Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Lake Windermere: The Main Facts

By Tom Doerr


Lake Windermere is the largest natural water body in the whole of England. It is found in Lake District, in the northwest coast. It measures about 16.9 km (10.5 miles)in length, is a mile wide and just over 200 feet deep. It is fed by several rivers and streams including Brathay, Trout Beck, Cunsey Beck and Rothay. The main river that drains it is River Leven which starts from its southernmost point.

The immediate environment consists of several foothills which provide pleasant low level walks. Higher fells of the central Lakeland are found to the north. The basin is greatly utilized for cultivation.

For many years, the area has a popular destination for holiday makers. The main attractions are the numerous boating activities that take place here. Thousands of boats have been registered to use the waters. Launches and steamers are also very common. The authorities that manage activities within the resource imposed a speed limit of 12mph (or 10 knots) on all powered vessels in March 2005.

There are numerous hotels in the area because of the large number of tourists to the area. A good number of these are renovations of grand mansions built by wealthy businessmen in the 19th century. Other businesses have also come up including restaurants, cottages, pubs and exhibitions.

Several towns have grown and continue to do so due to the many activities taking place. Ambleside is one of such towns. Ambleside is located about one mile to the northern shore. This town is a common stop for guests who wish to use its numerous restaurants, shops and pubs. Waterhead is at the northern end. Passengers on cruises are often dropped here. Other towns include Bowness and Ferry Nab to the east, Newly Bridge (south) among others.

A total of 18 islands are found in Lake Windermere. The largest (privately owned) is about 40 acres in size and is found just opposite Bowness. The other islands include Thompson Holme (the second largest), Maiden Holme, Crow Holme, Bee Holme, St Mary Holme and Lady Holme among others.




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