonderful lakeside atmosphere. We’re looking forward to bringing this very special event to the heart of the Lake District!”
Event details: Festival of the Lake, Windermere Jetty Museum, Saturday 27 June (10am-5pm)
View the programme: here
Ticket information: Adult £6 | Child (5–15) £3 | Student £4.50 | Family from £10.Lakeland Arts Members and annual pass holders go free. Book your tickets in advance here
