My favourite attractions are those that genuinely surprise us. The Lake District is one of our favourite short breaks because everything we chose to do surpassed all our expectations. The World of Beatrix Potter certainly did.
We were not actually planning to visit The World of Beatrix Potter. However, two-thirds of the way through a day of unrelenting rain, an indoor attraction was too tempting to pass up. I’m glad we decided to stop by because we found an exhibition that was beautifully put together.
Quick Questions
No, it is an independent visitor attraction.
Assistance dogs only.
No, tickets must be purchased on arrival.
Yes, absolutely. If you enjoy Beatrix Potter’s stories, then you will love this museum.
Into the Beatrix Potter Experience
The vast reception area was set up for a much busier day, and we were able to look around at the small displays before heading straight to the front of the queue. We were handed some information and a treasure hunt (which we didn’t do) and told to head into Ginger and Pickles Shop. The magical journey had started.
Entrance Video
We stepped through the door of the shop to a cinema room where we were treated to a short video on the history of Beatrix Potter’s stories called The Tale of Mrs Hellis. I was familiar with the story, but it is an invaluable introduction for anyone who isn’t.
Beatrix Potter in 23 Stories
Once the video has finished, you pass into the main attraction. Here the 23 stories are brought to life with 3D models. It is designed to make you feel like you are walking through the pages of a book. The magic begins with Jemima Puddle-Duck swooping towards you. As you continue through the indoor woodland, you spy Mr Todd reading his newspaper. Squirrel Nutkin and friends are hurrying through the trees overhead. Join Lucy in Mrs Tiggywinkle’s kitchen. Plus countless more characters can be seen going about their business.
Peter Rabbit Garden
Approximately a third of the way around the experience, a door invites you to step outside and enjoy some fresh air. The Peter Rabbit garden is tiny, but it has been lovingly created. Mr McGregor’s garden is included (of course).
The Virtual World of Beatrix Potter
After a few more stories you emerge into The Virtual World of Beatrix Potter. This museum area is a totally hands-on experience which had the kids engaged. Ted was particularly taken with the Multitouch Table with its map of places of interest in the Lake District. Other exhibits told the story of Beatrix Potter’s life, and David had hit photo taken with the lady herself. We encountered many presentations on Beatrix Potter during our time in the Lake District, and this definitely told her story in the most compelling way.
The final few stories, including Peter Rabbit, can be found after the museum. To get to them, you pass through Mr McGregor’s greenhouse, which was a clever way to create the divide between the areas.
The Beatrix Potter Shop and Cafe
The final stop on the trail is a photo booth. After this, you enter the inevitable attraction shop. We love a gift shop, and we were pleased to find a magnet memento. However, Beatrix Potter souvenirs are available in every shop in the Lake District.
We actually started in the cafe as we arrived at lunchtime with one child in a deep sleep. There is a good range of cakes, and they offer a children’s lunchbox deal.
Location and Parking at The World of Beatrix Potter
The World Of Beatrix Potter is located in Bowness-on-Windermere. The attraction itself does not have a car park, but there are several around the town, including Rayrigg Road car park which is just over the road. All car parks in the town are pay and display.
The closest train station is Windermere train station. It is an approximately 25-minute walk from the train station to the attraction.
Was The World of Beatrix Potter worth visiting?
If you are a fan of Beatrix Potter and willing to give yourself over to the magic of the stories, then The World of Beatrix Potter is absolutely worth visiting. I was sceptical, but I am a fan, and the displays were so well put together that I couldn’t help loving it. The kids don’t know the books very well, but at age 2 and 4 they love stories, and these characters were familiar to them from the CBeebies programme.
