Question 1

Who runs Brockhole?

Accepted Answer

The Brockhole site is operated by Bewilderwood who also have attractions based at the site (coming soon). Zip World and Windermere Lake Cruises operate independently but share some of their facilities with Bewilderwood.

You can contact Bewilderwood by emailing: cheshire@bewilderwood.co.uk

Question 2

Is this the National Park Visitor Centre?

Accepted Answer

Brockhole was the Visitor Centre for the Lake District National Park Authority for many years, its changed hands in April 2026. The recent change means that sat-navs and road signs might still tell you that there is a visitor centre here. Don't worry though, you can still access the site and the public amenities for free.

Question 3

Can I park there?

Accepted Answer

There is limited parking at Brockhole on Windermere. Advance car parking charges apply and in busy periods the car park may be full. Alternative car parks are available in Ambleside and Bowness from where a bus or boat can transport you to the site.

Question 4

How do I get there without a car?

Accepted Answer

Brockhole on Windermere is easy to reach without a car, making it ideal for a low‑impact day out. Windermere Lake Cruises call directly at Brockhole’s own jetty from Ambleside and Bowness, offering a scenic and relaxing way to arrive by boat across England’s largest lake. Frequent bus services, including the open‑top 599 and the 555, stop right outside the main entrance on the A591 and connect Brockhole with Windermere rail station, Bowness, Ambleside and beyond. For those who enjoy travelling at a slower pace, Brockhole is also accessible on foot or by bike from Windermere, using pavements and lakeside routes that make the journey part of the experience.

Question 5

Are there toilets?

Accepted Answer

There are publicly accessible toilets with disabled access and baby changing facilities on the site.

Question 6

Is it free?

Accepted Answer

Visiting the Brockhole site is totally free, you can wander the grounds and enjoy the views without spending a penny. There are a number of paid attractions on the site including Bewilderwood, Windermere Lake Cruises and Zip World, who operate their own charging models.

Question 7

Is there food and drink?

Accepted Answer

The food and beverage offer at Brockhole is currently being refreshed. The Whitehouose Cafe with reopen on the 23rd May for school holidays and weekends. We will be running a limited menu of cold sandwiches, drinks and cakes.

Question 8

Can I rent a boat?

Accepted Answer

There is no longer any boat or paddle craft hire at the Brockhole site. We recommend Windermere Lake Cruises as a great way to get out on the Lake.

Question 9

I saw some activities online that aren't here?

Accepted Answer

Brockhole changed operators in April 2026, this means that there are still some promotional materials in circulation with out of date information on them. There is still plenty to do at Brockhole such as Zip World and our free adventure playground.

Question 10

Can I access the water?

Accepted Answer

We do not recommend entering the water at the Brockhole on Windermere site and do not have any lifeguards of any kind on-site. Windermere is England's largest lake and is subject to currents, cold temperatures and sudden drop offs. There are lots of places in the Lake District where you can enjoy the water with safe and supervised activities.

Frequently asked questions