Fun Things to Do In Backbarrow & Surrounding Area
Stunning Lakeland Village on the Banks of the River Leven
Backbarrow sits at the southern tip of Lake Windermere.
This peaceful part of the Lake District offers a wide variety of activities for all ages and interests.
From historic attractions and scenic train rides to outdoor adventures, the area has plenty to keep visitors entertained.
Related: Things to Do in Newby Bridge
Relax at Cascades Health Spa & Fitness Club
Cascades Health Spa & Fitness Club provides a perfect place to unwind.
The facility includes a heated indoor pool, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi.
Guests can also make use of the well-equipped gym or book a relaxing treatment.
Click here to find our more about Cascades Health Spa & Fitness Club
Visit the Lakeland Motor Museum
The Lakeland Motor Museum displays a large collection of classic cars, motorcycles and transport memorabilia.
A popular feature is the exhibition on the record-breaking Bluebird speed boats. It remains open throughout the year.
Website: https://www.lakelandmotormuseum.co.uk/
Ride the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Steam Railway
The Lakeside and Haverthwaite Steam Railway runs through attractive countryside between Haverthwaite and Lakeside.
Passengers enjoy the journey on traditional steam trains while taking in pleasant views along the route.
Website: https://www.lakesiderailway.co.uk/
Enjoy Food & Drink in the Dolly Blue Bar and Beer Garden
The Dolly Blue Bar and Beer Garden offers a convenient stop for drinks and meals.
The bar serves a good selection of drinks and food, with outdoor seating available in the beer garden during warmer weather.
Click here to find our more about The Dolly Blue Bar and Beer Garden
Explore Backbarrow Iron Works
Backbarrow Iron Works is an important industrial heritage site.
The preserved furnace and structures sit beside the River Leven.
Visitors can walk around the outdoor area and learn about more than 250 years of iron production.
Website: https://backbarrowironworks.org.uk/
Horse Riding at Bigland Hall
Bigland Hall offers horse riding for all levels of experience. Rides take place on estate land near the lake in attractive countryside.
Qualified instructors provide guidance throughout.
Website: https://www.biglandhall.com/
Enjoy Afternoon Tea at The Whitewater Hotel
Afternoon tea at The Whitewater Hotel offers a classic British experience.
It includes a selection of delicate sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, along with cakes and pastries.
A choice of fine teas is served in elegant surroundings.
Click here to book your Afternoon Tea at The Whitewater Hotel
Try the Cliffhanger Escape Rooms
Cliffhanger Escape Rooms present fun and challenging themed experiences.
Groups work together to solve puzzles and complete missions in several different rooms.
This activity works well in any weather.
Website: https://www.cliffhangerrooms.co.uk/
Head to Fell Foot Park for Lake Activities
Fell Foot Park lies on the shore of Lake Windermere and is run by the National Trust.
The park offers space for picnics, walks and watersports.
Rowing boats, kayaks and paddleboards are available to hire during the season.
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/lake-district/fell-foot
Follow the Local Walking Trails
Several walking trails start close to Backbarrow.
These paths lead through woodland, along the river and onto higher ground.
Options exist for different lengths and levels of difficulty.
The Best Walks from Backbarrow
The Best Walks From Newby Bridge
Ride the Millerbeck Light Railway
The Millerbeck Light Railway is a miniature steam and diesel line near Staveley-in-Cartmel.
It operates on selected public days and runs through attractive garden scenery.
This makes an interesting and unusual attraction.
Website: https://www.millerbeck.org.uk/
Experience Vintage Traction Engine Driving
A traction engine driving experience is available nearby at Old Hall Farm.
Participants receive instruction on operating a full-size vintage steam traction engine.
This hands-on session offers a memorable insight into historic machinery.
Website: https://oldhallfarmbouth.com/experience-days/steam-engines/
Enjoy a Meal with Lovely View at the Riverside Restaurant
The Riverside Restaurant serves meals with views over the River Leven.
The menu features a range of carefully prepared dishes in a relaxed setting.
It makes an excellent choice for lunch or dinner.
Click here to find out more about The Riverside Restaurant…
Where to Stay On Your Trip to Backbarrow
The Whitewater Hotel offers comfortable accommodation right in the centre of Backbarrow.
Guests enjoy convenient access to local attractions and the Cascades Health Spa & Fitness Club.
The hotel provides a practical and pleasant base for any visit.
Where is Backbarrow?
Backbarrow is a small village located at the southern tip of Lake Windermere in the Lake District.
It sits beside the River Leven in southern Cumbria, close to Newby Bridge.
This position gives easy access to the lake shore as well as the surrounding woodland and countryside.
The village serves as a practical base for visitors exploring this part of the Lake District.
Or use the map below:
Final Notes On Your Backbarrow Activities
Backbarrow and the surrounding area deliver a rich mix of history, outdoor activities and relaxation.
With steam railways, museums, watersports and unique experiences available all year round, there are options to suit most visitors.
Planning your activities in advance will help you make the most of your time in this part of the Lake District.
