Windermere
Windermere is a beautiful lake, enjoyed by visitors, yachtsmen, canoeists, rowers and anglers. But it's also the workplace for many people.
Find out more in the links on the left, or download Your guide to Windermere leaflet or Windermere Lake User Guide (both open Document Library).
Who patrols the lake?
The Joint Lake Patrol team is made up of eight people and five boats from the police, South Lakeland District Council and the Lake District National Park Authority.
What do they do?
On a busy day up to 100,000 people can be on or around the water. The Joint Lake Patrol team:
- Tow broken boats
- Offer First Aid - qualified as First Responders for the Ambulance Service
- Uphold the byelaws for safety
What's on the patrol boats?
- Firefighting equipment such as pumps, foam generator, extinguishers and hose reels for shoreline fires
- Remote computers to check registrations
- First Aid kits, including analgesic gases and defibrilators
Who owns the lake bed?
In the 1930s the lake bed of Windermere was privately owned. It was then bought by the Sheriff and given to the people of Windermere. South Lakeland District Council are now the landlords of the lake bed, looking after moorings and jetties.
What do the numberplates on boats around the lake mean?
Any boat which has an engine - including an outboard motor - must be registered. Boat yards have trade plates when they're demoing or testing a boat, in the same way as garages do.
How do I register my boat?
Take a look at our Windermere boat registration page.
Want even more visitor information?
Visit Golakes (opens in new window), the official website of the tourist board for The Lake District and Cumbria. Browse and book accommodation and attractions online and see what's on in the area.
