Wings Over Windermere 2026

Wings Over Windermere returns on Friday 4 and Saturday 5 September 2026, with the replica Waterbird scheduled to take off from and land on Windermere in front of Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa.

The official flight window opens at 6.45pm on both evenings. Visit Lake District lists the wider event window as approximately 6.40pm to 7.30pm.

What happens?

Waterbird will take off from the lake, fly low in a straight line at up to around 100 feet and then alight on the water. This is a brief historic flying demonstration rather than an aerobatic airshow.

A modern Aviat Husky seaplane is also due to display, highlighting the development of water-based aviation since 1911.

Why Waterbird matters

The original Waterbird flew from Windermere on 25 November 1911. The Lakes Flying Company says it was the first aeroplane outside France and the USA to successfully take off from and land on water without damage, using the world's first successful stepped float.

The current aircraft is an airworthy replica and is described by the organisation as the only airworthy replica seaplane of its era anywhere in the world.

Official viewing area

Spectators should use the organised lawns at Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa, Ambleside Road, Windermere LA23 1LP. This gives access to parking, refreshments, toilets and the designated viewing area.

Parking

Free event parking is available in the Woodland Car Park from 5.30pm to 9pm. Cars are parked at the owner's risk. Arrive early rather than stopping on the A591 or trying to improvise another lakeside viewpoint.

Accessibility

The spectator area is level and seating will be available for visitors with mobility difficulties. Toilets are at the Water Sports Centre.

Meet the Team

After each display there is an advertised Meet the Team session in the Low Wood Bay Conference Centre with pilots, engineering and display staff.

Weather

Flying is weather and operationally dependent. Wind strength and direction, visibility, lake conditions and aviation permissions can all affect the display. Check Waterbird's flight status before travelling.